Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Council Leader Faces Backlash Over 'Suck It Up' T-Shirt

1/30/2026

35 7

Summary

Story summary

The Reform UK-led Kent County Council faced criticism after council leader Linden Kemkaran posted a photo of deputy leader Richard Tice wearing a T-shirt that reads "Suck it up," referencing a controversial October 2025 virtual meeting.
During the October 2025 virtual meeting, Kemkaran told a council member who questioned her decisions to "suck it up."
The incident has sparked backlash, and Reform UK has been contacted for a response.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Reform UK-led Kent County Council faced criticism after council leader Linden Kemkaran posted a photo of deputy leader Richard Tice wearing a T-shirt that reads "Suck it up," referencing a controversial October 2025 virtual meeting.
During the October 2025 virtual meeting, Kemkaran told a council member who questioned her decisions to "suck it up."
The incident has sparked backlash, and Reform UK has been contacted for a response.