Full Breakdown
Reform UK Candidates' Controversial Social Media Posts Spark Vetting Concerns Ahead of Local Elections
5/7/2026, 12:29:13 PM
Controversial Social Media Posts by Reform UK Candidates
Reform UK candidates standing in local elections have been identified posting material the Independent says is racist, Islamophobic, and supportive of activists Tommy Robinson and Nick Griffin. Lynn Smith (Blackfen and Lamorbey) reposted a graphic listing groups the author “hates,” posted on X “Has the NHS become the new Islam, criticise at your own risk?” and mocked conversion to Islam. Mike Ferro (Blendon and Penhill) defended convicted driver Uran Nabiev and called Black Lives Matter protests “the new totalitarians, heirs to the Nazis.” Matt Davis (Chingford) posted deleted messages calling Islam an “evil death cult.”
Background & Context
Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, says its candidate vetting system is “the best in British politics.” The claim follows earlier reports of extremist posts by Reform candidates in northern England. New revelations from southeast England raise questions about vetting consistency.
Key Figures & Groups
The three candidates identified are Lynn Smith (Blackfen and Lamorbey ward), Mike Ferro (Blendon and Penhill ward), and Matt Davis (Chingford). Their posts have drawn criticism from Conservative Party chair Kevin Hollinrake and Bexley and Sidcup MP Louie French. Reform UK’s spokesperson has responded to the controversy.
Data & Statistics
Reform UK is expected to contest more than 1,500 local-council seats. The Independent identified three candidates whose online activity meets the definition of hate or extremist content.
Official Statements & Responses
Reform UK’s spokesperson said the party is reviewing the posts. Conservative chair Kevin Hollinrake urged Reform to disown the candidates, saying the remarks breach party standards. MP Louie French described the comments as shocking and demanded accountability.
Criticism & Opposition
Hollinrake said the remarks show a pattern of offensive remarks and poor judgment, suggesting Reform’s vetting claims are false. French warned that extremist candidates could win council seats. Their criticism highlights broader concerns about extremist rhetoric entering local government.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Has the NHS become the new Islam, criticise at your own risk?” — Lynn Smith, Reform UK candidate for Blackfen and Lamorbey ward.
- “Reform selected three candidates who are spewing hate online and sharing wild conspiracy theories. I urge Reform UK to do the right thing and disown these candidates now.” — Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative Party chair.
- “We are looking into these posts.” — Reform UK spokesperson.
- “I used to be against Tommy [Robinson]’s methods but when the MSM are too cowardly to dig deep into radical Islam he’s now a hero for sure.” — Lynn Smith, Reform UK candidate for Blackfen and Lamorbey ward.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The party’s investigation has not been detailed, and no outcome is known.
What’s Next
Local elections this week give Reform UK a chance to win many council seats. The party’s response and any disavowals will likely affect voter perception.
