Story perspectives

2026 Election Threats Surge: 61% Harassed, Many Withdraw

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

2026 local and devolved elections have seen a surge in threats, harassment and hate toward candidates.
A 2025 survey found 61% faced harassment or threats and 71% avoided campaign activity out of fear.
Green Party candidate Hanooshi Hassan and independent Bishop Desmond Jaddoo reported threats, racial slurs and online abuse during campaigning.
The Jo Cox Foundation warned the intimidation is deterring people from standing for office and limiting public debate.

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Story summary

2026 local and devolved elections have seen a surge in threats, harassment and hate toward candidates.
A 2025 survey found 61% faced harassment or threats and 71% avoided campaign activity out of fear.
Green Party candidate Hanooshi Hassan and independent Bishop Desmond Jaddoo reported threats, racial slurs and online abuse during campaigning.
The Jo Cox Foundation warned the intimidation is deterring people from standing for office and limiting public debate.