Full Breakdown
Controversial Remarks by Reform Candidate Rob Kenyon Shape Voter Sentiment Ahead of Makerfield By-Election
6/5/2026, 12:48:24 AM
Core Event: Kenyon’s Alleged Sexist and Anti-Abortion Comments
Reform UK’s parliamentary candidate for Makerfield, 41-year-old plumber-turned-councillor Rob Kenyon, has become the centre of controversy after alleged remarks surfaced. In response to a sexually explicit comment about television presenter Carol Vorderman, Kenyon is reported to have replied, “He’s only saying what we’re all thinking.” He has also been accused of saying women obtain abortions for “vanity purposes” and that they “can’t ref, drive or give directions.” Kenyon later described the remarks as a “crass joke.” Local voters cite the statements as a decisive factor in their intended vote.
Background: Reform’s Local Strength and By-Election Context
Reform UK secured more than half of the vote share—approximately 52 %—in the recent Hindley and Hindley Green council elections, indicating a surge in local support. The Makerfield parliamentary seat became vacant, prompting a by-election that pits Reform against Labour’s Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, and other parties. National issues such as the “small boats” immigration debate and local concerns over health and social care intersect with the controversy surrounding Kenyon.
Key Figures & Groups
- Rob Kenyon – Reform candidate, former plumber and councillor.
- Reform UK – Party defending Kenyon’s comments as pre-political.
- Andy Burnham – Labour leader in the region, favoured for his record on transport and health.
- Leah – Female voter who rejected Kenyon’s views.
- Pauline Round (79) – Labour supporter focused on NHS and social care.
- Leslie Yates (68) – Voter with multiple sclerosis, concerned about health services.
- Tracey Birmingham (55) – Retired hairdresser describing Reform supporters as “male chauvinist pigs.”
- Reform spokesperson – Party official issuing official statements.
Data & Statistics
- Reform councillors captured roughly 52 % of the vote in Hindley and Hindley Green local elections.
- Interviewed voters range from 55 to 79 years old, highlighting the senior demographic’s relevance.
- Health-related concerns dominate voter priorities: multiple respondents cite NHS access and personal medical conditions.
Official Statements & Responses
Reform’s spokesperson affirmed the party’s full backing of Kenyon, describing him as “an excellent, local candidate” and a “straight-talking, effective voice for normal working people in Makerfield.” The spokesperson added that the controversial remarks were made before Kenyon entered politics and that his unpolished style is intentional. Kenyon himself defended the comments as a joke, emphasizing his working-class background.
Criticism & Opposition
Leah told reporters, “There’s no way I can go for someone that holds those opinions, and it saddens me that any woman would.” The 68-year-old retired hairdresser labelled Reform supporters “very male chauvinist pigs.” Leslie Yates, living with multiple sclerosis, expressed uncertainty about her vote, saying she may revert to Burnham because of health-service needs. Pauline Round highlighted the NHS and social-care pressures on her family, indicating that any candidate’s failure on these issues would shift her future support.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There's no way I can go for someone that holds those opinions, and it saddens me that any woman would.” — Leah, voter
- “I'm an independent woman. I drive a car. Not a chance I'd be voting for them at all, if that's what they stand for. They seem very male chauvinist pigs, very male chauvinist.” — 68-year-old retired hairdresser
- “I've got MS and I need the health service [...] Honestly, I don't know what to do, and I'm in a dilemma. I just don't know. I think I'll end up having to go back to Andy Burnham.” — Leslie Yates, voter
- “We fully back Cllr Kenyon. He is an excellent, local candidate who we are confident will be a superb MP for Makerfield.” — Reform spokesperson
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The alleged remarks are based on interviewees’ recollections; no audio or written record has been provided. The extent to which these comments have altered overall voter intention remains unquantified, as no polling data is cited.
What’s Next: By-Election Outlook
The Makerfield by-election is scheduled for later this month. Analysts note that the female electorate’s response to Kenyon’s comments could narrow Reform’s lead despite its recent local successes. Parties are expected to sharpen their messaging on health care and gender issues as the campaign intensifies.
