Story perspectives

Over Half of England Candidates Face Harassment, UK Reports

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 10:45 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

The UK Electoral Commission reported that over half of England’s May local election candidates faced harassment.
Reform UK (55%) and Labour (54%) candidates experienced the highest intimidation rates.
Social media generated 39% of abuse reports, the most common source.
79% of women and 46% of men avoided solo campaigning after threats.
Vijay Rangarajan warned rising abuse could deter future candidates and urged party and platform action.

1 of 1

Story summary

The UK Electoral Commission reported that over half of England’s May local election candidates faced harassment.
Reform UK (55%) and Labour (54%) candidates experienced the highest intimidation rates.
Social media generated 39% of abuse reports, the most common source.
79% of women and 46% of men avoided solo campaigning after threats.
Vijay Rangarajan warned rising abuse could deter future candidates and urged party and platform action.