Overview
- Campaign group HOPE not hate published material on Saturday that it says came from two X accounts linked to Robert Kenyon, with posts dated about 2020–2022 that include misogynistic remarks, Covid conspiracy claims and engagement with a Holocaust denier.
- One post allegedly shared a sexually explicit message aimed at TV presenter Carol Vorderman, who publicly called Kenyon a "disgusting online abuser" and a misogynist after the disclosures.
- Reporting shows one of Kenyon’s X accounts was suspended and another deleted, and researchers also flagged a Facebook connection with Gary Raikes, founder of the neo‑fascist New British Union.
- Reform UK has defended Kenyon as a local, straight‑talking candidate and said the posts predate his politics, while Labour has condemned the material and said it shows he is unfit to represent Makerfield.
- The controversy intensifies pressure on a high‑profile Makerfield by‑election where Labour’s Andy Burnham is the challenger and a win could boost his national platform, so voters and parties are watching vetting, reputation and campaign impact closely.