Count BinfaceNigel FarageReform UK

Voters go to polls in Clacton by-election as Count Binface challenges Nigel Farage; results expected Friday morning

Voters in Clacton are heading to the polls for a by-election that could determine Nigel Farage's political future, following his resignation amid financial scrutiny. A record 34 candidates are contesting, with satirical candidate Count Binface emerging as a notable challenger. Results are expected Friday morning.

The Independent The Independent13 August 2026 · 08:04 UTC
CuriousCats Full Story

Voters in Clacton are casting their ballots in a crucial by-election that could shape the political landscape for Nigel Farage, who resigned as leader of Reform UK amid scrutiny over his financial dealings.

A record 34 candidates are vying for the position, although major parties including Labour, the Conservatives, Lib Dems, and Greens have opted to boycott the election.

Among the candidates, Count Binface stands out as a satirical challenger, proposing policies such as nationalising pop star Adele and constructing “one affordable home.” His unique platform has garnered attention, positioning him as Farage's primary rival.1

Polls opened earlier today, with voting set to close at 10pm. Results are anticipated to be announced on Friday morning, marking a significant moment for Farage's political career and the future of Reform UK.2

Key Insight
“Count Binface's platform includes nationalising Adele and building 'one affordable home', positioning him as Farage's primary rival. Voting closes at 10pm, with results expected on Friday morning.”
Nigel Farage vs Count Binface: Clacton’s Surreal By-Election
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Nigel Farage vs Count Binface: Clacton’s Surreal By-Election
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1
The IndependentThe Independent
“Polls have opened in the Clacton by-election as voters cast their ballots to decide Nigel Farage's future as an MP.”
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EARLIER IN THE STORY:
Clacton voters go to the polls in Westminster by-election triggered by Farage; record 34 candidates stand on longest ballot paper in British history
BBCBBC
Clacton voters go to the polls in Westminster by-election triggered by Farage; record 34 candidates stand on longest ballot paper in British history

The polls have opened in Clacton-on-Sea as a record number of candidates vie to become the town's next MP.

Conservative BoycottConservativesFarage By-Election
2026-08-13
TL;DR by CuriousCats.ai
  • Nigel Farage won Clacton in the 2024 general election with 46.2% of the vote and a majority of 8,405.
  • Farage quit as MP to trigger the by-election in protest at scrutiny of donations.
  • The parliamentary standards investigation into Farage was paused when he resigned.
  • Polls opened in Clacton with 34 candidates standing, the most ever in a British election.
  • Voters will cast ballots on a 90cm-long ballot paper, the longest in British electoral history.
  • Polling stations remain open until 22:00, with the count taking place overnight.
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