Makerfield voters say offensive posts would deter them from candidate, poll finds
10 reported
A poll of 518 voters in the Makerfield constituency found that 55% would be less likely to vote for a candidate who has posted offensive content on social media. The survey, conducted by Survation for the campaign group 38 Degrees, also showed 31% said such posts would not influence their vote, and 14% did not know. The Reform UK candidate in the June 18 byelection, Robert Kenyon, has faced criticism for past online comments, including calling himself sexist and using derogatory language about gay people and women. The polling also found strong support for returning water companies to public ownership, introducing a wealth tax on assets over £10 million, and capping political donations. Voters expressed support for several measures in the Labour government’s Employment Rights Act, including a cost-of-living minimum wage and paid bereavement leave after pregnancy loss.
What’s reported
55% of 518 Makerfield voters surveyed said they would be less likely to vote for a candidate who posted offensive material online.
31% said such posts would not influence their vote, and 14% did not know.
Robert Kenyon, Reform UK candidate in the June 18 byelection, has been criticized for past online posts, including calling himself sexist and using derogatory terms.
Nearly three-quarters of residents surveyed wanted water companies returned to public ownership.
54% supported a new wealth tax on assets over £10 million to fund public services.
Just over half supported a cap on maximum political donations.
72% supported keeping the minimum wage at a cost-of-living level; 12% wanted it axed.
Two-thirds supported paid bereavement leave after pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
57% supported sick pay from the first day off ill; 26% wanted it removed.
Opinion was divided on banning fire-and-rehire: 47% would keep the ban, 42% would remove it.
Key figures
Robert Kenyon, Reform UK candidate in the Makerfield byelection
Caroline Vorderman, broadcaster who called for Kenyon to apologize
Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester mayor and Labour candidate
Josh Simons, sitting Labour MP who stepped aside for Burnham
Damian Lyons Lowe, Survation chief executive
Veronica Hawking, campaigns director at 38 Degrees
Sources: The Guardian
