Draft article: James Walker 2026-08-13 22:56

UK political parties have responded as the count gets underway for the crucial Clacton by-election pitting Nigel Farage against Count Binface. Polls closed at 10pm in the election which has been shunned by the other major political parties, with Farage hoping to retain his seat. A record 34 candidates are standing. Satirical candidate Count Binface appears to be Farage’s main challenger. Labour’s chair Bridget Phillipson said Farage “can’t run from the truth forever”. READ MORE: Clacton by-election LIVE results and reaction as Nigel Farage takes on Binface Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Conservative Party said the “stunt” of calling the by-election would not draw a line under it. The Reform UK leader quit as an MP to trigger the by-election in protest at media and parliamentary scrutiny