Poll Finds Offensive Social Media Posts Could Hurt Candidates’ Chances in Makerfield By-Election

A majority of voters in Makerfield say they would be less likely to support a political candidate who has posted offensive content on social media, according to new polling conducted ahead of the constituency’s upcoming by-election.

The survey, carried out by Survation on behalf of campaign group 38 Degrees, questioned 518 voters across the Makerfield constituency on a range of political and social issues. The findings revealed that 55% of respondents would be less inclined to vote for a candidate linked to offensive online posts.

Meanwhile, 31% said such content would have no impact on their voting decision, while 14% remained undecided.

The findings come amid scrutiny surrounding Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon, who has faced criticism over a number of past social media comments. Broadcaster Caroline Vorderman has publicly called on Kenyon to apologise for remarks she described as offensive.

Several of Kenyon’s previous online posts have attracted controversy, including comments relating to women, LGBTQ+ individuals and gender issues. The candidate has faced growing attention as voters prepare to head to the polls on June 18.

The by-election will also see Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham contesting the seat for Labour following the decision of sitting MP Josh Simons to step aside.

Beyond candidate conduct, the poll highlighted strong public views on broader policy issues. Nearly three-quarters of respondents expressed support for returning water companies to public ownership, while only a small minority preferred them to remain privately operated.

The survey also found significant backing for a proposed wealth tax on assets exceeding £10 million, with more than half of those questioned supporting the measure as a way to help fund the NHS, education, and other public services.

Survation Chief Executive Damian Lyons Lowe said the results indicate that concerns about fairness, accountability, and public services resonate strongly with voters across political divides.