A total of 34 individuals are competing for the Clacton parliamentary seat, setting a new modern record for a by-election. This surge in candidates, noted by Tendring District Council, surpasses the previous record of 26 set during the 2008 Haltemprice and Howden contest.
The election follows the resignation of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage on 7 July, who is now running to reclaim his position amidst ongoing scrutiny regarding his finances and a parliamentary inquiry. The field includes 20 independent contenders and various novelty candidates, including three representatives from the Monster Raving Loony Party. Notably, the major Westminster parties—Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, and the Green Party—have chosen not to participate, leaving Farage as the sole candidate from a significant national party.
Voters will head to the polls on 13 August to choose their new representative. Notable figures among the 33 challengers include Laurence Fox and Count Binface. The complete list of candidates is available at Clacton Town Hall and through the official Tendring District Council website.
