Electoral Commission Warns of Rising Harassment for Election Candidates
UKPulse News Desk
Research by the Electoral Commission found that 55% of candidates in the May 2026 local and mayoral elections in England experienced harassment or intimidation, an increase from 47% in 2025.
- 55% of candidates in the May 2026 local and mayoral elections in England reported harassment or intimidation, up from 47% in 2025.
- Women, ethnic minority candidates, and those with disabilities were most likely to face abuse.
- A third of candidates considered not standing again due to unpleasant experiences.
The Electoral Commission has issued a warning that harassment and intimidation are impacting how election candidates campaign, what they feel able to do, and whether they choose to stand again. This follows research into the May 2026 local and mayoral elections in England.
The Commission's findings indicate that 55% of candidates reported harassment or intimidation as a problem. This figure marks an increase from 47% in 2025. The research also highlighted that women, ethnic minority candidates, and those with disabilities were most frequently subjected to abuse.
The unpleasant nature of these experiences led a third of candidates to consider not seeking re-election.
Why this matters: The rising level of harassment and intimidation for election candidates is changing how they participate in the democratic process and may deter individuals from entering politics.