Rise in abuse of election candidates is ‘changing politics’ in England
A report by the Electoral Commission reveals that abuse and intimidation of election candidates in England are reaching levels that alter political behavior. Women, minority ethnic candidates, and those with disabilities are disproportionately targeted, leading many to reconsider their future in politics.
Why it matters
Rising hostility toward public officials threatens the integrity and inclusivity of the democratic process.
A Labour party campaigner during the local elections in May. Almost 80% of female candidates said they avoided campaigning on their own at least once, compared with 46% of males. A Labour party campaigner during the local elections in May. Almost 80% of female candidates said they avoided campaigning on their own at least once, compared with 46% of males. Politics Rise in abuse of election candidates is ‘changing politics’ in England Electoral Commission finds abuse, particularly of women, minority ethnic and disabled people, is affecting candidates’ behaviour
Prefer the Guardian on Google Abuse and intimidation of election candidates is “a serious and growing concern”, the Electoral Commission has said, as a review of this year’s local and mayoral elections in England revealed a surge in threats to those who stood.
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