Ant Middleton backs Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon in Makerfield byelection
Ant Middleton backs Reform UK s Robert – Reform UK’s candidate for the Makerfield byelection has drawn criticism for accepting backing from Ant Middleton, a former soldier and TV personality whose views have grown more radical over time. Robert Kenyon, the party’s nominee, shared a video of himself with Middleton, who he described as “one of my heroes.” This endorsement has sparked debate, as Reform UK had previously distanced itself from Middleton due to his increasingly extreme political stances.
Ant Middleton, once a celebrated figure in media and military circles, has become a polarizing presence in recent years. His comments on the aftermath of the Henry Nowak murder saw him praise “well done Southampton,” a statement that drew backlash for its tone. Over time, his rhetoric has leaned further into anti-Muslim sentiment, with regular posts on his X account targeting Muslim communities. His assertions, such as “You can’t be a Muslim and be in charge of a Christian nation/city,” and the claim that “1st, 2nd & 3rd generation immigrants should not hold top-tier government positions,” have fueled controversy among voters and opposition parties alike.
Despite his divisive remarks, Middleton once held a prominent role in the political landscape. He had addressed the Reform UK conference in 2024 and was considered a potential candidate for London mayor. However, his alignment with far-right figures and increasingly hardline positions led to his exclusion from the party. His association with Tommy Robinson, the far-right activist known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has been a point of contention. Middleton has frequently appeared at rallies organized by Robinson, reinforcing his ties to the movement.
The endorsement of Middleton by Reform UK in the Makerfield byelection may reflect a strategic effort to counter growing pressure from Restore Britain, a hard-right party launched by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe earlier this year. Lowe’s party, which emerged after a falling out with Nigel Farage, is expected to secure a third-place finish in the contest. A leaked poll, shared among Labour staffers and published by the i newspaper, suggests that Restore Britain could claim 13% of the vote, while Reform UK is projected to garner 24% and Labour 35%. This data highlights the competitive dynamics of the race and the potential threat posed by Lowe’s new political venture.
Anna Turley, Labour’s MP and Cabinet Office minister, has condemned the endorsement, calling it a sign of Reform UK’s lack of integrity. In a statement, she remarked:
“Reform have no shame. Their last byelection candidate was endorsed by Tommy Robinson, and now Rob Kenyon is delighted to have the backing of a man who was jailed for assaulting two police officers.”
Turley further criticized Middleton’s record, stating:
“Ant Middleton should be nowhere near any political party—he said the mayor of London wasn’t English, he is a convicted criminal, and his company failed to pay over £1m in tax that could have been spent on schools and hospitals.”
These remarks underscore the controversy surrounding Middleton’s personal and political history.
Middleton’s legal troubles date back to 2013, when he was convicted of unlawfully wounding a police officer and common assault on another, both incidents occurring outside a nightclub. His criminal record deepened in 2025 when he was barred from serving as a company director due to his firm’s failure to pay more than £1m in unpaid taxes. This financial misconduct, combined with his public statements, has painted him as a figure with a contentious legacy.
His departure from Channel 4 in 2021 was another significant event, prompted by his controversial comments on the coronavirus pandemic and Black Lives Matter. These remarks were seen as inflammatory, further distancing him from mainstream media and political platforms. Now, with his support for Reform UK in the Makerfield byelection, Middleton’s influence is being re-evaluated by voters and critics alike.
While Reform UK’s alignment with Middleton has drawn flak, the party may see it as a necessary step to bolster its chances in the election. Middleton’s rhetoric has increasingly mirrored that of Restore Britain, and he has even shared the latter’s messaging on X. In one instance, he supported a pledge to deport millions, stating:
“An English mayor of London will help flush them out to our shores for ease of deportation.”
This line, shared in a video by Kenyon, suggests a deliberate effort to connect with voters who prioritize national identity and immigration control.
The Makerfield byelection has become a battleground for ideological battles. Reform UK’s decision to associate with Middleton, despite his past, may be an attempt to appeal to a broader base of supporters. However, the move has also highlighted the party’s willingness to align with figures whose views diverge from its core platform. As the election approaches, the impact of this endorsement on voter perceptions will be closely watched, particularly in a contest where political positioning is critical.
With Restore Britain’s anticipated third-place finish, Reform UK’s support for Middleton could serve as a counterweight to its rival. Yet, the controversy surrounding the endorsement may also amplify scrutiny of the party’s evolving stance. As voters weigh the merits of different candidates, the role of figures like Middleton in shaping Reform UK’s image remains a focal point. The outcome of this election could signal whether the party’s strategy of embracing controversial allies will resonate with the electorate or further alienate them.
