In an unexpected turn of events in the Clacton by-election, John Stevens, a former Member of the European Parliament, is advocating for a renewed discussion on Brexit by running for the Rejoin EU Party. Stevens aims to challenge Nigel Farage, a prominent figure in the Leave campaign, as he highlights the discontent among local voters regarding the current political climate, particularly the perception of the election as a trivial contest.
A Serious Election for Clacton Voters
As Clacton prepares for its by-election, Stevens has voiced concern over the framing of the contest as a light-hearted affair, particularly with the inclusion of Count Binface as a candidate. He believes that such portrayals undermine the seriousness with which local residents regard the election. “This is not a joke election from the perspective of people in Clacton,” Stevens stated emphatically. He noted that many constituents feel belittled by what they perceive as an inside joke among Westminster elites.
Seizing the opportunity, Stevens aims to galvanise support for the idea of rejoining the European Union, particularly among younger voters and women who may be reconsidering their stance on Brexit. Despite the constituency’s strong pro-Leave sentiment in the 2016 referendum, Stevens argues that a significant portion of the electorate is now questioning the consequences of their decision.
Challenging Farage’s Dominance
Stevens, who previously served as a Conservative MEP until 1999, expressed the need for a serious challenge to Farage. He believes that a substantial anti-Brexit vote could inflict considerable damage on Farage and his Reform Party. “If he gets a significant anti-Brexit vote… that is far more damaging to him and to the Reform cause than simply being humiliated by a dustbin,” Stevens remarked.
While he acknowledges the uphill battle given Clacton’s 70 per cent Leave vote in 2016, he remains optimistic. “This is an opportunity worth taking,” he asserted, emphasising that a strong showing could encourage mainstream parties to revisit the conversation around EU membership.
Engaging the Local Community
As Stevens canvasses in Clacton, he encounters a mixed response. Many residents are expressing concerns about the outcomes of Brexit, particularly young families in new housing developments. “Quite a few people say ‘no, well, Brexit hasn’t worked,’ or ‘I was against it,’ particularly many women more than men,” he noted.
Stevens aims to present the by-election as a chance for constituents to voice their opinions on an issue he believes has been sidelined. “This is your chance to have an absolutely clean fight to express an opinion on something which nobody’s talking about – not even Nigel Farage wants to talk about Brexit,” he declared.
A Call for Reconciliation
In his campaign, Stevens advocates for a reconciliatory approach to the Brexit debate. He believes both Leavers and Remainers share responsibility for the Brexit outcome and urges for a collective acknowledgment of past mistakes. “It’s important for Remainers to say that… we all made a mistake and we’re all going to correct it together,” he stated, emphasising the need to move beyond divisive rhetoric.
This isn’t Stevens’ first encounter with Farage; he previously stood against him in the 2010 election in Buckingham, where he secured over 10,000 votes. He remains committed to challenging Farage’s narrative and hopes to inspire a shift in the electorate’s thinking.
Why it Matters
The Clacton by-election represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding Brexit, particularly as public sentiment evolves. Stevens’ candidacy could serve as a barometer for how the electorate is grappling with the implications of leaving the EU. A significant anti-Brexit vote not only risks undermining Farage’s position but may also prompt mainstream parties to reassess their stances on European integration as the country continues to navigate the complexities of its post-Brexit identity.
