In a shocking turn of events, Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a former neo-Nazi activist with a history of antisemitism, has been selected as the Conservative candidate for the upcoming Somerset council elections. This decision raises serious questions about the party’s commitment to combating hate and extremism within its ranks.
A Troubling Background
Bonehill-Paine is no stranger to controversy. He has openly identified as a “nationalist, fascist, theorist, and supporter of white rights.” His past includes criminal convictions for various offences, including harassment of Jewish MP Luciana Berger and for promoting antisemitic rhetoric online. In 2015, he served over three years in prison for posting inflammatory content linked to a planned neo-Nazi rally.
Despite these convictions, Bonehill-Paine has resurfaced in the political landscape as the creator of the satirical Crewkerne Gazette, which has garnered a following for its humorous takes on current affairs. However, his recent selection as a Tory candidate has ignited criticism from political opponents who accuse the party of hypocrisy regarding its stance on antisemitism.
Support and Controversy within the Tory Party
Bonehill-Paine has claimed that the Conservative party is fully aware of his past. He stated, “The branch and indeed party are fully aware of my past. Our chairman has been a vocal advocate and has supported me since I became a member of the party. I am very grateful for the support.” This endorsement from local party leadership raises eyebrows, especially in light of ongoing debates about the Conservative party’s future direction under leader Kemi Badenoch.
The selection comes amid accusations that Badenoch is sidelining centrist voices within the party. Recent revelations that all prospective Conservative MPs must align with her agenda—scrapping the 2050 net zero target and withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights—have compounded concerns about the party’s ideological shift.
Backlash from Political Opponents
The response from within the political arena has been swift and scathing. Reform UK spokespersons have lambasted the Tories for selecting a candidate with Bonehill-Paine’s background while professing to fight against antisemitism. “Kemi claims the Tories have changed and they will have a new generation of candidates—it’s now clear what calibre of candidates they will be,” they stated, emphasising the perceived hypocrisy in the party’s choice.
This controversy comes at a time when the Conservative party is striving to reshape its image and appeal to a broader electorate. As they grapple with internal dissent, the selection of an individual with such a problematic history threatens to undermine their efforts.
The Bigger Picture
As the Somerset council elections approach, the ramifications of this decision extend beyond the local political landscape. The choice of Bonehill-Paine as a Conservative candidate could have lasting implications for the party’s reputation nationally, particularly regarding its stance on extremism and inclusivity.
Why it Matters
The selection of a former neo-Nazi as a Conservative candidate is not merely a local issue; it underscores a critical moment for the party as it navigates its identity and values. With rising concerns about extremism and hate speech, this decision could alienate voters and impact the party’s credibility for years to come. As the political landscape evolves, the Conservatives must confront the implications of their choices and the message they send to their constituents and the wider community.
