Voters in Clacton-on-Sea, a Victorian beach town in eastern England, turned out for a local election on Thursday. This vote was called by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who faces corruption allegations.

Farage, known as a key figure behind Brexit and an ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, intended this election to showcase his political influence. However, the major political parties dismissed the election as a publicity stunt. They refused to participate by not fielding any candidates.

Reform UK continues to adopt an anti-immigration stance, and Farage remains a prominent figure in this movement. The election was to bolster his standing amid legal challenges. However, the response from rival parties indicates skepticism about the motivation and purpose behind the vote.