Reform UK candidate Stuart Prior has won two seats in Essex local elections despite facing widespread criticism after racist and inflammatory social media posts resurfaced online during the campaign.

Prior, who stood in local council elections, was linked to a series of offensive posts that have circulated widely on social media, drawing strong condemnation from political opponents and members of the public.

Among the posts attributed to him were comments including,

“As the master race, they can do as they please”,

Alongside further remarks that have been widely criticised.

Other posts included,

“Good. reap it.”, as well as, “Larger brains. Google which race has the smallest brain… Then, once you have that answer, Google whether brain size dictates intelligence in humans.”

In another post, he reportedly wrote,

“There cannot be a genocide against Muslims. It’s only ever self defence against those rats.”, and also, “If this was caused by another third world invader, then this country needs a purge. From North to South and from East to West.”

Despite the backlash surrounding the posts, Prior secured a double victory in the local elections, winning seats in both the Essex County Council and Rochford District Council contests. In the Rochford District Council election, he received 911 votes, while in the Essex County Council race he secured 2,404 votes, successfully gaining representation at both levels of local government. The results came despite significant scrutiny during the campaign following the resurfacing of historic social media posts, which sparked widespread political debate and online reaction.

The outcome has divided public reaction. One commenter said,

“Most of their voters secretly agree with his tweets and smile and say hello when they see you.”

Another wrote,

“And these are your neighbours, friends, cowokers, partners etc.. y'all be safe out there and strategise.”

A third added,

“This got him more votes surprisingly. They just seem to love controversial and racist people in Reform. Just take a look at all the things Farage has gotten away with. This country is cooked when Form eventually takes over no.10 Downing Street.”

The situation has reignited wider discussion about accountability in politics, with renewed scrutiny on how candidates are assessed before being selected. Critics argue that online histories should play a greater role in vetting processes, while supporters of Reform UK maintain that election results reflect public dissatisfaction with mainstream parties.

Reform UK has continued to position itself as a growing force in local politics, with broader gains reported across parts of Essex during the same election cycle. The party has campaigned on issues including immigration, public services and dissatisfaction with mainstream political leadership, appealing to voters disillusioned with established parties.

Although Prior’s online posts prompted criticism and public backlash, his electoral performance reflected strong local support, contributing to Reform UK’s wider success in the region. As debate continues, the controversy surrounding Stuart Prior’s election victories is likely to remain a focal point in discussions about political standards and public trust in local government.