Count Binface: A Satirical Political Figure in UK Elections
Count Binface, a quirky political figure, gained attention as votes were counted in Wigan, England, for an election where Andy Burnham of the Labour Party emerged victorious and subsequently became prime minister.
Running for a seat in the UK parliament requires a £500 (around $675) deposit. Candidates get this back if they secure at least 5% of the vote. As a result, serious candidates often share the stage with satirical contenders. Groups like the Monster Raving Looney Party frequently compete, proposing outlandish promises like painting squirrels and placing ducks in puddles. Other unique candidates include one who dresses as a fox and Lord Buckethead, known for wearing a Darth Vader-style outfit.
Count Binface stands out as perhaps the most notable of these. He describes himself as an “intergalactic space warrior,” leading the recyclons from Sigma IX. With a YouTube channel filled with parody music videos, his persona includes a black bodysuit, a silver cape, and a trash can helmet.
In an overheated studio, Binface comments on climate change. “Oh it’s hot in here! Partly because of my armor, and partly because you’re cooking the planet with human-made climate change. You idiots!” he tells NPR.
While Jon Harvey, a 46-year-old comedian, creates this character, he remains in character when engaging with the media. “Jon Harvey? Never heard of him!” Binface quips, maintaining his persona.
Binface’s Election Campaign
Binface’s latest campaign targets Nigel Farage, an anti-immigrant Brexit advocate who called a re-election for his Clacton-on-Sea seat. Farage claims he is targeted by the establishment. Rival parties see it as a distraction from allegations about undeclared donations from crypto billionaires. With mainstream parties abstaining, Binface emerges as Farage’s primary challenger.
Speaking with voters through NPR, Binface exclaims, “I’m the only fresh thing on the menu! You’re all sick of these politicians.” Promising not to accept large donations from questionable sources, Binface aims to attract voters disillusioned with traditional politics.
Count Binface’s Unique Promises
Among Binface’s promises are constructing an affordable house, nationalizing singer Adele, lowering certain taxes, capping croissant prices, and repositioning a controversial hand dryer in a pub restroom. He highlights oddities in politics with humor, gaining laughs if not always votes.
Poll predictions suggest this election could be one of Binface’s best performances. However, if he did win, a constitutional issue could arise: Parliament bans wearing headgear, including trash cans.
Voter Perspectives and Predictions
Despite overall favorable views, votes from Clacton decide this race, and Farage seems to lead. Some, like retired couple Helen and Kevin Matthews, think Binface is humorous but unrealistic, leaning towards Farage.
Conversely, others like Cameron Jangdhari see Binface as a protest vote, highlighting flaws in British politics. Pollster John Curtice suggests disenchanted people might abstain from voting, potentially impacting Farage negatively.
Robert Hayward, a Conservative Party member of the House of Lords, notes that media attention might not favor Farage. Even if he wins, a low turnout could hinder his objectives. The election pits traditional politics against a costumed satirist, showcasing the variety within democracy.
Binface looks forward to sharing the stage with serious contenders, “You get the wonders of democracy. It’s a great leveler. It’s beautiful!” He hopes for enough votes to reclaim his deposit and perhaps make a broader point about the state of UK politics.