More than half of candidates in England’s 2026 local and mayoral elections say harassment or intimidation was a problem, with women, ethnic minority and disabled candidates hit harder. The Electoral Commission warns the abuse is changing how people campaign. Truth Vs Hate examines the line between fierce democratic criticism and intimidation, the online outrage economy and what happens when fear starts deciding who feels able to stand for office.

Police are now making enquiries after footage from Reform UK’s Birmingham conference showed audience members pulling a protester’s hair and grabbing her head as she was removed. The woman has since told LBC she was hit and grabbed by attendees, while party figures have offered sharply different responses. Truth Vs Hate examines the footage, the police appeal, Reform’s reaction and the democratic line that should never be crossed.