A campaigner advocating for local election reform, whose tanning salon was visited by Nigel Farage, has come under scrutiny for praising Adolf Hitler. Aaron Taylor, who was set to be a candidate and served as a branch treasurer, expressed admiration for the Nazi leader. Taylor, 33, also seen with Reform’s Robert Jenrick, posted online messages including “heil Hitler” and denying the Holocaust. His social media activities were brought to light by anti-racism group HOPE Not Hate.
Confronted at his salon in Jaywick, Taylor apologized, stating he had been “removed” from the party and expressing regret for his actions. Despite his extremist views, Taylor had been an active supporter of Reform, even posting videos promoting the party. However, his online persona under the name “@the_jackal123” featured disturbing posts supporting Hitler and racist ideologies.
In response to the controversy, Taylor acknowledged his past statements but claimed not to recall making them, attributing them to possible intoxication. He admitted to previously holding a position within Reform but stated he had voluntarily canceled his membership. The party confirmed Taylor’s removal and clarified that he had been rejected as a candidate after failing vetting procedures.
The incident has raised questions about the alignment of individuals with extreme views within Reform and the need for stringent vetting processes to prevent such affiliations. The party maintains its stance against such ideologies and continues to distance itself from Taylor’s actions.