Adam Kent: Voters should beware of socialist candidates standing as ‘independents’

Cllr Adam Kent is the Cabinet Member for Economy & Skills on Worcestershire County Council

As we approach the local elections in May, residents across Worcestershire and beyond are seeing an alarming trend: candidates with strong Labour and hard left ties choosing to run as so-called “independents.” This is not a coincidence. It is clearly a deliberate attempt to mask the unpopularity of the Labour Party’s national policies, which have made their official candidates virtually unelectable in many areas.

Labour in disguise – why are they hiding?

Labour activists and former candidates are well aware that Sir Keir Starmer’s party is struggling to gain traction in traditional Conservative strongholds. Their track record of high taxes, anti-business rhetoric, and ideological culture wars do not resonate with local communities that value economic stability, low council tax, and efficient public services.

Rather than stand under their own party banner reflecting their real political interests – where they would have to defend Labour’s disastrous record on immigration, the economy, and local government finance – many of these individuals are choosing to run as “independents.” They claim to be free from party politics while, in reality, they are merely repackaging Labour’s failed ideology in an attempt to deceive voters.

This isn’t just happening in Worcestershire – it’s a nationwide tactic. With their party brand tarnished, they hope that distancing themselves from the Labour name will allow them to win under false pretences.

Exposing the truth – how residents can identify these Labour ‘independents’

Voters deserve to know exactly who they are electing and what values their representatives truly hold. Here’s how to spot a disguised Labour candidate:

• Check their past affiliation – Many of these so-called “independents” have previously stood for Labour or been active campaigners for the party. A simple online search or a look at past election results will often reveal their true political background.
• Follow the policies – If a candidate is advocating for higher council taxes, increased regulation, and vague promises of “fairness” without a clear financial plan, chances are they align with Labour’s agenda.
• Watch who endorses them – Labour councillors and activists will often quietly support these “independent” candidates, either publicly or through shared campaign networks. If Labour figures are backing them, it’s a clear sign they are not truly independent.
• Look for the ‘anti-Tory’ rhetoric – Many of these candidates spend more time attacking Conservative policies than presenting a vision of their own. A true independent should have a clear, positive plan for their community—not just recycled Labour talking points.

Why this matters

Local government is about delivering real results for residents—investing in roads, schools, and public services while keeping council tax low. The last thing Worcestershire needs is a group of Labour-backed “independents” who would use their positions to push an agenda that increases costs for hardworking families and undermines the economic growth we have worked so hard to achieve.

The Conservative-led Worcestershire County Council has delivered record investment in infrastructure, and vastly improved Children and Adult services under a very difficult financial scenario due to a totally inadequate government settlement. With a huge increase in demand in Childrens Placements, Home to School Transport and SEND which desperately needs reform the Council has delivered for the residents.

This progress must not be undone by candidates who falsely claim to be independent while quietly working towards Labour’s failed policies.

Ensuring transparency and accountability

We must make sure voters are fully informed before they go to the ballot box. As Conservatives, we must:

• Call out Labour-backed ‘independents’ whenever we see them on the campaign trail.
• Inform residents through local newsletters, social media, and doorstep conversations.
• Encourage voter engagement so that every resident understands who they are truly voting for.

This election is about honesty, transparency, and delivering for local people. Labour may be trying to hide their true identity, but we will make sure voters know exactly who they are dealing with. Let’s keep Worcestershire on the right track with real Conservatives – people who stand by their values and deliver results.