# Former neo-Nazi activist chosen as Conservative candidate in Somerset

A former neo-Nazi activist has been selected as the Conservative Party's candidate for a Somerset council election. The choice raises questions about the party's vetting process and the handling of extremist backgrounds in local politics.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/03/former-neo-nazi-activist-selected-as-tory-candidate-for-somerset-council-election) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 18:45:20 GMT
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/aug/05/former-neo-nazi-activist-withdraws-as-conservative-election-candidate-joshua-bonehill-paine) — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 16:06:50 GMT