The Price of Democracy: Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Election Exposes True Cost of Voter Indifference

Strategic Insights -

A lackluster turnout of just 20.22% in the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner election has highlighted the region's apathy towards the democratic process. Despite calls for greater accountability in local government, the role of the commissioner remains shrouded in mystery for many voters. Freedom of Information requests revealed the average cost of each vote to be £11.62, with prices varying from £3.46 in Maidstone to £16.77 in Dartford.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kent Police and Crime Commissioner election saw a turnout of just 20.22%, a significant drop from the 31.8% in 2021.
  • The average cost of each vote is £11.62, with prices ranging from £3.46 in Maidstone to £16.77 in Dartford.
  • Only nine out of 13 local authorities initially refused to provide information on the cost of the election, requiring three Freedom of Information requests.
  • Commissioner Matthew Scott acknowledges the perceived value of democracy, stating that "democracy is priceless."
  • Scott's Labour rival, Lenny Rolles, agrees that democracy should not come with a price tag, but notes a low voter turnout is a major issue.
  • The role of the commissioner has been criticized for its lack of transparency, with many voters unaware of who the commissioner is or what they do.
  • Former marine engineer, Terence Graham, jokingly referred to the commissioner as "that errrrm, Jenrick," highlighting the public's lack of knowledge.

Statistics:

  • 20.22% turnout in the 2024 Kent Police and Crime Commissioner election (Matthew Scott)
  • £11.62 average cost of each vote (Freedom of Information requests)
  • £3.46 cost per vote in Maidstone
  • £16.77 cost per vote in Dartford
  • 273,278 total voters in the 2024 election
  • 120,491 votes cast for Matthew Scott
  • 92,508 votes cast for Lenny Rolles

Sources:

  • "Election Results 2024: Kent Police and Crime Commissioner" (Kent Election Results)
  • "Freedom of Information (FoI) Requests to Borough and District Councils" (FoI Requests)
  • Interview with Matthew Scott (Kent Police and Crime Commissioner)
  • Interview with Lenny Rolles (Labour Rival for Commissioner)
  • Interview with Cllr Stuart Jeffery (Leader of Maidstone Borough Council)