Elon Musk, Tesla CEO and the world’s richest man, has caused a stir within Reform UK by suggesting that the party should replace its leader, Nigel Farage. The billionaire’s comments come amidst a heated disagreement over jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, with Musk claiming that Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the party effectively.
Musk’s Public Critique of Farage
Musk, known for his blunt social media commentary, took to his platform X (formerly Twitter) to declare that Reform UK needed a leadership change. He specifically pointed to Rupert Lowe, one of the party’s five MPs and a former Southampton FC chairman, as a potential replacement. Musk noted, “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
The statement came as a shock, especially after Farage had recently praised Musk as a “hero figure” and credited him with making Reform UK “look cool.” Farage responded to Musk’s criticism, saying, “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles.”
The Robinson Dispute
The fallout appears to stem from Farage’s refusal to align with Musk’s calls to release Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. Musk had publicly supported Robinson, framing him as a fighter against grooming gangs, but Farage pushed back, stating, “Robinson’s imprisonment is not about that—it’s about contempt of court. He’s not what we need as a political party aiming to win the next election.”
Musk’s U-Turn on Support
Reports suggest that Musk had been considering a donation of up to $100 million to bolster Reform UK’s campaign for the next general election. However, the billionaire has seemingly withdrawn his backing for Farage, despite meeting him and Reform treasurer Nick Candy weeks ago at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate to discuss party strategy. Sources close to Musk describe his decision as a reaction to Farage’s resistance, with one Washington insider calling it a “tantrum.”
Farage’s Defense and Criticism of Musk
While distancing himself from Musk over Robinson, Farage defended the billionaire’s controversial posts about UK politicians. Musk had accused Home Office minister Jess Phillips of obstructing an inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, saying she “deserves to be in prison.” He also criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for allegedly failing to address “rape gangs” during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions.
Farage described Musk’s language as “very tough” but praised the platform X for enabling “proper open debate.” He added, “This man happens to be the richest man in the world, but equally, the fact that he’s bought Twitter now actually gives us a place where we can have a proper open debate about many things.”
Criticism from Political Figures
Labour’s shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, condemned Musk’s remarks, calling them a “disgraceful smear” against UK leaders working to combat abuse. Political analysts, like pollster Luke Tryl, criticized Musk’s understanding of UK politics, arguing that Farage’s unique ability to connect with voters is irreplaceable for Reform UK’s survival.
The Fallout for Reform UK
The controversy highlights internal tensions within Reform UK and raises questions about Musk’s involvement in global politics. While Musk’s criticism undermines Farage’s leadership, it remains uncertain whether Reform UK will act on the billionaire’s suggestion. For now, Farage continues to lead the party, but the clash with Musk signals potential challenges ahead as the party prepares for the next election.
This public rift between Musk and Farage underscores the complexities of merging billionaire influence with grassroots political movements, leaving Reform UK at a crossroads. Whether the party thrives or falters under this spotlight remains to be seen.
