Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and CEO of Tesla, has stirred up controversy within Reform UK by suggesting that the party needs a leadership change. Musk publicly declared that Nigel Farage, the party’s founder and current leader, “does not have what it takes” to lead, igniting a political storm. This comes amidst a broader conflict between the two over jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
Musk vs. Farage: A Leadership Rift
The dispute unfolded after days of Farage praising Musk, calling him a “hero” and claiming Musk’s support makes Reform UK “look cool.” However, Musk took to his platform, X (formerly Twitter), to declare that Farage should step aside. Musk endorsed Rupert Lowe, one of Reform’s five MPs and a former Southampton FC chairman, as a potential successor, stating: “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
Farage fired back, expressing surprise at Musk’s comments and defending his position. “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles,” Farage stated.
Musk’s Expected $100M Donation in Jeopardy
Musk had reportedly been considering a significant donation of up to $100 million to Reform UK to bolster its campaign for the next general election. However, his fallout with Farage over Robinson’s imprisonment has cast doubt on this financial backing. Musk’s social media call to “free Tommy Robinson” highlighted their differences, with Farage refusing to align Reform UK with Robinson, stating: “We’re a political party aiming to win the next general election. He’s not what we need.”
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court, unrelated to his earlier activism against grooming gangs. Sources close to Musk suggest his withdrawal of support may be a reaction to Farage’s resistance to his stance.
Political Backlash and Divided Opinions
Musk’s criticism of Farage has drawn mixed reactions. Pollster Luke Tryl commented that Musk “has no handle on UK politics,” arguing that Farage’s ability to connect with voters has been instrumental to Reform UK’s resurgence. “Absent Farage, Reform would have been a postmark in history post-election and likely failed to win seats,” Tryl added.
Others, however, have not minced words. Raheem Kassam, a former Farage aide, lashed out at Musk, calling him a “f****** moron” for undermining Reform UK’s leadership.
Farage’s Diplomatic Defense of Musk
Despite the clash, Farage has defended Musk’s right to free speech, particularly on X. Speaking on BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Farage lauded Musk’s efforts to create a platform for “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.”
Farage’s remarks contrasted sharply with criticism from Labour’s Wes Streeting, who described Musk’s incendiary claims against Labour ministers as a “disgraceful smear.” Musk had earlier accused Home Office Minister Jess Phillips and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer of failing to address child sexual exploitation cases, drawing widespread condemnation.
What’s Next for Reform UK?
The public fallout between Musk and Farage has created uncertainty about the future direction of Reform UK. Musk’s financial backing, which could prove pivotal for the party, now hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, Farage’s leadership faces renewed scrutiny as calls for Rupert Lowe to step into the role gain traction.
As tensions rise, the debate underscores the complexities of political alliances and the influence of high-profile figures like Musk in shaping the political landscape. Whether this row marks a turning point for Reform UK remains to be seen.
