Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla, has thrown Reform UK into a state of turmoil, publicly suggesting that Nigel Farage, the party’s founder and leader, should be replaced. This dramatic turn of events follows a dispute between Musk and Farage over the jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, leading Musk to declare Farage unfit for leadership.
Musk’s Stance and a Possible Successor
Taking to his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), Musk bluntly stated, “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.” In the same breath, Musk appeared to endorse Rupert Lowe, a Reform MP and former chairman of Southampton FC, as a potential replacement. Musk added, “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
This announcement comes as a shock, particularly after days of Farage publicly lauding Musk as a “hero” who makes Reform UK “look cool.” However, Musk’s public rebuke leaves little room for reconciliation.
Farage’s Response
Farage was quick to respond, expressing both surprise and disagreement with Musk’s remarks. “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this I am afraid I disagree,” Farage said, standing by his decision to distance himself from Tommy Robinson. Farage reaffirmed, “Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles.”
A Rift Over Tommy Robinson
The fallout between Musk and Farage appears to center on Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court, stemming from his actions during a high-profile trial. Musk has voiced support for Robinson, sharing a post calling for his release, a stance Farage has refused to back.
“He [Musk] sees Robinson as someone who fought against grooming gangs, but Robinson’s imprisonment isn’t about that—it’s about contempt of court,” Farage clarified. “We’re a political party aiming to win the next general election. He’s not what we need.”
The Fallout and Musk’s Motives
Musk’s sudden withdrawal of support for Farage comes as a significant blow, particularly as the Tesla CEO was reportedly considering a $100 million donation to Reform UK to boost its chances in the next general election. The two had met at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago mansion just weeks earlier, where discussions reportedly focused on the party’s campaign strategy and financing.
A source in Washington described Musk’s actions as a “tantrum” after Farage pushed back against his demands. “He does this constantly here, too,” the source said.
Reactions from Allies and Critics
Musk’s comments have sparked a wave of reactions, ranging from outrage to bemusement. Pollster Luke Tryl, UK director of More in Common, remarked, “This shows Musk has no handle on UK politics. Without Farage, Reform would likely have faded into obscurity.”
Raheem Kassam, a former Farage aide, was far more blunt, responding to Musk on social media with, “You are a f****** moron.”
Despite the controversy, Farage has attempted to defend Musk in other contexts, particularly regarding incendiary comments Musk made about Home Office minister Jess Phillips and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Musk had accused Phillips of failing to address child sexual exploitation in Oldham and criticized Starmer for his record as director of public prosecutions.
Farage, speaking on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, acknowledged Musk’s “tough terms” but defended his ownership of X as a platform for free speech. “Tough things get said… but free speech is back,” Farage said, adding that Musk’s leadership of X has created a space for “proper open debate.”
Labour’s Response
Labour, however, has strongly condemned Musk’s remarks. Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting described Musk’s accusations as a “disgraceful smear,” particularly in light of Labour’s efforts to support abuse victims.
What’s Next for Reform UK?
Musk’s call for leadership change comes at a pivotal time for Reform UK. Farage’s ability to connect with disaffected voters has been a cornerstone of the party’s rise in the polls, but Musk’s influence and potential financial backing could sway the party’s direction. Whether Reform UK chooses to side with its founder or heed Musk’s advice remains to be seen, but the rift has undeniably exposed fault lines within the party’s leadership.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Musk’s intervention has added a dramatic twist to Reform UK’s trajectory and may significantly impact its future in British politics.