Tesla CEO Elon Musk has stirred controversy by suggesting that Reform UK, the political party founded by Nigel Farage, needs new leadership. Musk’s remarks have sparked a heated exchange between the two figures, with implications for the party’s future ahead of the next general election.
Musk vs. Farage: A Clash Over Leadership
Nigel Farage, credited with Reform UK’s recent surge in popularity, was hailed as a pivotal figure in the party’s trajectory. However, Musk, one of the world’s most influential billionaires, declared on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that Farage “does not have what it takes” to lead the party. Musk’s statement came just hours after Farage praised him on television, calling Musk “a hero” who makes Reform UK “look cool.”
Musk’s comments have taken many by surprise, especially given reports that he was considering a significant donation of up to $100 million to the party. The Tesla tycoon instead appeared to endorse Rupert Lowe, one of Reform UK’s MPs and a former Southampton FC chairman, as a potential replacement for Farage. “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense,” Musk wrote.
Farage Responds: Standing Firm on Principles
Farage was quick to push back, expressing surprise at Musk’s critique. He reiterated his opposition to jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whom Musk had publicly supported. Farage said: “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.”
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is currently serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court. Musk had amplified calls to “free Tommy Robinson,” a move Farage distanced himself from, emphasizing that the activist’s legal troubles were unrelated to the causes he espouses.
A Broken Alliance?
Musk’s withdrawal of support comes after what appeared to be a productive meeting between him, Farage, and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago mansion. The trio reportedly discussed campaign strategies and funding for Reform UK’s general election bid. However, tensions flared after Farage refused to align with Musk’s stance on Robinson, prompting speculation that Musk felt snubbed.
Observers suggest Musk’s intervention highlights his limited grasp of UK politics. Pollster Luke Tryl noted, “Absent Farage, Reform would have been a footnote in history post-election and likely failed to win seats. Like him or not, Farage has an ability to connect with people most politicians can’t reach.”
Musk’s Social Media Storm
Musk’s criticism of Farage was not his only controversial comment over the weekend. He also attacked UK Home Office Minister Jess Phillips and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in a series of incendiary posts on X. Musk suggested Phillips “deserves to be in prison” for her handling of child sexual exploitation inquiries in Oldham. He also accused Starmer of failing to address “rape gangs” during his tenure as director of public prosecutions.
Farage defended Musk’s provocative posts, framing them as a byproduct of the billionaire’s commitment to free speech. Speaking on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Farage said, “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… Tough things get said, but it’s a good thing, not a bad thing.”
Backlash from Critics
Not everyone shared Farage’s perspective. Labour’s shadow health secretary Wes Streeting condemned Musk’s remarks, calling them a “disgraceful smear” against efforts to support victims of abuse. A Washington insider described Musk’s behavior as a “tantrum” in response to Farage’s refusal to align with him on Robinson.
What’s Next for Reform UK?
With Musk questioning Farage’s leadership and hinting at alternative candidates, Reform UK faces internal turbulence as it prepares for the next general election. Whether Musk’s financial support will materialize remains uncertain, but his public critique has already exposed divisions within the party and underscored the challenges of courting high-profile backers.
For now, Farage remains steadfast, insisting that his leadership and principles are essential for Reform UK’s success. However, the rift with Musk leaves an open question: Can Reform UK reconcile these tensions and maintain its momentum?
