Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has stirred up controversy in British politics by suggesting that Reform UK replace its leader, Nigel Farage. This surprising statement comes amid a feud between the two over jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson and has cast doubt on Musk’s anticipated multi-million-pound donation to the party.
A Rift in Leadership
Musk, known for his outspoken nature on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), declared, “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.” This comment follows days of Farage publicly praising Musk, calling him a “hero” and crediting him for making Reform UK “look cool.”
Farage, the founder of Reform UK and a driving force behind its recent rise in polls, responded, “This is a surprise! 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.”
Musk’s Endorsement of Rupert Lowe
Musk further fueled the leadership debate by endorsing Rupert Lowe, a Reform UK MP and former chairman of Southampton FC, as a potential successor. “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense,” Musk said in response to a query about Lowe’s suitability for the role.
This development comes as a bitter blow for Farage, who had reportedly met Musk weeks earlier at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate to discuss party strategies alongside Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy.
The Tommy Robinson Factor
The fallout appears linked to Farage’s refusal to align with Musk’s calls to release Tommy Robinson from prison. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court. Musk had shared posts advocating for Robinson’s release, describing him as someone who “fought against the grooming gangs,” a claim Farage rejected.
“We’re a political party aiming to win the next general election. [Robinson] is not what we need,” Farage stated, emphasizing the party’s focus on electability over controversial figures.
Reactions and Fallout
Musk’s critique of Farage has sparked varied reactions. Some within political circles see the move as misjudged. Pollster Luke Tryl remarked, “Musk has no handle on UK politics. Absent Farage, Reform would likely fail to win seats.”
Meanwhile, Farage’s former aide and Breitbart editor Raheem Kassam harshly criticized Musk, calling him a “f****** moron.”
Despite their clash over Robinson, Farage continued to defend Musk on other incendiary issues. Speaking on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Farage praised Musk for fostering “proper open debate” on X, saying, “This man happens to be the richest man in the world, but equally, his ownership of X gives us a platform for free speech.”
Musk’s Criticism of UK Politicians
Musk also attacked Home Office minister Jess Phillips and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, accusing them of failing to address child exploitation and rape gangs. Farage defended Musk’s right to free speech, even as Labour’s shadow health secretary Wes Streeting condemned the remarks as “disgraceful smears.”
What’s Next for Reform UK?
Musk’s abrupt criticism of Farage and his potential endorsement of Rupert Lowe raise questions about the future direction of Reform UK. With the party’s general election strategy at stake, the billionaire’s intervention could either bolster its profile or destabilize its momentum.
Whether Musk will follow through on his rumored $100 million donation remains uncertain. However, his latest statements underscore the growing intersection of wealth, influence, and political ambition in shaping the future of Reform UK