Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has sparked controversy by publicly suggesting that Reform UK, the political party led by Nigel Farage, needs new leadership. The Tesla and SpaceX CEO, who has reportedly considered donating up to $100 million to the party, declared on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), that Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the party effectively.
This statement comes amid tensions between Musk and Farage over the case of jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Musk’s call for reform in Reform UK delivers a sharp blow to Farage, who had recently praised Musk as a “hero” and credited him with making the party appear “cool” to the public.
A Potential Successor: Rupert Lowe
Musk appeared to endorse Rupert Lowe, one of Reform UK’s five MPs and a former chairman of Southampton FC, as a potential replacement for Farage. Responding to a post on X, Musk wrote, “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
Farage, however, dismissed Musk’s remarks, emphasizing his stance against supporting Robinson. “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I am afraid I disagree,” Farage stated. “Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles.”
The Fallout: Musk’s Shift in Support
Musk’s criticism marks a dramatic shift in what seemed to be a budding partnership. Just weeks ago, Farage and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy met with Musk at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate to discuss the party’s campaign strategy and finances. The meeting was described as “great,” with Musk reportedly considering a significant donation to aid Reform’s bid in the next general election.
However, tensions escalated after Farage declined to join Musk’s call to release Robinson from prison. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court. Musk’s support for Robinson, whom he views as a fighter against grooming gangs, clashed with Farage’s stance, who labeled Robinson “not what we need” for the party.
Reactions to Musk’s Comments
Musk’s criticism of Farage and his incendiary posts on X have drawn mixed reactions. A Washington source close to Musk described his behavior as “a tantrum” over Farage’s pushback. Pollster Luke Tryl remarked that Musk’s intervention shows he has “no handle on UK politics,” arguing that Farage’s unique ability to connect with voters has kept Reform relevant.
Meanwhile, former Farage aide and Breitbart editor Raheem Kassam lashed out at Musk, calling him “a f****** moron.” Despite the fallout, Farage defended Musk on other controversial statements, including attacks on Home Office minister Jess Phillips and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Musk accused Phillips of obstructing inquiries into child sexual exploitation and criticized Starmer for failing to prosecute “rape gangs” during his tenure as director of public prosecutions.
Farage Defends Free Speech on X
Despite distancing himself from Musk over Robinson, Farage praised Musk’s ownership of X for restoring “free speech” to the platform. Speaking on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Farage said, “Tough things get said… by both sides of the debate,” adding that Musk’s influence has made X a place for “proper open debate.”
Labour’s shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, however, condemned Musk’s comments as a “disgraceful smear,” highlighting Labour’s efforts to support abuse victims.
What’s Next for Reform UK?
Musk’s call for new leadership in Reform UK and his strained relationship with Farage raise questions about the party’s future. While Farage remains a polarizing figure, his ability to resonate with voters has been critical to the party’s success. Whether Reform UK heeds Musk’s advice or continues under Farage’s leadership, the unfolding drama underscores the complex dynamics of politics, money, and influence in the digital age.
