Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has stirred controversy in British politics, calling for Reform UK to replace its leader Nigel Farage. Musk, who had reportedly been considering a significant donation of up to $100 million to the party, declared Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the party effectively. The remarks come amid an ongoing dispute between the two over jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
A Public Rebuke of Farage
Musk’s comments came just hours after Farage praised him on television, calling him a “hero” and crediting him with making Reform UK “look cool.” However, Musk took to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express a different view, stating, “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.”
Musk also hinted at his support for Rupert Lowe, one of Reform UK’s five MPs and a former chairman of Southampton FC, as a potential replacement. In response to a post suggesting Lowe could lead the party, Musk said, “I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
Farage Responds
Farage expressed surprise at Musk’s criticism, saying, “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 emphasized that Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is in prison for contempt of court, not his activism against grooming gangs, and argued that Robinson does not align with Reform’s goals of winning the next general election.
The Fallout Over Tommy Robinson
The fallout between Musk and Farage stems from Musk’s calls to release Tommy Robinson from prison. Robinson is serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court, a stance Musk has publicly supported. Farage, however, declined to back Musk’s demand, stating that Robinson’s controversial record is not what Reform needs to appeal to voters.
Musk’s apparent withdrawal of financial support for Reform UK adds a layer of uncertainty to the party’s campaign. Just weeks earlier, Musk had met Farage and party treasurer Nick Candy at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence to discuss the party’s strategy and funding.
Criticism of Musk’s Intervention
Political observers and Reform insiders have expressed mixed reactions to Musk’s comments. Pollster Luke Tryl, UK director at More in Common, criticized Musk’s understanding of UK politics, noting, “Absent Farage, Reform would have been a postmark in history post-election and likely failed to win seats. Like him or not, Farage connects with voters in ways most politicians can’t.”
Others were less restrained. Raheem Kassam, a former Farage aide and editor at Breitbart, responded to Musk’s remarks with harsh language, calling him a “f****** moron.” Meanwhile, a Washington source described Musk’s reaction as a tantrum after Farage pushed back on his views regarding Robinson.
Musk’s Broader Political Commentary
Musk has also made incendiary comments about other UK political figures. He accused Home Office minister Jess Phillips of deserving prison for not supporting a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. Additionally, he criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, alleging that as director of public prosecutions, Starmer failed to bring justice to “rape gangs.”
Farage defended Musk’s controversial remarks during an interview with the BBC, arguing that free speech on X allows for robust debate. “We may find it offensive, but it’s a good thing, not a bad thing,” he said, praising Musk’s ownership of X for enabling open discussions.
In contrast, Labour’s shadow health secretary Wes Streeting condemned Musk’s statements as “disgraceful smears,” emphasizing the efforts of Labour leaders to support abuse victims.
What’s Next for Reform UK?
Musk’s critique of Farage comes at a critical time for Reform UK, which has gained momentum in the polls but faces questions about its long-term leadership and vision. Whether Farage remains at the helm or Rupert Lowe takes over, the party’s ability to navigate internal tensions and appeal to a broad voter base will be crucial in the lead-up to the next general election.
For now, Musk’s intervention has left both allies and critics questioning his role in shaping the future of British politics.
