LONDON – U.S. billionaire Elon Musk on Sunday made a surprising statement, urging Nigel Farage to step down as the leader of Britain’s Reform UK party. Musk, who previously showed support for Farage, said on his social media platform X, “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.”
The announcement comes weeks after Musk was photographed with Farage, fueling speculation of his financial backing for the party as it aims to challenge Britain’s Labour and Conservative dominance. However, their apparent alliance has unraveled quickly, particularly after Farage distanced himself from Musk’s recent comments supporting British anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, who is currently serving a prison sentence.
Farage responded to Musk’s criticism, stating, “Well, this is a surprise! 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.”
The development follows Musk’s controversial endorsement of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party last month, raising questions about his political alignments as the world eyes upcoming European elections.