A surprise public split has come after the two took opposing positions on jailed right-wing activist Tommy Robinson.
Elon Musk has called for Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK, marking a dramatic reversal in the Tesla billionaire’s support for the right-wing leader. The announcement came just hours after Farage failed to back Musk’s inflammatory comments about British politicians.
“The Reform party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes,” Musk posted on X, the social media platform he owns, on Sunday afternoon. His statement comes weeks after praising Farage and describing Reform UK as Britain’s “only hope.”
The fallout appears to be tied to disagreements over far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who was jailed in England on contempt of court charges, as well as Musk’s recent controversial claims.
Earlier this week, the South African-born US tycoon called Prime Minister Keir Starmer “complicit in the rape of Britain” due to his oversight of the UK prosecution office during past grooming gang scandals. He also accused health minister Jess Phillips of being a “rape genocide apologist.”
Speaking to the BBC on Sunday, Farage distanced himself from Musk’s remarks. “I don’t agree with everything he stands for,” the politician said. “But I do believe in free speech. I think he’s a hero.”
Farage also rejected Musk’s calls to allow Robinson to join his party, saying he is “not what we need” in Reform UK. Musk, by contrast, has described the jailed activist as a political prisoner and repeatedly championed his release.
Reacting to Musk’s post, Farage expressed surprise but reaffirmed his stance. “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,” he wrote on X.
The rift comes despite Musk and Farage meeting last month at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, where reports suggested the tech mogul was considering a $100m (£80m) donation to Reform UK. Farage has since acknowledged their disagreements but emphasized the value of Musk’s influence. “Free speech is back,” he said. “Well, you may find it offensive, but it’s a good thing, not a bad thing.”
Musk’s escalating comments have drawn condemnation from UK politicians, with Labour MP Wes Streeting branding them “disgraceful.”
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. https://t.co/V7iccN6usS
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) January 5, 2025
Jew boy wants a “friend of Israel’ (controlled opposition) in Reform bad eh.
Farage has to walk a fine line that requires his party appeals to a broad range of people…..maybe Musk should stick to the world of business…..
Farage talks a good game, but consistently always weasels out when it’s time to step up and do what needs to be done. He wants to be loved by the voters, but he’s inexplicably also deeply terrified that the establishment media will call him racist (oh noes 😱). The UK is currently circling the toilet bowl at this point in time, politically, economically, socially. HARD decisions are needed (mass deportations for starters. For STARTERS), and Farage has already indicated he will chicken out harder than Foghorn Leghorn.
Farage is a politician: Talk talk talk and ultimately nothing gets done.
Musk is a businessman (like Trump): Lots of talk, after which he expects RESULTS.
The latter is what voters in the 21st century want. We are sick to death of globalist speeches about “democracy” and “diversity” while our families grow poorer and our countries crumble around us. We are tired of taking a back seat in our own lands so we can “appeal to the broadest possible range of people”. We have a right to look after our OWN people and secure OUR OWN children’s futures first before anyone else.
Farage needs to read the room and get back in touch with the MAJORITY OF VOTERS. Say what you will about Elon, but he’s at least plugged in.