In a stunning revelation that could have dramatically altered the political landscape, Nigel Farage has disclosed that he personally approached Boris Johnson to lead the Reform UK party.
The approach was made earlier this year, ahead of the July general election, in what would have been one of the most dramatic political defections in modern British history. The move was an audacious attempt to install the former Conservative Prime Minister at the helm of the insurgent party.
A Proposal That Shook Westminster
Speaking to The Independent, Mr Farage confirmed the approach, stating his belief that Mr Johnson was the one figure capable of creating a genuine "competitive force" to challenge the established political order. This would have united two of the most prominent and divisive Brexiteer figures under one banner.
"I discussed it with him," Farage stated unequivocally, confirming the high-stakes political negotiation.
Johnson's Unexpected Retreat
Despite the tantalising prospect, Boris Johnson ultimately turned down the offer. Rather than mounting a dramatic return to the front lines of politics, the former Prime Minister chose to retreat from the public spotlight almost entirely.
Since leaving Downing Street, Mr Johnson has prioritised his commercial ventures and writing career over a return to frontline politics. His most prominent appearance this year was not on a campaign podium, but at the Conservative party conference, where he delivered a speech behind the comfort of a paid ticket.
A source close to Mr Johnson reinforced his position, telling The Independent, "Boris is focused on writing and making money. He is not going to come back."
The Aftermath of a Political Earthquake That Never Was
The revelation sheds new light on the behind-the-scenes manoeuvring that continues to shape UK politics. Had Mr Johnson accepted, it would have triggered an unprecedented realignment on the right, posing an existential threat to Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party.
Instead, Farage himself took the reins of Reform UK in June, going on to win a seat in Clacton while his party siphoned off millions of votes from the Conservatives, contributing to their worst electoral defeat in history.
This non-event—the partnership that never materialised—stands as one of the great "what if" moments in recent political history, a testament to the unpredictable and often personal nature of high-stakes political warfare.
