The Reform UK leader, Nigel Farage, has undergone a notable makeover, adopting a new haircut, trendy glasses, and a rainbow tie. Observers suggest this transformation is deliberate, aiming to project seriousness despite past affiliations with divisive politics.
Reform UK has increasingly echoed strategies associated with Donald Trump, including attempts to launch Doge-style audits of council spending, though these have yielded no results. Farage has also waged a campaign against diversity, equity and inclusion policies, and called for the Bank of England to embrace cryptocurrency. Additionally, he has proposed abolishing the BBC licence fee, coinciding with Trump's $10bn defamation lawsuit against the broadcaster.
Internal divisions within Reform UK have surfaced. Former frontrunner Rupert Lowe left the party following allegations of bullying, which he denies, claiming he was forced out for being a perceived threat to Farage. The party also disagrees on key issues: some members, like Lee Anderson and chair David Bull, support the death penalty, but Farage insists it will not be official policy.
Critics argue that Reform UK lacks detailed policy proposals. On immigration, Farage has suggested mass deportations and internment centres, but the party has not explained how it would reduce numbers. On healthcare, Farage vows to keep the NHS free at the point of use while also considering an insurance-based model. The party's pledge to create 30,000 new prison places lacks a funding plan.
Observers warn that Reform UK's rise mirrors Trump's playbook, with Scottish Greens co-leader Ross Greer noting the similarity. The party's focus on immigration as a wedge issue and its vague promises raise concerns about the direction of UK politics under a potential Reform government.
