Nigel Farage’s reaction to allegations of racist behaviour during his school days has drawn comparisons to the tactics of his ally, US President Donald Trump. Experts and political opponents note that the Reform UK leader’s approach—legal threats, denials, and attacks on the media—closely follows the playbook used by Trump.
Steven Barnett, a professor of communications at the University of Westminster, said: “Is it out of the Trump playbook? I think that’s exactly what’s going on. This is becoming his new modus operandi, turning defence into attack.” Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper accused Farage of “importing the very worst kind of American populist tricks”.
Observers point to four key tactics shared by Farage and Trump. First, legal threats: Farage’s barrister warned the Guardian of proceedings seeking an injunction and maximum damages if it published allegations of racist or antisemitic behaviour. Second, outright denial: an initial response categorically denied the claims, though Farage later softened his stance, describing the comments as “banter in a playground”.
Third, personal attacks on accusers: Farage and deputy Reform leader Richard Tice have questioned the integrity of those making allegations, including Peter Ettedgui, a Bafta-winning director who claims Farage repeatedly said “Hitler was right” or “gas them” at school. Fourth, attacking the media: Farage has denounced the BBC and insulted a presenter for raising the issue.
However, Sunder Katwala of the thinktank British Future noted a difference: “The un-Trump-like thing about Farage here is he’s giving slightly evasive denials. In a sense, he’s not going the full Trump.” Reform UK did not respond to requests for comment on the comparison.
