Elon Musk has said Reform UK needs a “new leader” because “doesn’t have what it takes”.
In a stunning blow to his Reform supporters Musk, a close ally and aide to incoming president , wrote: “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.”
The X owner posted the message following days of headlines over his comments about the historic grooming scandal that took place across UK towns and cities more than a decade ago.
Musk has criticised both Prime Minister Sir and safeguarding minister Jess Phillips for the government’s handling of the scandal and has praised far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court.
He has also endorsed the far-right activist and claimed Robinson was “telling the truth” about grooming gangs, writing on X: “Free Tommy Robinson”.
Yesterday at a party conference, Reform leader Mr Farage distanced himself from Robinson, saying the jailed activist was “not what we need”.
Asked about Mr Musk’s support for Robinson, Mr Farage told GB News: “He sees Robinson as one of these people that fought against the grooming gangs. But of course the truth is Tommy Robinson’s in prison not for that, but for contempt of court.”
Handout photo issued by Reform UK of their leader Nigel Farage and Party treasurer Nick Candy during (Image: PA)
The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk)
Don’t miss…
It comes just hours after Mr Farage told the that ‘s support for Reform UK makes the party look “cool” and helps it attract younger supporters.
The party leader, 60, praised the X owner and world’s richest man, 53, as his “American friend”.
He has been linked with a $100million donation to Reform, but Mr Farage downplayed the likelihood of the handout being that big.
The Reform leader told the : “He may well give us money.
“Whether he does or not, I think what he gives us with huge numbers of young people, he makes us look cool.”
Mr Farage met Musk at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida in December to discuss a donation to Reform.
The owner of Tesla and X had a meeting that also included Reform treasurer Nick Candy, which Mr Farage described as “historic”.
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.