Elon Musk has denied reports that he is planning to donate a massive £80 million to Nigel Farage’s right-wing Reform UK party, quelling speculation that the billionaire could reshape British politics with a single contribution.
The rumors began swirling after The Sunday Times reported concerns among business leaders and Conservative officials about the possibility of Musk funding Reform UK, potentially giving the populist party a significant boost. Musk, however, rejected the claims outright when asked by ITV News during a visit to Capitol Hill on Thursday. “No,” he stated simply.
Farage Calls Speculation “Pure Theory”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage dismissed the donation rumors as “entirely theoretical” and “pure speculation.” While denying any current financial ties to Musk, Farage left the door open for future support. “Are Trump and Elon going to support me in the run-up to 2029? Well, that’s what friends are for, isn’t it?” he quipped.
Farage, a longtime ally of Donald Trump, has been vocal about his ambitions to expand Reform UK’s influence. However, a donation from Musk would provoke significant controversy, with critics warning it could undermine the integrity of British democracy.
Musk’s Feud with Labour
The X owner’s reported interest in Reform UK comes against the backdrop of his ongoing feud with the UK’s Labour government. Since Prime Minister Keir Starmer took office in July, Musk has repeatedly criticized Labour’s policies on social media regulation, law and order, and the economy.
These tensions have fueled speculation that Musk could back a populist alternative to the current administration. His approving posts about Reform UK on X have only added to the intrigue.
Conservative Concerns
Musk’s potential involvement in British politics has also unsettled the Conservative Party. Co-Chairman Dominic Johnson told Tory activists in a leaked video call that a large donation from Musk to Reform UK would be akin to “buying one of the political parties here.” Johnson added that Farage “should be frankly embarrassed” and warned of the risks of becoming “a puppet of a foreign politician.”
A Polarized Reaction
Musk’s denial has done little to quell the frenzy of speculation online, with social media users divided over the implications of his potential involvement in UK politics. Some see his support as a welcome disruption, while others warn of undue influence from a foreign billionaire.
As Musk continues to make headlines for his global political entanglements, his ties to figures like Farage and Trump underscore his growing role in shaping political discourse worldwide. Whether Reform UK benefits from his wealth or remains at arm’s length, the rumors have already sparked a heated debate about the future of British democracy.