Internal divisions within Reform UK are undermining Nigel Farage’s push to prepare the party for potential governance, complicating his strategy ahead of the next general election due by August 2029.
The party’s polling position has weakened following Labour’s gains under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, with Bloomberg’s composite poll showing Reform UK and Labour tied at roughly 24% based on a 14-day average of surveys from nine polling companies. The erosion of Reform’s lead has coincided with heightened scrutiny over undeclared gifts to Farage and renewed infighting.
Tensions escalated after strategist Tim Montgomerie was suspended hours after criticizing senior party figures during a podcast. Montgomerie stated he was unaware of the suspension and planned to challenge it, while Reform UK said the decision complied with party rules. Three Reform insiders described interactions with Farage’s office as chaotic and suggested he appoint an experienced chief of staff. A person close to Farage countered that some members resented the responses they received rather than the process itself.
Public disputes have also surfaced among Reform’s ranks. Home affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf, a close Farage ally, labeled a Conservative rival and armed forces veteran a “moron” and “traitor.” The comment followed Farage’s earlier public criticism of Yusuf this month. The party has since expanded its parliamentary presence, appointed spokespeople for finance, business, and home affairs, and hired policy advisers, communications staff, and operations personnel.
Reform UK has also faced setbacks in by-elections, with insiders questioning the strategic advice guiding Farage’s decisions, including his resignation from Parliament before winning the Clacton by-election. The party’s annual conference is scheduled for next month, where Farage aims to present a more disciplined and governance-ready image despite ongoing internal challenges.
