Surge in Funding Boosts Nigel Farage's Reform U.K. Party

A recent analysis shows that Nigel Farage's Reform U.K. party has gained significant financial backing from former Conservative donors, reflecting a political shift that poses challenges to traditional parties in the UK.

Nigel Farage’s Reform U.K. party has emerged as a formidable force in British politics, attracting substantial funding from a range of donors traditionally aligned with the Conservative Party. New data reveals that the party raised an impressive 4.75 million pounds (approximately $6.1 million) in 2024, a striking increase from less than $200,000 raised the previous year. Notably, a third of this funding came from former Conservative supporters, indicating a growing concern within the traditional party about its future and the rise of right-wing populism.

The New York Times conducted an in-depth analysis of Reform U.K.'s reported donations to Britain's campaign finance watchdog, focusing on data from the last quarter of the year. The largest single donation was a £100,000 contribution from Roger Nagioff, a former Conservative donor and investor. Additional significant donations included a £1 million contribution from a company owned by Reform's deputy leader, Richard Tice, and £500,000 from Fiona Cottrell.

The influx of funding follows Farage’s recent ascension as leader of Reform U.K., which has positioned itself similarly to former U.S. President Trump’s MAGA movement, advocating for a more nationalistic and anti-immigration agenda. The party has seen a notable rise in national polls, even surpassing the Conservative Party in some surveys and winning its first municipal seats. With the ruling Labour Party not facing a general election until 2029, Farage's fundraising success enhances the party's momentum and capabilities as it prepares for upcoming local elections in May, underscoring a significant shift in the UK political landscape.