Farage Defends Musk Amid Past Feud, Says Tech Billionaire Was ‘Just Trying to Encourage Me’
By The Telegraph Staff
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has moved to downplay his public clash with Elon Musk, signaling that the two remain on “good terms” despite a social media spat earlier this year. Farage’s remarks come as speculation continues over the relationship between the controversial populist politician and the tech billionaire who has become an outspoken voice for free speech and anti-establishment causes.
The Dispute
Back in January 2025, Musk surprised many by publicly calling for Farage to step down from his role as leader of Reform UK. The criticism came amid a disagreement over Musk’s vocal support for jailed right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, a figure Farage has consistently distanced himself from.
“He doesn’t have what it takes,” Musk wrote on X, suggesting former MP Rupert Lowe—whom Farage had expelled—should replace him as head of the party.
Farage has long branded Robinson as a “thug” and made it clear that there was no place for him in any political project he leads.
A Reconciliation Behind the Scenes
But in a rare show of diplomacy and introspection, Farage revealed during a BBC interview that he and Musk have since met privately and settled their differences.
“We talked about it,” Farage said on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg. “He was just trying to encourage me in a few policy areas, ones I wasn’t prepared to go down.”
The Reform leader didn’t specify which policies Musk attempted to influence but reaffirmed that he was unmoved by pressure, no matter how high-profile the source.
“Do you know what? You can’t bully me. I’ve got the principles. I stand by them. Good or bad.”
Still Calling Musk a ‘Hero’
Despite the disagreement, Farage has continued to praise Musk in public, referring to him as a “free speech hero” and even lauding him at a U.S. conference in February.
“We’re still on good terms,” Farage said, describing Musk’s advocacy for open discourse and anti-censorship policies as “invaluable” to political debate in the West.
Looming Political Implications
The episode underscores the delicate balance Farage must strike as he seeks to grow Reform UK’s national influence—especially among disaffected Conservative voters, libertarians, and free speech advocates. While Musk’s involvement in British politics remains informal, any public endorsement—or withdrawal of support—by the X owner carries significant weight.
With whispers of potential financial backing from Musk still lingering, Farage’s remarks suggest he remains open to alliance—but not at the cost of his political identity.
Conclusion: Principles Over Pressure
The feud may have momentarily strained ties, but Farage’s recent comments reaffirm his political independence. By standing firm on his rejection of Robinson while maintaining a diplomatic rapport with Musk, he’s attempting to walk the fine line between populist authenticity and strategic pragmatism.
Whether this rekindled relationship evolves into something deeper—politically or financially—remains to be seen. But for now, Farage appears content with both defending his turf and keeping the billionaire hero in his corner.