A third of Reform UK voters think the party would be doing better without Nigel Farage at the helm, according to a new poll.
Poll signals trouble for Farage
A YouGov survey conducted on Sunday and Monday suggests Farage’s leadership may be dragging the party down.
The poll found that 21% of Reform voters believe the party would be doing “a lot better” without him, while another 12% think it would be doing “a little better.”
Meanwhile, 34% think the party would struggle without Farage, and 25% believe a new leader wouldn’t change much.
This comes as Reform UK runs neck-and-neck with Labour and the Conservatives in recent voting intention polls. However, the latest internal drama may shift that balance.
Reform in turmoil after Lowe’s suspension
The poll follows a chaotic week for Reform UK. MP Rupert Lowe was booted from the party and reported to the police after accusing Farage of acting like “the Messiah.”
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they’re investigating claims that Lowe made “verbal threats” against Reform chairman Zia Yusuf.
Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, denies any wrongdoing.
“I remain unaware of the specific allegations, but I deny any wrongdoing. The allegations are entirely untrue,” Lowe said.
Internal support for Lowe
Lowe’s seven-person parliamentary team has stood firmly behind him.
In a statement, they called Lowe “a good, decent and honest man” and rejected the bullying allegations as a “political witch hunt.”
Tech billionaire Elon Musk even weighed in, suggesting Lowe should be leading the party instead of Farage.
Reform’s response
Reform UK defended its decision to suspend Lowe.
“Evidence was provided to us of workplace bullying, the targeting of female staff who raised concerns, and evidence of derogatory and discriminatory remarks made about women, including reference to a perceived disability,” the party said.
They confirmed they’ve appointed an independent King’s Counsel to investigate the claims.
“To date, Mr Lowe has yet to cooperate with this investigation,” Reform added.
Farage’s leadership under pressure
Farage’s grip on the party now looks shaky. With a third of his own voters questioning his leadership and a growing rift within the party, Reform could face a turbulent road ahead.
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