Sophie, a Political Correspondent at the Mirror since December 2022, focuses on UK politics with keen interest in prisons, the justice system, education, and online safety.
During the recent start of Reform UK’s conference, Nigel Farage opted for style over substance once more, mirroring the showboating tactics of Donald Trump. He made a grand entrance with pulsating music and a pyrotechnic runway but failed to unveil any new policies to his loyal followers. Attendees, including one who spent approximately £600 on travel and tickets, witnessed a spectacle rather than a serious political address.
Despite spending the summer delivering empty promises and stoking discontent nationwide, Farage’s annual conference was dominated by theatrics, flag-waving, and jokes, portraying him more as an entertainer than a credible politician. While attempting to dispel the perception of Reform UK as a one-man show, Farage’s last-minute speech relocation to avoid being overshadowed by Keir Starmer’s reshuffle highlighted his desire to maintain the spotlight.
The emphasis on the “Nigel Farage show” extended to his colleagues as well. Dame Andrea Jenkyns, the Greater Lincolnshire mayor for Reform UK, proclaimed, “Nigel…you will save Britain,” while Nadine Dorries, a recent defector from the Tories, emphasized the need for a united party behind its leader to rescue the country.
In his address, Farage painted a bleak picture of the nation, citing economic decline, societal breakdown, and cultural deterioration, fueling despair and anger among his fervent supporters. Despite his bold statements, he offered no concrete solutions, merely reiterating his promise to resolve the small boats crisis within two weeks if elected, despite previous criticism of his immigration proposals.
Labour criticized Farage for offering “anger without answers,” labeling his speech a repetitive litany of grievances. The Reform UK leader embodied the party’s approach with a flashy display devoid of substantive policy proposals.
The theatrical event reached its climax when Farage’s colleague, Dame Andrea, adorned in a fully sequined jumpsuit, delivered an impassioned performance, singing a song about insomniacs and the nation’s looming catastrophe. As she and Farage propagated doom and gloom, they emerged as the alarming prospect awaiting the country.