Nigel Farage is currently in a challenging position as his party, Reform, faces stiff competition from a more extreme right-wing group supported by Elon Musk. Restore Britain, led by wealthy individual Rupert Lowe, is threatening Reform’s voter base with radical proposals such as reversing mass immigration and implementing harsh measures like housing asylum seekers in tents.
Lowe, who was elected as a Reform MP in 2024 but later suspended for alleged misconduct, has launched Restore with even more extreme policies, including mass deportations, abolishing the asylum system, scrapping inheritance tax, foreign aid, and diverting funds from diversity programs to bolster the armed forces. The party also aims to enhance the teaching of Christian heritage, ban the burqa, and hold a referendum on reinstating the death penalty.
Despite its limited grassroots support, Restore poses a challenge to Farage in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. The main rival for Reform is Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor, vying for a return to Westminster and potentially the Labour leadership.
Facing backlash over social media controversies, Reform now confronts a threat from the right. Initial polling in Makerfield shows Labour narrowly leading over Farage’s party, with Restore Britain gaining 7% support.
Acknowledging the competition, Farage has emphasized the contest as a “two horse race,” cautioning supporters against backing Restore. Polling expert Sir John Curtice suggests that Restore’s emergence may impact Reform’s support, potentially altering electoral outcomes.
Elon Musk’s involvement in supporting Restore, alongside Rupert Lowe’s sizable social media following, amplifies the party’s online influence. Luke Tryl, UK Director of More in Common, notes growing attention towards Restore in focus groups, particularly among right-leaning individuals seeking a more robust version of Reform.
The rise of Restore presents an identity crisis for Reform, risking significant seat losses if national polling trends mirror the Makerfield results. MPs canvassing in the area express surprise at Restore’s presence, indicating its traction among voters during local elections.
While Reform downplays Restore’s impact, admitting the latter’s strong canvassing efforts, the final outcome in Makerfield may hinge on Lowe’s acrimonious split from Reform. In a closely contested race, Lowe’s departure could sway the election results.