Populist lawmaker Nigel Farage won his first-ever seat in the U.K. Parliament on Friday, representing the right-wing Reform UK party. This victory comes after seven unsuccessful attempts to become a member of the British Parliament, although Farage has previously served as a pro-Brexit member of the European Parliament.
Farage stated his ambition to build a mass national movement over the next few years, aiming to make a significant impact in the 2029 general election. His win is part of a strong election performance by Reform UK, which has a hardline stance on the topic of immigration, and has secured four parliamentary seats with approximately 14% of the vote share.
This success follows Farage's unexpected return to Reform UK last month, which significantly boosted the party's popularity. He had previously stated he would not run in this election but would instead focus on helping President Trump’s campaign.
Farage, a prominent Euroskeptic, is renowned for his successful campaign for the U.K. to leave the EU, previously leading the UK Independence Party (UKIP) before founding the Brexit Party, which evolved into Reform UK.
The lawmaker, in a video posted on X, declared, “The revolt against the establishment is underway,” expressing confidence in winning numerous seats in future elections.
“We're going to win seats, many, many seats,” he said. “Mainstream media are in denial, just as much as our political parties.”
Update: After all the other counts in Britain’s General Election concluded, James McMurdock was also declared the winner in Essex following a tight race that required three recounts.
“He’s won! He’s an MP! Go on my son!” exclaimed Nigel Farage on Friday afternoon, celebrating an unexpected additional victory for his Reform Party when the closely contested seat was announced for James McMurdock.
McMurdock was elected for South Basildon and East Thurrock with 12,178 votes, narrowly defeating Labour, which secured 12,080 votes. The Conservatives also had a strong showing in this three-way marginal, finishing just behind with 10,159 votes.
