Nigel Farage hailed as the ‘greatest warrior for British identity’ in ‘confident’ New Year’s address: ‘Reform are a formidable force’
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has been praised for his decision to deliver his New Year’s message from Blenheim Palace, drawing parallels between the Reform UK leader and wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
Speaking to GB News, Daily Express columnist Leo McKinstry declared Farage as the “greatest warrior for British freedom and Britain’s heritage since Winston Churchill”.
In his address to the nation, Farage claimed Britain is “losing any sense of national identity”, and vowed to “campaign for proper border controls”.
In a jibe aimed at Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, he added: “Labour and Conservative are virtually the uni-party. We believe we can turn this country around by 180 degrees and make Britain a much better place.”
The columnist highlighted Churchill’s role in 1940, when “Britain stood alone against that sea tyranny,” noting how his “brilliant oratory” and ability to galvanise the nation ultimately saved Britain and the world from the Third Reich.
McKinstry suggested the choice of Blenheim Palace as a backdrop was fitting, given what he sees as Farage’s role in protecting British interests and identity.
McKinstry highlighted Farage’s significant achievements in 2024, noting he has “shaken up British politics” and “become an MP for the first time.”
The columnist pointed to Reform UK’s growing influence, claiming the party is now “neck and neck with Labour and the Conservatives” in opinion polls.
He suggested current Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch appears “totally flummoxed” by Reform UK’s rise.
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According to McKinstry, a recent dispute over membership figures has played into Farage’s hands, emphasising Reform UK as “the new force” in British politics.
The Express columnist observed that Farage appeared “so confident to camera” in his Blenheim Palace message, suggesting this reflects his strong political position.
McKinstry revealed his personal familiarity with Farage, describing him as “a great guy” who can “connect to so many different people on so many different levels.”
The columnist highlighted Farage’s versatility, noting his ability to be both “the guard of the pint down the pub in Clacton” and someone who can effectively use Blenheim Palace as a backdrop.
He emphasised that Farage’s use of Blenheim Palace “doesn’t look absurd” precisely because of his ability to maintain this broad appeal while protecting British interests.
McKinstry predicted a strong performance for Reform UK in the upcoming county council elections, where he believes they will emerge as “a formidable force in British politics.”
The columnist particularly emphasised Farage’s long-standing focus on immigration, an issue he has “campaigned on so vigorously for years”.
Arguing Farage can go into 2025 with confidence, the Express columnist added that the 60-year-old has “a great year ahead of him”.