Reform UK Navigates Internal Strife and Policy Adjustments Amidst 34% Poll Surge

A recent social media post by user "Andy" on November 7, 2025, suggested, "It’s not too late for Reform to apologise and regroup." This sentiment emerges as Reform UK experiences a significant surge in national opinion polls, yet simultaneously grapples with internal controversies and crucial policy recalibrations. The party, which has seen its support reach as high as 34% in recent Ipsos polling, is facing increasing scrutiny over its governance capabilities and strategic direction.

Reform UK has notably ascended in the political landscape, with various polls in 2025 consistently placing them ahead of or on par with traditional major parties. This momentum culminated in significant gains in local elections in May 2025, where the party secured control of 10 English local authorities. These successes have positioned Reform UK as a formidable force, with some projections even suggesting they could become the largest party in a future general election.

Despite its electoral triumphs, Reform UK has encountered considerable internal challenges within its newly acquired local government positions. Reports indicate "chaos" and "infighting" in Reform-led councils, exemplified by a leaked video showing a party leader in Kent swearing at councillors. The party has also seen the expulsion of five councillors and the defection of another in Kent, citing discomfort with party policies, highlighting organizational instability.

Adding to these internal pressures, the party has made notable adjustments to its policy platform. Nigel Farage, the party leader, recently "rowed back" on a previous promise of £90 billion in tax cuts, deeming them "not realistic" given the state of public finances. Deputy leader Richard Tice further clarified that key election pledges, such as lifting the income tax threshold, are now considered "aspirations," drawing criticism from bodies like the Institute for Fiscal Studies, which labeled their 2024 manifesto sums "implausible."

The call to "apologise and regroup" from within the public discourse reflects these growing pains. Questions surrounding Farage's centralized leadership, accusations of racism following his defense of an MP's remarks, and a former Welsh leader's bribery conviction have further fueled calls for greater accountability and a more cohesive party strategy as Reform UK seeks to translate its polling success into sustained national influence.