Farage's furious clash with Times editor stuns allies

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, reportedly engaged in a furious confrontation with Tony Gallagher, the editor of The Times, over the newspaper's planned publication of a story about his properties. Sources close to Farage expressed surprise at the intensity of his reaction, which allegedly included an expletive directed at Gallagher and was described as a "strong confrontation."

Farage stated that the story endangered his family, a concern amplified by the death of Ann Widdecombe, which Reform figures believe underscores their argument about media intrusion. The Times, however, maintains that its journalism is sound and that the published photograph did not identify any property or present a security risk.

This incident occurs at a sensitive time for Reform UK's relationship with right-wing media. Coverage from The Times, The Sun, the Daily Telegraph, and the Daily Mail has become increasingly critical, questioning Farage's funding and finances and describing his byelection campaign as a "summer gamble" and a "farce."

While some outlets have provided space for Reform figures to voice grievances, recent reporting has been tough. Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative, was quoted in The Times suggesting the party is "for serious people, not a retirement home for failed politicians," a clear jab at Reform's defectors. The Daily Mail published a positive interview with Farage but an editorial noted that "two byelection defeats and concerns over leader Nigel Farage’s financial affairs have significantly altered the landscape."

Veteran Sun commentator Trevor Kavanagh delivered a particularly damning verdict, writing that the movement Farage leads is experiencing a "sudden death." This marks a shift from a year ago when Farage was actively engaging with News UK leaders and readers, seeking to build a broader power base.

Farage's resort to invoking the Leveson inquiry into press ethics has reportedly been poorly received by right-wing media leadership, especially following the Mail's recent legal victory against Prince Harry and other claimants seeking tighter press regulation. Senior editors perceive Farage's strategy as an attempt to "demonise the messenger" and rally his base, a tactic likened to "Trump world."

Despite the downturn in coverage, Farage has found support in the Daily Express. Following reports of financial backing from convicted fraudster George Cottrell, Farage told the Express he was considering legal action and accused "the establishment" of trying to harm Reform. However, continued skepticism from other right-wing newspapers could hinder Reform's broader political ambitions.