Reform UK Surges Amid Discontent, Faces Setbacks

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has surged in polls to nearly 30%, performing strongly in by-elections across the UK, including Scotland. In the recent Hamilton by-election, Reform narrowly missed overtaking the SNP and finished behind Labour's Davy Russell, who benefited from grassroots support and endorsements from Graeme Souness and Sir Alex Ferguson. Farage's Scottish campaign featured controversial statements and a retreat from media scrutiny, drawing criticism for divisive rhetoric and unsubstantiated claims about his opponents. His ambitious policy pledges have been questioned by experts as fiscally unrealistic. The party has also faced internal turmoil, notably the resignation of chairman Zia Yusuf. Reform’s rise appears driven by widespread voter dissatisfaction with the main parties on issues like public services, living standards, and immigration, rather than strong endorsement of Farage’s platform.