Reform U.K. Party Strikes a Chord in Deindustrialized Wales

Tue Jul 01 2025 21:08:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
Reform U.K. Party Strikes a Chord in Deindustrialized Wales

The populist anti-immigration party led by Nigel Farage finds unexpected support among disillusioned Labour voters.


Reform U.K., an anti-immigration party, gains its first council seat in Wales, captivating a struggling electorate disillusioned with Labour.


In the small towns of Trevethin and Penygarn, nestled in South Wales' picturesque valleys, political dynamics are shifting as the Reform U.K. party, led by Nigel Farage, finds fertile ground among frustrated voters. The party's strategy of focusing on local issues and targeting economically challenged areas is resonating with constituents who feel abandoned by traditional politics.

In a recent municipal election, Stuart Keyte, a candidate from Reform U.K. and a former member of the elite Parachute Regiment, successfully claimed a council seat. His campaign was marked by a significant public response—though not all were welcoming. An incident where he was pelted with eggs while campaigning highlights the polarized sentiments surrounding his party. Keyte met the incident with military resolve, stating, “The closer you get to the target, the more flak you get,” demonstrating his determination amid opposition.

The election turnout in Torfaen's municipal vote was notably low, with just 973 out of eligible voters participating. Despite the low turnout, Keyte managed to secure 457 votes, marking a breakthrough for Reform U.K. in Wales. This development challenges the long-standing dominance of the Labour party in the area, prompting a re-evaluation of political loyalty among the local populace.

Local business owners and residents are expressing a shift in perspective, particularly towards Labour, indicating a readiness for change. The sentiment of disillusionment with existing political structures, especially concerning economic management, has provided an opening for Reform U.K. to appeal to voters traditionally aligned with Labour.

As Reform U.K. continues to capitalize on these local sentiments, its growth could signify a broader trend across Wales and beyond, representing the challenges faced by established parties in adapting to the changing political landscape. The case of Trevethin and Penygarn exemplifies how localized issues can galvanize support for populist movements, often leading to unforeseen electoral outcomes.

MORE ON THEME

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:46:15 GMT

Keir Starmer’s Struggles: A Year in Review and Calls for a Shift to the Left

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:46:15 GMT
Sun, 22 Jun 2025 06:38:14 GMT

Far-Right AfD Party Shifts Tactics to Gain Support in Western Germany

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 06:38:14 GMT
Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:26:49 GMT

Armenia's PM Launches Assault on Church Leadership Amid Political Turmoil

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:26:49 GMT
Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:23:28 GMT

**Political Turmoil in Armenia: PM Pashinyan Targets Church Leader Amid Scandal**

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:23:28 GMT
Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:08:56 GMT

Escalating Anti-Immigrant Violence In Northern Ireland Raises Concerns

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:08:56 GMT
Tue, 10 Jun 2025 21:51:27 GMT

Bolsonaro Refutes Coup Allegations During Court Appearance

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 21:51:27 GMT
Sat, 07 Jun 2025 20:04:29 GMT

Trump and Musk's Relationship Reaches Breaking Point

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 20:04:29 GMT
Fri, 06 Jun 2025 04:19:57 GMT

The Trump-Musk Tussle: Egos Clash as Dollar Bills Hang in the Balance**

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 04:19:57 GMT
Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:27:40 GMT

Reform U.K. Faces Strife as Chairman Resigns Following Burqa Controversy

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:27:40 GMT
Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:58:54 GMT

**South Korea's New President Navigates Diplomatic Waters with Care**

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:58:54 GMT
Wed, 04 Jun 2025 03:14:09 GMT

President Lee Jae-myung Promises National Unity Amidst Political Tensions

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 03:14:09 GMT
Tue, 03 Jun 2025 22:55:48 GMT

Opposition Candidate Lee Jae-myung Secures Presidential Victory Amidst Political Turmoil in South Korea

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 22:55:48 GMT
Tue, 03 Jun 2025 18:51:02 GMT

South Korean Opposition Overcomes Political Turmoil to Capture Presidency

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 18:51:02 GMT
Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:31:32 GMT

Disillusioned Youth: South Korea's Electorate Feels Let Down by Presidential Candidates

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:31:32 GMT
Mon, 02 Jun 2025 21:48:55 GMT

Tensions Rise as South Korea Prepares for Presidential Election Amid Political Upheaval

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 21:48:55 GMT
Mon, 02 Jun 2025 18:00:22 GMT

**Poland's Presidential Shift: Karol Nawrocki and the Evolution of Political Dynamics**

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 18:00:22 GMT
Mon, 02 Jun 2025 15:11:31 GMT

Navigating the Aftermath of Martial Law: South Korea's Pivotal Election

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 15:11:31 GMT
Mon, 02 Jun 2025 14:31:04 GMT

Navigating Political Turmoil: South Korea's Upcoming Election as a Path to Unity

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 14:31:04 GMT
Sat, 31 May 2025 09:20:57 GMT

**Mexico's Upcoming Judicial Election: A Shift in Power?**

Sat, 31 May 2025 09:20:57 GMT
Sat, 31 May 2025 00:42:00 GMT

**Ex-El Chapo Lawyer Campaigns for Judicial Role Amid Controversy**

Sat, 31 May 2025 00:42:00 GMT

Follow us

© 2024 SwissX REDD UK ltd. All Rights Reserved.