Reform UK leader Nigel Farage testified before the US House Judiciary Committee, engaging in heated exchanges with Democratic congressmen over freedom of speech issues while criticizing UK laws as overly restrictive. The event highlighted transatlantic tensions on digital policy and free expression.
On September 3, 2025, Nigel Farage appeared in Washington DC at a hearing convened by the US House Judiciary Committee to examine whether European laws, including the UK’s Online Safety Act, threaten American free speech rights. Farage, known for his populist stance, used the platform to argue that Britain has descended into authoritarianism, citing recent cases like the arrest of writer Graham Linehan and the imprisonment of Lucy Connolly for online posts.
During his testimony, Farage compared the UK’s approach to North Korea, emphasizing that Americans traveling to Britain could face similar repercussions for speech deemed unacceptable. He specifically targeted the Online Safety Act, a law aimed at protecting children online but which he claimed grants excessive powers to regulators like Ofcom. Farage insisted he was not calling for sanctions but urged US politicians and businesses to engage in diplomatic dialogue with the UK to advocate for free speech.
The session turned contentious when Democratic representatives challenged Farage’s credibility and motives. Jamie Raskin, a congressman from Maryland, labeled him a “Putin-loving free speech impostor” and a Trump sycophant, accusing him of hypocrisy given Reform UK’s own restrictions on local councillors speaking to media. Raskin urged British citizens to reconsider Farage’s influence, pointing to Trump’s policies in the US as a cautionary tale.
Another clash occurred with Hank Johnson, a Democrat from Georgia, who questioned Farage’s connections to tech billionaires like Elon Musk, suggesting he was currying favor for political funding. Farage retorted humorously by asking for a coffee during Johnson’s prolonged questioning, highlighting the tense atmosphere. He later denied any reliance on Musk, referencing their public fallout.
Back in the UK, the event drew sharp criticism from political leaders. Prime Minister Keir Starmer accused Farage of “badmouthing” the country abroad and missing Parliament to lobby for potentially harmful actions, though Farage clarified he sought dialogue, not sanctions. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds condemned the move as anti-British, emphasizing the importance of domestic engagement over international criticism.
Farage’s recommendations to Congress included using trade and diplomacy to pressure the UK on free speech, aligning with his party’s pledge to repeal the Online Safety Act if elected. The hearing also saw support from Republican members, and Farage later met with former President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, reinforcing his transatlantic alliances.
The clash underscores broader debates on balancing internet safety with free speech, reflecting ideological divides in both the US and UK. It may influence Reform UK’s campaign strategies and transatlantic relations, with Farage planning follow-up discussions, including a meeting with Nottinghamshire council leaders to address media access issues.