Crypto Billionaires Fuel Controversy with $97 Million Reform UK Donation
The anti-immigration party led by Nigel Farage, Reform UK, has received $97 million in donations from two cryptocurrency billionaires. Ben Delo, a co-founder of BitMEX, donated £36 million ($48 million), while Christopher Harborne matched the donation with an additional £36 million. The twin donations are tied for the biggest ever to a U.K. political party.
Harborne stated that he backs Reform UK because its policies will attract investment and generate revenue needed for public services. However, established parties have expressed concerns about unlimited donations from billionaires corrupting elections.
The Liberal Democrats called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to cap donations and protect British democracy, warning that Farage is trying to buy his way into power like Trump's America.