Nigel Farage Prioritizes U.S. Conference Over Parliament Return

Nigel Farage has chosen to skip the return of Parliament on September 1, 2023, to attend the National Conservatism conference in Washington, D.C. The leader of Reform UK is scheduled to speak at the event organized by the Edmund Burke Foundation, where he will join notable figures associated with former President Donald Trump. The conference is set for September 2.

Farage’s participation in this right-wing gathering highlights his continued alignment with Trump and his allies. Among the prominent attendees are Tulsi Gabbard, the former U.S. director of national intelligence, and key figures behind Project 2025, a plan advocating for a second Trump presidency. This includes Russell Vought, Trump’s former budget chief, and Kevin Roberts, head of the Heritage Foundation, known for its conservative agenda on social issues, including plans to restrict abortion rights.

Criticism has arisen regarding Farage’s absence from Parliament, with sources from the Liberal Democrats expressing concerns. One stated, “Nigel Farage is far more interested in pleasing Trump and jostling for his affections than he is in turning up to Parliament on time or standing up for British values.” This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among some constituents who feel neglected.

Since winning his Commons seat, this marks at least Farage’s tenth overseas trip, with nine of those journeys to the United States. Reports indicate that he has earned approximately £1 million from various speaking engagements and media appearances during this time. Notably, in his first year in the House of Commons, Farage reportedly mentioned his Clacton constituency only four times.

As the political landscape evolves, Farage’s decision to prioritize his engagement with U.S. conservatives over his parliamentary responsibilities raises questions about his commitment to his constituents. Critics argue that his focus on lucrative opportunities abroad detracts from his obligations in the UK.

The National Conservatism conference is expected to draw attention as it showcases a network of influential figures shaping the future of right-wing politics, both in the U.S. and beyond. Farage’s presence at such events underscores his ongoing role in international conservative movements, further intertwining his political ambitions with those of Trump and his supporters.