Coffee House Shots Reform conference review: is this 'British MAGA'?
Sep 8, 2025
James Heale from The Spectator shares insights fresh from Reform UK's lively conference. He highlights the energetic atmosphere, notably Andrea Jenkyns’ quirky performance and Nigel Farage’s attempt to unify the coalition. The conversation dives into internal tensions within the party and questions their ability to govern seriously. The discussion shifts to the Labour Party, exploring Shabana Mahmood’s significant new role and the implications of Starmer’s reshuffle on immigration policy and party dynamics.
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Rally Atmosphere Masks Inexperience
- Reform's conference felt more like a rally than a polished governing pitch, showing high optimism and momentum.
- They are building a government-in-waiting structure but lack experienced personnel for serious governance.
Singer-Politician Moment
- Andrea Jenkyns performed an original song, 'I'm an Insomniac', which became a memorable conference moment.
- The camp performance reinforced the party's seaside-rally, high-camp persona among activists and media.
Coalition Held Together By Personality
- Reform is a broad coalition held together by Nigel Farage's charisma but containing internal tensions and fringe elements.
- Those tensions risk dragging the party toward conspiratorial positions that could alienate mainstream voters.