Farage Admits Brighton ‘Not A Priority’ But Vows Reform Will Still Stand Candidates

Nigel Farage has said Brighton and Hove is not a key election target for his party – but insists Reform UK will still stand candidates to “give people a choice”.

The Clacton MP made the comments during a rally in Ardingly on Wednesday (25 March), held ahead of local elections across Sussex in May.

Speaking at the event, Farage acknowledged that Brighton presents a different political landscape compared to the rest of the region.

He said the party is focusing its efforts elsewhere in Sussex, but confirmed Reform UK will still campaign in the city.

Farage pointed to the strength of the Green Party locally, referencing former MP Caroline Lucas, who represented Brighton Pavilion for many years.

Despite this, he said the party expects to perform strongly in other parts of East and West Sussex, suggesting traditional Conservative strongholds could be vulnerable.

During his speech, Farage also criticised aspects of life in Brighton, including parking costs and street maintenance.

At the same event, Reform UK confirmed that two councillors – David Greaves and Neil Cleaver – have defected from the Conservative group on Wealden District Council to join the party.

Local elections are set to take place across Sussex in May, although Brighton and Hove City Council is not due to go to the polls until next year.