Nigel Farage’s personal approval rating has fallen to -32 per cent, his weakest result for at least two years, prompting The Independent’s readers to debate whether his political influence and Reform UK’s momentum are fading. The decline matters because it coincides with a by-election in Clacton, scrutiny over alleged undeclared donations and gifts, and stronger ratings for prime minister Andy Burnham.

More in Common found Farage’s rating had dropped ten points in a fortnight, while Ipsos polling for The Independent reportedly showed a similar pattern. In the publication’s reader poll, 69 per cent said his decline was terminal, compared with 6 per cent expecting a recovery; 13 per cent thought Reform could continue without him. Comments ranged from strong criticism of Farage’s rhetoric and leadership to support from voters who said he needed to improve his judgement or step down.