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Nigel Farage has officially introduced Dan Thomas, a former Conservative councillor, as the new leader of Reform UK in Wales. At a rally held in Newport, Thomas addressed supporters, urging them to act as “the people’s army” to bring about the change Wales urgently requires.
Originally from Blackwood in Caerphilly county, Thomas remarked that he had returned to his roots in the South Wales valleys, where he is now raising his two sons. His political career includes serving as the leader of Barnet council in north London between 2019 and 2022, followed by a stint as opposition leader until May 2024. After 19 years on the council, Thomas stepped down at the end of last year. Local reports have highlighted his move from Barnet in 2024 was motivated by a desire to live closer to family and raise his children in a more rural environment.
Reactions from other political parties have been mixed. The Conservatives criticized Reform for “parachuting” Thomas into Wales, while Labour’s First Minister Eluned Morgan accused the party of being “absolutely packed with Tories jumping ship.” Farage also announced the addition of former Tory Senedd member James Evans to Reform UK, with Evans stating he was removed from the Conservative Party after criticizing their vision for Wales and the UK as “broken.”
During his introduction, Farage described Thomas as experienced and “battle hardened,” emphasizing his capability to lead with steadiness through both successes and setbacks in campaigning. Thomas, speaking to activists ahead of the May Senedd election, described the upcoming vote as Wales’ “last chance” to disrupt Labour’s dominance, vowing to commit fully to campaigning with a positive manifesto and a dedicated team of candidates deeply connected to their communities. Farage stressed that Thomas and his Welsh colleagues would have autonomy over policy decisions and lauded Thomas for his managerial experience and understanding of government challenges
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