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But the row deepened when one stateside source who is an ally of Ms Badenoch suggested that “Farage is not that close to Trump” and described the Reform leader “as an eccentric British fanboy.”
It was later pointed out that Farage and Trump have each other’s mobile phone numbers and “regularly talk”.
It was also suggested that Trump really likes “Boris Johnson and the Royal family”. This was evident at his delight at meeting Prince William when the two attended the reopening of Notre Dame in Paris last weekend.
But the row is part of a struggle on the right of British politics with Reform splitting the traditional Tory vote with some claiming they could replace the Conservatives. Mr Farage sees his relationship with Trump as essential for success in the UK.
It is understood though that while Trump and Farage have a close relationship the two are perceived as “sole traders” while the Republicans have a wider view.
According to one well placed insider it means that the Tories and Republican Party are renewing their relationship with Trump’s deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller crucial for work through back channels even though he likes Farage.
Meanwhile, the number of trips across the Atlantic by Mr Farage in less than six months as an MP have already led to questions about his commitment to his Clacton constituency even though he is believed to be angling for a visit there from the soon-to-be US president.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/farage-republican-fundaraiser-tories-new-york-b2661276.html