Crypto billionaires give $97 million to Reform UK, fueling concerns about money in politics

London, AP — Anti-immigration party Reform UK recently received a staggering 72 million pounds ($97 million) in donations from two cryptocurrency billionaires, sparking concerns about money influencing British politics. BitMEX co-founder Ben Delo contributed 36 million pounds ($48 million), while crypto investor Christopher Harborne announced he would match the donation, bringing the total to $97 million.

Harborne argued that Reform UK's policies could attract the necessary investments to boost the economy and fund essential public services. However, established political parties are warning that unlimited donations from wealthy businessmen could corrupt elections. The Liberal Democrats called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to cap donations and preserve British democracy.

They accused Reform UK of attempting to "bring Trump's America to our shores by buying his way into power." The twin donations set a new record for the largest ever given to a U.K. political party, surpassing the combined amount received by all parties in 2025. The donations come amid multiple allegations of improper fundraising by Reform UK, leading to a police investigation into potential violations of anti-money laundering laws.

Ben Delo, who recently returned to the U.K. from Hong Kong, stated that his donation aimed to break up the "cartel" that controls British politics, referring to the Labour and Conservative parties that have dominated elections for nearly a century.