Nigel Farage faced criticism for proposing changes to election rules that resemble those used by former U.S. President Donald Trump, aiming to limit voting eligibility and eliminate postal voting.

Paul Nowak, head of the TUC, labeled Farage a “sore loser” spreading unfounded claims following his defeat by the Green Party in the recent Gorton and Denton by-election. Farage, in a Mail on Sunday article, linked the Greens’ success to concerns about immigration impact and questioned the legitimacy of voters.

Reform UK announced plans to restrict voting in British Parliamentary elections to naturalized British citizens, excluding Commonwealth citizens from British territories currently eligible to vote. Additionally, Farage proposed ending postal voting, with exceptions for specific groups like the elderly, disabled individuals, and overseas voters.

Responding to Farage’s proposals, Nowak criticized him for attempting to manipulate the electoral system instead of addressing internal issues. He highlighted the rejection of Reform’s policies by Gorton and Denton voters, emphasizing concerns about potential negative consequences on workers’ rights.

Jon Richards from UNISON also criticized Farage, suggesting that true democracy would involve more transparency, especially regarding party funding. Despite Reform’s victory over Keir Starmer’s Labour party in Manchester, Green candidate Hannah Spencer secured a decisive win with over a 4,000-vote lead.

Following his defeat, Farage alleged election fraud, similar to Trump’s claims, citing instances of family voting. Reform reported these incidents to the electoral commission and the police, raising suspicions about the democratic process integrity in certain areas.

Observers from Democracy Volunteers reported witnessing family voting at several polling stations during the by-election. However, Manchester City Council denied any reported issues and expressed disappointment over the timing of the allegations, which were made after voting had closed.

The Green Party dismissed Farage’s claims as an attempt to undermine their victory, emphasizing their ability to triumph over Reform despite differing financial support.