Former SAS: Who Dares Wins TV presenter Ant Middleton has announced his intention to run for London Mayor, potentially under the Reform UK banner.
The 44-year-old television personality and former special forces operative made his announcement in characteristically bold fashion, declaring on social media that “My country is calling me once again! I’ve fought for it once before and I WILL come back and serve it again!”
Middleton, who has positioned himself as a challenger to the current administration, has pledged to combat crime and what he describes as a decline in “British culture” in the capital. His campaign appears to be focusing on law and order issues, drawing on his military and security background.
The announcement comes with its share of controversy. Middleton, who parted ways with Channel 4 in 2021 following criticisms he made about Black Lives Matter protesters, has outlined a vision that includes what he describes as a need for an “umbrella identity of British culture” with “rules and regulations which everyone needs to adhere to”.
His potential alignment with Reform UK, Nigel Farage’s political party, suggests a significant shift in London’s mayoral race dynamics. The former TV presenter’s entry into politics marks another example of a public figure transitioning from entertainment to political leadership, following a trend seen both in the UK and internationally.
The announcement has generated considerable social media attention, with supporters praising his direct approach while critics question his political experience. As the mayoral race heats up, Middleton’s campaign promises to add a controversial new dimension to London’s political landscape.
His bid represents one of the most high-profile challenges yet to the current administration, though political analysts note that translating television popularity into electoral success remains a significant challenge. As the campaign develops, all eyes will be on how the former special forces operator adapts his leadership style to the complex world of London politics.
