Is the Nationalist Revolution in Britain Real? | RealClearPolitics

RealClearPolitics

by Iain Macwhirter, The American Conservative

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Nationalist Revolution in Britain is gaining traction but faces significant challenges in achieving broad electoral success. Iain Macwhirter’s article in *The American Conservative* explores the viability of Reform, a movement rooted in nationalism and anti-establishment sentiment, as it prepares for its first major tests at the polls. The piece highlights the growing influence of nationalist movements across the UK, driven by factors like Brexit and regional identity politics, but also questions whether these groups can translate their base support into sustained political power. The article delves into the historical context of nationalism in Britain, noting that such movements have long existed but often struggled to break into mainstream politics. The rise of parties like the Scottish National Party (SNP) and the English Defense League (EDL) has reshaped the political landscape, particularly in regions where dissatisfaction with traditional centrist parties runs deep. Macwhirter suggests that voters drawn to nationalism are motivated by a mix of separatist impulses and a desire for greater local control, especially in areas feeling marginalized by central government policies. However, Reform and similar groups face significant hurdles. These include internal divisions over strategy, the challenge of balancing separatist goals with pragmatic political alliances, and the need to appeal to a broader base without alienating key voter demographics. The article also raises questions about whether nationalist movements can avoid the pitfalls of extremism while maintaining their momentum. As Britain’s political landscape becomes increasingly fragmented, the success or failure of these groups will have far-reaching implications for the future of

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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/23/2026