In a column published by the Guardian on Tuesday, just hours before Trump landed, Khan wrote that the president “deliberately used xenophobia, racism and ‘otherness’ as an electoral tactic.” He added: “President Donald Trump and his coterie have perhaps done the most to fan the flames of divisive, far-right politics around the world in recent years.”
Khan linked the president’s rhetoric to the major rally in London over the weekend led by activist Tommy Robinson, which drew tens of thousands of supporters. The mayor said the demonstration was “an effect of politicians refusing to condemn the rising tide of hatred in this country, instead choosing to dabble in dog-whistle politics and dangerous rhetoric themselves.”
On Wednesday, Khan shared his message on social media, writing: “President Trump has fanned the flames of the far-right. And now a toxic form of politics is spilling out onto our streets. These are dark times, but those who seek to divide us will not win.” He also posted on Instagram: “Here in London, hate will never win.”
The rally, dubbed the 'Unite the Kingdom" rally, featured Union Jacks, speeches, and live music, including a surprise appearance by Elon Musk. Supporters came from across the UK, with one attendee telling Rebel News: “We’re all fed up in the country... It’s quite depressing living in the UK at the minute. We all needed some joy and some happiness and some positivity.”
Attendees also rejected claims that the protest was extremist. “They clearly haven’t watched this rally,” another participant said, pointing to the diversity of participants. Another added: “I say it’s bollocks. We’re not far-right thugs. We are just British patriots that love our country.”
