Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss has launched her YouTube show, promising to expose what she describes as “the evil-doers” undermining democracy in Britain, the United States, and Europe. In her inaugural episode, Truss asserted her intention to highlight an “international network of leftists” actively working to subvert the will of the people. Despite the grim tone of her monologue, she expressed optimism by referencing the influence of the Trump movement in the US, stating, “We’re going to look at the Trump revolution and see how this can be achieved in Britain.”
Truss’s initiative has garnered attention from figures within the conservative media landscape, particularly John Solomon, a veteran US journalist and founder of the controversial platform Just the News. Solomon, who has faced scrutiny for promoting misleading stories, characterized Truss’s venture as “the beginning of a kind of revolution.” His platform will host Truss’s podcasts, further intertwining her with the US conservative ecosystem that amplifies right-wing narratives.
In its first week, the Liz Truss Show attracted 10,000 subscribers and achieved 67,000 views, marking a modest beginning for the former Prime Minister. Despite her political setbacks, Truss appears to be strategically aligning herself with influential figures such as Solomon, who has been a prominent voice in the pro-Trump media landscape. His work has included regular appearances on shows hosted by Steve Bannon and other conservative outlets, presenting a clear connection to the ideologies that resonate within MAGA circles.
The impact of this connection becomes evident when considering Solomon’s previous controversies. He has faced allegations of disseminating false information about US political figures, particularly relating to Joe Biden‘s foreign policy initiatives involving Ukraine. His claims played a pivotal role in the impeachment proceedings against former President Trump in 2019, with the Senate ultimately acquitting Trump. Solomon’s reputation within the MAGA community, however, remains intact, as he continues to receive support from figures like Trump himself.
Truss’s collaboration with Solomon has drawn her closer to a network of media personalities known for their promotion of conspiracy theories and anti-establishment views. This includes Mike Benz, a right-wing influencer who has made headlines for his controversial claims regarding US foreign aid and censorship. Such associations raise questions about Truss’s image and the credibility of her new platform.
Despite her political challenges in the UK, observers in the US are paying attention to Truss’s efforts to rebrand herself within the MAGA framework. Rob Flaherty, a former deputy campaign manager for Kamala Harris, noted the significance of this media ecosystem, suggesting that it has the potential to influence political discourse not just in America but abroad as well. “You have to take folks like that seriously,” he remarked, emphasizing the interconnectedness of political narratives across borders.
Academics have also noted the growing impact of the online conservative movement in the UK. Alan Finlayson, a political theory professor, pointed out that digital media transcends geographical boundaries, creating a milieu that allows for the flow of ideas, sometimes in extreme forms. This speaks to the changing landscape of political communication, where figures like Truss can find renewed relevance through unconventional channels.
Truss’s opening episode made references aimed at an American audience, including a comparison of the UK’s economic situation to that of Mississippi, stating, “We’re now poorer than Mississippi.” Such comments highlight her desire to resonate with a broader demographic, even as critics question her ability to effectively engage with this medium.
Solomon’s background indicates he has long been involved in establishing alternative conservative media networks, including the Informing America Foundation. This organization has funded various conservative outlets across the US, further solidifying the connections between US and UK conservative media. Its financial backing raises questions about the sustainability of Truss’s new endeavor and whether it will gain traction beyond its initial audience.
In reflecting on Truss’s challenges, former communications chief Craig Oliver pointed out that charisma and engagement are crucial for success in media. Critics argue that Truss’s political style has often been perceived as stilted, which could hinder her ability to connect with audiences effectively. Yet, as Flaherty cautioned, the alternative media landscape is known for its capacity to facilitate comebacks, suggesting that Truss’s alignment with the MAGA movement could offer her a path to renewed relevance.
As Truss navigates this complex media landscape, the implications of her decisions extend beyond her own career. The merging of UK and US conservative narratives could signal a shift in political dynamics, where figures like Truss play pivotal roles in shaping the discourse of a global right-wing movement.
