Arron Banks Barred from Hosting US President Party in Bristol
Controversial Bristol businessman and political donor Arron Banks has been barred from attending a £150,000 party he organized in a top Washington hotel to celebrate President Donald Trump’s inauguration. This denial came as a shock to Banks, who claimed it was a political decision by the outgoing Biden administration as revenge for his alleged involvement in a Russian-backed move to undermine the Brexit referendum.
The ‘Stars and Stripes and Union Jack Party’ was scheduled to take place on the rooftop of Washington’s Hay-Adams hotel this Friday, with notable guests like former British Prime Minister Liz Truss, Reform UK’s treasurer Nick Candy, and Reform leader Nigel Farage. However, Banks and Leave.EU campaigner Andy Wigmore were both refused entry to the US when they applied for an ESTA visa earlier this month.
Expert Quote:
Mr. Farage expressed his disbelief at the US authorities’ decision, stating, “Arron Banks is a good man and a friend of America. It is astonishing that US Citizenship and Immigration Services have denied him entry for the inauguration.”
Banks’ Controversial Past and Local Reactions
Arron Banks has a history of controversy in the Bristol area and beyond. From launching a bid to take over Gloucestershire County Cricket Club to making questionable statements about climate activist Greta Thunberg, Banks has consistently been in the spotlight for his provocative actions and remarks. In 2017, his comments about Bristol being ‘Little Somalia’ drew criticism from Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy, further fueling his divisive reputation.
Despite the denial of entry to the US for his party, Arron Banks remains a prominent figure in both local and international politics, continuing to attract attention for his bold and often polarizing statements and actions.
This unexpected turn of events serves as a reminder of the complexities of international relations and the impact of political decisions on individuals, even those with significant influence and resources. As Banks navigates this setback, the future of his political endeavors and public image remains uncertain, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the political landscape and the challenges faced by those in the public eye.