The US State Department intends to allocate $12 million to organisations in the United Kingdom founded by prominent Conservatives Jacob Rees-Mogg and Toby Young, according to US government documents reviewed by the Guardian. The grants are part of a broader package supporting European groups favoured by the Trump administration, but have drawn criticism from former US officials who view them as a misuse of public money to influence foreign politics.
Details of the grants
The documents reveal $7 million for 878, a think tank whose founding directors include Rees-Mogg and his former special adviser Radomir Tylecote. The group focuses on “the rediscovery of our ancient culture” and “ending mass immigration.” Another $5 million is set aside for Free Speech Union International, an offshoot of the Free Speech Union founded by Toby Young, which works to promote free speech and counter digital overregulation across the UK, Europe, and Australia.
Both grants are classified as “sole source,” meaning they are awarded without competition. The State Department spokesperson stated that the grants “will continue to undergo the Department’s standard and rigorous vetting process” and decisions remain under “active deliberation.”
Criticism from former officials
Five former US officials expressed dismay, suggesting a months-long effort by Trump-aligned individuals to subvert normal funding procedures. One former official called the lack of procedure “outrageous and absurd,” adding that “these entities are being funded to subvert legal and competitive processes.” Another described the grants as “horrible stewardship of US taxpayer money.”
According to the documents, the funding for 878 is justified by its “unique role in the United Kingdom as … a dedicated nonpartisan organisation focused on advancing fundamental freedoms.” However, critics note that 878 was incorporated in the UK only in March 2024, with its website going live in early July.
Political context and reactions
The disclosure presents a transatlantic challenge for incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who said he would be “very upfront” with Trump about disagreements. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz responded to similar grants in Berlin by stating he does not want American government interference in German elections.
Jacob Rees-Mogg and Radomir Tylecote did not respond to requests for comment. Toby Young said Free Speech Union International had “expressed interest in applying for grant funding” but has not submitted a formal application or been awarded a grant. The Jobs Foundation, which is allocated $3 million for a program on countering overregulation, confirmed it was under consideration for project funding.
