After a brief fight with liver cancer, renowned journalist and former European Parliament member Patrick O’Flynn passed away at the age of 59.
He became well-known as the Daily Express’s chief political analyst and then political editor. He entered politics in 2014, joining the UK Independence Party (UKIP) as an MEP for the East of England. After expressing disapproval of UKIP’s course, he later joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 2018.
Former UKIP and Current Reform Leader Nigel Farage sent his condolences, saying, “Patrick was a strong communicator and a fervent supporter of Brexit. He made important contributions to politics and journalism”.
O’Flynn’s dedication to Brexit and support for centrist economic ideas characterised his political career. He was a special political adviser to UKIP leader Paul Nuttall and the party’s economics spokesperson. He was the SDP’s candidate in the Peterborough by-election in 2019.
In addition to his political activities, O’Flynn maintained a public presence by writing for The Spectator and co-hosting the podcast “Snap” alongside Michael Heaver.
He is survived by his wife, Carole Ann, a life coach and fellow Daily Express writer, and their two children.
