How To Win An Election How To Go To The Polls - If Labour Ditches Starmer
Jan 29, 2026
Polly Mackenzie, public policy commentator known for sharp social and constitutional analysis. Danny Finkelstein, Times columnist offering centre-right political strategy. Sally Morgan, former Labour strategist with devolution and electoral experience. They debate whether a new leader should seek a fresh mandate. They weigh Labour’s handling of Andy Burnham, mayoral power, and the risks of party realignment and triggering elections.
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Popularity Doesn't Shield Policy Weaknesses
- Reform UK performs well in polls but lacks coherent economic policy and internal unity.
- Danny Finkelstein argues that this makes it precisely the time to subject Reform to robust critique, not silence.
Build An Intellectual Centre-Right Response
- Centre-right groups should organise intellectually to counter populism while offering fresh, credible solutions.
- Danny Finkelstein praises initiatives like Prosper to stimulate smart policy debates within the centre-right.
Blocking Burnham Was Party Management
- Keir Starmer blocked Andy Burnham from standing in a parliamentary by-election to prevent an internal leadership challenge.
- Sally Morgan and Danny Finkelstein say this was a deliberate party-management move to avoid distraction and potential rivalry.