The Bunker – News without the nonsense Farage’s poll numbers: Too good to ignore?
Sep 25, 2025
In this discussion, Ben Walker, a senior data journalist at the New Statesman and co-founder of Britain Elects, dives deep into the striking rise of Nigel Farage and Reform UK's polling numbers. He explains how these numbers reflect real support and attract new voters, and discusses the impact of disgruntled non-voters. Walker also addresses how the economy, particularly the cost of living, shapes political sentiments, and examines whether scrutiny can diminish Reform's appeal amid shifting dynamics in British politics.
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Episode notes
Blackpool South As A Turning Point
- Ben recalls the Blackpool South by-election as a turning point for Reform.
- The party matched polls there, disproving early doubts about online-only support.
Scrutiny May Not Sink Reform
- Scrutiny of Reform or controversies may not dent its support as much as critics expect.
- Past examples (UKIP) show scandals can embed support rather than destroy it.
UKIP's Resilience After Scandals
- Ben points to UKIP's 2013 local surge and the resignations that followed.
- Those scandals didn't eliminate UKIP support and sometimes entrenched its image.
