Danny Finkelstein

Peter Mandelson, a former Labour architect and political strategist, joins Polly McKenzie, ex-Director of Policy for Nick Clegg, and Danny Finkelstein, Tory Peer and Times columnist. They dive into whether blame-shifting is effective in politics, particularly for Starmer. The trio discusses the balance between addressing historical governance failures and presenting a forward-thinking narrative. They also tackle the surge in UK migration, analyzing its implications and the need for clear strategies in governance and accountability.

Sally Morgan, a former senior political adviser at Downing Street, teams up with Danny Finkelstein, a Conservative peer and political commentator, to explore the complexities of political plotting. They dive into Keir Starmer's challenges as a leader and how Downing Street's briefing strategy might backfire. The duo compares historic leadership challenges, discussing infamous plots against Tony Blair and the dynamics that allowed them to succeed or fail. Their insightful conversations unveil the intricacies of party management and the pressures that shape political survival.

Danny Finkelstein, a Times columnist and Conservative commentator, joins the panel to unravel the chaos of party conferences. They dissect the impact of leadership challenges and the art of speechwriting, including when humor can help. The discussion turns to Andy Burnham’s 'Manchesterism,' its economic implications, and strategies for Keir Starmer in response to Burnham's maneuvers. The team shares memorable conference moments that shifted political tides and highlights the need for safer environments at these events.

Join policy experts Polly McKenzie, Danny Finkelstein, and Sally Morgan as they dive into the UK government's COBRA meetings in the context of the Israel-Iran crisis. They discuss the significance of these emergency sessions and how they differ from traditional cabinet meetings. The trio also debates the political ramifications of supporting America amidst conflict and whether Keir Starmer should shift his tactics against Kemi Badenoch in Prime Minister's Questions. Expect humor, insightful analysis, and a splash of political intrigue!

Danny Finkelstein, a Conservative peer and Times columnist, teams up with former Labour insider Sally Morgan and policy expert Polly Mackenzie in a lively discussion. They dissect Kemi Badenoch’s stamp duty pledge, comparing it to George Osborne's historic promises. The team explores the fading echo of Liz Truss and the implications of recent Conservative chaos on Badenoch’s leadership. They also debate whether tax proposals can shift electoral narratives and what economic shifts really mean for voters.

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.

James Cleverly, a rising star in Tory politics, shares his vision for leadership, impressing with a compelling speech that captivates audience attention. Former Chancellor George Osborne offers keen insights from the Conservative Party Conference, while seasoned politicians Michael Gove and Danny Finkelstein provide sharp analysis of candidates' performances. They discuss the art of political oratory, the importance of emotional connections in speeches, and the optimistic strategies needed for successful governance. It's a lively debate on what it takes to lead the party.

In this engaging discussion, Richard Johnson, an expert in British political history, and Danny Finkelstein, a Conservative peer with SDP roots, explore the complex dynamics of party defections. They analyze historical examples, revealing that success often hinges on a defector’s new party's stature. Danny shares his personal journey, highlighting the cultural shifts within parties. The duo also delves into the current weakening of party identities, illustrating how today’s defections mirror past trends, driven by ambition and changing political landscapes.

Sally Morgan, a former Labour insider, Danny Finkelstein, a Conservative peer and Times columnist, and Polly Mackenzie, a policy expert, reveal tales of political blunders. Sally discusses Neil Kinnock's professional campaign failings in 1987. Danny analyzes the reasons behind John Major's heavy loss in 1997, citing Tory exhaustion and scandals. Polly delves into Jo Swinson’s missteps in 2019, particularly her Lib Dem's flawed Brexit strategy. The trio also debates electoral pacts and the potential impact of youth voters on future politics.

Danny Finkelstein, a Times columnist and former political advisor, joins Polly McKenzie, a public policy expert, and Sally Morgan, a former Labour insider, to dissect the intricate dance of spending reviews in government. They discuss the Tories' newfound economic strategy and the lingering shadows of the Liz Truss legacy. The trio navigates the challenges of austerity versus fiscal consolidation, the importance of public trust, and the political maneuvering necessary to keep reluctant ministers aligned amidst fiscal pressures.