Steve Akehurst

Steve Akehurst, a political polling analyst and founder of Persuasion UK, joins hosts Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Cunliffe to dissect the threats posed by Nigel Farage and Reform UK. They delve into the vulnerabilities of Reform, including how Labour and the Lib Dems can strategically counterattack. Akehurst shares innovative methods for testing political messages, revealing how associations with figures like Donald Trump influence voter perceptions. The discussion also touches on the shifting dynamics of the 'blue wall' and the importance of anti-elite sentiments in political messaging.

Steve Akehurst, director of Persuasion UK and specialist in polling and electoral battlegrounds, discusses Britain’s fragmentation away from a two-party system. He maps where Labour’s 2024 voters have gone and profiles the ‘progressive defectors’. Conversation covers the rise of the Greens, strategic missteps by Labour, electoral coordination challenges, and routes to rebuild a progressive majority.

Steve Akehurst, a polling analyst and director of Persuasion UK, dives into public attitudes towards Labour's tax pledges. He reveals that voters prefer tax increases over failing public services, like those in the NHS and crime. Akehurst highlights the strong support for taxing the wealthy but expresses doubts about its sufficiency. He also discusses the importance of framing tax rises to link them to immediate relief. Ultimately, he cautions that breaking tax promises could further erode public trust in politics.