Politics from the New Statesman
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics – every week.Anoosh Chakelian and the New Statesman team bring you sharp reporting, clear analysis and thoughtful conversations to help you understand what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.The New Statesman is Britain’s leading source of news and commentary on politics and culture with a progressive perspective. On Politics, our journalists and expert guests cut through the noise of the headlines to explain the forces shaping our world. From the battles inside the Labour Party to the future of the Conservatives, from the rise of Reform UK to the debates that dominate Parliament, we provide the clarity you need to follow UK politics.--START HERE:▶︎ Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague▶︎ Do billionaires really benefit the UK?▶︎ One year of Labour rule: can things still only get better?--LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download and subscribe in the New Statesman app to enjoy all our episodes without the ads.--MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question - we answer them on the podcast every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter in your inbox every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday--Hosts:Anoosh ChakelianRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefAilbhe Rea, Political editorProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesPodcast and video producer: Rob Le MareAssistant producer: Biba KangExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 1, 2025 • 29min
Is anyone taking Trump's peace plans seriously?
Katie Stallard, a Washington-based journalist and US foreign policy analyst, joins to explore Trump's bold 20-point Gaza plan. They discuss Hamas's potential resistance and Netanyahu's strategic calculus in accepting the plan. Shifted public opinion on Israel, especially among younger Americans, is also highlighted. Katie contrasts Trump's theatrical diplomacy with the hard realities of global politics and questions the sincerity of leaders like Putin. Ultimately, she emphasizes the limitations of Trump's approach and the lack of a long-term strategy.
Sep 30, 2025 • 22min
Keir Starmer loves Britain the most
Keir Starmer aims to reshape British patriotism, delivering a stirring speech amidst flags from across the UK. The discussion touches on his political conflict with Nigel Farage and signals of anti-racism during his address. The panel debates the omission of the two-child benefit cap and implications for future budgets. Additionally, they explore tactics around economic stability and the revocation of indefinite leave policies, all while navigating potential backlash in the political landscape.
Sep 29, 2025 • 24min
The spectre of Farage looms over Labour conference
The conversation dives into the Labour conference in Liverpool, highlighting how Rachel Reeves defines the party in opposition to Reform and the Conservatives. Shabana Mahmood tries to reshape patriotism amidst migration debates. Andy Burnham grabs attention with bold ideas on EU re-entry and fiscal policies. There's a palpable tension regarding messaging, especially with Nigel Farage looming large in discussions. The atmosphere feels more upbeat compared to previous years, adding an intriguing layer to the political landscape.
Sep 28, 2025 • 25min
Starmer has a lot to prove at Labour conference
Ethan Croft, a political correspondent for the New Statesman, and George Eaton, the senior editor, dive into the pressing trials ahead for Keir Starmer at the Labour conference. They discuss Starmer's unprecedented unpopularity and the internal fears surrounding his leadership. With Andy Burnham's potential challenge looming, Ethan analyzes his media presence and political threats. The duo also explores Labour's strategy against Reform UK, the controversial two-child benefit cap, and how to navigate conference tensions over sensitive topics.
Sep 27, 2025 • 43min
Who does the Tony Blair Institute really work for?
Investigative journalist Peter Geoghegan and reporter May Bulman delve into the substantial funding of the Tony Blair Institute by billionaire Larry Ellison, revealing how it reshaped the think tank’s focus and operations. They discuss Ellison's influence on TBI, the implications of pushing tech solutions in public services, and the potential conflicts arising from this funding. The conversation also touches on Blair's future role in Gaza and the broader political ramifications of Ellison's contributions.
Sep 26, 2025 • 27min
Liz Truss is still, in some sense, running the country
Three years on from her controversial mini-Budget, Liz Truss's legacy looms large over UK politics. The market chaos she incited is dissected, revealing fears of a 'Liz Truss moment' in future governance. Discussion turns to her claims about the Bank of England and how her downfall has tempered fiscal strategies of subsequent governments. Truss reflects on her controversial views and perceived conspiracies, pondering the role of economic officials in warning politicians. The conversation is a deep dive into the intersection of politics, economics, and personal accountability.
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 9min
Andy Burnham has a plan for Britain
Inside his Manchester kingdom, Labour’s prince across the water outlined his radical blueprint to the New Statesman's editor, Tom McTague.Tom McTague joins Will Lloyd to discuss the mayor's vision.LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download the New Statesman appMORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question – we answer them every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sep 24, 2025 • 31min
Ed Davey attacks Trump, Trump attacks world
Freddie Hayward, US correspondent for the New Statesman, reports from the UN General Assembly, offering keen insights into Trump’s provocative speech. He highlights Trump's dismissal of climate change and controversial views on migration and Sharia law. The discussion also dives into Ed Davey's bold attacks on Trump at the Lib Dem conference, emphasizing the need to counter populism. Freddie outlines how Trump’s rhetoric threatens liberal internationalism and hints at his potential political maneuvers with Elon Musk, sparking discussions on the implications for democracy.
Sep 23, 2025 • 21min
Britain recognises Palestinian statehood
Megan Kenyon, a political correspondent for the New Statesman, discusses the UK’s recent recognition of Palestine as an independent state. The conversation explores the implications of this decision amidst growing international recognition from countries like France and Canada. Kenyon highlights domestic political motivations behind the timing, critiques the effectiveness of recognition as diplomatic leverage, and examines the potential fallout from Israel's reaction. The podcast also addresses humanitarian concerns, questioning whether symbolic gestures can truly benefit the Palestinian people.
Sep 22, 2025 • 18min
Reform's deportations & Your Party's implosion
Ethan Croft, a political correspondent at the New Statesman, shares insights on Reform's controversial immigration policies. He discusses Nigel Farage's plan to abolish indefinite leave to remain and its potential impact on various communities. Joining him is Megan Kenyon, also from the New Statesman, who delves into the chaos within 'Your Party.' She highlights the recent tensions between Zarah Sultana and Jeremy Corbyn, exploring the challenges of leadership versus grassroots participation.
