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
Jan 30, 2025 • 25min
Are Labour "clutching at straws" on growth?
George Eaton, Senior Editor at the New Statesman, and Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor, dive into the dynamics of Labour's recent growth speech. They discuss whether the party's efforts are genuine or merely a change in rhetoric. The duo also tackles the charisma gap surrounding leaders Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, revealing how this impacts voter connection. Additionally, they explore the media’s treatment of the Liberal Democrats, highlighting the challenges of gaining coverage in a tense political atmosphere.
Jan 28, 2025 • 35min
Beg, borrow or steel
Sam Alvis, Associate Director for Energy Security and Environment at IPPR, and Megan Kenyon, New Statesman's policy correspondent, dive into the plight of Scunthorpe's steelworks, the last primary steelmaking facility in the UK. They discuss the looming threat of job losses as key furnaces face closure. Alvis emphasizes the need for visionary leadership and sustainable practices while Kenyon unpacks the emotional and political stakes for the local community, revealing how national issues like Brexit impact Scunthorpe's future.
Jan 27, 2025 • 31min
The Times They Have a-Changed: Where is the protest song now?
In this engaging discussion, Kate Mossman, a senior writer at the New Statesman, and Dorian Lynskey, author of "33 Revolutions Per Minute," delve into the evolution of protest music. They explore Bob Dylan’s controversial shift from folk to rock and its impact on cultural movements. The conversation highlights the emotional depth of protest songs, tracing the roots from Woody Guthrie to contemporary artists like Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé. It raises provocative questions about the future of protest music in today's political landscape.
Jan 24, 2025 • 27min
What does Trump 2.0 mean for the UK?
Freddie Hayward, U.S. correspondent for the New Statesman, shares his insights on the implications of Donald Trump's second administration for the UK. He discusses the fervent atmosphere surrounding Trump's inauguration and its influences on international relations. The conversation dives into contrasts in political rhetoric and explores how American political shifts, particularly in climate policy and diversity initiatives, resonate in the UK. Hayward also highlights the disconnect between progressive policies and public sentiment in both nations.
Jan 23, 2025 • 23min
How do we fight terror now? - Andrew Marr and Jacob Davey on the Southport killer trial.
Jacob Davey, Director of Policy and Research at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, shares his insights on the trial of Axel Rudakabana, who pled guilty to murdering three young girls in Southport. The conversation delves into whether Rudakabana is a terrorist or simply disturbed. They critique the UK's PREVENT strategy and discuss the connection between misogyny and violence. Additionally, the impact of misinformation on social media following the murders is explored, exposing the challenges in navigating public perceptions and political accountability.
Jan 22, 2025 • 24min
Will the ceasefire hold?
Yair Wallach, a Reader in Israeli studies at SOAS, joins the discussion on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. He assesses the Israeli government's conflict management strategy and the influence of extremist parties. The emotional landscape surrounding the recent hostages' return is dissected, underscoring joy intermingled with grief. Wallach also contrasts Trump's foreign policy with Biden's approach, examining their impacts on the ceasefire and the shifting public sentiments towards the government amidst ongoing challenges.
4 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 30min
Why are we having fewer children?
In this engaging discussion, guests Madeleine Davis, a New Statesman contributor, and Anastasia Berg, co-author of "What Are Children For? On Ambivalence and Choice," explore the global decline in birth rates. They delve into how financial, social, and romantic factors influence the choice to have children. The conversation highlights changing attitudes towards parenthood and the complexities of modern family planning, emphasizing the societal shifts that impact decisions about raising a family.
Jan 17, 2025 • 21min
Will Labour reconsider the Chagos deal?
Keir Starmer faces a dilemma over the Chagos Islands as pressure mounts from the UN and a new US administration. The conversation dives into the historical context and legal challenges surrounding the islands, while considering local perspectives. The discussion shifts to the implications of Meta's recent content regulation changes, exploring how these could impact information reliability in the UK. Additionally, the speakers analyze the broader transatlantic struggles in regulating big tech, raising critical questions about free speech versus harmful content.
Jan 16, 2025 • 30min
Rachel Reeves won't resign (yet) - here's why
Will Dunn, the Business editor for the New Statesman, provides sharp economic insights amidst the political turmoil surrounding Rachel Reeves. He argues why the Chancellor is resisting calls to resign, despite the looming tax increases. Dunn reveals a nuanced understanding of how government debt is calculated and suggests that Liz Truss may not be solely to blame for the economic crash. The discussion also touches on Tulip Siddiq’s resignation and the implications for Labour's discipline and credibility.
Jan 15, 2025 • 25min
The ideological contradictions of Trump 2
Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University historian and author, joins Katie Stallard, Senior Editor for Global Affairs, and Freddie Hayward, US correspondent, to dissect Trump's complex coalition. They discuss the precarious alliances forming around Trump, the contrasting motives of tech elites versus traditional interests, and the fervent loyalty of MAGA supporters. Insightful analysis emerges on how these tensions could unravel as they face the 2028 elections, shedding light on shifts in political loyalties and the implications for American democracy.
