Daily Politics from the New Statesman
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Oli Dugmore 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 Daily 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 ChakelianOli DugmoreRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefWill Lloyd, Deputy editorAndrew Marr, Political editorGeorge Eaton, Senior editor, politicsHannah Barnes, Associate editorRachel Cunliffe, Associate political editorWill Dunn, Business editorMegan Gibson, Foreign editorKatie Stallard, Global affairs editorTanjil Rashid, Culture editorKate Mossman, Senior writerProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesVideo producer: Rob Le MareAssistant producer: Biba KangExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 32min
Are we ready for a “Brexit reset”?
In this engaging discussion, Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, dives into the intricacies of Brexit and its impact on the UK. She highlights Keir Starmer’s plans for a closer relationship with the EU and the implications for trade. Rachel explains the complexities of the single market, the significance of free movement, and the contrast between public opinion and political ambitions. The conversation also touches on economic forecasts, the potential for reduced prices, and the strategies employed by Labour and the Lib Dems in navigating these changes.
Jan 7, 2026 • 21min
It's official: Labour are in third place
Ben Walker, a senior data journalist, discusses recent unsettling polling trends, revealing Labour's drop to third place behind the Tories and Reform UK. He breaks down how this shift could complicate local campaigns and hint at Labour's vulnerability in upcoming elections. The conversation also touches on the challenges of tactical voting, the emergence of a multi-party system, and shifting voter priorities. Walker argues that for Labour to regain its footing, a leadership change may be necessary to shake off its 'toxic' image.
6 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 42min
Russia suggested the US “swap” Venezuela for Ukraine
Fiona Hill, a former senior director for Europe and Russia on the U.S. National Security Council, discusses Russia's surprising 2019 proposal to trade Venezuela for a U.S. easing in Ukraine. She details U.S. efforts to oust Maduro and examines Russia's investments in Venezuela. Hill critiques Trump-era policies and their geopolitical implications, highlighting how they could embolden adversaries like China. She warns that such trade-off talk undermines support for Ukraine and critiques the dependency of the UK on U.S. security strategies.
11 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 37min
Trump kidnaps Maduro, and Starmer says… nothing?
Emily Thornberry, Labour MP and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, dives into the US's controversial actions in Venezuela, calling them a breach of international law. She discusses the perilous shift towards unilateralism and its impact on global diplomacy. Thornberry also analyzes Keir Starmer's cautious approach to strengthening ties with the EU, advocating for clearer priorities. With insights into UK-US relations and the implications of Trump's foreign policy, the conversation highlights the urgent need for multilateral strategies in a fractious world.
12 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 53min
A look ahead to politics in 2026
Ben Walker, a keen political commentator and journalist, joins Anoush Chakelian to forecast the political landscape of 2026. They reflect on the ten-year anniversary of Brexit and its long-term impact. The conversation touches on Reform UK's strategy to engage non-voters and the shifting public sentiments around staying in or rejoining the EU. They also explore the challenges posed by an ageing population and the pressures on social care due to council funding issues. Walker suggests that economic factors, notably cost of living concerns, will dominate political discourse.
13 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 47min
The May elections will define UK politics in 2026
The hosts dive into the looming May elections and what they could mean for Labour and the Conservatives. They discuss the rise of Reform and its impact in Scotland, alongside Labour's struggle to regain ground. With Plaid Cymru gaining traction in Wales, the political landscape seems ripe for change. There's even speculation about Andy Burnham's potential to shape Labour's future. Will reformist sentiments challenge traditional parties? Tune in for a lively analysis of the shifting political tides!
Dec 28, 2025 • 1h 3min
The biggest stories of 2025
As 2025 concludes, the panel dives into Labour's struggles and the potential impact of leadership changes, particularly under Starmer. They explore the rise of the Reform party and its implications for traditional politics, alongside the hard-right movements' influence. The ongoing Prince Andrew scandal reignites debates on the monarchy's future. Internationally, Trump's tariffs create global trade ripples, while Gaza remains a contentious issue affecting UK politics. The emergence of an American pope adds a new dimension to global Catholicism.
Dec 25, 2025 • 39min
Merry Quizmas!
Join a festive quiz filled with intriguing political trivia! Discover how Trump's tariffs impacted the mysterious price of Labubus. Relive quirky moments like Volodymyr Zelensky's voice role as a bear and Katy Perry's unforgettable lyrics about California girls. The team debates Chicago's favorite sandwich and the fascinating inspiration behind Tesla's Cybertruck. From luxury goods jokes to a Louvre password heist, this lighthearted quiz delivers laughs and unexpected political insights!
Dec 22, 2025 • 30min
The greatest aviation disaster that didn't happen
Kate Mossman, a journalist and author for the New Statesman, shares gripping details about the near-catastrophe of British Airways Flight 2069. Months before 9/11, a passenger seized control, leading to a dramatic nosedive, yet everyone survived. The conversation touches on cockpit security norms of the time, including notable passengers aboard, like Brian Ferry. Mossman reflects on her reporting, the pilots' contrasting memories, and the survivors' psychological aftermath, revealing how fear and trauma have shaped their lives since.
Dec 19, 2025 • 40min
Predictions for the year ahead
The hosts discuss Wes Streeting's controversial approach to the NHS and its impact on Labour's image. They debate the Lib Dems' seriousness as a political force and their local campaigning strategies. Predictions for 2026 include potential Labour leadership contests and escalating civil unrest. One host foresees the Greens gaining traction over Labour, while internal tensions within Reform could lead to unpredictable outcomes. The team commits to revisiting these intriguing forecasts amid a rapidly changing political landscape.
