Debate over an early election

Nigel Farage has comfortably won back his Clacton seat but with the investigation into his finances now back on, what, if anything, has been gained by this by-election gamble? And with the Reform UK leader absenting himself from the count, and his ratings falling, we ask whether the party is losing momentum. Plus, just weeks into being prime minister, Andy Burnham is facing his first challenges. Can he keep on the front foot with his cost of living drive and tour of the nation? Host Lucy Fisher is joined by FT political editor George Parker and political correspondent Anna Gross.

FOLLOW:

Lucy @LOS_Fisher or @lucyfisher.ft.com; Anna, @AnnaSophieGross and George @GeorgeWParker and @georgewparker.bsky.social;

Want more?  

Investigation into Nigel Farage resumes after he wins Clacton by-election

Farage won in Clacton. But there are bigger tests to come

Why Andy Burnham could be tempted by an early election gamble

Starmer allies warn John Healey against blowing ‘strong’ economic inheritance 

Burnham urges retailers to stop selling disposable barbecues amid wildfires

You can also sign up here for Stephen Bush’s morning newsletter ‘Inside Politics’ for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek views. Get 30 days free.

Political Fix was presented by Lucy Fisher and produced by Clare Williamson and Persis Love. Original music and audio mix by Breen Turner. Flo Phillips is the FT’s head of audio.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.