What The F*** Is Going On? with Mark Steel Ep 163 with Zack Polanski (Part 2)
Aug 16, 2025
Mark Steel continues his engaging discussion with Zack Polanski, a prominent Green Party figure and former deputy leader. They dive into the tense relations between the Greens and Labour, critiquing Labour's policies and advocating for more robust cooperation. Zack believes in the need for a bolder, less polite Green Party and discusses how recent events in Gaza have expanded their voter base. He also highlights the importance of tailoring messaging for diverse communities while preparing for media challenges and enhancing national relevance through strategic communication.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Stand Yet Signal Non-Aggression
- Zack advises the Greens should stand candidates but signal when they are not contesting a seat hard to preserve voter choice.
- He recommends transparent, democratic non-aggression pacts rather than secret backroom deals.
Make Starmer Fear The Left
- Zack contends Keir Starmer's policies are driving voters toward Nigel Farage by failing to address inequality and anger.
- He believes Greens must make Starmer fear losing votes to the left more than to Reform.
Gaza Opened New Voter Doors
- Gaza drove new demographics to the Green Party but retention requires broader commitments on economic and racial justice.
- Zack says Greens must be fighters who show up on picket lines and confront racism and fascism authentically.