The Two Matts Special guest Tom Baldwin: Can Keir turn a bad start around?
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Jul 8, 2025 Join Tom Baldwin, a Contributing Editor at The New World and biographer of Keir Starmer, as he dives deep into Starmer's rocky start as Labour leader. Baldwin discusses the challenges Starmer faces in revitalizing his party and preventing Farage's influence. He emphasizes the need for political integrity and a clear narrative that resonates with a broad audience. The conversation critiques Starmer's strategies and explores the importance of unity and effective communication in overcoming hurdles within Labour's political landscape.
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Vision vs Direction in Leadership
- Political leadership today is judged by having a big vision, but what matters more is knowing a clear direction.
- Progress comes from values-driven, evidence-based adjustment, not flashy new grand ideas.
Progressive Change Not Populism
- The antidote to populism is not more populism but steady progressive change.
- Starmer understands his country deeply, which allows for nuanced, realistic governance rather than simplistic fixes.
Mismatch of Early Government Rhetoric
- Early Starmer government rhetoric tried to mirror hardline reform, but it clashed with Labour’s core voters.
- Chasing a small reform voter base risks alienating many traditional Labour supporters and lacks electoral coherence.
