The Daily

Boris Johnson's Change of Heart

May 12, 2020

In this discussion, Mark Landler, London bureau chief of The New York Times, provides insight into Boris Johnson's evolving response to the coronavirus crisis. The podcast explores how Johnson's initial skepticism and casual attitude were radically altered after his own hospitalization. Listeners learn about the contrasting approaches between the U.S. and U.K., the impact of public opinion on leadership, and the delicate balance in plans for reopening. The episode paints a vivid picture of a nation grappling with uncertainty and shifting strategies.

26:08

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Episode guests

Boris Johnson

Mark Landler

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Episode notes

Intro

4min

Contrasting Pandemic Responses: U.S. vs. U.K.

7min

Crisis Leadership During COVID-19

5min

Health, Leadership, and Public Opinion

7min

Contrasting Pandemic Responses

7min

As Italy, France and Spain entered national lockdowns, Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain was still shaking hands with coronavirus patients in hospitals, and then joking about it on national television. Then he was hospitalized with the virus — and by the time he returned, both his attitude and his approach to the crisis were transformed. Today, we explore why the country that was most skeptical of the virus may be the slowest to reopen. Guest: Mark Landler, the London bureau chief of The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily.

Background reading:

Mr. Johnson announced a cautious plan for reopening over the weekend, including a new 14-day quarantine for foreign arrivals.
While the British government frequently says it’s “guided by the science” in managing the crisis, the membership of its scientific advisory group, SAGE, has been a secret.

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