The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Runcorn by-election decisive for British politics
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Apr 11, 2025 Ben Walker, a senior data journalist, shares insights on the crucial local elections set for May 1st. He examines the shifting electoral landscape in Britain, emphasizing the rise of the Reform Party and changing voter behavior. The conversation dives into the Runcorn by-election, highlighting candidates’ focus on national issues over local concerns. Walker discusses the implications of voter apathy and the dynamics between Labour and Reform, and considers potential strategies for alliances against Conservative influence. A must-listen for anyone interested in UK's political shifts!
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Current Political Landscape
- Labour's popularity is low, tied with Reform UK at 25%.
- The Conservatives trail behind at 22%, creating a chaotic political landscape.
Scope of Local Elections
- This year's local elections are smaller than previous years, focusing mainly on rural England.
- Many county councils involved might be restructured soon.
2021 Election Results
- The 2021 local elections saw a Conservative surge due to the post-COVID vaccine bounce.
- Boris Johnson's ability to focus on single issues contributed to this success.