Westminster Insider 2026: The year ahead in 40 minutes
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Dec 19, 2025 
Dan Bloom is a POLITICO political editor with insights on UK elections, while Jack Blanchard, managing editor based in D.C., analyzes the implications of U.S. politics. They discuss critical May elections in Scotland and Wales that may pose risks for Labour. Blanchard dives into Trump's America and the charged midterms ahead. Russia expert Mark Galeotti outlines battlefield dynamics in Ukraine and prospects for peace in 2026. Expect discussions about Hungary's elections, Middle East ceasefires, and thrilling future events like the FIFA World Cup.
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May Elections As National Midterms
- May 7 local and devolved elections act as a midterm referendum on the UK government and opposition.
- Results could reshape coalitions in Scotland, Wales and local councils and intensify leadership doomloop in Westminster.
Leadership Threat Looms For Starmer
- Poor May results could trigger a leadership challenge to Keir Starmer as MPs already talk about a contest.
- Internal manoeuvring will intensify but MPs often delay formal nominations until the political wind is clear.
King's Speech As Political Linchpin
- The King's Speech in mid-May is both a policy platform and a confidence test for the government.
- It can complicate or delay leadership moves since votes on it are treated as confidence measures.