Will Reform throw a brick in the Tories' red wall?
Jun 30, 2024
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Peter Kellner, a Political Journalist, discusses the impact of Reform challenging the Tories in traditional Labour strongholds. The podcast explores shifting political landscapes, voter sentiments, party dynamics, and challenges in the Ashfield constituency. It analyzes the influence of Reform on right-wing voices in the Conservative Party and voter churn amidst rising uncertainties.
The rise of the Reform Party challenges traditional party affiliations in Ashfield, reflecting discontent with established norms and a desire for change.
Immigration emerges as a central issue in Ashfield, with the Reform Party focusing on migration caps and job creation to appeal to disillusioned voters.
Deep dives
The Political Landscape in Ashfield
In Ashfield, a historically Labour -leaning area, significant political shifts have occurred, with the rise of the Reform Party challenging traditional party affiliations. Economic changes since the 1980s have altered the political dynamic, leading to shifts in voter preferences away from the main parties and towards alternative options like Reform. The impact of immigration, economic stagnation, and dissatisfaction with mainstream politics are key factors influencing voters' decisions in Ashfield.
Immigration and Political Views
Immigration emerges as a central issue in Ashfield, with concerns raised over population growth, strain on public services, and impacts on the local economy. The Reform Party emphasizes the need for migration caps and job opportunities for unemployed Britons, appealing to voters disillusioned with mainstream parties' immigration policies. The debate around immigration reflects broader frustrations with government spending, service provision, and fairness in the community.
Rise of the Reform Party and Voter Sentiments
The emergence of the Reform Party, represented by candidates like Lee Anderson, signals a growing discontent with established political norms in Ashfield. Anderson's focus on immigration control and job creation resonates with voters seeking change and a departure from traditional party affiliations. The party's rhetoric on migration, national identity, and tackling criminal activities appeals to residents dissatisfied with mainstream politics and looking for alternative solutions.
In 2019, Boris Johnson’s Conservatives upended decades’ of traditional voting behaviour, as lifelong Labour seats in the north and midlands fell to the Tories. But with Brexit delivered and Johnson gone, the Tories are being challenged from the right by a resurgent Reform, as Luke Jones heard in Ashfield.
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Guests:
Peter Kellner, Political Journalist and Pollster;
Debbie Soloman, Parliamentary Candidate, Conservative and Unionist Party;
Lee Anderson, Parliamentary Candidate, Reform UK; and
Rhea Keehn, Parliamentary Candidate, Labour Party.
Also standing in Ashfield are: Jason Zadrozny, Ashfield Independents; Daniel Holmes, Liberal Democrats; Alexander Coates, Green Party.