The Rest Is Politics: Leading 84. Denmark's former PM on the power of centrist politics, fighting misogyny, and joining the Kinnock empire (Helle Thorning-Schmidt)
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Jul 7, 2024 
Denmark's former Prime Minister, Helle Thorning-Schmidt, joins the hosts to discuss uniting extreme ideologies, impact of small countries on global politics, and reminiscing on New Labour influence. They explore challenges of modernizing a party, facing misogyny in politics, and the importance of understanding diverse backgrounds. The conversation delves into Brexit's emotional impact, rise of populism, and the dual impact of social media. They touch on transgender rights, parenting, and even pistachio ice cream.
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First Meeting
- Helle Thorning-Schmidt first met Alastair Campbell when she visited the Kinnocks for Christmas.
- Everyone was very drunk, so Campbell had to pick her up from the airport.
Danish Politics: Pragmatism and Compromise
- Danish politics are characterized by pragmatism and compromise due to proportional representation.
- Multiple parties necessitate coalitions, making compromise essential, unlike British politics.
Borgen's Impact
- The TV series Borgen, about a female prime minister, helped the Danish public envision Thorning-Schmidt in the role.
- She used the show as soft power, gifting box sets to promote Denmark.