The Podcast of the Lotus Eaters The Great Tory Replacement
11 snips
Jan 15, 2026 Carl and Dan explore Reform UK's efforts to position themselves as the new Conservatives. They dissect polling trends and ponder Labour's stagnation despite government support. The hosts debate the puzzling recruitment of Nadhim Zahawi and the implications for Reform's identity. They question the inclusion of ex-Tories and the party's shift toward resembling the Conservatives. Additionally, they discuss the risks of relying on past politicians and the potential disillusionment of young activists.
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Poll Lead Is Fragile
- Reform's polling lead is fragile and varies between trackers, so apparent dominance can vanish quickly.
- Dan and Carl warn a few news cycles or small events can flip second-to-fifth place margins and change outcomes.
Ex-Tories Bring Skills And Baggage
- Recruiting ex-Conservative figures signals reform wants governing know-how but brings baggage.
- Carl and Dan argue many recruits are unpopular or tainted, undermining reform's outsider brand.
Hire Turnaround CEOs Not Failed MPs
- Do recruit senior turnaround executives or non-political CEOs rather than failed partisan politicians.
- Dan suggests they will better navigate the civil service and actually implement reform.
