Novara Media ACFM Microdose: The ‘Radical Realists’ of Mainstream, Labour’s New Faction
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Dec 21, 2025 The hosts dive into the emergence of Mainstream, a new soft-left faction within Labour, highlighting its notable figures like Andy Burnham. They explore the intriguing dynamics between radicalism and realism while examining Labour's historical divides. Further discussions unravel factionalism, contrasting the soft-left's social-democratic aims with more revolutionary traditions. The impact of past crises and alliances is assessed, emphasizing the fragile future of soft-left politics in the context of electoral strategy.
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Mainstream Frames A New Soft-Left Claim
- Mainstream was created by Compass and Open Labour to represent Labour's soft left distinct from Momentum and the hard left.
- It claims Labour's radical programme (like 2017) is actually the party's mainstream and necessary to avoid political disaster.
Radical Realism: Realism Means Being More Radical
- The tagline 'radical realists' signals tension: be pragmatic about constraints but push for radical change.
- Jeremy argues true realism may require being more radical to prevent democratic collapse into the far right.
Branding Risk: 'Mainstream' May Misread Mood
- The name 'Mainstream' risks alienating the insurgent, anti-establishment mood among potential supporters.
- Keir and Nadia worry the branding won't capture the energy that drove 2017-style mobilisation.