Peter Mandelson is an experienced political strategist and former director of policy, while Polly Mackenzie has a rich background in political strategy alongside Nick Clegg. Daniel Finkelstein is a Times columnist advising Tory leaders, and Katty Kay is an esteemed America watcher. The conversation dives into the tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the potential impact of undecided voters, and the challenges of campaigning amidst legal disputes. The group also examines how European perceptions of Trump may differ from the American electorate.
The extreme closeness of the U.S. presidential election highlights how a few undecided votes could dramatically influence the final outcome.
The discussion on broken political promises illustrates the tension between fulfilling commitments and navigating the complexities of governance in changing political landscapes.
Deep dives
Ad-Free Podcast Advantage
Accessing true crime content without interruptions enhances the listener's experience. The podcast highlights the convenience of Amazon Music's ad-free option, especially for fans engrossed in gripping investigations. This platform allows users with a Prime membership to dive straight into narratives, maximizing their engagement with the stories. The emphasis is on how overcoming advertisements can make true crime consumption even more enjoyable.
Political Manifesto Commitments
The discussion delves into the nature of political manifestos and the challenges surrounding broken promises. The guests explore whether the government intends to raise national insurance contributions, potentially violating previous commitments made in the manifesto. Examples from past administrations are referenced, illustrating how pledges can hinder policy implementation when political realities change. This highlights the intricate balance politicians must strike between gaining votes and fulfilling their duties in office.
The Tight Race in the U.S. Presidential Election
The impending U.S. presidential election is characterized by extremely tight polling, with key voters in swing states determining the outcome. The conversation explains how few undecided voters could sway the election, creating a situation where every opinion and sentiment matters significantly. Polling insights suggest that many Americans have already made up their minds, but there remains a small group of undecided voters who could revolutionize the results. The dynamics of undecided votes add a layer of unpredictability to the electoral process.
Potential Post-Election Controversies
The possibility of post-election litigation and unrest is discussed in depth, particularly with Donald Trump's track record of contesting election results. The conversation explores how Trump's campaign has already initiated numerous lawsuits targeting battleground states. This suggests a preparation for contesting any unfavorable outcomes following the election. The implications of such legal actions could lead to significant instability, impacting both domestic and international perceptions of democracy in the U.S.
We're in the final weeks of the race for the White House, and it could all come down to the votes of fewer people than it takes to fill two Taylor Swift concerts.
Peter, Polly, Danny and Hugo are joined by Rest Is Politics US co-host Katty Kay to look at the latest on the contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
Just how tight are the polls, what happened to Harris's momentum, and do Europeans misunderstand Trump?
If you've got a message, voice note or a cover version of the theme tune you can contact the political masterminds (and Hugo) at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'.