FT News Briefing Introducing FT Politics: UK Election Countdown
Nov 9, 2019
Miranda Green, Deputy opinion editor at the Financial Times, and Jim Pickard, Chief political correspondent, dive into the UK election's chaotic start. They discuss the Conservative Party's blunders and whether Boris Johnson can regain traction. The duo also examines how social media influences public perception, particularly surrounding Labour's campaigns. They delve into shifting fiscal strategies, contrasting Conservative austerity with Labour's ambitious new borrowing plans, and explore the political landscape as the election approaches.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Conservative Campaign Setbacks
- The Conservative Party's election campaign faced setbacks, including the resignation of Alan Cairns and controversial comments by Jacob Rees-Mogg.
- These events overshadowed their intended focus on Brexit and domestic priorities.
Rees-Mogg's Grenfell Comments
- Jacob Rees-Mogg's comments on the Grenfell Tower tragedy, implying victims lacked common sense, sparked outrage.
- This misstep highlighted the Conservatives' challenge of appealing to a broader electorate with figures who hold fringe views.
Viral Campaign Video
- A Conservative campaign video edited a Keir Starmer interview to portray him as inept, garnering millions of views.
- This tactic, reminiscent of the Vote Leave campaign, highlights the increasing importance of online campaigning.