The Bunker – News without the nonsense Jenrick vs. Badenoch and Starmer vs. Himself – Weekly Wrap-Up with Seth Thévoz and Jacob Jarvis
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Jan 16, 2026 Seth Thévoz, a regular panellist known for his sharp political analysis, joins Jacob Jarvis to unpack a whirlwind week in UK politics. They discuss the implications of Robert Jenrick's expulsion from the Tories and whether it strengthens Kemi Badenoch's position. Seth raises concerns about Reform UK's potential as a Tory splinter and critiques Labour's embarrassing policy misjudgments. The duo also tackle the weird dynamics within Labour post-Sue Gray, alongside some surprising winners and losers from the political landscape.
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Tory Purge Signals Deeper Party Fragility
- Robert Jenrick's expulsion shows the Tories are purging visible internal rivals quickly.
- Seth Thévoz argues continuous defections signal a party not on course for victory without outside help.
Timing Determines Reform UK's Leverage
- Reform UK's manoeuvres could pressure the Conservatives into a deal or split the right.
- Thévoz says timing matters: a deal now would be most advantageous to Reform UK.
Money Keeps The Tories Competitive
- Money and donor networks keep the Conservatives viable despite polling weaknesses.
- Thévoz stresses paid campaigning and regular funding matter more than one-off Reform windfalls.