The Prospect Podcast Should Starmer embrace populism?
Sep 10, 2025
Ben Ansell, a political columnist and professor at Oxford, joins the discussion on the rising tide of populism as Labour faces a polling slump. He delves into what defines a populist politician and how Labour might adapt its messaging to resonate with voters. The conversation covers potential policies Labour could adopt, the challenges of implementing wealth taxation, and who within the party might lead a populist charge. Plus, an amusing diversion about the cultural rise of saunas in the UK adds a lighthearted twist!
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Labour Losing Ground To Populists
- Labour is losing voters to both right and left populists, not just the Conservatives.
- Ben Ansell calls this a core dilemma forcing Labour to rethink strategy.
What 'Populism' Really Means
- Populism mixes a people-vs-elite rhetoric with behavior that attacks institutions and norms.
- Ansell warns this can include portraying institutions as corrupt or sclerotic to mobilize voters.
Sell Populism Through Cost-Of-Living Stories
- Focus left-populist messaging on tangible cost-of-living issues rather than abstruse ideology.
- Use retail politics (visible visits, everyday examples) to connect with voters' daily struggles.