The Rest Is Politics 20. By-elections, strikes, and populists
Jun 22, 2022
Rory and Alastair dive into the impact of recent by-elections, dissecting their role in UK politics. They explore the ongoing strikes and labor issues, while also discussing the rise of populism in Latin America. A ghost story involving Carrie Johnson adds a humorous twist, alongside insights on the evolution of kibbutzim in Israel. The duo tackles the erosion of journalistic integrity, comparing it to historical events like Watergate, and reflects on the complexities of the French electoral system intertwined with personal relationships.
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Copeland By-election's Impact
- The 2017 Copeland by-election win signaled the Red Wall's vulnerability and influenced Theresa May's decision to call a general election.
- This ultimately backfired, highlighting the impact of by-elections.
By-elections in the 80s
- Alastair Campbell recalls by-elections in the 80s, marked by intense media scrutiny and focus on individual candidates.
- He contrasts this with the current focus on national implications rather than local candidates.
Navigating Johnson Questions
- When asked about Boris Johnson's integrity, Alastair Campbell advises focusing on Johnson's strengths while acknowledging his flaws.
- Avoid direct labels and shift focus to local representation.