Politics Theory Other Britain's new left party w/ James Schneider
Aug 31, 2025
In this conversation, James Schneider, co-founder of Momentum and former Communications Director for Labour, explores the urgent need for a new left party in Britain. He argues that Labour's drift and declining living standards create a unique opportunity for a left electoral breakthrough. Schneider discusses the importance of rebuilding grassroots social institutions while maintaining a democratic party structure. He also critiques the liberal establishment and stresses the need for a joyful, participatory political culture to energize organizing efforts.
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Elections Must Link To Social Power
- Rebuilding social institutions is a multi-decade project that must accompany electoral work.
- Electoral victories should either follow from built social power or be used to catalyze it further.
Exploit FPTP By Building Local Density
- Use the first-past-the-post constraint to concentrate resources and win majorities in target areas.
- Pair that density strategy with local organising like tenants unions and community kitchens to build durable power.
Don’t Settle For Ad-Hoc Left Alliances
- Avoid a loose, ad-hoc alliance that merely swaps better candidates without building democratic power.
- Prioritise forming a unified movement that organises people, not just electoral pacts.
