How To Win An Election How... The Elections Were Won And Lost: Nick Clegg
Dec 11, 2025
Former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg shares an insider's view of the pivotal 2010 UK election. He recounts the groundbreaking TV debates that sparked 'Cleggmania' and the strategic challenges of navigating a hung parliament. Clegg discusses the impact of the infamous Gillian Duffy incident and the emotional weight of his 'Broken Promises' broadcast. He reflects on the subsequent coalition government with the Conservatives and the importance of accepting shared power for the future of the Liberal Democrats.
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Debates Could Break Two-Party Media Grip
- Nick Clegg saw TV debates as the single critical opportunity to break into a two-party dominated media ecosystem.
- He planned access aggressively and formed a scenarios team to prepare for unexpected outcomes.
Tiny Events Can Unlock Latent Voter Demand
- The campaign tapped a broad desire for change rooted in the 2008 economic shock and expenses scandal.
- That latent frustration created a sudden, large swing when voters saw a distinguishable alternative.
How ‘Cleggmania’ Was Born
- The first televised leaders' debate transformed Nick Clegg's recognition overnight and sparked ‘Cleggmania’.
- He credited plain language, rehearsal and an accidental camera-eye moment for the impact.