John McTernan

Michael Gove, author and political critic, discusses the moral vacuum in Starmerism, warning that a Labour government needs a clear mission to avoid a fate akin to John Major’s era. John McTernan adds insights into this ideological struggle. Revd Dr Jamie Franklin addresses the Church of England's misuse of sacred spaces for modern events, while Quentin Letts shares his manifesto for the next Archbishop. Finally, Dr Anya Lucas and Gillian Darley debate the controversial restoration of Clandon Park, weighing historical preservation against modern techniques.

Katy Balls, a sharp political journalist, teams up with John McTernan, a former political secretary to Tony Blair, to dissect the ongoing Tory leadership contest. They evaluate which Conservative candidates could pose significant challenges for Keir Starmer, particularly focusing on Kemi Badenoch's skill with identity politics. The duo also discusses the implications of other contenders like James Cleverly and Tom Tugendhat, considering how leadership dynamics might reshape Labour's future electoral landscape.

John McTernan, a veteran political advisor with experience working for prime ministers in both the UK and Australia, shares his insights into the tumultuous role of a political advisor. He discusses the highs and lows of guiding leaders, emphasizing the blend of strategy and chaos. The conversation dives into the complexities of modern conservatism, analyzing Kemi Badenoch's unique approach and the challenges facing political parties amidst cultural shifts. McTernan also reveals the intricacies of navigating political rivalries and maintaining authenticity in communications.

In this discussion, former Labour advisor John McTernan provides an insightful analysis of Keir Starmer's leadership five years in. He examines the transformation of Labour from its leftist roots to a more centrist stance, raising questions about Starmer's true political identity. They explore Starmer's surprisingly praised foreign policy amid criticisms of his domestic decisions. The conversation highlights the challenges of navigating trade relations post-Brexit and the implications of Starmer's election strategies as he leads the party into a new era.

Katy Balls, a political commentator for The Spectator, and John McTernan, a political strategist, dive into the implications of Donald Trump's election on the UK Labour government. They discuss the internal anxieties within Labour regarding trade, foreign policy, and the potential challenges in dealing with a Trump-led U.S. They also explore how Keir Starmer might navigate these complexities and learn from previous Conservative strategies, emphasizing the need for diplomatic bridges amid a shifting global landscape.

Katy Balls, Political editor at The Spectator, teams up with John McTernan, a former political secretary to Tony Blair, to dissect the political chaos in Downing Street following Sue Gray's resignation. They discuss the power shift towards Morgan McSweeney and the implications for Keir Starmer's leadership. The duo reflects on past dysfunction in government, the Labour Party's internal dynamics, and the toll of fiscal constraints on effective policy-making. They also ponder whether this shake-up can truly reset Starmer’s agenda.

Katy Balls, a sharp political journalist, joins John McTernan, former Political Secretary to Tony Blair, to dissect the aftermath of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s speech at Labour conference. They explore how hecklers briefly interrupted the moment and analyze the themes of austerity and pandemic recovery she addressed. The duo discusses the internal conflicts shadowing the party, especially in light of Sue Gray's absence, and debates the delicate balance Reeves must strike between inspiring grassroots supporters and reassuring the business community.

Katy Balls, a sharp political commentator, teams up with John McTernan, a former political secretary to Tony Blair, to dissect the current turmoil within the Labour Party. They dive into the implications of Sue Gray's controversial salary and her influence on Keir Starmer's leadership. The duo explores the power dynamics in Number 10, highlighting internal conflicts and the struggles of maintaining a cohesive message. With upcoming challenges and budget cuts looming, they emphasize the importance of strategic communication to manage public perception.

James Heale, a savvy political commentator, teams up with John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair, to discuss the recent rise in energy price caps. They analyze whether Labour can successfully frame the hike as a consequence of Conservative policies. The duo explores the government’s messaging strategies, the impact on winter fuel allowance debates, and the intricate dynamics within Labour as they strive to reshape public perception. This lively conversation reveals the high stakes in navigating a challenging political landscape.

Katy Balls, a sharp political commentator, joins John McTernan, a seasoned political strategist, and Peter Kyle, the dynamic Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology. They dive into Elon Musk’s recent clash with the Labour government over social media, exploring its impact on the party's online safety initiatives. The discussion touches on the growing influence of tech giants in politics and debates surrounding the regulation of Big Tech. The trio also analyzes the socio-political underpinning of recent riots and the complexities of public unrest.