The New Statesman | UK politics and culture

Ben Walker, a senior data journalist at The New Statesman, discusses the dramatic decline in Keir Starmer's popularity, revealing he's now less favored than Donald Trump. The conversation dives into Starmer's initial triumph, recent approval rating drops, and the disconnect with traditional Labour voters. Walker highlights voter alienation, especially among progressive activists and socially conservative segments, while exploring the rise of alternative parties like the Greens. He also touches on the evolving support for Palestinian statehood and its implications for Labour's identity.

George Eaton, Senior Editor at The New Statesman, dives into the Labour Party's transformation nearly a decade post-Brexit. He discusses how the dream of 'Singapore-on-Thames' has faded, replaced by a government favoring higher taxes and enhanced workers' rights. Eaton analyzes the shift towards a more European model and scrutinizes the implications of new employment legislation. He also navigates the challenges the Labour Party faces as it seeks to redefine its identity and policies amidst evolving political dynamics.

Freddie Hayward, the US correspondent for the New Statesman, discusses the struggling Democratic Party as it grapples with the influence of Trump and the MAGA movement. He explores the internal divisions within the party, debating whether to treat Trump as a fleeting challenge or a serious threat to democracy. The conversation digs into dwindling civic engagement among liberals and the rising acceptance of radical ideas. Hayward also highlights potential strategies for revival, including economic populism, and assesses the future of Trump's political legacy.

Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, and George Eaton, Senior Editor at the New Statesman, delve into Nigel Farage's relentless campaign during Parliament's recess. They discuss his 'Lawless Britain' agenda, marked by provocative discussions around crime and migration. The duo analyzes the implications of Farage's evolving policies, including controversial proposals like outsourcing prisoners. They also consider challenges in maintaining political momentum and public sentiment toward reform as the UK edges closer to a pivotal general election.

In this discussion, Susan J. Smith, the President of the British Academy and Honorary Professor at Cambridge, dives into Britain's housing crisis. She highlights rising prices and the shrinking home ownership among younger people, driven by corporate investors. The conversation unveils the social costs for middle and lower-income groups and critiques the role of government intervention. Smith also touches on the necessity of reforming housing taxation to promote equity while balancing the needs of homeowners and renters alike.

The podcast delves into the Online Safety Act, highlighting its shortcomings and politicians' misunderstandings of the internet. It explores the disconnect between legislative efforts and youth engagement, revealing the challenges of appealing to younger voters. The discussion also spans economic disparities, comparing the UK and Greece. Additionally, the potential for new political alliances, particularly between Labour and the Liberal Democrats, is examined against the backdrop of changing voter dynamics and the growing role of the Commonwealth.

Anoosh Chakelian, a New Statesman writer who reported from sites of asylum protests, joins fellow contributor George Eaton to analyze Britain's current turmoil. They discuss escalating protests linked to housing asylum seekers and the impact on local communities. The conversation shifts to the Labour government's struggles with NHS strikes and economic distress. Both guests address how public discontent might steer voters toward more radical choices, highlighting the deepening ideological divides within British politics.

Join political minds George Eaton, senior editor at New Statesman, and Megan Kenyon, political correspondent, as they dissect Keir Starmer's significant shift towards recognizing Palestinian statehood. They explore the pressures from Labour MPs for more decisive action regarding Israel, the complex ramifications for UK-Israel relations, and the mixed reactions from across the political spectrum. The discussion also touches on the potential influence of Donald Trump on UK politics and how it complicates Labour's strategy moving forward.

Freddie Hayward, the US Editor at the New Statesman, joins Katie Stallard to delve into Donald Trump's complicated ties to Jeffrey Epstein. They explore why Trump struggles to distance himself from Epstein's legacy, causing friction with his supporters. The discussion also touches on the dissonance within the MAGA base regarding these revelations and how it impacts congressional politics. Additionally, they analyze Trump's shifting stance on humanitarian issues, particularly regarding Gaza, suggesting a significant political evolution.

In this engaging discussion, Megan Gibson, the International Editor at The New Statesman, delves into Donald Trump's recent Scotland visit and his meetings with global leaders like Ursula von der Leyen and Keir Starmer. They explore Trump's 'bully-boy' tactics in trade negotiations and the mixed responses from European leaders. The conversation highlights the fractured unity among allies, Canada’s ambitions for EU ties, and the implications of Trump's unique brand of transactional diplomacy on worldwide alliances.