The New Statesman: politics and culture
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics, culture and world affairs – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Andrew Marr and the New Statesman team bring you sharp reporting, clear analysis and thoughtful conversations to help you understand what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.The New Statesman is Britain’s leading source of news and commentary on politics and culture with a progressive perspective. On the podcast, our journalists and expert guests cut through the noise of the headlines to explain the forces shaping our world. From the battles inside the Labour Party to the future of the Conservatives, from the rise of Reform UK to the debates that dominate Parliament, we provide the clarity you need to follow UK politics.But the story doesn’t stop at Westminster. Each week we take you around the globe, covering world news and international current affairs — from the war in Ukraine and the leadership of Volodymyr Zelensky, to Russia under Vladimir Putin, to the conflict in Israel and Gaza, and the impact of Donald Trump on American and international politics. Our interviews bring leading thinkers and cultural figures into the conversation, while our Saturday episodes explore books, literature, film and wider culture.Whether you want to stay on top of UK news, understand the shifts in global politics, or dive into the ideas that drive our culture, the New Statesman podcast is your essential daily listen.--START HERE:▶︎ Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague▶︎ Do billionaires really benefit the UK?▶︎ One year of Labour rule: can things still only get better?--LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download and subscribe in the New Statesman app to enjoy all our episodes without the ads.--MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question - we answer them on the podcast every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter in your inbox every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday--JOIN US:⭐️ Get full access to all our reporting and analysis - and get our magazine delivered to your door every week - with a print + digital subscription--Host:Anoosh ChakelianRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefWill Lloyd, Deputy editorAndrew Marr, Political editorGeorge Eaton, Senior editor, politicsHannah Barnes, Associate editorRachel Cunliffe, Associate political editorWill Dunn, Business editorMegan Gibson, Foreign editorKatie Stallard, Global affairs editorTanjil Rashid, Culture editorKate Mossman, Senior writerProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesVideo producer: Rob Le MareExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 18, 2025 • 27min
Your Party meltdown
Ethan Croft, the new political correspondent at the New Statesman, joins to dissect the chaos surrounding 'Your Party'. He discusses the confusion over its membership launch, including claims of hacking and mixed messaging. The internal rift is highlighted, especially Zahra Sultana's 'boys club' accusation, revealing deep-seated tensions between personalities and policy. Croft also touches on grassroots dynamics and the potential for a split, all while forecasting the party's next moves leading up to their November conference.
Sep 17, 2025 • 46min
Can Zohran Mamdani save the American left?
Guest Ross Barkan, a New Statesman columnist, discusses Zohran Mamdani's groundbreaking campaign in New York City. Born in Uganda and raised in Manhattan, Mamdani is captivating voters with progressive policies like rent freezes and free public transport. Barkan highlights the backlash from business elites due to his proposals and examines shifting attitudes among Jewish voters regarding Israel. He also connects Mamdani’s rise to a resurgence of the left, questioning if this could reshape the Democratic Party's future.
Sep 16, 2025 • 38min
Trump, Starmer and Mandelson don't walk into a banquet
The podcast dives into Trump's highly anticipated state visit to the UK, focusing on the debates around Peter Mandelson's controversial appointment. The scandal involving Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein raises pressing questions about oversight in political appointments. Meanwhile, listeners get a humorous take on royal accommodations for Trump and speculations about the state banquet. Amidst this, the Labour Party faces internal turmoil, with implications for their leadership as they navigate recent controversies and unrest.
11 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 32min
Tommy Robinson's protests & Danny Kruger's defection
A massive far-right protest in London drew over 110,000 attendees, spotlighting a surge in nationalist sentiment. The chaotic atmosphere featured prominent figures like Katie Hopkins, while the rally sparked debates on race and identity. Meanwhile, Danny Kruger’s defection from the Conservative Party to Reform raises eyebrows, questioning the future of British conservatism. The discussions delve into the implications of reclaiming national symbols and the evolving dynamics within a fractious political landscape.
9 snips
Sep 14, 2025 • 16min
Are politicians LARPing? | Listener questions
The hosts tackle provocative listener questions about the political landscape. They explore whether the Greens are ‘anarchists’ and discuss the Americanization of British politics. Insights into Theresa May's puzzling rise to the premiership reveal how chaos shaped her journey. The conversation dives into the chaos surrounding Brexit and its implications for electoral stability. Plus, they critique the tendency of British politicians to 'LARP' their roles, emphasizing the need to refocus on domestic issues rather than reflexively adopting American narratives.
Sep 13, 2025 • 59min
Where does JK Rowling get the time to obsess about me? | Nicola Sturgeon interview
Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s longest-serving First Minister, shares her journey of reshaping Scottish politics while navigating crises like the independence referendum and the Covid-19 pandemic. In a candid discussion with Anoosh Chakelian, she addresses the complexities of nationalism, her polarizing persona, and a surprising public feud with JK Rowling. Sturgeon also reflects on her early political challenges, emotional vulnerability, and the evolving dynamics of Scottish independence, urging a more responsible dialogue on sensitive issues.
11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 24min
Political violence becomes mainstream in the US
Freddie Hayward, a Washington, D.C. correspondent for the New Statesman, delves into the shocking murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk and its implications for American politics. The discussion highlights the increasing normalization of political violence and how it’s impacting rhetoric across the political spectrum. Hayward examines the dangerous narratives emerging from these events, the emotional toll on communities, and the repercussions for democratic processes. This conversation sheds light on a troubling trend that’s reshaping political discourse in the U.S.
Sep 11, 2025 • 19min
Starmer's mess
The turmoil within the Labour Party takes center stage as Keir Starmer grapples with recent resignations and cabinet reshuffles. The shadow of right-wing opposition looms large, particularly with Nigel Farage's growing influence. The fallout from high-profile political controversies raises questions about UK-US relations, while regional divides among Labour MPs highlight internal strife. The potential return of Andy Burnham hints at new directions in workers' rights and immigration policy, especially with Shabana Mahmood's unique insights reshaping the Home Office.
Sep 10, 2025 • 19min
Mandelson and the friends he keeps
Freddie Hayward, the US correspondent for the New Statesman, shares insight into the controversial release of documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein. He delves into the implications of a birthday book featuring notable figures, including Peter Mandelson and Donald Trump, stirring political tensions. The discussion highlights complex relationships between British ambassadors and Epstein, the fallout in the Labour Party, and the shadow of Epstein that still hangs over political leadership and foreign policy. Join for a deep dive into these messy connections!
Sep 9, 2025 • 32min
In Britain's broken housing market, does the Renters' Rights Bill go far enough?
Tom Darling, Director of the Renters' Reform Coalition, advocates for tenant rights in a housing market where renters often spend 40% of their income on housing. He discusses the newly proposed Renters' Rights Bill and whether it truly addresses the pressing needs of tenants. The conversation delves into the influence of landlords on economic growth, the intertwining issues of immigration, and the ongoing struggle for tenant protections amidst a rising housing crisis. Can this bill make a meaningful difference for renters?
