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
Jun 22, 2025 • 27min
Emergency podcast: Trump bombs Iran
Lee Siegel, a columnist for the New Statesman and an expert on American politics, dives into the chaotic aftermath of Trump's decision to bomb Iranian nuclear sites. He warns that this unilateral military action could lead to dire consequences for American citizens and global stability. The discussion shines a light on the evolving power dynamics in the Middle East and critiques the justification behind U.S. military interventions. Siegel also explores potential political repercussions, particularly for the Democrat party amid rising anti-war sentiments.
Jun 20, 2025 • 17min
Can Labour win the next election?
George Eaton, Senior Editor at the New Statesman, and Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor, dive into the Labour Party's chances for victory in the next election. They tackle the shifting political landscape post-2019 and the rise of the Reform party. Class issues, long overlooked, are back on the agenda, with a focus on how Labour is trying to reconnect with working-class voters. They also discuss the importance of rebuilding UK-EU relations and the economic opportunities that could arise from trade agreements.
Jun 19, 2025 • 26min
Will Starmer back Trump on Iran?
In a riveting discussion, George Eaton, a Senior Editor, Freddie Hayward, a US Correspondent, and Rachel Cunliffe, an Associate Political Editor, dissect the chaotic landscape of UK-US relations amid escalating Middle Eastern tensions. They explore the Labour Party’s navigation of support for Trump, alongside a critical inquiry into grooming gangs spurred by a damning report. With an eye on recent UK-EU relations, the trio highlights opportunities for trade post-Brexit, defining how these events reshape political strategies in Britain.
10 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 34min
Israel vs. Iran: what next? | Professor of War Studies, Lawrence Freedman, on the Isreal-Iran conflict.
Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King's College London, sheds light on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its broader implications. He discusses Israel's surprise attacks on Iranian sites and the geopolitical motivations driving these actions. Freedman explores the complexities of U.S. involvement, emphasizing how domestic politics influence international relations. Additionally, he reflects on the shifting military dynamics in the Middle East and the potential ramifications for regional stability. A riveting analysis of conflict and strategy in a tumultuous landscape.
Jun 13, 2025 • 18min
Spending review: NHS wins - but tax rises are coming
The latest financial statement reveals significant changes in UK funding priorities. Key sectors like the NHS benefit from increased resources, but challenges persist for local governments and social housing. Political tensions arise over necessary tax hikes and the balance between immediate needs and long-term investments. Additionally, the podcast discusses the evolving dynamics of UK-EU relations post-Brexit, highlighting possible trade benefits. Overall, the analysis navigates the complex interplay of public sentiment, economic strategies, and political narratives.
Jun 12, 2025 • 41min
What Keir Starmer can't say - New Statesman editor Tom McTague on his new profile of the Prime Minister
Tom McTague, editor of the New Statesman, shares insights from his extensive profiling of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He reveals how Starmer's personal experiences, including the loss of his brother, shape his leadership. The discussion highlights Starmer’s challenges in connecting emotionally with the public and balancing national security with domestic investment. McTague also dives into Starmer's minimalist office style, the impact of youth mental health issues, and the evolving dynamics of UK politics.
10 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 32min
Jeremy Hunt: Reform's mission is to destroy the Tories
Jeremy Hunt, a veteran politician who has held key roles like Health Secretary and Chancellor, discusses his new book, "Can We Be Great Again?" He delves into Britain's global position and the perception of national decline amidst shifting powers. Hunt argues for a 3% defense budget to strengthen NATO leadership while critiquing past austerity's impact on public health and welfare. He also addresses the Conservative Party’s need for trust and clear policies as they navigate political changes and consider coalitions with rising forces like Reform.
5 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 29min
Britain is trapped in a new build nightmare
Anoush Chakelian, a writer for the New Statesman, sheds light on Britain's alarming housing crisis in her cover story. She reveals the stark contrast between the government’s housing promises and the dismal quality of new builds. Chakelian discusses the woes of residents in defect-ridden flats and critiques developers' accountability. The conversation delves into the push and pull between new builds and beloved period homes, emphasizing the need for better construction standards and innovative social housing solutions to foster community living.
14 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 23min
Does Andy Burnham want to be prime minister?
In this discussion, Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor, and George Eaton, Senior Editor, delve into Andy Burnham's ambitions as he carves a space for a new left-wing party. They explore the ramifications of Jeremy Corbyn's Gaza inquiry and the internal turmoil at No. 10. The conversation also tackles the curious online presence of Robert Jenrick and the unexpected dynamics of urban political strategies. Tune in for insights on leadership speculation and the challenges facing today's Labour Party!
4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 35min
Why is Trump shilling crypto?
In this engaging conversation, investigative reporter Russ Buettner delves into Donald Trump's intriguing pivot to cryptocurrency, including the launch of $TRUMP and $MELANIA memecoins. He discusses how Trump’s financial maneuvers often mask a history of failed ventures and the implications for society at large. Buettner also examines the dissonance between Trump's self-made narrative and his inherited wealth, highlighting the complex interplay of celebrity culture, finance, and politics in the context of a transforming cryptocurrency landscape.
