Daily Politics from the New Statesman
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Oli Dugmore 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 Daily Politics, 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.--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:⭐️ Treat yourself or someone special to big ideas, bold politics and proper journalism from just £2 this Christmas when you subscribe to the New Statesman. Subscribe today at newstatesman.com/xmaspod25--Hosts:Anoosh ChakelianOli DugmoreRegular 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 MareAssistant producer: Biba KangExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
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.
May 30, 2025 • 16min
Who can fill the left-wing gap?
The podcast dives into the curious absence of a strong left-wing populist movement in the UK, questioning why traditional parties aren't thriving. It also examines the Liberal Democrats' balancing act between centrism and leftism, creating options for other parties like the Greens. Fishing rights take center stage as a point of contention in EU negotiations, reflecting deeper national identity issues, while the disappointment of farming communities post-Brexit reveals a growing sense of betrayal over trade deals.
8 snips
May 29, 2025 • 18min
Labour are U-turning it up
Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, and George Eaton, Senior Editor, dive deep into Labour's recent policy predicament. They dissect the party's challenges with the two-child benefit cap and potential winter fuel cuts, revealing internal rifts. The conversation turns to Nigel Farage's Reform party, exploring its rise as a serious player in the political arena. They also discuss the shifting landscape of UK politics and what it means for the future of the left, providing sharp insights into the current dynamics.
12 snips
May 26, 2025 • 38min
As Gaza faces famine, where does the US stand on Israel?
Join Raja Khalidi, Director General of the Palestine Economic Policy Research Institute, and Rajan Menon, Professor Emeritus at City College New York, as they dive into the escalating crisis in Gaza. They discuss the severe humanitarian challenges, the urgent need for aid, and the impact of U.S. foreign policy. The conversation explores shifting politics, including Trump's fluctuating support for Israel, and the dire implications for Palestinian civilians caught in the conflict. Their insights shed light on the complexities of this ongoing humanitarian crisis.
6 snips
May 23, 2025 • 24min
Gordon Brown on the “cruel” two-child benefit cap
Gordon Brown, former Labour prime minister and advocate for child poverty reduction, emphasizes the urgent need to address the rising child poverty rates in the UK. He critiques the government's two-child benefit cap for exacerbating financial hardships for families. Joined by Kate Mossman, who recently profiled him, they discuss the emotional and financial struggles faced by families caring for sick or disabled children. Brown proposes setting annual targets to combat child poverty and stresses investing in children's welfare for long-term societal benefits.
