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
Jan 24, 2025 • 27min
What does Trump 2.0 mean for the UK?
Freddie Hayward, U.S. correspondent for the New Statesman, shares his insights on the implications of Donald Trump's second administration for the UK. He discusses the fervent atmosphere surrounding Trump's inauguration and its influences on international relations. The conversation dives into contrasts in political rhetoric and explores how American political shifts, particularly in climate policy and diversity initiatives, resonate in the UK. Hayward also highlights the disconnect between progressive policies and public sentiment in both nations.
Jan 23, 2025 • 23min
How do we fight terror now? - Andrew Marr and Jacob Davey on the Southport killer trial.
Jacob Davey, Director of Policy and Research at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, shares his insights on the trial of Axel Rudakabana, who pled guilty to murdering three young girls in Southport. The conversation delves into whether Rudakabana is a terrorist or simply disturbed. They critique the UK's PREVENT strategy and discuss the connection between misogyny and violence. Additionally, the impact of misinformation on social media following the murders is explored, exposing the challenges in navigating public perceptions and political accountability.
Jan 22, 2025 • 24min
Will the ceasefire hold?
Yair Wallach, a Reader in Israeli studies at SOAS, joins the discussion on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. He assesses the Israeli government's conflict management strategy and the influence of extremist parties. The emotional landscape surrounding the recent hostages' return is dissected, underscoring joy intermingled with grief. Wallach also contrasts Trump's foreign policy with Biden's approach, examining their impacts on the ceasefire and the shifting public sentiments towards the government amidst ongoing challenges.
4 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 30min
Why are we having fewer children?
In this engaging discussion, guests Madeleine Davis, a New Statesman contributor, and Anastasia Berg, co-author of "What Are Children For? On Ambivalence and Choice," explore the global decline in birth rates. They delve into how financial, social, and romantic factors influence the choice to have children. The conversation highlights changing attitudes towards parenthood and the complexities of modern family planning, emphasizing the societal shifts that impact decisions about raising a family.
Jan 17, 2025 • 21min
Will Labour reconsider the Chagos deal?
Keir Starmer faces a dilemma over the Chagos Islands as pressure mounts from the UN and a new US administration. The conversation dives into the historical context and legal challenges surrounding the islands, while considering local perspectives. The discussion shifts to the implications of Meta's recent content regulation changes, exploring how these could impact information reliability in the UK. Additionally, the speakers analyze the broader transatlantic struggles in regulating big tech, raising critical questions about free speech versus harmful content.
Jan 16, 2025 • 30min
Rachel Reeves won't resign (yet) - here's why
Will Dunn, the Business editor for the New Statesman, provides sharp economic insights amidst the political turmoil surrounding Rachel Reeves. He argues why the Chancellor is resisting calls to resign, despite the looming tax increases. Dunn reveals a nuanced understanding of how government debt is calculated and suggests that Liz Truss may not be solely to blame for the economic crash. The discussion also touches on Tulip Siddiq’s resignation and the implications for Labour's discipline and credibility.
Jan 15, 2025 • 25min
The ideological contradictions of Trump 2
Quinn Slobodian, a Boston University historian and author, joins Katie Stallard, Senior Editor for Global Affairs, and Freddie Hayward, US correspondent, to dissect Trump's complex coalition. They discuss the precarious alliances forming around Trump, the contrasting motives of tech elites versus traditional interests, and the fervent loyalty of MAGA supporters. Insightful analysis emerges on how these tensions could unravel as they face the 2028 elections, shedding light on shifts in political loyalties and the implications for American democracy.
Jan 13, 2025 • 26min
Could it be magic?: Inside Britain's boyband machine
In this captivating discussion, Anna Leskiewicz, a Senior Commissioning Editor at The New Statesman with deep knowledge of British pop culture, joins writer Emma Garland to unpack the world of boy bands from the 90s. They explore the fascinating dynamics of class and masculinity in the UK, alongside the toll of fame and tabloid culture on pop stars. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Robbie Williams, creativity in depicting fame through a CGI monkey in film, and the haunting experiences of former boy band members.
7 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 23min
Could the government raise the top income tax rate?
Ben Walker, a senior data journalist at the New Statesman, dives into the shifting landscape of UK politics. He discusses the increasing youth support for Reform UK and the potential political repercussions of raising the top income tax rate for high earners. The conversation also touches on the influence of figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump on British political sentiment, as well as the funding strategies of parties like UKIP and the implications for future elections. Predictions for the year's political dynamics add an intriguing layer to the discourse.
Jan 9, 2025 • 23min
Elon Musk’s “outrageous” meddling in grooming gangs scandal
Elon Musk's controversial comments have sparked a fierce debate over grooming gangs and political accountability in the UK. The discussions reveal the troubling realities of sexual abuse scandals and demand for justice. Reactions from key political figures highlight the tension between foreign influence and domestic governance. The impact of social media on UK politics is significant, as Musk's maneuvers challenge traditional narratives. Additionally, deliberations on AI's potential in public services showcase the need for balance and safeguards.
