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The Spectator
Daily political analysis from The Spectator's top team of writers, including Michael Gove, Tim Shipman, Isabel Hardman, James Heale, Lucy Dunn and many others.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 28, 2024 • 13min
Will Biden survive his debate implosion?
Fraser Nelson and Sarah Elliott discuss Biden's debate performance, pondering if he can recover. They explore his speech issues, potential leadership changes, and Democratic contenders. Speculations on Kamala Harris' future as a candidate and Biden's waning popularity also arise.

Jun 27, 2024 • 12min
Should we ban polls?
Polling expert Katy Balls and political research director Chris Hopkins discuss the idea of implementing a polling blackout close to elections. They delve into how polling influences election coverage and the potential impact on voter behavior. The podcast also touches on the clash between David Tennant and Kemi Badenoch regarding transgender policy, sparking debate on culture war issues.

Jun 26, 2024 • 16min
Sunak vs Starmer round two - who won?
Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, along with Patrick Gibbons, discuss the intense final debate between Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak, highlighting accusations of dishonesty, evasion on policy issues, and lack of enlightenment. They analyze Sunak's aggressive approach and Starmer's struggles with certain topics, evaluating their debate performance, discomfort, missed opportunities, and audience reactions.

Jun 26, 2024 • 17min
Has 'gamblegate' become ridiculous?
Katy Balls and Stephen Bush from the Financial Times discuss the 'gamblegate' scandal in politics. They debate the ethical implications of political betting, including a Labour candidate betting on themselves to lose and a cabinet minister's election timing bets. Is 'gamblegate' going too far?

Jun 25, 2024 • 19min
Who will survive?
James Kanagasooriam, Chief Research Officer of Focaldata, joins the podcast to discuss their latest poll showing a potential 250-seat Labour majority. They also delve into the betting scandal involving Tory candidates, the impact on the Conservative Party and upcoming election results. Analysis covers seat projections, polling data discrepancies, and the uncertain future of the Conservative Party.

Jun 24, 2024 • 12min
Is Nigel Farage drawing from the Trump playbook?
Nigel Farage sparks controversy with comments on West's role in Ukraine, drawing comparisons to Trump's tactics. Analysis on how this affects Reform and Tory votes. Discussion on Tory figures investigated by gambling commission, impacting party reputation under Rishi Sunak's leadership.

Jun 23, 2024 • 14min
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 23/06/24
Controversy over Conservatives involved in election date betting scandal. SNP staff accused of using public money for election campaign. Labour pressed on gender identity in schools. Unite's Sharon Graham warns of Labour voters moving to Reform party if workers feel unsupported.

Jun 22, 2024 • 19min
Is Brexit safe under Labour?
Paul Embery, a writer, trade unionist, and Labour Brexiteer, discusses Labour's Brexit stance, focusing on maintaining promises to working-class voters. Topics include Rachel Reeves' plans for the EU, Brexit's impact on Red Wall constituencies, managing immigration post-Brexit, and evolving attitudes towards immigration within the Labour party and trade union movement.

Jun 21, 2024 • 13min
Question Time special – who came out on top?
Discussion on leaders' performance in a BBC debate, highlighting trust issues. Analysis of how politicians struggle to connect with voters. Delving into Rishi Sunak's challenges and reactions in the campaign. Exploring the Liberal Democrats leader's strategy and presence amidst anti-Tory sentiment.

Jun 20, 2024 • 12min
Sunak's campaign derailed by betting claims — again
Kate Andrews and James Heale discuss the controversy surrounding Conservative candidate Laura Sanders and her alleged betting with insider knowledge. They analyze how this scandal affects the already shaky Tory campaign and the potential implications for the party's leadership. The podcast also touches on the recent UK economic news, focusing on the 2% inflation rate and its impact on the upcoming general election.