

Politics Unpacked
Times Radio
Hugo Rifkind unpacks the the politics of the day - and the stuff that's even more important - with the brightest brains from the Times and Sunday Times.You can listen to Hugo on DAB, smart speaker or app 10am-1pm Monday to Friday. If you like what you hear, then read more at http://www.thetimes.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 31, 2025 • 32min
Brexit, Boomers & Centrist Dads
It's the fifth anniversary of Brexit - is Ed a remoaner, what's gone wrong for the centrists, and is it time for boomers to open their pockets?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Zoe Strimpel and Robin Brant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 2025 • 25min
Focus Group: Rabbit In The Headlights
In the first Times Radio focus group of 2025, we find out whether voters who backed Labour at the general election are suffering from buyer's remorse.Hugo Rifkind is joined by pollster James Johnson, of JL Partners. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 2025 • 42min
PMQs: The Next Lettuce?
Kemi Badenoch goes on the offensive over the government's plans for growth, but Keir Starmer thinks she's going to be 'the next lettuce'.Hugo Rifkind unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Tim Shipman and comedian Lucy Porter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

5 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 33min
Extremism, Protest and Ed Miliband's Photographer
The government has rejected advice to widen the definition of extremism, but how can it stop attacks from angry "loners" like in Southport?Plus, why is Ed Miliband hiring a vanity photographer?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 2025 • 31min
Trump Calls Starmer
In this engaging discussion, Patrick Maguire, a Times columnist and senior political correspondent, teams up with Jane Mulkerrins, another insightful Times voice. They delve into the implications of Donald Trump's warm call with Keir Starmer, pondering if aligning with the US President is wise for the PM. The conversation spans the Labour Party's struggles, the evolving outlook of Generation Z on authority, and the humorous intersection of dating preferences with political personas. They balance serious analyses with light-hearted anecdotes, making for a captivating listen.

Jan 24, 2025 • 39min
Farage Demands An Apology
In the wake of the sentencing of the Southport killer, Nigel Farage has called for an apology after he was accused of spreading fake news. But is he just politicising the attack?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Zoe Strimpel and Miranda Green. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 2025 • 35min
Matthew Parris: Liberals Should Take On Trump
Hugo is unpacking the politics of the day with Matthew Parris and Manveen Rana.Matthew argues that liberals are going soft on Donald Trump, and it's time for them to stiffen their spines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 22, 2025 • 42min
PMQs: Did Kemi School Keir?
Kemi Badenoch accuses Keir Starmer of "educational vandalism" over his plans for schools. Who came out on top, and do some in Labour think she's got a point? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Tim Shipman, Lara Spirit and the comedian Athena Kugblenu. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 21, 2025 • 29min
Did Farage Have A Point About Southport?
Keir Starmer denied a 'cover-up' after his government was accused of withholding information about the Southport killer, did he get it wrong?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 2025 • 30min
Trump! Part Deux
Patrick Maguire, a journalist delving into the political implications of Trump’s return, and Jane Mulkerrins, known for her insights on public reactions, dive deep into the aftermath of Trump's stunning comeback. They explore how his presidency reshapes UK politics and the potential impact of tariffs. The discussion also touches on evolving political sentiments, misinformation, and public perceptions. Expect a blend of light-hearted banter on food preferences and the charm of absurd political analysis, making for a lively conversation.


