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Political Fix

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Mar 14, 2025 • 47min

Starmer’s ‘Project Chainsaw’: the NHS, Whitehall, welfare

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Bush, Robert Shrimsley, and Anna Gross delve into Keir Starmer’s ambitious 'Project Chainsaw,' aimed at reforming the NHS amidst a backdrop of political tension. They dissect the controversial abolition of NHS England and its implications for public services. The trio also explores the brewing Labour rebellion over welfare cuts and the pressures mounting from within the party. With insights into the challenges of welfare reform and the complexities of navigating public sentiment, this conversation is packed with crucial political analysis.
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Mar 7, 2025 • 35min

Will Starmer sink or swim in Trump’s world?

Miranda Green, a Political Fix regular and Financial Times contributor, along with Robert Shrimsley, another FT columnist, and Felicia Schwartz, a U.S. foreign affairs correspondent, discuss the balancing act of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer amid Trump's influence. They analyze Starmer's diplomatic strategies regarding Ukraine, contrasting them with Macron's approach. The trio also tackles the complexities of post-Brexit diplomacy, the political fallout from military alliance statements, and the ongoing tensions between populism and patriotism in today's political climate.
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9 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 41min

The Starmer-Trump love-in

In a striking meeting, Donald Trump praised UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, calling him ‘special’ and a 'tough negotiator.' George Parker, who attended the Oval Office encounter, shares insider perspectives. The conversation shifts to the ramifications for a potential UK-US trade deal and the complexities of military support for Ukraine. Miranda Green and Stephen Bush dive into the shifting UK spending priorities, including controversial defense and aid budget discussions, while analyzing the broader political landscape.
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31 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 44min

‘America is now an adversary’

In this engaging discussion, Robert Shrimsley, an insightful commentator on British and international politics, and Gideon Rachman, the FT's Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator, dive into the shifting dynamics between Europe and the US. They grapple with the potential rearmament across Europe amid rising threats and analyze America's reliability as an ally. The episode also features a look at the emerging right-wing movement, blending politics with faith and reshaping cultural narratives, all while assessing the implications for identity and defense in a changing world.
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11 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 36min

The right to die: who should have the final say?

Robert Shrimsley offers keen insights into British politics, alongside Stephen Bush, author of the acclaimed Inside Politics newsletter, and Laura Hughes, the Financial Times' public policy correspondent. They delve into the heated debate over the assisted dying bill, questioning the removal of judicial approval and its implications for safeguards. The conversation also touches on the emotional and ethical dimensions of end-of-life choices, public sentiment, and the intersection of political beliefs and healthcare equity. Additionally, they analyze the impact of recent developments in the Ukraine conflict and UK defense spending needs.
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22 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 43min

Trump and Reform: Is US-style populism set to sweep the UK?

Gideon Rachman, Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator for the Financial Times, dives deep into the geopolitical ripple effects of Donald Trump's recent actions. The discussion uncovers the complexities of US-UK relations, revealing how Trump's stance could reshape Britain's political landscape. Attention turns to the unexpected rise of Reform UK and its implications for traditional parties like Labour and the Conservatives. As populism gains traction, Rachman outlines the challenges political leaders face in connecting with a disillusioned electorate. Expect insights blended with a touch of humor!
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39 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 40min

Growth – and damn the consequences?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is pushing for rapid economic growth, raising questions about environmental impacts and regional disparities. The panel critiques Labour's focus on the south, highlighting the tension between ambitious promises and actual results. They dissect the party's challenges with public expectations and approval ratings while navigating complex post-Brexit relationships. The conversation also covers the precarious balance between political rhetoric and economic reality, examining how it shapes investor confidence and potential future policies.
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14 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 39min

Trump turbulence: How should Labour play it?

This discussion features Jim Pickard, a political analyst at the FT, Anna Gross, who offers insights on economic implications, and Edward Luce, the FT's US national editor. They delve into the potential consequences of Trump's return, focusing on his radical plans that could reshape UK-US relations. The conversation includes how Labour should maneuver amid Trump's trade policies and tariffs, foreign policy anxieties, and the shifting perceptions of Trump among British politicians. The political fallout from the Southport tragedy and its implications for government trust are also explored.
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13 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 43min

Reeves vs the markets

Robert Shrimsley, an FT columnist, and Stephen Bush, a political commentator, dive into the turmoil facing Rachel Reeves amidst bond market chaos. They explore the battle between economic management and market forces, questioning who truly holds power. The discussion also highlights the UK's stagnation, critiques past economic decisions, and assesses the political fallout within the Labour Party. Additionally, they consider new leadership in pensions and the opposition's response to pressing issues, all while navigating the complexities of UK foreign policy.
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8 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 42min

Musk and the new political playbook

Join Miranda Green, Jim Pickard, Anna Gross, and Joe Miller as they dissect Elon Musk's escalating influence on UK politics. They explore his provocative anti-government rhetoric, particularly aimed at Keir Starmer, and question whether his fixation stems from algorithmic radicalization. The discussion delves into Musk's high-stakes impact on sensitive social issues, the polarization of public discourse, and the implications for democracy across Europe. Can tech moguls redefine political narratives? Tune in for analysis and insights that reveal the changing landscape of power.

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