Political Fix

In a gripping discussion, Jim Pickard, Deputy Political Editor at the Financial Times, Stephen Bush, a sharp political columnist, and Robert Shrimsley, the Chief Political Commentator, delve into the fallout of Robert Jenrick’s defection to Reform UK. They dissect whether Kemi Badenoch's swift dismissal of Jenrick showcased strength or hasty decision-making. The panel also explores the implications for the Conservative Party, the brewing rivalry with Reform, and the challenges facing right-wing voters ahead of upcoming elections.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had wanted to kick off the new year with a strong domestic start, tackling the cost of living crisis head on, in the hopes of improving his dire poll ratings. Instead, he has found himself firefighting on the international front, trying to navigate Donald Trump’s foreign policy frenzy.How will Starmer manage his ‘special relationship’ with the US president in light of recent events? Where do Trump’s latest actions leave Nato, especially with regard to Ukraine? And what does all this global uncertainty mean for the Labour leader’s agenda at home?Host George Parker discusses the balancing act facing the government with the FT’s deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and acting Whitehall correspondent David Sheppard.Follow George, Miranda, Robert & David Want more? Strategic supplication is Europe’s only Trump policyFrance and UK commit to deploying troops under proposed Ukraine peace dealUK armed forces warn of £28bn defence funding shortfallGreenland’s future must be decided by island and Denmark, Starmer warns Trump‘Not in my name’: Labour’s new towns battleAnd sign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter, Inside Politics, for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue-(mostly)-in-cheek analysis. Get 30 days free.Political Fix was presented by George Parker, and produced by Lulu Smyth and Julia Webster. Flo Phillips is the executive producer. Sound engineering by Simon Panayi. Manuela Saragosa is the FT’s acting co-head of audio.What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.comClip from UK ParliamentRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob Armstrong, a U.S. financial commentator at the Financial Times, dives into the intriguing concept of the K-shaped economy, illustrating how some Americans thrive while others struggle. He analyzes corporate earnings that reflect varied consumer spending habits across income levels. Armstrong also cautions against oversimplifying economic narratives, discussing the complexities facing low earners. The conversation shifts to political repercussions, exploring how the administration responds to the pressing affordability crisis affecting millions.

This festive quiz features Miranda Green, a political commentator known for her insights on British politics, and Jim Pickard, an FT correspondent with a knack for breaking scoops. They tackle a challenging quiz covering memorable political moments of 2025, including Labour frontbench resignations and unexpected party conference antics. The panel also predicts surprising outcomes for 2026 while competing for the title of Wonk-in-Chief. Don't miss the lighthearted banter and chocolate coin prizes as they reminisce and speculate on the political landscape!

Anna Gross, an FT politics correspondent, Stephen Bush, a political columnist, and Chris Giles, an FT economics commentator, discuss the turbulent year for Labour under Keir Starmer. They analyze market reactions to the budget and the fallout from tax rises, emphasizing the public's growing discontent. The trio also dives into potential leadership challenges, the impact of fiscal credibility on the markets, and the dynamics of Conservative strategies. Additionally, they explore international relations and the implications of Scottish nationalism.

Robert Shrimsley, chief political commentator for the Financial Times, joins Miranda Green, Deputy Opinion Editor, and Jim Pickard, Deputy Political Editor. They dive into Keir Starmer's defense of Labour's Budget amidst skepticism about fiscal misrepresentation. The panel discusses Nigel Farage's prediction of a Tory-Reform UK deal, bolstered by a significant donation, and the potential impacts on upcoming elections. Additionally, they explore rising mental health diagnoses and the implications of Labour's welfare strategies as the political landscape evolves.

Join Dan Neidle, founder of Tax Policy Associates, expert Stuart Kirk, and economics writer Tej Parikh as they decode the latest UK Budget. They dive into the mechanics of salary sacrifice and its impact on childcare benefits. Stuart shares his shift to cash amid market volatility. The panel debates whether tax changes might hinder or help UK growth and discusses potential winners in the market, like small-caps and life sciences. Plus, they tackle the complexities of reforms and implications for pension savings. Tune in for sharp insights!

Sam Fleming, Economics editor at the Financial Times, analyzes the chaos surrounding Rachel Reeves' Budget announcement. Katie Martin, Markets columnist, discusses how the markets reacted to unexpected fiscal news, while Stephen Bush, Politics columnist, delves into Labour's strategy and the political fallout. They explore unprecedented tax rises, winners and losers of the Budget, and the risks tied to political decisions. The team also tackles the implications for public finances and assesses whether Reeves can maintain her political credibility in a tumultuous landscape.

Innovations in longevity present intriguing possibilities, with investors pouring billions into treatments that claim to extend life. The hosts delve into a potential nighttime pill that could reverse cell aging while you sleep. They explore the origins of society's fixation on longevity, highlighting the wealthy's fear of death. Ethical concerns arise over dubious practices in this burgeoning market. Will science truly unlock the secret to eternal youth, or is it just a Silicon Valley fantasy?

Join Stephen Bush, a political columnist known for his insightful analysis, Miranda Green, the Deputy Opinion Editor at the Financial Times focusing on political language, and David Sheppard, a Whitehall correspondent with an eye on budget politics. They delve into Shabana Mahmood's tough new immigration policies and their reception within a divided Labour Party. David evaluates the influence of Reform UK, while Stephen highlights historical parallels and questions the effectiveness of government claims. The discussion also touches on the upcoming Budget, tax U-turns, and the political ramifications of these decisions.