

How To Win An Election
The Times
The Times brings together some of the most experienced strategists in British politics to discuss what's really going on behind the big stories, and elections taking place here and around the world.Daniel Finkelstein, Sally Morgan and Polly Mackenzie join Hugo Rifkind for an intelligent, adversarial and witty conversation every week.Follow the podcast now to never miss an episode.Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

27 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 42min
How To Win A US Election
Peter Mandelson is an experienced political strategist and former director of policy, while Polly Mackenzie has a rich background in political strategy alongside Nick Clegg. Daniel Finkelstein is a Times columnist advising Tory leaders, and Katty Kay is an esteemed America watcher. The conversation dives into the tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the potential impact of undecided voters, and the challenges of campaigning amidst legal disputes. The group also examines how European perceptions of Trump may differ from the American electorate.

19 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 43min
How To Shake Up Downing Street
Peter Mandelson, a key architect of New Labour, joins Polly Mackenzie, a former director of policy, and Daniel Finkelstein, a seasoned Times columnist, for a lively discussion on current UK politics. They delve into the implications of Sue Gray's exit from Downing Street and analyze Morgan McSweeney's leadership style. The trio questions whether the Tory leadership contest truly represents differing ideas and weighs the potential of Kemi Badenoch as a fresh contender. Expect sharp insights and a dash of humor from these political veterans!

16 snips
Jul 23, 2024 • 44min
How To Make Starmer A One-Term PM
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss strategies for Conservatives to win elections, including Keir Starmer's debut as Prime Minister, navigating opposition, and forming alternative government strategies. They explore historical examples and emphasize unity and effective planning for political success.

12 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 38min
How To Deal With JD Vance
Guest JD Vance and political experts discuss Trump's potential return to White House, UK Govt preparation, and Conservative Party's need for another Cummings. Topics cover US election dynamics, candidate strategies, and foreign policy concerns. Debates on UK-US relations and personal confessions add a lighthearted touch.

4 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 40min
How To Whip Your New MPs
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss managing new MPs in parliament, Liz Truss's 'PopCons', and Tony Blair's intervention over ID cards. They analyze the Conservative Party's challenges, economic policies, and strategies for reconnecting with voters beyond economic issues.

Jul 5, 2024 • 47min
EMERGENCY EPISODE: How To Win The NEXT Election
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein dissect the recent election aftermath. Topics include the future of the Conservative Party, Nigel Farage's influence, and predicting Keir Starmer's next moves.

Jul 2, 2024 • 37min
How To Stay Up For Truss
Political strategists Peter Mandelson and Daniel Finkelstein, along with commentator Polly Mackenzie, predict election night surprises and analyze Tory attacks on Keir Starmer. They discuss potential 'Portillo moments,' key seats to watch, and the impact of supermarket managers on political intelligence. The conversation also touches on free school meals, work-life balance in politics, and strategies for appealing to the electorate.

7 snips
Jun 28, 2024 • 24min
Q&A: How To Replace Joe Biden
The podcast discusses potential replacements for Joe Biden as the Democratic candidate after a rough debate performance. They explore the importance of authenticity in political communication, challenges in the American political system, and strategies for political candidates. The hosts also touch on unique ideologies within the party.

Jun 25, 2024 • 40min
How Not To Talk About Brexit
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss Brexit's absence in the election campaign, potential rejoining of the EU, surprises in a Keir Starmer cabinet, and John Prescott's apology to Peter.

4 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 23min
Q&A: How Not To Bet On Politics
Political masterminds Daniel Finkelstein and Polly Mackenzie discuss if Conservative HQ has a bet on party wipeout, Labour's strategy, and predictions for the 2034 election. They also debate whether Tories should mimic Marks & Spencer to regain middle-class voters.