

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

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.

Jun 18, 2024 • 38min
How To Oppose A Supermajority
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss how a small Tory rump can oppose a new Labour government. They analyze election strategies, party alliances, and challenges faced by the opposition. Former Tory leader William Haig shares insights on leading an official opposition, highlighting strategies and challenges. The conversation explores fundraising difficulties, holding the government accountable, and importance of experienced advisors for new ministers.

Jun 14, 2024 • 24min
Q&A: How Starmer Is Measuring The Curtains
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson and Daniel Finkelstein discuss how Rishi Sunak can tackle Nigel Farage head on in the upcoming election campaign. They also debate whether the polls could shift before July 4 and if Keir Starmer should prepare for 10 Downing Street.

4 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 42min
How Trump Will Win
American pollster and strategist Frank Luntz discusses Joe Biden's challenges against Trump, Tories facing wipeout, Rishi Sunak's strategy, parties' honesty about the economy, and the impact of media coverage on public perception in a lively political debate.