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
Jun 7, 2024 • 23min
Q&A: How To Get D-Day Wrong
The podcast discusses why Rishi Sunak left the D-Day ceremony early, the importance of being a good constituency MP, and the purpose of canvassing in elections. It also delves into the impact of political leadership, local reputation, swing votes, and the challenges of canvassing in rural areas.
4 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 40min
How To Fight Farage
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss Nigel Farage's impact on elections, potential Conservative implosion, and strategies like replacing Rishi Sunak with Penny Mordaunt. They explore TV debates' influence, entertaining with a theme song rendition in The Smiths style.
May 28, 2024 • 50min
How To Dodge A Dodgy Candidate
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss selecting candidates, post-election strategies, and managing problematic candidates in the upcoming election. They delve into Rishi Sunak's campaign, Tory party's direction, and the importance of policy coherence in winning voters' support.
May 22, 2024 • 28min
EMERGENCY EPISODE: How To Call An Election!
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss the unexpected announcement of a general election on July 4th, analyzing strategic timing, candidate selection, and consequences. They also explore media planning, challenges faced by Reform UK, election predictions, and the Liberal Democrats' prospects, highlighting potential shifts in political fortunes.
May 21, 2024 • 41min
How To Pull Off A Political Stunt
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss memorable political stunts, including Blair and Brown sharing an ice cream and Ming Campbell pointing down a toilet. They also speculate on the chances of a summer election and the importance of visual stunts in political campaigns.
May 14, 2024 • 41min
How To Tell When The Game's Up
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss recognizing when an election is lost, sharing insights on past campaigns and strategic decisions. They reflect on Rishi Sunak's political moves, planning for coalitions, and pivotal moments in election battles.
May 7, 2024 • 40min
How To Leave A Legacy
Experienced politicians and analysts discuss building lasting legacies in politics, legacy of Rishi Sunak, gaslighting in politics, Green Party dynamics, and the importance of impactful actions beyond current roles. Reflecting on missed opportunities, strategic approaches, and complexities of leaving a memorable legacy in politics.
May 3, 2024 • 47min
LIVE: How To Spin Defeat
Discussion on spinning defeat in elections, Rishi Sunak's efforts against Tory rebels, and the relevance of Liz Truss for Labour.
Apr 30, 2024 • 40min
How To Defy Political Gravity
Political figures Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss challenges in Scottish politics, Labour's overpromising, and Conservative prospects in upcoming elections. They explore scenarios to defy political norms, uncertainties in the election, and the need for party changes for better representation. The conversation also touches on navigating leadership transitions, climate agendas, and the complexity of political landscapes.
7 snips
Apr 23, 2024 • 43min
How To Pitch For The Leadership
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss strategies for winning the top job in the Conservative Party. Topics include Rishi Sunak's approach to leadership, potential endorsements from Donald Trump, and balancing ambition with likability in the world of politics.
