

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

Dec 19, 2023 • 35min
How To Tell A Political Joke, And Not Become One
Discussion on the power and purpose of political jokes, including examples from Prime Minister's Questions. The use of jokes in campaigns and conferences. The role of political jokes in diffusing tension and showing resilience. The significance of having a strong partner in politics.

6 snips
Dec 12, 2023 • 37min
How To Raise A War Chest - And How To Waste It
Explore the motivations behind political donations and the impact of spending limits on political parties. Learn about election fundraising, scandalous donations, and effective campaign strategies. Discover a political figure's curiosity sparked by a stone object.

9 snips
Dec 5, 2023 • 38min
How To Bury Boris Johnson (And Other Political Ghosts)
Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein discuss strategies for dealing with former party leaders, the importance of clarity and direction in politics, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of a digital identity system for elections.

13 snips
Nov 28, 2023 • 39min
How To Crush (Or Cuddle) Your Rebels
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the challenges faced by political leaders in handling dissent within their party and the significance of strength and unity in leadership. They also delve into the broken promise made by the Liberal Democrats regarding tuition fees and the impact of austerity on universities and the economy. Additionally, the debate on the effectiveness of leaflets in a digital era is explored, along with the advantages and disadvantages of using digital techniques in election campaigning.

11 snips
Nov 21, 2023 • 44min
How To Make Slogans Great Again
The podcast discusses the significance of campaign slogans in political elections and their impact on voters. It analyzes successful and unsuccessful slogans from past campaigns and delves into the emotional appeal and relatability of effective slogans. The hosts also touch on the decision-making process within the Labour party and tease upcoming topics of discussion.

17 snips
Nov 14, 2023 • 39min
How To Make A Shock Comeback
Surprising comeback of David Cameron. Reflections on toxic nature of politics. Impact of speculation on reshuffles. Analysis of recent cabinet reshuffle. Challenges faced by Liberal Democrats. Handling of crises and fashion choices. Timing of elections.

8 snips
Nov 7, 2023 • 39min
How To Win At Policy
The podcast discusses the role of policies in winning or losing elections. They reflect on past political experiences, including regrets about backing certain policies. The expensive HS2 project and the challenges of reversing policy guarantees are explored. They also highlight the importance of door-to-door campaigning in influencing election outcomes.

Oct 31, 2023 • 40min
How To Decide When To Call An Election
In this episode of the podcast, electoral masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss the upcoming political year. They debate when Rishi Sunak should call a General Election and whether he can generate hope and change. They also explore the significance of party conferences, the challenges faced by third parties, and the impact of party management on political effectiveness.

Oct 20, 2023 • 14min
Introducing: How To Win An Election
Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley for How To Win An Election - your weekly guide through the twists and turns of a tumultuous campaign.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.