How To Win An Election
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.
Thu, April 10, 2025
How To Take On The Flabby State (With Michael Gove)
Danny's away, so Sally, Polly and Hugo are joined by former cabinet minister and politest man in politics, Michael Gove. What did he learn about Donald Trump's 'man cave' when he interviewed him the first time round? And, Keir Starmer wants to tackle what he calls the 'flabby state' - Is that the same as the 'blob', and can you reform Whitehall without going to war with it? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 03, 2025
How To Run Number 10
10 Downing Street is a rabbit warren of offices in a Georgian townhouse, and the centre of power in Britain. But how much control does it really exert over the rest of government, does it matter who has what job, and should we turn the whole thing into a museum? The political masterminds discuss how number 10 really works, and Polly explains why her husband thinks Canada is worse than North Korea. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 27, 2025
How To Sell Austerity 2.0
Rachel Reeves doesn't want to use the word 'austerity', but has she found a narrative to help explain her cuts to welfare and government spending? Why was 'fixing the roof when the sun is shining' such an effective message for David Cameron and George Osborne? And which of Danny's three types of strategy will Labour adopt at the next General Election? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 20, 2025
How To Lose A By-Election (And Sell Your Tesla)
Which party has the most to lose in the Runcorn & Helsby by-election? The political masterminds make their predictions, and discuss what's at stake for Keir Starmer, Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch. And as Sally reveals she's replaced her Tesla, do boycotts make any difference? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 13, 2025
How To Learn From Farage's Feud
As the row between Nigel Farage and Rupert Lowe threatens the success of Reform UK, how do you stop the big beasts in a political party from falling out? Is it ever just about policy, or always more about personality? We also discuss giving geography lessons to politicians, and Polly gets cross about more empty words about the welfare state. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 06, 2025
How To Be PM In A Global Crisis
With Keir Starmer focused on diplomacy over Ukraine, the political masterminds ask if the domestic agenda always has to suffer during major world events. When does a foreign conflict turn into a 'Falklands moment', and when does a leader get criticised for spending too much time globe-trotting? Sally, Polly, Danny and Hugo also ask how to stop a minister resigning - or how to let them do it at an advantageous moment. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 27, 2025
How To Tell Jokes, Deal With Trump, And Welcome Sally
We're welcoming a new political mastermind to the podcast this week - Sally Morgan has been a Labour insider since the days of Neil Kinnock and went on to be Tony Blair's right-hand woman in Downing Street, at his side for some of the biggest moments in recent political history. She joins Polly, Danny and Hugo to discuss leaders who can tell jokes and those who can't, Liz Truss calling Britain a failed state, and whether anyone knows how to save the transatlantic relationship. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 25, 2025
The Labour Peer Who Inspired JD Vance
How To Win An Election is moving to every Thursday, starting this Thursday, February 27th - when we'll be announcing a new political mastermind. In the meantime, here's an episode from our colleagues at The Story. Lord Maurice Glasman was the only Labour politician to be invited to Trump’s inauguration after striking up a friendship with JD Vance. So who is he and why is his 'Blue Labour' movement seen by Starmer's inner circle as the medicine to tackle the rise of Reform? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestory Guest: Patrick Maguire, Political Columnist, The Times and author of Get In:The Inside Story of Labour Under Starmer . Host: Manveen Rana. Further reading: To take on the right, will Labour go blue? Clips: GB News, NBC, PBS, UnHerd, Together, ABC Australia, The Guardian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 18, 2025
How To Survive As A Political Adviser
What's the role of an adviser at the top level of politics, and does it always involve swearing? John McTernan, who has worked for prime ministers in the UK and Australia, joins the political masterminds to discuss the highs and the lows of the job. And after Kemi Badenoch speaks at a gathering of right-of-centre thinkers in London, what have we learned about her brand of Conservatism? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 11, 2025
How To Be A Disrupter
Nigel Farage's former adviser Gawain Towler joins the political masterminds to discuss how to be an insurgent force in politics. They look back at how UKIP finally made a break-through at Westminster and forced David Cameron into offering the EU referendum. If you have a message for Hugo, Polly or Danny send it to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 04, 2025
How To Tell Who's Really In Charge
This week the political masterminds (and Hugo) are joined by Theo Bertram, who worked in Downing Street for Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. After a new book by Times journalists Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund sheds light on the inner workings of Keir Starmer's government, is chief of staff Morgan McSweeney actually in charge? And should a new YouGov/Times poll showing Reform UK ahead of Labour for the first time cause everyone to panic? Send your questions, voicenotes or comments to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 28, 2025
How To Hang Out Your Political Washing
How much time in Number 10 is devoted to getting on with the business of government, and how much to thinking about winning the next election? Sally Morgan, one of Tony Blair's closest advisers, joins Hugo, Polly and Danny to discuss running a campaign and delivering at the same time. She explains what a political washing line is, why Liz Truss was all line and no clothes, and they compare notes on ministers who would always go on the airwaves to defend their party. Send your questions, voicenotes or comments to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 21, 2025
How To Respond To Trump
Keir Starmer is on a charm offensive with Donald Trump - does it give Labour's opponents an electoral advantage? The political masterminds (and Hugo) are joined by US pollster Kristen Soltis Anderson to discuss Trump's inauguration, his honeymoon (or otherwise), and Polly and Kristen disagree over Republican women. You can still vote for us in the People's Choice category at this year's Political Podcast Awards. Please vote for us here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 14, 2025
How To Stop Your Missions Becoming Impossible
With Reform closing in on Labour in the polls and questions being asked about the chancellor's political survival, how can the government get on with the day job of changing the country? The political masterminds are joined by guest Peter Hyman, former adviser to Tony Blair and Keir Starmer and architect of the government's five "missions for national renewal". And... the podcast has been shortlisted in the People's Choice category at this year's Political Podcast Awards. While we get ready to deploy the dark arts, please vote for us here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 07, 2025
How To Say Goodbye To Peter
The political masterminds (and Hugo) say farewell to Peter before he heads to Washington as the UK's ambassador to the United States. Has he packed his wellies, and could there be another comeback around the corner? Danny, Polly and Hugo also discuss who should replace him, and with local elections in England on the way - who will win the battle for control of the right of politics? Send your messages to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 17, 2024
How To Stop Political Chaos Ruining Christmas
Peter, Polly and Danny are answering your questions this week. When has politics ruined their Christmas - or in Polly's case, a hen do? Will there be a realignment on the left to threaten Keir Starmer? Why did Jo Swinson help Boris Johnson into Downing Street? And should politicians risk a holiday? Send your messages to the political masterminds (and Hugo) at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 10, 2024
How To See Off An Insurgent Party
Nigel Farage's Reform UK is on a roll, but can the political masterminds see a time when he breaks the traditional two-party system? How would they advise Labour and the Tories to deal with the threat - and how would they advise Farage? They also look back to Ed Miliband's decision not to back air strikes against Syria in 2013, and Peter remembers a three-hour meeting with the country's dictator Bashar al-Assad soon after he took power. Send your messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly and Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 03, 2024
How To Keep Blaming Your Predecessors
The prime minister wants to blame the last government for leaving the economy in a mess, just like David Cameron did in 2010 - but is the strategy working, and for how long? The political masterminds - and Hugo - discuss the whether voters will reward Starmer for being sensible, whether he should be more like Harold Wilson, and whether any Western government can get to grips with migration. Send your messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly and Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 26, 2024
How To Prepare For PMQs
Peter, Polly and Danny explain what goes on inside 10 Downing Street - and the Leader of the Opposition's office - in the days and hours before Prime Minister's Questions. Why is it often the only way a PM can find out what's going on in their own government, and does Kemi Badenoch have a strategy yet? How much politics is involved in the free vote on assisted dying, and why doesn't Danny own a pair of Wellington boots? Send messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly and Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 19, 2024
How to Handle Elon Musk (And The Farmers)
How should Keir Starmer cope with criticism from the world's richest man (and Trump adviser) Elon Musk - ignore him, or try to build bridges through mutual friends? And how worried should the government be as farmers protest over changes to inheritance tax? The political masterminds, and Hugo, look at the parallels with protests during the Blair years. Send messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly and Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 12, 2024
How To Work Out Why You Lost
When you've lost an election, how do you work out what went wrong - and do you always have to blame the leader? The political masterminds (and Hugo Rifkind) look at what went wrong for Kamala Harris, and bicker (a little bit) over the Brexit referendum. And, what does Peter have to say about speculation he could be the next UK ambassador to the US? Send messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly and Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 05, 2024
How To Win A US Election, Part II
The political masterminds are joined by Chatham House's Dr Leslie Vinjamuri to discuss the state of American democracy, the gender gap between US voters, and the chances of violence in the wake of the presidential election. Does Kemi Badenoch know which voters she'll be pursuing at the next election? And will increasing tuition fees damage Keir Starmer? You can send messages to Hugo, Peter, Polly or Danny at at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 29, 2024
How To Avoid A Budget Blunder
The budget is at last upon us, and political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Hugo Rifkind to discuss how to manage such a crucial political and economic event. They also discuss the perils of political rallies, where Labour's obsession with 'working people' comes from, and why liberals love Diet Coke. If you've got a message, voice note or a cover version of the theme tune you can contact the political masterminds (and Hugo) at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 22, 2024
How To Manage The News Cycle
We're answering your questions on the podcast this week, including - was it easier to manage the news agenda in the Blair and Cameron years? Will some Conservative MPs think about defecting under a new leader? And... whack-a-mole or guacamole, what's it all got to do with mushy peas? If you've got a message, voice note or a cover version of the theme tune you can contact the political masterminds (and Hugo) at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 15, 2024
How To Win A US Election
We're in the final weeks of the race for the White House, and it could all come down to the votes of fewer people than it takes to fill two Taylor Swift concerts. Peter, Polly, Danny and Hugo are joined by Rest Is Politics US co-host Katty Kay to look at the latest on the contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Just how tight are the polls, what happened to Harris's momentum, and do Europeans misunderstand Trump? If you've got a message, voice note or a cover version of the theme tune you can contact the political masterminds (and Hugo) at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 08, 2024
How To Shake Up Downing Street
Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein are back - now with added Hugo Rifkind. There's a lot to catch up on since they last met - including what's really going on with Sue Gray's departure from Number 10, Morgan McSweeney's leadership style, the saga of Starmer's suits, and is the Tory leadership contest a genuine clash of ideas? If you've got a message, voice note or a cover version of the theme tune you can contact the political masterminds (and Hugo) at howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 23, 2024
How To Make Starmer A One-Term PM
As the Conservatives get ready for a lengthy leadership campaign, how long could take to get back into a position where they can win - could it happen as soon as the next election, and how do they best oppose the government in the meantime? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein look at the lessons from history, and consider how Keir Starmer will handle his first Prime Minister's Questions since taking power. We also say goodbye to Matt on his last episode, before the podcast takes a break over the summer. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 16, 2024
How To Deal With JD Vance
Donald Trump has picked JD Vance as his running mate and looks on course to return to the White House. How is the UK Government preparing for Trump 2.0, and does it matter that the foreign secretary once called him a ‘neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath’? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss the presidential election, and whether the Conservative Party needs another Dominic Cummings. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 09, 2024
How To Whip Your New MPs
It's the first week of the next election campaign, and new MPs are arriving in Westminster in their hundreds. The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to find out how the parties will manage the new intake. They also discuss the balance of power in what's left of the Conservative Party, Liz Truss's 'PopCons', and whether Tony Blair has made a helpful intervention over ID cards. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 05, 2024
EMERGENCY EPISODE: How To Win The NEXT Election
The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley in front of a live audience to unpack the election and look forward to the next four years. Who can rescue the Conservative Party, how influential will Nigel Farage be, and can they predict Keir Starmer's first U-turn? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 02, 2024
How To Stay Up For Truss
Election night is nearly here, but which seats will the political masterminds be keeping an eye on as the results start flooding in? Could Liz Truss provide the next 'Portillo moment'? Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to try to predict what surprises the night might have in store, and to give their verdict on Tory attacks on a 'part-time' Keir Starmer. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 28, 2024
Q&A: How To Replace Joe Biden
After Joe Biden's calamitous performance in the first US presidential debate, will the Democrats have to replace him as their candidate for the White House? The political masterminds Daniel Finkelstein and Polly Mackenzie join Matt Chorley to answer your questions, including how to be authentic in politics and when is the right time to launch a leadership bid? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 25, 2024
How Not To Talk About Brexit
It's the subject that none of the parties want to talk about - why hasn't Brexit played a bigger part in the election campaign so far? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley as the podcast passes one million downloads. They discuss whether we'll ever rejoin the EU, whether a Keir Starmer cabinet would contain any big surprises, and why John Prescott has called Peter to apologise. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 21, 2024
Q&A: How Not To Bet On Politics
We're answering your questions in another bonus episode, including: Does someone at Conservative HQ have a bet on the party being wiped out? If Labour wins, will it keep MPs at Westminster all summer while the Tories are in disarray? And who will win the 2034 election? Political masterminds Daniel Finkelstein and Polly Mackenzie join Matt Chorley to discuss all of that, and whether the Tories should follow the example of Marks & Spencer to win back middle class voters. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 18, 2024
How To Oppose A Supermajority
As ministers admit on the airwaves that a Conservative victory looks unlikely, how will a small Tory rump in Parliament oppose a new Labour government? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt to look back at what happened in the aftermath of the 1997 Labour landslide, and to consider which way the Conservative Party will turn next. We've also had our first piece of fan art, and launched a colouring competition. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 14, 2024
Q&A: How Starmer Is Measuring The Curtains
With Reform UK now ahead of the Conservatives according to one poll, how should Rishi Sunak respond? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson and Daniel Finkelstein think the prime minister could electrify the campaign by tackling Nigel Farage head on. They join Matt Chorley to talk about whether the polls could still shift before July 4, and whether Keir Starmer really should start measuring the curtains for 10 Downing Street. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 11, 2024
How Trump Will Win
We've got a special guest on the podcast this week, with American pollster and strategist Frank Luntz joining Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie, Daniel Finkelstein and Matt Chorley to discuss why Joe Biden is in trouble in the race against Donald Trump, and why the Tories are facing a Canadian-style wipeout. Was it wise for Rishi Sunak to head to a racetrack to launch the Conservative manifesto, and are any of the parties being honest about the economy? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 07, 2024
Q&A: How To Get D-Day Wrong
The podcast is going twice-weekly for the rest of the campaign, with the political masterminds answering your questions. First up today, how did Rishi Sunak get it so wrong when he decided to leave the D-Day ceremony in France early? Can being a good constituency MP save you from defeat? And what's the point of canvassing? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, June 04, 2024
How To Fight Farage
How will Nigel Farage's decision to stand as a candidate for Reform UK affect the election result, and can things get any worse for Rishi Sunak? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss the chances of a Conservative implosion, Peter's last-ditch plan to replace Sunak with Penny Mordaunt, and whether the TV debates could still shift the dial. We also hear a new version of the theme music, sung in the style of The Smiths. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 28, 2024
How To Dodge A Dodgy Candidate
The race is on to get candidates in place for the general election, with the Tories having to deal with more MPs announcing their departure by the day. The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss who the parties will pick, and who they’ll come to regret. And has Rishi Sunak’s campaign actually started better than we’d expected? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 22, 2024
EMERGENCY EPISODE: How To Call An Election!
It's happened. Rishi Sunak has announced the General Election for 4th July - as predicted by Danny in the last episode of the podcast. The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt for an emergency episode, recorded at the Podcast Show in London. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 21, 2024
How To Pull Off A Political Stunt
The long election campaign is well underway, and politicians are vying for attention with eye-catching photocalls, speeches, visits and stunts. The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein explain what happened when Blair and Brown shared an ice cream, when Ming Campbell pointed down the toilet, and when Danny was asked to arrange an actual bonfire of regulations. And why does Danny think the chances of a summer election may be rising? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 14, 2024
How To Tell When The Game's Up
Is there a point in an election campaign when you realise that the game is up and you're going to lose? And can you admit it when it happens? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss whether Rishi Sunak has another roll of the dice, why Polly planned for a coalition that never happened, and when Peter, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown knew they had no chance of beating the Tories. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, May 07, 2024
How To Leave A Legacy
What is Rishi Sunak's political legacy, and has he still got time to build one? The political masterminds discuss when leaders have left a lasting change - and whether they can ever leave the public wanting more. Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to talk about legacy, why Rachel Reeves is using the word 'gaslighting', and why Peter thinks the Green Party is becoming a 'dustbin' for the hard left. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 03, 2024
LIVE: How To Spin Defeat
In a special bonus episode of the podcast, Matt and the political masterminds analyse the local elections results in front of a live audience. How easy is it to spin your way out of a heavy election defeat, has Rishi Sunak done enough to see off Tory rebels, and should Labour be talking more about Liz Truss? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 30, 2024
How To Defy Political Gravity
Is there anything that Rishi Sunak can do to defy political gravity and deny Labour a majority? And after flying high for so long, can the SNP find a new leader that will help them turn the page? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss the turmoil in Scottish politics, whether Labour is overpromising, and Conservative fortunes heading into the local elections in England and Wales. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 23, 2024
How To Pitch For The Leadership
There's currently no vacancy for the leadership of the Conservative Party, but that hasn't stopped potential candidates from positioning themselves for life after Rishi Sunak. Matt Chorley asks the political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein how to get the top job without being seen to wield the knife. After Rishi Sunak turns on Liz Truss, has he been taking their advice? And what will happen if Donald Trump endorses Nigel Farage during the election campaign? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 16, 2024
How To Learn From Liz Truss
How much lasting damage has Liz Truss done to the Conservative Party, and any future leaders hoping to pursue a radical tax-cutting agenda? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss the former prime minister's new book and whether she wants her party to win or lose the election. And with local elections on the way, does expectation management really work - and could a defeat even lead to Rishi Sunak walking away from Downing Street? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. We'll be recording a special episode of the podcast in front of a live audience after the local elections - find the details here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 09, 2024
How To Do A TV Debate
This week in 2010 saw the UK's first ever TV debate between the party leaders. Campaign insiders Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to remember the advice they gave at the time. Why did Tony Blair warn Peter not to talk up Nick Clegg's performance, why did David Cameron tell Danny he'd been nervous for the first time in his political life, and would they advise Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer to take part this time around? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. We'll be recording a special episode of the podcast in front of a live audience after the local elections - find the details here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 02, 2024
How To Win PMQs And The Papers
We're answering your questions this week, including whether Prime Minister's Questions really matters, how important is it to win the support of the newspapers, and does negative campaigning work? Matt Chorley is joined by the political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. And we'll be recording a special episode of the podcast in front of a live audience - find the details here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 26, 2024
How To Write A Manifesto
Who is writing the manifestos ahead of the General Election, and how are the parties planning to make them grab the public's attention without blowing up during the campaign? Election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to talk about 1983's 'longest suicide note in history', and the time Theresa May kept the manifesto secret from her own cabinet. We also hear why Peter's upset the unions, why H'Angus the Monkey won an election, and whether the Tories have given up plotting for a few weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 19, 2024
How To Win With Taylor Swift (And Other Celebrities)
In the US, Taylor Swift could have the power to swing the presidential election. As famous faces come out to back Keir Starmer's plans for the arts, we ask when a celebrity endorsement can boost a campaign... and when it can go badly wrong. The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss star power, and who could be the next Conservative leader - could the runners and riders include Michael Gove and even David Cameron? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 12, 2024
How To Defect
Can Rishi Sunak hold his party together, or is former deputy chairman Lee Anderson's departure a sign of even more Tory unrest ahead? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to look at what happens when politicians defect, from the Gang of Four to Change UK. And how did Keir Starmer react to Peter's diet advice? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 05, 2024
How To Do The Budget (And The Dishwasher)
Can Jeremy Hunt and Rishi Sunak use the Budget to shift the dial, leave the cupboard bare for Labour, and even prepare the ground for a May election? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to look at when budgets go right, and when they go wrong. And as the prime minister and his wife discuss stacking the dishwasher, is it a good idea for politicians to show they're human after all? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 27, 2024
How To Deal With Truss
Liz Truss has been in the US, appearing alongside Trump strategist Steve Bannon and blaming the 'deep state' for forcing her from office. Should Rishi Sunak act, and even kick her out of the party? Matt Chorley and the election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein discuss whether the prime minister could take a stand against his predecessor, why Parliament is in a mess over Gaza, and what it's like to stand in an unwinnable seat. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 20, 2024
How To Win In A Recession
Is it the economy, stupid, that will decide the election? Could green shoots come to the government's rescue? Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to look at what happens when the country goes to the polls during a recession. They also find out why Polly's gone viral, how parties vet candidates, and when politics has moved them to tears. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk, or WhatsApp 0333 00 323 53 with the words 'How To Win'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 13, 2024
How To Survive The Campaign
Working round the clock, sleeping in the office and eating sugary cereals. How do the people working on the inside of a campaign survive all the way to polling day? Is Boris Johnson's coalition of voters lost forever? And where's the best place to watch the exit poll come in? The political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to answer some of your questions, and to find out what music Peter should walk on to. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Music: Carmina Burana, O Fortuna - Carl Orff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, February 06, 2024
How To Follow A Focus Group
Focus groups, along with opinion polls, are vital for political parties and election campaigns. Peter Mandelson discusses introducing them to British politics, Polly Mackenzie explains why the Lib Dems could never afford them, and even Daniel Finkelstein agrees they make a difference. The political masterminds join Matt Chorley to talk about when to follow the polls and when to ignore them, Liz Truss's Popular Conservatives, and who has met the most prime ministers? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 30, 2024
How To Form A Coalition
How do you plan, negotiate and form a coalition? Should Labour be thinking more seriously about doing a deal with the Liberal Democrats? And have we finally found out what Danny thinks makes a difference to the outcome of the election? Matt Chorley is joined by political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein to lift the lid on the last coalition negotiations in 2010, including who had done their homework, who wore shorts and who brought the best snacks. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 23, 2024
How Not To Split The Vote
Will Nigel Farage and Reform UK split the Conservative vote, and could Jeremy Corbyn launch a new left-wing party to take votes from Labour? Political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley to discuss local elections, access talks, and have they ever been inspired by The West Wing or The Thick Of It? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 16, 2024
How To Win A By-Election
With at least two by-elections on the way, what impact will they have on Rishi Sunak if he keeps losing? Do they tell us any more than an opinion poll? And how did an American intern saddle Peter with an apocryphal story about mushy peas? Matt Chorley and election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein also discuss how the return of Donald Trump will influence the UK General Election. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 09, 2024
How To Destroy Ed Davey
With Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey in the headlines for his role in the Post Office scandal, will his opponents be able to turn his track record against him? Matt Chorley is joined by Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein to discuss Davey's (possible) downfall, whether Rishi Sunak really will wait until the autumn to go to the polls, and why the prime minister decided to switch strategy. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 02, 2024
How To New Year Relaunch
It's the start of a huge political year, and Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer are planning big speeches to try and frame the coming general election. Should the Conservatives 'let Sunak be Sunak', does Dominic Cummings have the answers, and is Labour's plan to borrow £28bn a gift to the Tories? Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt to discuss the choices facing the leaders, and to look at some of the other big elections taking place around the world in 2024. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 26, 2023
How To Answer Your Questions
In a special end of year episode we answer some of your biggest political questions, including: Who will be in Downing Street and the White House this time next year? Will Nigel Farage try to join the Tories? And do the closing days of an election campaign make any difference? There are Christmas crackers in the studio as election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein sit down and talk turkey with Matt Chorley. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 19, 2023
How To Tell A Political Joke, And Not Become One
Can Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer tell a decent gag, and does it matter? Why did 'From Stalin to Mr Bean' do so much damage to Gordon Brown, and why did Nick Clegg once compare David Cameron to Toilet Duck? Matt Chorley and election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein remember when politicians being funny made a difference, and when their side-splitters fell flat. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 12, 2023
How To Raise A War Chest - And How To Waste It
The next election is set to be the most expensive in history. But why are people giving so much to the Conservatives when the party is in chaos? Does the party with the deepest pockets win? And was the Ed Stone a cold hard waste of cash? Matt Chorley asks election masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein about the role of money in politics, and whether they think the chances of an early election are rising. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 05, 2023
How To Bury Boris Johnson (And Other Political Ghosts)
Is it time for Rishi Sunak to condemn Boris Johnson? Is Keir Starmer right to dream of Margaret Thatcher? And why is Danny being fair to Ed Miliband? Matt Chorley and political masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein discuss how to deal with the ghost of a former party leader. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 28, 2023
How To Crush (Or Cuddle) Your Rebels
Rishi Sunak is behind in the polls and under pressure from his MPs over immigration. But should a leader try to compromise with party rebels, or confront them? Matt Chorley is joined by Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein to discuss Sunak's troubles, the threat to Keir Starmer from the left, where Nick Clegg went wrong over tuition fees, and why a coup in British politics almost never succeeds. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 21, 2023
How To Make Slogans Great Again
Yes We Can. Are you Thinking What We're Thinking? Labour Isn't Working. New Labour, New Britain. Take Back Control. When it comes to campaign slogans, what separates the good from the bad? And how are they being used to sell Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer? Matt Chorley is joined by Daniel Finkelstein, Polly Mackenzie and Peter Mandelson to pick their favourite campaign songs - and Peter sings along. Music: We'll Be the Change - Liberal Democrat Community Choir Meet The Challenge, Make the Change - Eddie Bayliss Heartlands - Mike Batt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 14, 2023
How To Make A Shock Comeback
What's the secret to a successful cabinet reshuffle? What will Suella Braverman do next? As David Cameron returns, three-time comeback kid Peter Mandelson remembers when Gordon Brown asked him for help a decade after they had fallen out. Daniel Finkelstein explains how Rishi Sunak kept Cameron's appointment under wraps, and Polly Mackenzie reveals how the Number 10 whiteboard worked. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 07, 2023
How To Win At Policy
As the government sets out its plans in the King's Speech, we ask whether policies can win or lose an election. Peter Mandelson regrets backing HS2 to upstage the Tories, Polly Mackenzie thinks the pension triple lock was a terrible idea, while Daniel Finkelstein remembers the time his peer's robes were mistaken for a Father Christmas outfit. And is Suella Braverman a born disruptor? Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Clip: Harry Secombe, Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan – How To Win An Election, written by Leslie Bricusse, Philips Recordings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 31, 2023
How To Decide When To Call An Election
With Rishi Sunak still behind in the polls, will he wait a full year before calling a General Election? And at a time when many voters feel pessimistic about the future, can either Sunak or Keir Starmer generate a sense of hope and change? In this first episode of How To Win An Election, electoral masterminds Peter Mandelson, Polly Mackenzie and Daniel Finkelstein join Matt Chorley for your insider's guide to the twists and turns of the next year in politics. Send questions, comments and voicenotes to: howtowin@thetimes.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trailer · Fri, October 20, 2023
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.
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