Are we stuck in never-ending political scandal? w/Ash Sarkar

Are we stuck in never-ending political scandal? w/Ash Sarkar

Author: Pod Save the UK February 26, 2026 Duration: 56:38

This week Nish and Coco are joined by friend of the pod, Ash Sarkar from Novara Media to talk about political scandal, trust and compromise. Ash’s book, Minority Rule, has a new afterword which talks about two progressive movements which have tried to build different kinds of relationships with voters. Is that the way forward - or are we stuck in an endless cycle of broken promises from our leaders? 

One of those leaders - Keir Starmer - seems to be lurching from crisis to nightmare, so can he rise above the latest headlines about Peter Mandelson’s arrest and the Labour Together scandal?

Plus Reform’s new immigration policies, the new proposals to change the SEND system - and some good news about two protest groups.

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GUESTS 

Ash Sarkar, Contributing Editor at Novara Media and author of Minority Rule: Adventures in the Culture War - out now in paperback.

USEFUL LINKS

Jumaane Williams’ thoughtful response following the outcry about the handling of a racial slur at the Baftas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgaqKIxS4Hs&t=1s

CREDITS

Daily Express - YouTube
Nigel Farage - YouTube
@sendra.uk - Instagram
Nida Jafri

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The political landscape in Britain is often dissected from within the Westminster bubble, but Pod Save the UK offers a different kind of conversation. This podcast cuts through the noise of the daily headlines with a blend of sharp analysis and relatable frustration, asking the bigger questions about power, policy, and what it all means for people across the country. The hosts, seasoned in activism and political commentary, break down the week’s events without relying on insider jargon or dry parliamentary procedure. You’ll hear discussions that connect government decisions to everyday life, exploring the real-world impact of legislation and the forces shaping national debates. It’s a space for understanding the mechanics of British politics while challenging the status quo, always with an eye on how to build a more equitable future. For anyone feeling adrift in the constant churn of news cycles, this series provides clarity and a sense of shared perspective, making complex issues accessible and engaging. Tune in for a candid, often witty, and consistently insightful take on the state of the nation, where the focus is on substance over spin and holding power to account.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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