
Is the clock ticking for Keir Starmer?
From Political Currency by Persephonica
April 23, 2026 · 1h 4m · Season 1 · Episode 277
About this episode
The episode discusses the implications of recent political events on Keir Starmer's leadership and upcoming local elections.
Another dramatic revelation in the Mandelson scandal has reignited the tensions around Keir Starmer’s leadership and the future of his government. Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on the latest developments, and look forward to how this will impact the local elections in just two weeks' time. The pair question the sacking of Olly Robbins, assess Kemi Badenoch’s performance at PMQs, and look at the bleak tone of the cabinet. With an extension of the ceasefire in Iran, George and Ed debate the likelihood of a lasting peace agreement. George argues there may be a workable deal on the table, while Ed is more cautious saying Iran doesn't trust the Americans, and that it’s unclear who they actually should be negotiating with. Ed and George’s pal Kevin Warsh faced the Senate Banking Committee ahead of his approval as Fed Chair on Tuesday, with some particularly tough questioning from Democratic senator Elizabeth Warren. The pair discuss his political savvy in the hearing and, if confirmed, how he will navigate his relationship with Donald Trump when in post. We love hearing from you, so please don’t forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure…
People in this episode
Host: Political Currency
Guests: Ed Balls, George Osborne
Topics covered
- Keir Starmer
- Mandelson scandal
- local elections
- Iran ceasefire
- Fed Chair confirmation
- political analysis
Keywords
- Keir Starmer
- Mandelson scandal
- local elections
- Iran
- Kevin Warsh
- Elizabeth Warren
- PMQs
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Senate Banking Committee
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