The State of It Podcast | The Times Launches Weekly Political Show from Westminster
British politics is entering a new era of scrutiny and sharp commentary — and now, it has a brand-new weekly voice. The Times and The Sunday Times have officially launched “The State of It,” a must-listen political podcast hosted by some of Westminster’s most respected and well-connected journalists.
Meet the Hosts: Four Powerhouse Political Journalists
This isn’t your average political chat show — it’s a roundtable of insiders who know how the corridors of power really work.
The podcast features:
Patrick Maguire – Chief Political Commentator at The Times
Gabriel Pogrund – Whitehall Editor at The Sunday Times and Press Awards Political Journalist of the Year
Steven Swinford – Political Editor of The Times
Caroline Wheeler – Political Editor of The Sunday Times
Together, this formidable quartet promises exclusive scoops, candid analysis, and witty political banter — all in one place.
What Makes “The State of It” Different
Unlike many political podcasts that simply react to headlines, The State of It will deliver:
Insider Knowledge – Straight from Westminster, from journalists who are on the ground daily.
Agenda-Setting Scoops – Expect revelations you haven’t read elsewhere.
Sharp Analysis with Humor – Politics explained with wit, making it engaging for listeners beyond the Westminster bubble.
Patrick Maguire summed it up perfectly:
“At The Times and The Sunday Times we hear every conversation that matters in British politics – including the ones they don’t want you to know about. With The State of It, you can hear them too.”
From Conferences to Constituencies: Real-Time Coverage
The launch is perfectly timed to coincide with party conference season.
Episode 1: Recorded live at the Labour Party Conference and released Tuesday, 30 September.
Episode 2: Comes straight from the Conservative Party Conference, offering fresh insights just a week later.
This on-the-ground approach will give listeners unfiltered access to the moments shaping UK politics as they happen.
Why This Podcast Matters Now
In an era where politics moves fast and public trust in politicians is at an all-time low, The State of It arrives with a mission: to cut through the noise and deliver analysis that actually helps people understand what’s happening in Westminster — and why it matters.
Gabriel Pogrund said:
“Patrick and I decided it was time to do something other than talk all day. We’re now going to do so publicly, and in the company of two of the finest political editors in Britain.”
This sentiment underlines the podcast’s unique value: real-time insight from people embedded in the political machine.
Inside Access: The Westminster Lens
Steven Swinford described the show as:
“A unique insight into life in Westminster and the people who wield power in Britain today.”
Caroline Wheeler added that it will reveal:
“The conversations and thinking that is shaping the political narrative in No10 and beyond.”
For anyone who wants to go deeper than the headlines, this podcast promises a behind-the-scenes look at policy-making, party dynamics, and the human drama behind the decisions affecting the nation.
The Times’ Vision for Political Storytelling
Dan Box, Head of Podcasts for The Times and The Sunday Times, believes this show stands out because:
“Its hosts are in the trenches daily, reporting back on what’s happening and what it means for people outside Westminster.”
In other words, this podcast isn’t just for political insiders — it’s for citizens who want to stay informed without drowning in jargon.
Where to Listen
The State of It is available to stream or watch across all major podcast platforms, including:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
The Times’ own website & app
Whether you prefer listening during your commute or watching the video version, the podcast is designed to fit seamlessly into your weekly routine.
Why You Should Tune In
Stay Ahead of the Curve: Get the stories before they break in print.
Understand the Real Story: Go beyond press releases and spin.
Enjoy the Conversation: Political analysis made sharp, smart, and (sometimes) laugh-out-loud funny.
The Bottom Line
If you care about British politics — or simply want to understand how decisions in Westminster affect your daily life — The State of It is set to become your new essential listen. With live recordings, inside scoops, and expert commentary, it promises to be one of the most influential political podcasts of 2025.
