Keir in the headlights: interviewing Britain’s PM

This episode of The Intelligence from The Economist covers three main topics: the collapsing poll numbers of Britain's Labour government and Prime Minister Keir Starmer's strategy to combat the rise of the Reform party, the surge in executions in America despite declining support for the death penalty, and a tribute to the life and work of playwright Tom Stoppard. The analysis of British politics suggests that Starmer is prioritizing a battle against the Reform party, even if it means being lenient towards the Conservative Party, while also highlighting the lack of a clear vision or plan from Starmer's government to address Britain's fundamental issues. The discussion on American executions points to Florida's role in the surge, driven by political motivations and a shift in the Supreme Court's approach, despite overall declining support for capital punishment. Finally, the episode includes a reflective piece on the late Tom Stoppard, celebrating his intellectual depth, playwriting craft, and his engagement with complex philosophical and historical themes.