Badenoch’s Power Play and Starmer’s Warning on Riots

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan (former adviser to PM Theresa May) and Jo Tanner (political strategist) unpack Kemi Badenoch’s dramatic reshuffle of the shadow cabinet — is it about party unity, performance, or a subtle pivot toward the centre?

We discuss:

• James Cleverley’s return to the frontbench and Rob Jenrick’s surprise survival
• Kemi’s “think tank” leadership style vs. the need for visible political fight
• Trump’s upcoming visit to Scotland: footgolf diplomacy, tariffs, and political theatre
• Sir Keir Starmer’s warning about social cohesion and rising far-right disinformation
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• The inside scoop from Jo’s recent appearance on BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg (including a hilarious paparazzi moment)

📲 Got a question or comment? WhatsApp us: 0333 404 6507 (start your message with “Whitehall”)

📰 Mentioned:

• Will Lloyd’s New Statesman article on Badenoch
• The Times reporting on protests and immigration disinformation

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