Diane Abbott row and Lee Anderson defects - what's it all telling us about the state of politics?

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Labour's Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Ruth Davidson, look at some of the big politics stories of the week. They say it's Tory donor Frank Hester who's had an "electoral dysfunction" this week after he apologised for comments he made about MP Diane Abbott. Almost a day after the revelations, the prime minister said they were "racist and wrong" - but hasn't suggested returning the £10m to the businessman. Mr Hester insists he is not a racist. The Reform Party will be the ones feeling "on top" after Lee Anderson left the Tories to join them – but Jess, Beth and Ruth discuss how much momentum that will really give the party in an election.   Plus, Electoral Dysfunction listeners get advice on how to engage young people in politics, and where would you even get started if you fancied a political job?   Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.    Warning: some explicit language.    

Om Podcasten

Beth Rigby. Jess Phillips. Ruth Davidson. With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they’re written, and how they’re sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.WhatsApp us - 07934 200444