New Times,
New Thinking.

Why political ads are getting nastier

Social media is changing political ads for the worse


Historically, political advertising has been banned from broadcast aside from a small allotted period of time in the run up to an election. However, as the times are-a-changin, and technology and advertising formats have evolved, political parties have found and embraced some legal loopholes. Our screens are now awash with political adverts, character attacks, and sometimes factually inaccurate messaging – created and paid for by our government and the opposition.

So what does it mean now that our leaders are playing dirty? What can we expect to see in the lead up to the general election? And will this have any effect on voters, or is it just Westminster name-calling?

Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, is joined by Jonn Elledge, journalist, author and New Statesman columnist.

This episode was recorded prior to the calling of the general election last week.


Submit a question for our weekly listener questions episode, “You Ask Us”

Select and enter your email address Your weekly guide to the best writing on ideas, politics, books and culture every Saturday. The best way to sign up for The Saturday Read is via saturdayread.substack.com The New Statesman's quick and essential guide to the news and politics of the day. The best way to sign up for Morning Call is via morningcall.substack.com
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
THANK YOU

Subscribers to the New Statesman can listen ad-free in our app. Download it on iOS or Android.

Not a regular podcast listener? Read our guide on how to listen to New Statesman podcasts.

Content from our partners
The Circular Economy: Green growth, jobs and resilience
Water security: is it a government priority?
Defend, deter, protect: the critical capabilities we rely on