EP 114: Kent’s changing political map, Medway’s challenges and campaign strategies with Reform UK & Green Party voices

The Kent Politics Podcast

Friday, 1 May 2026 - 57 minutes

Kent Politics Podcast: Episode Recap

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast!

Join us for an insightful discussion on the latest political developments in Kent, featuring local democracy reporter Dan Essen and Medway Council enthusiast Robert Body. This episode dives deep into upcoming elections, council dynamics, and more.

Key Topics Discussed:

Election Insights:

Tunbridge Wells Elections: Discover why this is the last election under the current model and how boundary changes have influenced recent outcomes.
Political Shifts: Explore Tunbridge Wells' transition from a Conservative stronghold to Liberal Democrat control.

Council Dynamics:

Medway's Innovation Park: Unpack ongoing plans for business investment in Medway and potential future developments.

Reform UK Anniversary:

Reflecting on one year since Reform UK's significant victory at Kent County Council elections.

By-elections Spotlight:

Hear firsthand accounts from Thomas Mallon (Reform UK) and Rob Yates (Green Party), who won pivotal by-elections at Kent County Council. They share campaign strategies, challenges faced, and their vision moving forward.

Special Guests:

Thomas Mallon - First elected county councillor for Reform UK discussing his strategic approach during campaigns.
Rob Yates - Green Party’s first councillor at county hall sharing insights on engaging voters effectively through community involvement.

Thought Provoking Discussions:

The impact of national politics on local elections.
Debating immigration policies between Reform UK's hard stance versus Green Party's compassionate approach.

Closing Thoughts:

The podcast concludes with reflections on whether it's time to consider proportional representation over first-past-the-post voting systems amidst changing political landscapes in the UK.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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