Journalists come together to discuss politicians, policy and predictions ahead of the general election in December.
Media agency OMD held a lively debate, hosting journalists from across a number of national news brands. Full of opinions and emotions, the panel gave the audience lots to reflect on as people head to the polls on 12 December.
The political opinions of the papers and their journalists led to much debate – lively and at times conflicting.
One of the topics uniting the journalists was the leadership problems of the parties. Across the spectrum, they talked about how party leaders lack the ability to appeal to the whole country, beyond the borders of London – something very reminiscent of the Brexit referendum.
What will the role of social media be? The panellists agreed that the election battleground continues to move more and more online. One referred to how ad targeting on Facebook undermined Hilary Clinton’s efforts in the U.S. presidential campaign, showing how the platforms can influence election results.
On the outcome of the election, the predictions were varied but many agreed that the Tories are likely to win. However, one journalist concluded, in recent times, polls are rarely accurate so who knows what will happen.
Will it snow on election day? Will there be floods? All of these factors could have a massive impact on results. There was no clear winner in the eyes of the journalists and it was fair to conclude, the jury is still out.
Thanks to all the journalists for a great session: Andrew Pierce, Political Editor, Daily Mail; Jason Beattie, Head of Campaigns & Head of Politics, Daily Mirror; John Rentoul, Chief Political Commentator, Independent; Henry Zeffman, Political Correspondent, The Times; Serina Sandhu, Reporter, i; and Chair Joe Twyman.