Walescast is a podcast from BBC Radio Wales that covers Welsh politics and current affairs. Hosts Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss the major issues affecting Wales. Each episode features exclusive interviews and in-depth analysis. It provides a comprehensive look at the political landscape and current events in Wales.
Episodes
Climate, Cash and the Wales Green Party's Next Chapter
Fliss and James talk to the Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability from COP31. They also preview the Welsh Government's Draft Budget and what it could mean for health, education and the environment with our correspondents. Then, the outgoing leader of the Wales Green's reflects on the party's past and future.
The First Minister's First Six Months
On this episode of Walescast Fliss and James catch up with Rhun ap Iorwerth six months after he led his party to victory in the Senedd election. They discuss the covid review, council tax, budgets and Andy Burnham with the First Minister. Political Editor Gareth Lewis then joins the podcast to discuss the interview.
UK Budget 2026: What’s in it for Wales?
No big surprises, but plenty of smaller measures the government hopes can help ease cost of living pressures. So, what has the Chancellor unveiled, and what does the 2026 Budget mean for Wales?BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis speaks to the Secretary of State for Wales, while Welsh Government Finance Minister Elin Jones joins Fliss and James in the Walescast studio.They're also joined by Ben
What's Going on With Council Tax?
Wales' Finance Minister has announced that the Welsh Government wants to delay a revaluation of homes for council tax purposes until 2032. Fliss and James are joined by David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to digest the details and what it could mean for you. They also speak to Reform UK's Cai Parry-Jones, the Welsh Local Government Association's Cllr Lis Burnett, and BBC Wales Pol
Plaid and Labour Strike a Deal
Fliss and James are joined by guests to unpack the Welsh Government's agreement with Labour on its mini-budget. Politicians from the Welsh Conservatives, Welsh Labour and Reform UK Wales discuss the details, while BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis reflects on his interview with the Finance Minister and what the deal means for the Welsh Government. Walescast is back on TV for five weeks. Watc
Can Wales Finally Fix the M4 and Menai Bottlenecks?
Plaid Cymru has unveiled plans to address two of Wales' most notorious transport bottlenecks - the M4 in the South and the Menai Strait crossing in the North.Nick Servini is joined by our Business and Political Correspondents to assess the proposed plans, explore the challenges involved and ask whether the Welsh Government can find a solution. We also wrap up our conference season coverage with Po
What Did We Learn from Plaid Cymru's Conference?
The First Minister took to the stage in Llandudno to deliver his first conference speech since winning the Senedd election. Before an expectant audience, he celebrated Plaid Cymru's historic victory but also acknowledged the challenges ahead, including difficult budget decisions and his ambition to go further and faster on devolution in Wales. Elliw Gwawr presented today's episode and was joined b
Andy Burnham's Big Pitch: What's in it for Wales?
Andy Burnham has set out his vision for transforming Britain, including a pledge to end the state pension triple lock from 2030 to help fund a new National Care Service in England. But what does it all mean for Wales? Fliss is joined by BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis, Business Correspondent Huw Thomas and David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to unpack the announcements and
An Interview with the Prime Minister
Ahead of the annual Labour Party conference, the Prime Minister is in Manchester and talks to our Political Editor Gareth Lewis about independence, the future of devolution, and speculation of an early general election.
Reform Reshuffles and NHS Targets
Following Reform UK Wales' first week under new leader Helen Jenner, our Political Correspondent Dan Davies walks us through the party reshuffle and what her leadership might mean for the opposition in the Senedd. Health Correspondent Owain Clarke brings us the latest NHS figures and unpacks why there has been confusion over waiting times targets. Plus, Shelley Phelps joins us from Westminster aft
Who's the New Leader of Reform in Wales?
Following a difficult week for Reform in Wales, Nigel Farage arrived on the steps of the Senedd to unveil Helen Jenner MS as the party's new Welsh leader. She takes over from Dan Thomas, who stepped down after being arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour.Jenner faces the challenge of uniting the party after a turbulent start to the new Senedd term that saw the loss
What's childcare got to do with the Welsh Government's budget talks?
Plaid Cymru’s biggest challenge in government so far may be securing enough support in Cardiff Bay to get its Budget over the line. With negotiations continuing between Plaid ministers and opposition parties, tensions are continuing to emerge. Welsh Labour has warned it will not back the Budget if cuts are made to the flagship early years programme it introduced while in government.On this episode
Reform Under Pressure as Senedd Returns
It's been a difficult week for Reform UK Wales. Dan Thomas, who led the party during their successful Senedd election campaign, has stepped down as Welsh leader after being arrested for assault. The party has also been hit by a defection, with one of its members leaving to join Plaid Cymru.On this episode of Walescast, we speak to Sarah Cooper-Lesadd about her decision to switch parties and what p
Is Westminster's Time Coming to an End?
For the first time since devolution began, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are all led by first ministers who support leaving the United Kingdom. Following a press conference with the three leaders, Fliss and James discuss the signing of an agreement, which argues that no Westminster government has the right to "block democracy". James reports from the event and speaks to STV's Political Edit
'Must try harder' - Wales' poor PISA results
Fliss studies the latest PISA results that show Wales has fallen further behind other UK nations, as well as taking a look back at the Reform party conference.
When we met Helen Jenner at the Pritchard Jones Institute
Fliss and James are in Newborough, on Anglesey, to meet Reform UK's Welsh Deputy Leader. Joining her at the Pritchard Jones Institute they chat about her upbringing, career, Welsh identity and political journey. She also reveals the band she was in growing up and her time at the BRIT School for performing arts. Throughout August, Walescast has been travelling across the country to speak to politic
Has Plaid Cymru's 100 Day Plan Paid Off?
We have come to the end of Plaid Cymru's 100 Day Plan. But, what have they achieved in that time? Fliss catches up with BBC Wales' Political Editor Gareth Lewis to find out what's gone well and the issues that have arisen for the new Government. We listen to Gareth's interview with the Minister for Effectiveness and the Constitution as well as hearing from leaders of the opposition.
When we met Heledd Fychan at the National Lido of Wales
James is in Ynysangharad Park, overlooking the National Lido of Wales, to chat with Heledd Fychan MS. Recently appointed Minister for Culture and Sport in the new Plaid Cymru Government, she also serves as the party's Trefnydd and Chief Whip. In this wide-ranging interview, James and Heledd discuss Plaid Cymru's historic election victory, her own political journey, the current state of sport and c
When we met Ken Skates at Shotton Steelworks
Fliss and James meet the new Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates MS at the John Summers Clock Tower on the former Shotton Steelworks site. In a wide-ranging conversation, they discuss his upbringing, career, experiences with mental health and the challenging period ahead for Welsh Labour. Throughout August, Walescast is travelling across Wales to speak to politicians from across the political spectrum.
What has Burnham's First Week Meant for Wales?
Fliss and James are joined by three BBC political correspondents from Wales and Westminster. They discuss Burnham's first week as PM, what's been said about Wales and some familiar faces at the heart of his new cabinet. They also discuss an issue with the Welsh Government's Supplementary Budget plans.
Royal Welsh, Rural Affairs and a New Prime Minister
The Royal Welsh is back, and James is joined by a variety of guests at the showground to discuss what a Plaid Cymru government means for rural affairs and Welsh farming. The conversation also turns to Westminster, where a new Prime Minister has taken office, and what these political changes could mean for agriculture and Welsh politics.This episode was recorded on 21 July 2026.
New Labour Leaders
Ken Skates has been confirmed as the new permanent leader of Welsh Labour, inheriting a party facing significant challenges after its disappointing Senedd election performance. As he steps into the role, he'll become the public face of one of Wales's opposition parties, with the task of rebuilding support and restoring confidence in Welsh Labour. Former journalist and ex-Chief of Staff to the Wels
Budget Vote Loss: The Analysis
Plaid Cymru's plans for additional spending have been voted down in the Senedd after Labour refused to back proposed budget changes. Fliss and James are joined by Dr Ed Poole of the Wales Governance Centre and BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the political fallout and examine the numbers in the budget. They also speak to Luke Sibieta from the Institute for Fiscal Studies about Add
Budget Vote Loss: The Interviews
James speaks to First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth after his government fails to win the vote on their extra spending plans. He also catches up with Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates whose party refused to support changes to the budget. These interviews were on Radio Wales Breakfast on the 15th of July. You can catch up with that and Walescast's analysis on BBC Sounds.
In Conversation with the Bank of England's Chief Economist
Huw Pill is one of just nine members of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, the group responsible for setting UK interest rates – decisions that influence everything from mortgage costs to inflation.Born and raised in Cardiff, Huw is now the Bank of England's Chief Economist and Executive Director for Monetary Analysis and Research. In this episode, Fliss and James speak to him about
Nigel Farage's Resignation Gambit
Nigel Farage has resigned as an MP, triggering a by-election he says he'll contest. Fliss and James are joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the dramatic move, how it came about and the reaction from Reform UK in Wales.They also discuss plans for a new economic development agency, which the Welsh Government hopes will help boost productivity and drive economic growth. Former minister
Can 'Manchesterism' work for Wales?
In his first major speech since launching his bid to replace Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham focused on devolving power from Westminster. But what could it all mean for Wales? Greater Manchester, and the transformation Burnham says he's helped deliver there, was a focus of the speech. Fliss and guests examine the key ingredients behind the city's success and ask whether this can be replicated elsewhere
Counting the change: Plaid's mini-budget
Felicity Evans and Gareth Lewis speak to the Welsh Government's Finance Minister Elin Jones, and David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, about the supplementary budget.
Brexit: 10 Years on in Ebbw Vale
It's been ten years since the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU. James is in Ebbw Vale to reflect on the day. The town is part of the Blaenau Gwent where 62% of the population voted for Brexit, compared to an average of 52.5% across Wales. James talks to people about how they voted at the time and their thoughts on the decision ten years later.
Where did it go wrong for Sir Keir Starmer?
Former First Minister Mark Drakeford joins James Williams and Gareth Lewis to assess Sir Keir Starmer's legacy, and to explain why he's backing Andy Burnham as his successor.
Can Extra Cash Cut NHS Waiting Lists?
Fliss and James are joined by BBC Wales' Health Correspondent to discuss his interviews with the new Health Minister and whether the extra funding he's announced can cut down waiting lists.
A Senedd Walkout and Education Updates
Fliss and James unpack the Senedd row that saw a walkout after a controversial speech in the Siambr by Reform MS Joe Martin. They’re joined by BBC Wales Political Reporter David Deans, who was there at the time, to break down what happened and why. The team also turn their attention to education, analysing the latest announcements from the Welsh Education Minister. They discuss her stance on socia
Plaid's childcare expansion: What's the plan?
Childcare returns to the political spotlight in Wales this week. James is joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the Welsh Government’s commitment to the policy, after surviving an important vote in the Senedd. They’re also joined by Steffan Evans from the Bevan Foundation to explore the real-world impact of getting childcare policy right (or wrong). Plus, James takes a closer look at a
Senedd Election 26: The Post-Polls Analysis
Fliss catches up with Dr Jac Larner from the Wales Governance Centre to look back at the polling across the Senedd election. They discuss what it got right and wrong, political trends and how we got to the final result.
A New Era for First Minister's Questions
Fliss catches up with our political editor following the first FMQ's after Plaid Cymru's Senedd election victory. Rhun ap Iorwerth faced questions from members across the political spectrum covering topics from health to education.
Rhun ap Iorwerth: The First Minister Interview
Rhun ap Iorwerth MS sits down with James for his first Walescast since becoming First Minister. They met at the Urdd Eisteddfod site on Ynys Môn. You can also watch this episode on BBC iPlayer.
A View from the Opposition
The new Senedd is underway with new parties, new faces and a lot more MSs. How are the opposition navigating this new landscape?
We’ll hear from the Welsh leader of Reform and the leader of the Welsh Conservatives. Podcast co-host and former Conservative member and advisor Craig Lawton also joins us in the lounge with Political Correspondent Elliw Gwawr.
Open for Business
James discusses a pivotal moment for the new First Minister, catching up with political editor Gareth Lewis ahead of Plaid Cymru’s first Cabinet meeting in government.
He also speaks to the journalist behind the Undercover Voters investigation to reflect on what the series uncovered during the Senedd election.
Inside Plaid Cymru’s New Government
On this week’s episode, we unpack a historic moment as Plaid Cymru unveils its new Cabinet following their victory in the 2026 Senedd election. Newly appointed Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams MS joins us to discuss the party’s priorities and what this new era of leadership means for Wales.
Meanwhile, in Westminster, pressure continues to mount on the Prime Minister as questions swirl around
Senedd Election 26: The Results
Fliss and James are joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis and Politics Wales Presenter Teleri Glyn Jones after a long day. They came together off the back of presenting BBC Wales coverage of the historic Senedd election results.
Senedd Election 26: On Your Marks
With less than 24 hours to go until Wales heads to the polls for the 2026 Senedd election James and Fliss take stock with Political Correspondent Daniel Davies.
Undercover Voters: Are chatbots giving misleading advice?
The use of AI chatbots for advice is becoming increasingly common. But, could they could be providing misleading information to voters ahead of the Senedd election? Ben Summer, the Journalist running the Undercover Voters investigation, joins James to fill him in on his latest discovery.
Senedd Election 26: The Policy Pod
Fliss and James catch up with our Health, Education and Environment Correspondent to unpack the policies and issues that have made it big in the Senedd election campaign so far — and those that haven’t.
Manifestos Unpacked
Guto Ifan of the Wales Governance Centre joins Fliss and James to unpack the key themes emerging from the six main parties’ manifestos and to take a close look at whether the numbers behind their promises add up.
Undercover Voters: Social Media Spending
The journalist behind the Undercover Voters project, Ben Summer, is back with a new story from his research. This time, he’s been examining how much political parties have been spending on social media over the Senedd election campaign. To find out more about the project, you can listen to our first interview with Ben ahead of the launch at https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0n9ns9x.
Nattering in Newport
Walescast has been hitting the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, on his final stop, James is in Newport, which is part of the new Casnewydd Islwyn constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.The BBC has a full list of candidates for every constit
Rolling in the Polls
Fliss and James are joined by Dr Jac Larner to dicuss the latest YouGov/ ITV Wales/ Cardiff University poll as well as looking at what the bigger picture looks like. They also discuss the debates that have taken place and the leaders interviews on BBC Radio Walles.
Senedd Election 26: Monday Roundup
With just over two weeks to go until the Senedd election James and Fliss discuss a busy weekend in Welsh politics. They are joined by Dan Davies to look at new polling, analysis and to discuss the first televised leaders debate from ITV Wales. Ben Summer then joins them to update Walescast on the undercover voters project he's been working on.
The Manifesto Launches: The Welsh Liberal Democrats
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss the Welsh Liberal Democrats manifesto launch. We have now discussed all of the six main parties manifestos. You can find the rest on BBC Sounds. They also reflect on the details they've digested over the past few weeks.
The Bangor Briefing
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Bangor, part of the new Bangor Conwy Môn constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most to them ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.The BBC have published a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the
Senedd Election 26: A Focus on Voters
Today, Fliss and James are joined by Luke Tryl from More in Common to discuss his recent trip to Wales and what he’s been hearing from voters. The UK Director has been running focus groups across the country, exploring why people are planning to vote the way they are and the issues that matter most to them. We also hear from Ben Summer with the latest update on the Undercover Voters project and wh
The Manifesto Launches: Plaid Cymru and Wales Green Party
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss a busy week of manifesto launches from Plaid Cymru and the Wales Green Party.
Conversations in Cardigan
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Cardigan, part of the new Ceredigion Penfro constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most to them ahead of the Senedd election and whether they think the result on May the 7th will make a difference.The BBC will be publishing a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on
Talking to Treorchy
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Treorchy, part of the new Afan Ogwr Rhondda constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.The BBC will be publishing a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the B
The Manifesto Launches: Welsh Labour
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss the Welsh Labour manifesto launch and to mop up another campaign launch for the Welsh Green party. You can find our other ''The Manifesto Launches'' episodes on BBC Sounds - we will be covering six of the main parties launches.
Senedd Election: Undercover Voters
Until the 7th of May, the BBC will be looking into how the Senedd election is unfolding on social media feeds across Wales.On this episode of Walescast, Ben Summer from the News Impact Team, joins Fliss and James to explain how.Using data and analysis from the National Centre for Social Research, he has set up six social media profiles for fictional voters based in different parts of Wales.Ben is
Senedd Election 2026: The Monday Briefing
Following the Senedd shutting up shop... Walescast kicks off it's dedicated election coverage with a look back at what's happened over the weekend and what's coming up this week. On this Monday Briefing Fliss and James discuss campaign launches and what happens if no party reaches a majority.
Senedd Signs Off... The Election Countdown Begins
It's the final week for Senedd business ahead of the Welsh election. Fliss and James have set up shop in the new Siambr to talk about polls, policies and what lies ahead for the political parties in May. They are joined by BBC Wales Correspondents, our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and Dr Jac Larner from Wales Governance Centre. You can watch this episode of Walescast on BBC iPlayer.
Your Voice Live... The After Party
Following the first in a series of BBC Wales election debates James is joined by Welsh political commentators Will Hayward and Betsan Powys to digest the details. They also speak to the Presenter Nick Servini and Political Editor Gareth Lewis live from Wrexham. You can hear all about the big issues raised on the day in this special episode of Walescast that will also be providing coverage of all t
Inside Wales Green Party: The Action Day
Walescast heads to St John's Church in Canton for the Wales Green's Action Day. James talks to their Welsh leader Anthony Slaughter and the party leader for England and Wales Zack Polanski. He also catches up with other members as they knock doors around the city as well as BBC Wales Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies.This episode is the final trip Walescast made to the six main parties events,
Here We Go Again... Election Campaigning Continues
Fliss is joined by Nick Servini as campaigns heat up on the road to the 2026 Senedd election. They catch up with Joanna Stallard from Welsh Labour, Jason O'Connell from Reform UK and Rodney Berman from the Welsh Liberal Democrats. Walescast was joined by Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Conservatives and the Green Party on last week's episode.We are back on TV for a few weeks and you can watch this episode
Inside the Welsh Liberal Democrats: The Conference
Walescast heads to the Leonardo Hotel in Cardiff for the Welsh Liberal Democrats conference. Fliss talks to their leader Jane Dodds, their MP David Chadwick and other candidates and members. We also catch up with our Political Correspondent Rhodri Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast has made to the six main parties events, rallies and conferences over the
The Manifesto Launches: Welsh Conservatives and Reform
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss a busy week of manifesto launches from the Welsh Conservatives and Reform.
Here We Go... Election Campaigning Kicks Off
Fliss is joined by Nick Servini as campaigning gets underway for the 2026 Senedd election. They catch up with Sam Rowlands from the Welsh Conservatives, Philip Davies from the Welsh Greens and Plaid Cymru's Llyr Gruffydd about their launches into the election. We will be joined by Welsh Labour, Reform and the Liberal Democrats on next week's episode. Walescast is back on TV for four weeks and you
Inside Welsh Labour: The Campaign Launch
Walescast heads to Newport Market for Welsh Labour's Campaign Launch. Fliss talks to the First Minister, Labour politicians and candidates about their hopes for May. We also catch up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.
Inside Plaid Cymru: The Conference
Walescast heads to the International Conference Centre in Newport for Plaid Cymru's 2026 conference. James talks to politicians and punters about their hopes for May and catches up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.
A Step Closer to Assisted Dying for Welsh NHS
Fliss and James discuss this week's Senedd vote on assisted dying and they’re joined by David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to explore the challenges facing future Welsh Government funding.
Wales’ £14bn Railway Promise
The Prime Minister travelled to Taff’s Well to throw his weight behind Transport for Wales’ £14 billion proposals to “transform” the nation’s railways. But what would this actually mean for passengers and communities in Wales? James and Fliss unpack the announcement with our Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies, following his interview with the Prime Minister and First Minister. They’re also join
Inside the Welsh Conservatives: The Conference
Walescast heads to Llandudno's Venue Cymru for the Welsh Conservative's 2026 conference. James speaks to their Leader in the Senedd Darren Millar as well as catching up with some other politicians and members to see what the vibe is ahead of the Senedd election in May. We also catch up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and hear about his interview with the Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch. T
Mandelson Scandal: First Minister Stands by Starmer
Wales' First Minister has given her backing to the Prime Minister following the Peter Mandelson scandal and the former US ambassador's departure from the Labour Party. Following criticism around Eluned Morgan's delayed statement from opposition parties, she says she has full confidence in his leadership. Former Special Advisor to the Welsh Government Cathy Owens and Political Editor Gareth Lewis j
''Next Welsh Government Must do More to Drive Down Poverty''
James and Fliss are joined by Chris Birt from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to discuss poverty in Wales and what the charity believes the next Welsh Government need to do to tackle it.
Inside Reform: The Rally
Walescast heads to Newport’s International Conference Centre for Reform’s 2026 election rally, where Nigel Farage unveiled Dan Thomas as the party’s new leader in Wales. The event also brought confirmation that James Evans has defected to Reform, following his departure from the Welsh Conservatives. Fliss and James speak to both men at the rally, exploring their priorities for Wales and the reacti
Wales Fire Services: One Year On from Damning Culture Reports
A year after damning reports into workplace culture at two Welsh fire services, their leaders say progress is being made — but acknowledge there is still more to do. Separate reports into North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service highlighted concerns about bullying, and harassment. James catches up with Mid and West Wales Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery,
Policing Reforms and Party Splits
UK Labour proposals for a major overhaul of policing have highlighted the disagreements between the two governments in Wales and Westminster over devolved powers. Fliss and James are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis to unfold the story. They also speak to Labour MS Mick Antoniw and Criminal Barrister Andrew Taylor about the state of policing and the criminal justice system in Wale
MS thrown out of party for 'talking to Reform' and WRU before MPs
James and Fliss on the sacking of MS James Evans and the WRU before MPs at Westminster.
Winter Pressures and What's in the Latest Polling
How is the NHS in Wales coping with winter pressures? Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board sorts out its stats but what can be done about their lengthy waiting times? Our Health Correspondent Owain Clarke joins the pod to discuss the latest. Dr Jac Larner then joins Fliss and James to dig into the detail of the surprising results of the latest ITV/YouGov Poll on Senedd voting intentions.
2026 Senedd Election: The Road Ahead
It’s 2026... A big year lies ahead with Wales heading to the polls for the Senedd election in May. And the political year hasn’t exactly started quietly. Fliss is joined by BBC Wales’ Political Editor, the Westminster Correspondent, and WalesOnline’s Ruth Mosalski to unpack the start of 2026 and explore what lies ahead in the world of Welsh politics.
Deck the Polls
A brand-new Senedd election opinion poll lands just in time for Walescast’s Christmas special! Fliss and James are joined by colleagues from across the BBC Wales newsroom to unpack the numbers and reflect on an eventful year in Welsh politics. Recorded at the Four Elms in Cardiff, the team shares their own insights, with a healthy serving of festive cheer—plus, our guests face a seasonal quiz to r
Welsh Budget: Labour and Plaid Cymru Strike a Deal
The Welsh Government’s budget was on a rocky road, with Labour staring down the possibility of defeat when their spending plans went to a vote in January. Behind closed doors, negotiations went on — and now, a deal has been done. Plaid Cymru has stepped in to help pass the budget, securing extra funding for the NHS and local councils in return. But how will it land with voters? James and Fliss unp
The Budget has Landed
The UK Budget is out – but what does it all mean for Wales? Fliss and James break down the big announcements with a panel of politicians, exploring how the decisions in Westminster will impact people in Wales. Plus, BBC Wales’ Political Correspondent joins the conversation to talk through his whirlwind day and the key takeaways from a dramatic day in politics.
