Tom McTague: A Leading Voice in British Political Journalism
In the landscape of British journalism, Tom McTague stands out as one of the most influential political commentators of his generation. His career has spanned across prestigious publications, including The Atlantic, POLITICO Europe, UnHerd, and most recently, the New Statesman, where he serves as Editor-in-Chief. Known for his incisive analysis, deep understanding of British politics, and ability to capture the nation’s shifting identity, McTague has established himself as a writer whose insights help shape debates both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
This article explores his professional journey, online presence, contributions to various outlets, and his broader role in the intellectual life of Britain.
Early Life and Background
While much of Tom McTague’s personal life is kept private, it is known that he grew up in County Durham in the North of England, and some reports suggest he was born in 1984. This would place him in his early forties, though his exact age has not been formally confirmed. His working-class roots and experiences in the North have often informed the perspective he brings to his writing, particularly when addressing questions of British identity, political culture, and the divide between London and the rest of the country.
Career in Journalism
Early Steps in the Political Press
Tom McTague began his career in Westminster journalism with a reputation for sharp political reporting. His early roles included time at the Independent on Sunday, where he gained recognition for his ability to explain complex political developments to a wide audience.
POLITICO Europe
His career took a significant step forward when he joined POLITICO Europe in 2016 as Chief UK Correspondent. This period coincided with the aftermath of the Brexit referendum, one of the most consequential political events in modern British history. McTague’s reporting at POLITICO stood out for its clarity and depth, particularly as he explained to international readers how the UK’s domestic turmoil was reshaping its relations with Europe.
The Atlantic
In 2019, Tom McTague joined The Atlantic as a staff writer. His work there expanded his audience far beyond Britain, introducing his analysis to American readers interested in the UK’s evolving political story. At The Atlantic, McTague produced some of the most memorable essays on Brexit, British decline, and the country’s place in the world. His long-form articles balanced narrative storytelling with sharp political insight, often framing Britain as a nation wrestling with its post-imperial identity.
UnHerd
In January 2023, McTague became Political Editor at UnHerd, a publication known for hosting voices outside the traditional mainstream consensus. At UnHerd, he continued to examine the central questions facing Britain: the fate of the Union, the meaning of sovereignty after Brexit, and the cultural shifts that underpin political debate. His work there has been praised for its independence of thought and refusal to accept easy orthodoxies.
The New Statesman
In May 2025, Tom McTague was appointed Editor-in-Chief of the New Statesman, one of the most historic and respected political magazines in the United Kingdom. His leadership marks a new era for the publication, combining his global perspective with the magazine’s tradition of thoughtful political and cultural commentary. This role confirms his status as one of the most significant voices in British media.
Major Publications and Books
McTague is also the co-author of Betting the House: The Inside Story of the 2017 Election, a detailed account of the surprise general election called by Theresa May. The book captured the chaos, strategy, and personalities that defined that pivotal campaign.
In addition to his journalism, McTague has a forthcoming book, Between the Waves: The Hidden History of a Very British Revolution 1945–2016, which is expected to provide a sweeping narrative of Britain’s political journey from the aftermath of the Second World War to the Brexit vote. This work promises to cement his reputation not only as a journalist but also as a historian of Britain’s political evolution.
Online Presence
Tom McTague on Twitter
Tom McTague maintains an active presence on Twitter, now known as X, under the handle @TomMcTague. His feed is a mixture of commentary on breaking news, links to his published work, and reflections on British and international politics. For many readers, following him online is a way to gain quick access to his sharp observations on current events. His following continues to grow, demonstrating his influence in shaping conversations beyond the printed page.
Tom McTague Wikipedia
Despite his prominence, McTague does not yet have a full, dedicated Wikipedia page, although he is mentioned across entries related to the publications he has worked for. This absence is somewhat surprising given his stature in political journalism, but it reflects the fact that Wikipedia relies on volunteers to build and maintain biographical entries.
Tom McTague’s Age and Personal Life
As noted, reports suggest that Tom McTague was born in 1984, making him approximately 41 years old in 2025. Beyond that, he tends to keep his personal life away from the public spotlight, choosing to let his professional work speak for itself. He is based in London with his family, and this balance between private life and public writing has given him a reputation for professionalism in an industry often dominated by personalities.
Writing Style and Influence
A Distinctive Voice
McTague’s writing is characterised by narrative power, clarity of thought, and an ability to synthesise history with present-day politics. His essays often read like chapters of a broader story about Britain’s place in the world. Whether writing about Brexit, the monarchy, or transatlantic relations, his work demonstrates a rare blend of intellectual depth and accessibility.
Influence on Debate
Because of his international audience through The Atlantic and his editorial roles at UnHerd and the New Statesman, McTague’s influence extends well beyond Westminster. Policymakers, diplomats, and fellow journalists read him closely, not only to understand the political weather but also to think through the larger forces shaping Britain.
Legacy and Future Directions
With his appointment at the New Statesman, Tom McTague is poised to shape the next phase of British political journalism. His stewardship of such a historic magazine comes at a time when journalism faces both challenges and opportunities: declining trust in traditional media, the rise of digital platforms, and the need to capture a new generation of readers.
McTague’s background at publications as varied as POLITICO, The Atlantic, and UnHerd suggests that he brings a wide perspective to the job. He has shown that he can write for domestic, European, and American audiences, all while maintaining the voice of a distinctly British commentator.
Conclusion
Tom McTague’s journey from County Durham to the top of British journalism reflects both personal talent and the broader changes in the media world. From POLITICO Europe to The Atlantic, from UnHerd to the New Statesman, his career has mapped the shifting story of Britain itself.
Today, as Editor-in-Chief of the New Statesman, McTague stands as a central figure in British journalism. His presence on Twitter, his upcoming historical works, and his respected voice in political analysis ensure that he will remain a key part of the national conversation for years to come.
In an age of uncertainty and flux, his writing provides readers with not only an account of events but also the deeper story of what those events mean. That, perhaps more than anything, is why Tom McTague has become one of the defining journalists of his time.
