James Forsyth (political aide)
James Forsyth | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1981 |
| Nationality | British |
| Alma mater | Jesus College, Cambridge |
| Occupation(s) | Political advisor, journalist |
| Years active | 2007–present |
| Known for | Political editor of The Spectator (2009–2022), Political Secretary to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (2022–2024) |
| Spouse | Allegra Stratton (m. 2011) |
| Children | 2 |
James Forsyth (born 1981) is a British political advisor and former journalist specializing in politics. He served as political editor of The Spectator beginning in 2009 and held the position of Political Secretary to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom under Rishi Sunak from 2022 until July 2024.
Early life
Forsyth completed his education at Winchester College before attending Jesus College, Cambridge.
Career
His career started as assistant editor at Foreign Policy magazine. In 2007, he founded Coffee House, the political blog of The Spectator. The following year, he advanced to deputy editor for the online edition of The Spectator, and in 2009, he was promoted to political editor.
Forsyth contributed weekly columns to The Times and previously wrote for The Sun as well as the Mail on Sunday. Additionally, he serves on the advisory board of the ResPublica think tank based in Westminster.
On 24 December 2022, Forsyth was named political secretary to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. In 2023, the New Statesman placed him eighth among the most influential right-wing figures in the UK, highlighting his considerable impact on major policy decisions.
Personal life
Since 2011, Forsyth has been married to journalist Allegra Stratton, who was appointed Downing Street Press Secretary under Prime Minister Boris Johnson in November 2020. The couple lives in Canonbury, Islington, with their two children.
Forsyth shares a close personal relationship with former Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak, having been schoolmates at Winchester College and godparents to each other's children. Sunak also served as best man at Forsyth’s wedding.
External links
- James Forsyth The Spectator