The Rest Is Politics
Goalhanger
SummaryThe Rest Is Politics is an essential listen for anyone trying to cut through the noise of today’s increasingly volatile political landscape. Hosted by Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart, the show brings together two seasoned political insiders with very different backgrounds to dissect the headlines with a blend of sharp intellect, deep historical context, and refreshingly candid analysis. Whether they are unpacking the seismic shifts within the Labour Party, the complex influence of populism on both sides of the Atlantic, or the pressing global challenges of energy security and artificial intelligence, the hosts prioritize substance over partisan point-scoring. The format is conversational and inquisitive, often moving beyond the immediate news cycle to explore the structural problems facing governance today. You can expect deep dives into the mechanics of policy, the dangers of political polarization, and the personal dynamics that shape the halls of power in Westminster and beyond. What makes this show stand out is the rapport between the hosts. They challenge each other and their own political assumptions, providing a masterclass in civil debate and critical thinking. If you are looking for a show that treats its audience as intelligent observers capable of navigating the nuances of the modern world, this is it. Tune in to stay informed, engaged, and occasionally entertained by two of the most knowledgeable voices in modern political commentary.
Updated Jul 7, 2026
Episodes
551. Will Farage’s Trumpian Resignation Stunt Backfire?
Nigel Farage is triggering a by-election to distract from financial scrutiny and persistent media pressure.
550. Will Farage's Extreme Wealth Be His Downfall?
Nigel Farage is under scrutiny as his massive outside earnings and controversial gifts clash with his populist brand.
549. Mamdani’s Wrecking Ball and the Rise of Anti-Migrant Vigilantes
Zoran Mamdani’s primary upsets are reshaping Democratic politics while anti-migrant vigilantism rises in South Africa.
548. Burnham vs. Westminster and Trump’s Next Target
Andy Burnham outlines his vision for a devolved Britain as the political landscape shifts toward his premiership.
547. The Truth About Russian Oil, Net Zero, and North Sea Drilling
Energy expert Dan Jurgenson joins to debate whether Net Zero and North Sea drilling are vital or a reckless fantasy.
546. Keir Starmer Resigns: What Happens Next?
Keir Starmer resigns as Labour leader, leaving Andy Burnham to face the brutal reality of the British premiership.
545. Burnham Beats Reform: Britain’s Next Prime Minister?
Andy Burnham’s landslide by-election victory sparks intense speculation about a potential challenge to Keir Starmer.
544. How Trump Is Weaponising AI and Martial Arts at the White House
Trump is weaponizing US-made AI by restricting global access, forcing allies to confront a new era of dependency.
543. The Disaster Britain Still Can't Escape and Trump’s Iran ‘Deal’
Ten years after the Brexit vote, Britain remains poorer and more divided as populist fire-right politics escalate.
542. Starmer Loses His Defence Secretary: What Next?
Defence Secretary John Healey quits over stalled military investment, dealing a major blow to Keir Starmer.
541. Trump’s World Cup Mess and Kushner’s Albania Deal
The 2026 World Cup faces political turmoil amid visa rejections while Jared Kushner eyes a controversial Albania deal.
540. The Untold Iran Crisis, Henry Nowak, and Farage’s Politics of Rage
The blocked Strait of Hormuz threatens a global energy crisis while experts warn of deep-seated security vulnerabilities.
539. Embezzlement, the Mandelson Texts, and Hasan Piker's UK Ban
The SNP embezzlement scandal, the Peter Mandelson email dump, and the UK travel ban on prominent American YouTubers.
538. The Pope’s AI Warning and Alastair Reacts to Blair’s Attack
The Pope’s encyclical challenges the ethical dangers of AI while Alastair critiques Blair’s latest policy essay.
Who Funds Reform? The Missing Millions
Investigation into the opaque financial network and mysterious donors bankrolling the rise of Reform UK.
537. Indicting Trump, Israeli Prisons, and Rory vs. Ed Miliband
Trump faces potential legal action while Israeli prison conditions and UK energy policies spark intense debate.
536. Is Trump’s Corruption Machine Reaching New Extremes?
Trump is testing the limits of presidential corruption by exploiting constitutional weaknesses and private sector power.
Struggling or Snowflakes? The Gen Z Mental Health Story
Are today’s young adults struggling with legitimate crises or has therapy culture and social media gone too far?
535. The Ebola Outbreak and the British Far-Right’s Next Move
Rising global health threats meet the challenge of far-right political movements in Britain.
534. Is Wes Streeting Trying to Sabotage Andy Burnham?
Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham are positioning themselves as Labour rivals, deepening turmoil for Keir Starmer.
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