The Rest Is Politics

4 Mar 2026

508. Is Starmer Sleepwalking into War with Iran?

Is Keir Starmer sleepwalking into a war Britain never agreed to fight? What are Trump's real objectives in attacking Iran? How far will Iran's retaliation go?

Two men who’ve been at the heart of the political world – former Downing Street Director of Communications and Strategy Alastair Campbell and cabinet minister Rory Stewart – join forces from across the political divide.

Leading

2 Mar 2026

178. Gavin Newsom: The Next President Of The United States?

What happened on a ridiculous midnight phone call between Donald Trump and the Governor of California? Why does Gavin Newsom believe the President will be crushed in the mid-terms? What is Newsom’s tactic for trolling Trump? Will Newsom run for president in 2028? 

Every Monday, Rory and Alastair interrogate, converse with, and interview some of the world’s biggest names – from both inside and outside of politics – about life, leadership, or leading the way in their chosen field.

Latest

Alastair Campbell’s diary: This government is like The Thick Of It, but unfunny

It is ludicrous that, in little over a year, Keir Starmer has gone from landslide high to record low satisfaction ratings... Continue

162. Gareth Southgate: Patriotism, Leadership, and How To Inspire Young Men

What invaluable life-lessons did Gareth Southgate learn by missing a high profile penalty in the Euro 96 semi-finals? Does the former England manager see a future for himself in politics? How... Continue

468. Starmer in Crisis: Sabotage From Within? (Question Time)

Has Keir Starmer lost control of his own team? Is Gen Z actually the most informed generation yet, or are they cripplingly cynical? And, why is African democracy in retreat? Join Rory and ... Continue

467. The Mamdani Method Explained: Could It Shock Britain?

How did a thirty four-year old democratic socialist win over New York, and can he actually follow through on his promise to transform the city? What do Zohran Mamdani, Zack Polanski, and Nige... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Dick Cheney, the unlikely anti-Trump symbol

In Trump’s eyes, Cheney was a non-person who did not even merit a comment upon his death... Continue

466. Crisis Hits the BBC: Is this a Coordinated Attack?

Why have the BBC’s Director General and Head of News both suddenly resigned? Is this an internal 'coup' at the BBC or a 'concerted' attack by its usual enemies? How is American-style polari... Continue

466. Crisis Engulfs the BBC: Is this a Coordinated Attack?

Why have the BBC’s Director General and Head of News both suddenly resigned? Is this an internal 'coup' at the BBC or a 'concerted' attack by its usual enemies? How is American-style polari... Continue

The malign right can’t be allowed to destroy the BBC

Panorama made mistakes but this ‘scandal’ is the work of populists trying to control the airwaves. They won’t rest... Continue