The Rest Is Politics

9 Feb 2026

499. Is It Game Over for Starmer?

As Starmer begins to lose his key aides and allies, is his departure from Number 10 now a matter of when, not if? Is the UK actually becoming ungovernable? Will the latest revelations about the level of Epstein’s global influence bring a reckoning for politics and society as a whole?

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

9 Feb 2026

175. Ex-Director of GCHQ: China, Russia, and the Threats Facing the UK (Jeremy Fleming)

Do Russia or China represent a bigger risk to UK national security? Why are we underestimating the threat posed by cybercriminals? Who holds the real power - ministers or spies?

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

457. Is Trump Planning Regime Change?

Why is Trump attacking Venezuelan ships? Are the Greens turning protest into real political power? And, will France create a sixth Republic?  The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy.... Continue

456. Antisemitism, How the Tories Lost Britain, and Gaza

Why is antisemitism on the rise in the UK? Can Trump’s Gaza plan ever provide a just and lasting peace? Why does Rory think the Conservative Party is on a doomed path? Join Rory and Alasta... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: How to spot the charlatans

Moisés Naím’s new book unpacks how these snake-oil shysters deceive the public... Continue

156. Defence Secretary, John Healey: Is Britain Ready For War?

What tactic did Donald Trump steal from Gordon Brown? What can we learn from when Labour beat UKIP in the 2012 Rotherham by-election when it comes to taking on Farage? As a New Labour alumnus... Continue

455. Question Time: Is Europe Already At War With Russia?

Is Europe already at war with Russia — without admitting it? Are the Netherlands still a serious player in Europe? And, should national parks be reshaped for the modern age? Join Rory and ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Don’t take Curtis Yarvin seriously

Yarvin believes liberal democracy has failed and that monarchy should replace it. He just has absolutely no idea how to achieve this... Continue

454. Starmer’s Farage Fightback and Trump’s Unworkable Gaza Plan

Is it too late for Starmer to turn things around? Is Labour talking too much about immigration, and not enough about the cost of living? How can Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza lead to a Pales... Continue

155. Mike Pompeo On Russia, Trump, and China

Why does the former Secretary of State think the US is going too soft on Russia and China? What was it like working closely with President Trump? Why did Putin invade Europe under Obama and B... Continue