The Rest Is Politics

17 Apr 2026

523. The Starmer-Mandelson Scandal: Lying or Incompetence?

Can Starmer survive if it emerges he was previously told about Mandelson's failed vetting? Is he developing a pattern of blaming others when things go wrong? Will this lead Labour MPs to start questioning their leader ahead of crucial local elections?

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 Apr 2026

184. President of Ukraine: Volodymyr Zelenskyy

At a time when the United States is threatening to withdraw from NATO, how can Europe maximise its power to deter Russia's threat? If Vladimir Putin were given the territory Donald Trump offered in his peace plan, what would his next move be? Why does the White House keep misunderstanding Putin’s real war aims?

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

141. The President of Cyprus: Iran, Israel, and the Cyprus Issue (Nikos Christodoulides)

What role does Cyprus play in the Middle East conflicts? How can Europe and the United Kingdom strengthen their relations during this tumultuous time? How can governments fight corruption? ... Continue

421. The Real JD Vance: The Power Behind The Man (Part 2)

What do we know about the billionaire tech bros backing Vance who hate democracy? Is Vance the political face of a revolution for the super rich? Is he a voice for the Rust Belt, or an avatar... Continue

420. Question Time: The History of Iran vs. the West

How much do you really know about the geopolitics of Iran and the Middle East? Have British MPs made a mistake with the Assisted Dying Bill? What does the King say when he meets politicians? ... Continue

419. What next for Trump, Israel, and Iran? | Peace vs. Regime Change

Has Trump really helped agree peace between Israel and Iran, and how long will it last? Were last night's strikes from Iran on a US base merely performative? How real is the chance of Supreme... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Will Farage be prime minister? Really?

The media's obsession with Reform’s leader makes a disaster of Truss and Boris Johnson proportions ever more likely... Continue

140. The Next Prime Minister of France? Gabriel Attal on Macron, Le Pen, and Israel-Iran

Why has Macron become so unpopular? Where is the discussion of international law when it comes to the conflict between Israel and Iran? Why can’t the French and the English coordinate to st... Continue

140. The Next President of France? Gabriel Attal on Macron, Le Pen, and Israel-Iran

Why has Macron become so unpopular? Where is the discussion of international law when it comes to the conflict between Israel and Iran? Why can’t the French and the English coordinate to st... Continue

418. Trump Bombs Iran: What Happens Now?

Why has the US entered the Israel-Iran war? Is this the beginning of a wider war? What does this all mean for the world? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more. ... Continue