The Rest Is Politics

12 Feb 2026

500. Japan, China, and the Fight for Taiwan (Question Time)

Are Japan and China closer to conflict over Taiwan, after the landslide victory for Japan's 'Iron Lady', Sanae Takayichi? Does Trump’s crumbling American-Hispanic vote explain his extreme reaction to Bad Bunny's historic, Spanish-only Super Bowl performance? Is the Winter Olympics a sign sport is the only thing that can make us feel good right now?

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

128. Whips, Chaos, and secrets from Westminster (Simon Hart)

Why do the wrong people become MPs? How can we transform Westminster into a modern day workplace? How did Simon Hart’s time at The Countryside Alliance inform his politics? Rory and Alasta... Continue

391. Trump vs. the World: Global Trade War

What happens next? Is this the start of a global recession? How should allies hit back?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more.The Rest Is Politics Plus: Become a m... Continue

390. Question Time: India’s moment, Qatargate, and do young brits want a dictator?

How should Starmer respond to the 27% of young people who would prefer to live in a dictatorship? Could India become a third power, rivalling the US and China? And, why do politicians never e... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Dear Rachel, here’s a big idea for you

No matter how loudly we call for a return to the customs union and the single market, Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer are not going to listen... Continue

389. Trump, Vance, and How the US Invades Greenland

America vs. the Arctic - is this the end for NATO? Should Marine Le Pen still be allowed to run for president? Will Australia adopt Trump-style politics, or can Albanese buck the trend?Join R... Continue

127. Donald Trump vs American Freedom: Who Wins? (Moises Naim)

Is this the end of democracy in the USA? Following the election of Trump, could democracy in America die? How did Moises Naim come up with his three p’s; Populism, Polarisation, and Post-t... Continue

388. Question Time: Adolescence, Mexico at a crossroads, and Carney’s Canadian momentum

How has Mexico responded to Donald Trump? Will new Netflix show Adolescence really move the dial on youth violence? How significant a factor will Trump and the US relationship be in the Canad... Continue

387. Spring Statement Verdict with Economist Paul Johnson (Extract)

This episode is available in FULL to members of TRIP Plus. Sign up now at therestispolitics.comHas Rachel Reeves played it too safe, or is caution exactly what the economy needs right now? Is... Continue