The Rest Is Politics

11 Jun 2026

542. Starmer Loses His Defence Secretary: What Next?

What does John Healey's shock resignation mean for Keir Starmer, whose position is already on the line ahead of Andy Burnham's crunch by-election in Makerfield? Who might replace Healey in one of the most important jobs in government, at one of the most dangerous moments in the UK's history? With NATO allies demanding higher spending on defence and Trump's America growing ever more unpredictable, can Britain afford a government at war with itself over military spending?

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.

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Leading

8 Jun 2026

192. Are We On The Brink Of World War III? (Odd Arne Westad)

How similar is today's world to the months before the outbreak of World War I? Could Taiwan, India-China tensions, or an unforeseen crisis be the spark that sets the world ablaze? Are our leaders too consumed by domestic politics to prevent a catastrophic great power war?

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.

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Latest

143. Iraq, Trump, and America’s Slide to Authoritarianism (Congressman Seth Moulton)

How did Congressman Moulton keep fighting the Iraq war when he thought it was a mistake? Is there anyone who can stop Trump, or is he an absolute monarch? Have substandard politicians used mi... Continue
Podcast

427. The Real JD Vance: Heir to the MAGA Throne (Part 4)

Is JD Vance Trump's most dangerous heir? Would a JD Vance presidency be even more dangerous than Trump 2.0? How historically unusual is it for a Vice President to be so prominent in an admini... Continue
Podcast

426. Corbyn’s Comeback, Musk’s New Party and The Broken SEND System

Is Corbyn’s new party a bold move — or a boost for the Tories? Can Labour fix SEND — or are vulnerable kids being left behind? Is Bosnia ready for the EU — or is Europe looking away a... Continue
Podcast

426. Corbyn’s Comeback, Musk’s New Party and The Broken SEND System

Is Corbyn’s new party a bold move — or a boost for the Tories? Can Labour fix SEND — or are vulnerable kids being left behind? Is Bosnia ready for the EU — or is Europe looking away a... Continue
Podcast

Alastair Campbell’s diary: How to understand Donald Trump

The chaos he inflicts on the world is perplexing, but his behaviour has clear patterns... Continue
Article

425. Israel, Gaza, and the Definition of Genocide

Is the Israeli government creating a prison camp for Palestinians in Rafah? Why did the BBC drop its documentary investigating Israel’s destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system? How is Tru... Continue
Podcast

142. The Truth About Net Zero’s Credibility (Emma Pinchbeck)

Why are the British paying more for energy than anywhere else in Europe? How does society navigate the anxiety of having children during the climate crisis? What does the UK government need t... Continue
Podcast

424. The Real JD Vance: From Never Trumper to Vice President (Part 3)

How do you go from calling Donald Trump “Hitler” to becoming his most loyal ally? Why did JD Vance abandon the thoughtful, Christian conservative image that made him famous? And what does... Continue
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