The Rest Is Politics

11 Sep 2025

448. Question Time: Mandelson’s Epstein Disgrace, Kirk’s Assassination, and Trump’s Illegal Boat Strike

Why did Peter Mandelson become so mesmerised by the rich and famous? What does Charlie Kirk’s assassination mean for the future of American politics? Is Trump trying to start a fake war with Venezuela?

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

8 Sep 2025

152. “A War on Children”: A Generation in Gaza at Risk (James Elder)

Why is the humanitarian situation in Gaza the worst that James Elder has ever seen? What does the process of rebuilding Gaza look like? How do the people working on the ground not lose hope? 

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

310. The rise of Germany’s far-right

Who will be the next French Prime Minister? How serious is the threat of Germany’s far right? Should school inspections scrap single-word reviews? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Scottish independence has lost its salience

The issue was conspicuously absent from speeches at the SNP conference... Continue

96. Frank Luntz: The World’s Most Prolific Pollster

Can a pollster be apolitical? What issues are the American people most interested in Kamala Harris and Donald Trump tackling? How can politicians communicate their message most effectively? R... Continue

309. Trump’s Secret Weapon

Who has returned as Donald Trump's secret weapon? What's happening in Georgia? Is Kamala Harris making a mistake over the upcoming presidential debate?Join Anthony & Katty as they answer ... Continue

308. Question Time: Can you be friends with someone you totally disagree with politically?

Why have so many kids been excluded from school since the pandemic? How should the world respond to the ‘gender apartheid’ in Afghanistan? And how can we stay friends with political enemi... Continue

307. Starmer put to the test, Modi’s visit to Ukraine, and tragedy unfolds in Sudan

Does Starmer have a plan to fix the UK? Why did Modi visit Ukraine? What is really happening in Sudan and when will it receive more coverage in the international media?Rory and Alastair answe... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: We can’t be blinded by Trump Derangement Syndrome

If you fail to see beyond the Trump lies, the chaos and narcissism, you fail to understand why people might vote for him in the first place... Continue

95. DNC Special: An alternative view from a Trump supporter (David Urban)

What did a Trump supporter make of the Democratic National Convention? Does Donald Trump have any friends? What message did the DNC send to those who don't support Kamala Harris?Alastair is j... Continue