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

94. DNC Special – The Young Buck (Josh Elliot)

What does a State Senator do? What is the difference in the energy at the DNC now the nominee is Kamala Harris, not Joe Biden? How do politicians become delegates?Rory and Alastair are joined... Continue

93. DNC Special: The Veteran Congresswoman (Rosa DeLauro)

What is the role of a member of Congress? How much do campaigns in the United States really cost? Is campaigning as a member of Congress wildly different to campaigning as an MP?Rory and Alas... Continue

92. DNC Special: The Attack Dog (Bob Mulholland)

What is the role of a delegate at a convention? Why is focusing on the negative the best way to campaign? Is Tim Walz the right choice to help Kamala Harris win?Rory and Alastair are joined b... Continue

306. Did Kamala Harris’ speech scare Trump?

Was Kamala Harris' closing speech at the Democratic National Convention powerful enough to shake the Republicans? Who were the most successful speakers at the DNC? What are some key differenc... Continue

91. DNC Special: The Pollster (John Anzalone)

What goes on behind the scenes of campaign polling? When did American campaigns stop focusing on policy and become all about themes? How do parties use polls to change their tactics?Rory and ... Continue

305. The Obamas takedown Donald Trump

Has Michelle Obama given up on her own plea that "when they go low we go high"? How will male voters respond to the idea of the first US First Gentleman? Will RFK Jr drop out of the race to e... Continue

304. Question Time: Could Trump try and subvert the US election results?

Why is there civil unrest in Slovakia and Bulgaria? Are they legitimate tools at Trump’s disposal to subvert an election result? Do we have the technology to fact check debates in real time... Continue

303. The speech Joe Biden never wanted to give (Live from the Democratic National Convention)

How have the Democratic Party united behind Kamala Harris so quickly? What are some of the core principles of Project 2025? Was Joe Biden's farewell speech as success?Join Rory and Alastair l... Continue