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

285. DONALD TRUMP SHOT

Has Donald Trump’s attempted assassination won him the race? Are we descending into an era of new political violence? What can we expect from the Republican National Convention next week? ... Continue

285. TRIP US: DONALD TRUMP SHOT

Has Donald Trump’s attempted assassination won him the race? Are we descending into an era of new political violence? What can we expect from the Republican National Convention next week? ... Continue

284. Biden’s Last Stand

Who are the Democrats speaking out against Joe Biden? What happens to NATO if Donald Trump gets elected? Could next week be the president’s crunch point?Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucc... Continue

284. TRIP US: Biden’s Last Stand

Who are the Democrats speaking out against Joe Biden? What happens to NATO if Donald Trump gets elected? Could next week be the president’s crunch point?Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucc... Continue

283. Did Reform UK create a fake general election candidate?

Does the Prime Minister hold constituency surgeries? Did Ed Davey's campaign tactics work? How has the South African election results affected the country?Rory and Alastair answer all these q... Continue

282. Starmer’s first week, Le Pen’s loss in France, and Iran’s new president

What has Keir Starmer’s new cabinet promised so far? What’s next for France after voters mobilised to stop Marine Le Pen’s far-right party from gaining power? Who is Iran’s new Presid... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Opposition never suited Starmer, but government does

Despite the enormous challenges he faces, Starmer has already grown into the role of prime minister... Continue

84. Denmark’s former PM on the power of centrist politics, fighting misogyny, and joining the Kinnock empire (Helle Thorning-Schmidt)

How can we unite the extreme right and extreme left? What impact can small countries have on global politics? How was the former Danish Prime Minister influenced by New Labour?Rory and Alasta... Continue