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

281. How one night transformed British politics

What happens now? How radical will Starmer’s Labour be in government? Would a change of the voting system only further strengthen the far right?In the first episode of Keir Starmer’s prem... Continue

280. Starmer’s Labour Landslide – 3:30am update

What should we make of Labour’s landslide election win? How big a force can Reform UK become in UK politics? Where next for the Tory Party?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all this and... Continue

279. The Day Britain Decides

What do politicians actually do on polling day? How does it feel to hear you’re the next prime minister? Should we care that The Sun has backed Labour?In the final episode of The Rest Is Po... Continue

278. Question Time: How reliable are the polls?

What happens at Number 10 when there is a change of government? Are polls a help or hinderance to the parties pre-election day? What are the benefits of Joe Biden staying on as Presidential n... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Britain deserves a change in government

Meanwhile, in Newark, Robert Jenrick appears to fancy himself as future Tory leader... Continue

277. What stands in the way of a Labour landslide?

Which party has had the most effective campaign? Is there any way out for Macron in his fight against the far right and far left? Why are the Democrats closing rank over Joe Biden?Join Rory a... Continue

83. The Man Who Ran Downing Street

What are prime ministers really like behind closed doors? How do you become Britain’s most powerful civil servant? Are special advisors a force for good or ill?On today’s episode of Leadi... Continue

276. Why Joe Biden must step down

"Last night was a game changer. And the change that now has to come is to produce another game changer, which is a new Democratic candidate."In an emergency episode of The Rest Is Politics, R... Continue