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

264. Rishi Sunak’s defining moment

Could Farage engineer a reverse takeover of the Tory Party? Why has Emmanuel Macron called a snap election? Are Labour losing votes to the Greens?Join Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell for t... Continue

78. David Blunkett: Education, policing immigration, and the future of the Labour Party (Part 2)

What challenges did David Blunkett face as Home Secretary following 9/11? Does he have any regrets relating to his crime and punishment policies? What does the future look like for Keir Starm... Continue

263. Donald Trump, Silicon Valley and Wall Street: Big Money’s Deal with the Devil

Why are Wall Street and Silicon Valley weighing in behind Donald Trump? Is it true that Joe Biden and Bill Ackman almost got into a fist fight? What's going on at the Mexican border?Join Katt... Continue

263. TRIP US: Donald Trump, Silicon Valley and Wall Street: Big Money’s Deal with the Devil

Why are Wall Street and Silicon Valley weighing in behind Donald Trump? Is it true that Joe Biden and Bill Ackman almost got into a fist fight? What's going on at the Mexican border?Join Katt... Continue

How to fight the populists

First, we have to admit we have a problem... Continue

Political education, political education, political education … time to get serious

Pretty much anyone with a passing interest in politics, including people who weren't around at the time, are aware of Tony Blair's "Education, Education, Education" mantra. It was designed to indicat... Continue

262. Modi loses his majority, Sunak takes on the Treasury, and Welsh Labour in crisis

Where next for India after Modi loses his majority? How should Starmer have dealt with Sunak’s Labour tax claim? Is Rory going to vote Lib Dem on July 4th?Hear the answer to all these quest... Continue

261. Sunak vs Starmer: Who won?

Who emerged victorious from the first leadership debate between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer? Was ITV's format too restrictive? Where does the election go from here?Join Rory and Alastair as ... Continue