The Rest Is Politics

9 Feb 2026

499. Is It Game Over for Starmer?

As Starmer begins to lose his key aides and allies, is his departure from Number 10 now a matter of when, not if? Is the UK actually becoming ungovernable? Will the latest revelations about the level of Epstein’s global influence bring a reckoning for politics and society as a whole?

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

9 Feb 2026

175. Ex-Director of GCHQ: China, Russia, and the Threats Facing the UK (Jeremy Fleming)

Do Russia or China represent a bigger risk to UK national security? Why are we underestimating the threat posed by cybercriminals? Who holds the real power - ministers or spies?

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

483. The Future of British Politics, How The World Order Is Changing, and The Power of History

What does this year look like for the future of British politics? How is the global order going to be reshaped? And will the power of historical narratives become even stronger this year? L... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: How we must fight the 3Cs in 2026

Crime, corruption and cruelty show how leaders like Trump and Bukele exploit power, and why they must be stopped... Continue

168. A Climate Special: Populism, Security, and Leadership

Can the planet sustain infinite economic growth, or is GDP a flawed metric? Is the UK genuinely decarbonising, or is it simply outsourcing its pollution? How can politicians defeat the populi... Continue

482. A Trumpian Year, the Politics of Hope and Highlights of 2025

What surprised Rory and Alastair most about 2025? Why does Trump's presidency feel even more chaotic than expected? And who gets their vote for campaigner of the year? Join Rory and Alastair... Continue

481. Polanski, Macron & al-Sharaa: The Best & Worst Politicians of 2025

Who deserves the title of UK politician of the year - and who gets worst? What was the most consequential moment of Trump's presidency so far? And can Rory convince Alastair that Christmas is... Continue

167. Faith, Depression, and Finding Calm in the Chaos (Professor Mark Williams)

From Parliament to Prison, how can people find calm in chaotic environments? How does one cope with grief during the festive period? What are some successful ways to combat depression? Rory... Continue

Will AI Take Our Jobs? (Ep 2)

Is AI a genuine productivity revolution, or just another tech bubble? Are any jobs safe from the advent of AI? And, can the UK harness the innovation, or will it fall behind? Rory Stewart is... Continue

480. Trump, China, and the Scramble for Latin America (Question Time)

What’s really driving Trump’s interventions in Venezuela and the rest of Latin America – oil, drugs, or democracy? Is Labour failing on its promise to reform and ultimately abolish the House of ... Continue