The Rest Is Politics

19 Jun 2026

545. Burnham Beats Reform: Britain’s Next Prime Minister?

Has Andy Burnham’s huge victory against Reform in Makerfield shown the Labour Party how it can beat Farage? What does this defeat mean for the right, and how tricky will the coming months be for Andy Burnham? What does the Tory victory against the SNP in Aberdeen mean for British energy policy?

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

22 Jun 2026

194. Is Putin Losing his Grip on Russia?

With war fatigue growing and polls showing increasing dissatisfaction with life in Russia, is Vladimir Putin beginning to lose control? What is really happening inside Russia today? And what is it like to report the truth from inside one of the world's most repressive states?

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

343. What Happens Next: Israel vs. the International Criminal Court

How has the world responded to the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for top Israeli officials? What does Trump have planned for the war in Ukraine? Is Chancellor Rachel Reeves re... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: The day John Prescott gave a speech to the sea

In paying their tributes, many people are still underestimating the former deputy prime minister... Continue

109. Is it time to legalise assisted dying? (Kim Leadbeater)

Should assisted dying be legalised? How did the murder of her sister, Jo Cox, impact British politics? Why is the job of an MP so difficult?Rory and Alastair are joined by Labour MP Kim Leadb... Continue

John Prescott was a great fighter and a great friend

The public saw his combative side, but those closest to him saw his heart... Continue

342. Question Time: Farmer vs Starmer, courting China, and the purpose of COP

How would Alastair tweak the so-called “tractor-tax” to appease British farmers? Is Kier Starmer spending too much time abroad? And will international law survive Trump?Join Rory and Alas... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: The word I want to get into the dictionary

The ‘trollification’ that happens on X, Elon Musk’s online hellhole, deserves a definition... Continue

341. Biden vs. Trump: A fight for the future of Ukraine

Is Biden’s move on missiles too little too late for Ukraine? Who will be in Donald Trump’s White House team? Why are business leaders growing tired of Labour?Join Rory and Alastair as the... Continue

108. Mhairi Black: Independence, inequality, and the future of the SNP

What was it like entering Parliament as the youngest MP? How has the SNP’s approach to campaigning for Scottish independence changed since the 2014 referendum? What does the future hold for... Continue