The Rest Is Politics

13 Feb 2026

The Battle for the Arctic

One of the most important political issues of our time - the battle for the Arctic. Why is Russia so dominant there? Why does Trump really want Greenland? And why is Climate Change right at the heart of this?Join Alastair and author Kenneth R. Rosen in the first episode of our new members-only miniseries on the battle for geopolitical control of the icy north, the polar war.

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

289. TRIP US: The Week Trump Won?

What does Trump’s new running mate mean for the direction of the Republican Party? Have the Democrats given up on a 2024 win? Is there anything now that can stand in Trump’s way?Join Katt... Continue

288. Is Labour’s King’s Speech bold enough?

What legislation did Keir Starmer's government put forward in the state opening of Parliament? Do the bills go far enough? Where does Labour go from here? Alastair is joined by Robert Peston ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Erdoğan’s hold could be weakening

Despite the president’s propaganda machine, Turkish people appear confident that their democracy is strong enough to vote him out of office... Continue

287. Trump’s VP, Labour vs. China, and the King’s Speech

How has a man who once called Trump ‘America’s Hilter’ now become his running mate? What does a Labour government mean for UK-China relations? Will China define how Gaza will be governe... Continue

85. Lisa Nandy: Making Britain a cultural superpower

What responsibilities will Lisa Nandy take on as the new Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport? Why was this the most toxic election campaign she has fought? How has the importance... Continue

286. Trump Assassination Attempt: The Aftermath

Will the Trump rally shooting change the course of the US election? Are we entering an era of further political violence and polarisation? What goes on behind the scenes in the secret service... Continue

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