The Rest Is Politics

2 Apr 2026

The Real Reasons Populism Is Taking Over

What is populism, and why is it so attractive to voters? Which human instincts do populists tap into to get votes? And what does a populist-led country look like?

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

30 Mar 2026

182. Culture Wars, Identity, and What Needs To Change In Congress (Sarah McBride)

How are rights for trans people in the US improving or worsening under the Republican administration? What fundamentally needs to change in Congress to improve the state of politics? Are the Democrats doing enough to win back the American public?

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

95. DNC Special: An alternative view from a Trump supporter (David Urban)

What did a Trump supporter make of the Democratic National Convention? Does Donald Trump have any friends? What message did the DNC send to those who don't support Kamala Harris?Alastair is j... Continue

94. DNC Special – The Young Buck (Josh Elliot)

What does a State Senator do? What is the difference in the energy at the DNC now the nominee is Kamala Harris, not Joe Biden? How do politicians become delegates?Rory and Alastair are joined... Continue

93. DNC Special: The Veteran Congresswoman (Rosa DeLauro)

What is the role of a member of Congress? How much do campaigns in the United States really cost? Is campaigning as a member of Congress wildly different to campaigning as an MP?Rory and Alas... Continue

92. DNC Special: The Attack Dog (Bob Mulholland)

What is the role of a delegate at a convention? Why is focusing on the negative the best way to campaign? Is Tim Walz the right choice to help Kamala Harris win?Rory and Alastair are joined b... Continue

306. Did Kamala Harris’ speech scare Trump?

Was Kamala Harris' closing speech at the Democratic National Convention powerful enough to shake the Republicans? Who were the most successful speakers at the DNC? What are some key differenc... Continue

91. DNC Special: The Pollster (John Anzalone)

What goes on behind the scenes of campaign polling? When did American campaigns stop focusing on policy and become all about themes? How do parties use polls to change their tactics?Rory and ... Continue

305. The Obamas takedown Donald Trump

Has Michelle Obama given up on her own plea that "when they go low we go high"? How will male voters respond to the idea of the first US First Gentleman? Will RFK Jr drop out of the race to e... Continue

304. Question Time: Could Trump try and subvert the US election results?

Why is there civil unrest in Slovakia and Bulgaria? Are they legitimate tools at Trump’s disposal to subvert an election result? Do we have the technology to fact check debates in real time... Continue