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

279. The Day Britain Decides

What do politicians actually do on polling day? How does it feel to hear you’re the next prime minister? Should we care that The Sun has backed Labour?In the final episode of The Rest Is Po... Continue

278. Question Time: How reliable are the polls?

What happens at Number 10 when there is a change of government? Are polls a help or hinderance to the parties pre-election day? What are the benefits of Joe Biden staying on as Presidential n... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Britain deserves a change in government

Meanwhile, in Newark, Robert Jenrick appears to fancy himself as future Tory leader... Continue

277. What stands in the way of a Labour landslide?

Which party has had the most effective campaign? Is there any way out for Macron in his fight against the far right and far left? Why are the Democrats closing rank over Joe Biden?Join Rory a... Continue

83. The Man Who Ran Downing Street

What are prime ministers really like behind closed doors? How do you become Britain’s most powerful civil servant? Are special advisors a force for good or ill?On today’s episode of Leadi... Continue

276. Why Joe Biden must step down

"Last night was a game changer. And the change that now has to come is to produce another game changer, which is a new Democratic candidate."In an emergency episode of The Rest Is Politics, R... Continue

275. Advantage Trump: Will the Democrats move to replace Joe Biden?

What repercussions will Joe Biden's stumbling performance in the first presidential debate have on the race for the White House? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci for their instant reacti... Continue

275. TRIP US: Advantage Trump: Will the Democrats move to replace Joe Biden?

What repercussions will Joe Biden's stumbling performance in the first presidential debate have on the race for the White House? Join Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci for their instant reacti... Continue