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

105. War and Peace in Northern Ireland and the Middle East (George Mitchell)

What is it like to negotiate with terrorists? Will peace ever be possible in the Middle East? How did the Good Friday Agreement come to pass? On today’s episode of Leading, Rory and Alastai... Continue

332. Rachel Reeves’ Budget: How does it affect you?

Will Labour's first budget be a success or failure for the new government? How does it compare to previous budgets? Did Rachel Reeves alter her proposals from pre-election?Rory and Alastair c... Continue

331. Question Time: Murdoch or Musk — who has more power?

Why does the UK ignore Irish politics? Should Labour implement Leveson 2, and what should your 7 year-old ask a Tory MP, according to Alastair?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Why I’m obsessed with litter

You’re lucky to get a few seconds between spotting roadside refuse when driving in Britain. Tackling this is an easy win for the government... Continue

330. The US Election: One week to go

With one week to go until the US election, what media outlets can you trust? Is Australia immune to the populist wave that seems to be sweeping Europe? What do the elections in Austria and Ge... Continue

104. Timothy Snyder: How will the US election result impact Ukraine?

What can European history teach us about the potential outcome of conflicts around the world? What effect will the results of the US election have on Ukraine? Will America always be a democra... Continue

329. Question Time: Technology, privacy, and the battle for the NHS

Will disability benefits ever be means tested? Could cross party collaboration fix the national health crisis? And how are Alastair and Rory staying humble post-tour?Join Rory and Alastair as... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: Life on the road with The Rest is Politics

We asked our listeners at the 02 whether Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick should be the next Tory leader. The response was bleak for both candidates... Continue