The Rest Is Politics

23 Jan 2026

493. Trump Insults NATO Troops

Why has Trump chosen to denigrate the sacrifice of allied soldiers? Are Keir Starmer and other NATO leaders finally reaching a breaking point with the US President? And what does this mean for the future of the Western alliance at such a critical moment?

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

19 Jan 2026

171. Neil Kinnock: A Labour Rebel’s Path To Power (Part 1)

Whilst an early career MP, why did Neil Kinnock rebel against the Labour Party so regularly? As Labour leader, how did Kinnock take on militant and the ‘ultra-left’ within the Labour Party? What regrets does Kinnock have about the way he responded to the Miners’ strikes? 

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

259. Can Trump still run for president?

What is the political damage after Trump’s guilty verdict? How will Trump’s base react to his conviction? What does all of this mean for the future of democracy in the US?Rory and Alastai... Continue

Legacy… Margaret Thatcher

Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and women ever to have lived – and ask whether they have the reputation they deserve. Should Nina... Continue

258. DONALD TRUMP FOUND GUILTY

What does Donald Trump's guilty verdict mean for the 2024 election? Do the nine Justices of the Supreme Court have too much power? What do Democrats really mean when they say Trump will ‘en... Continue

257. Diane Abbott, Nigel Farage, and how to plan a campaign

Why can't Keir Starmer make a decision about Diane Abbott? How do parties prepare for an election with no warning? Why is Nigel Farage getting so much media coverage? Join Rory and Alastair ... Continue

256. Question Time: Will the podcast dynamic change after the election?

Is it time for a new curriculum? Do the UK's creative industries receive enough funding in relation to the soft power they exude? Who is 'El Loco' in the election in Panama? Listen to Rory an... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s Diary: My election diary, week one

Is someone in the prime minister’s team deliberately trying to derail his campaign from within?... Continue

255. Is Labour’s lead narrowing?

Is the gap between public opinion of Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak narrowing already? Have the Conservatives stolen Rory's idea for a compulsory national service? What tactics are being used t... Continue

76. Rachel Reeves: Britain’s next Chancellor?

How would an incoming Labour government fund the NHS? How does Reeves and Starmer's relationship compare to Blair and Brown? What is the experience of being a woman in the world of banking an... Continue