2 Apr 2026
The Real Reasons Populism Is Taking OverWhat 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?
The Rest Is Politics
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.
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How can we unite the extreme right and extreme left? What impact can small countries have on global politics? How was the former Danish Prime Minister influenced by New Labour?Rory and Alasta...
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281. How one night transformed British politics
What happens now? How radical will Starmer’s Labour be in government? Would a change of the voting system only further strengthen the far right?In the first episode of Keir Starmer’s prem... Continue
280. Starmer’s Labour Landslide – 3:30am update
What should we make of Labour’s landslide election win? How big a force can Reform UK become in UK politics? Where next for the Tory Party?Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all this and... Continue
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...
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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