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

77. David Blunkett: Tony Blair, growing up blind, and where Margaret Thatcher went wrong (Part 1)

How did the loss of industry in the 1980s affect David Blunkett's politics? What was his experience growing up blind in Sheffield? How did Neil Kinnock and Tony Blair compare? Rory and Alasta... Continue

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