The Rest Is Politics

2 Apr 2026

The Real Reasons Populism Is Taking Over

What 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?

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.

Latest

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

254. Question Time: Is Biden alienating young voters?

What is the international significance of Mexico's presidential election? Is Biden risking the support of young voters over his stance on Israel? And how did Rory find his silent retreat?!Joi... Continue

253. Donald Trump vs. Keir Starmer: The end of the special relationship?

Which states will decide the US election? Why does Wall Street love Donald Trump? Could we see the end of the UK's special relationship with America? Join Anthony and Katty for episode 5 of ... Continue

253. TRIP US: Donald Trump vs. Keir Starmer: The end of the special relationship?

Which states will decide the US election? Why does Wall Street love Donald Trump? Could we see the end of the UK's special relationship with America? Join Anthony and Katty for episode 5 of ... Continue

252. SUNAK CALLS GENERAL ELECTION

Why has the PM called a general election for 4th July? Is Keir Starmer ready? Will the polls narrow or are we heading towards a landslide?Join Rory and Alastair for an emergency episode of T... Continue