The Rest Is Politics

10 Oct 2025

The Rise of Rupert Murdoch: Making of a Mogul (Part 1)

Why is Rupert Murdoch considered such an influential figure? What was his childhood and family like growing up in Australia? How did he establish his groundbreaking media presence in the UK?

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

6 Oct 2025

156. Defence Secretary, John Healey: Is Britain Ready For War?

What tactic did Donald Trump steal from Gordon Brown? What can we learn from when Labour beat UKIP in the 2012 Rotherham by-election when it comes to taking on Farage? As a New Labour alumnus, why does John Healey think there was more patience for change in 1997 compared to 2024? 

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

Alastair Campbell’s diary: How to understand Donald Trump

The chaos he inflicts on the world is perplexing, but his behaviour has clear patterns... Continue

425. Israel, Gaza, and the Definition of Genocide

Is the Israeli government creating a prison camp for Palestinians in Rafah? Why did the BBC drop its documentary investigating Israel’s destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system? How is Tru... Continue

142. The Truth About Net Zero’s Credibility (Emma Pinchbeck)

Why are the British paying more for energy than anywhere else in Europe? How does society navigate the anxiety of having children during the climate crisis? What does the UK government need t... Continue

424. The Real JD Vance: From Never Trumper to Vice President (Part 3)

How do you go from calling Donald Trump “Hitler” to becoming his most loyal ally? Why did JD Vance abandon the thoughtful, Christian conservative image that made him famous? And what does... Continue

423. Question Time: Glastonbury’s Israel fallout, New York’s socialist mayor and why NATO called Trump ‘daddy’

Has ‘impartiality’ become a cover for moral failure in Palestine? Why does Trump want a Nobel peace price? And, why is the head of NATO calling Trump "daddy"? Join Rory and Alastair as t... Continue

422. Things Can Only Get Better? Starmer’s Stormy First Year

What have the Labour government achieved since the general election one year ago? What are the hardest challenges Keir Starmer must face? How has Donald Trump monetised the Presidency of the ... Continue

Alastair Campbell’s diary: After one year in office, here’s what Starmer needs to do now

After a tricky first year, the prime minister has built strong relationships with leaders of other counties. But now he must fix with one he has with his MPs... Continue

141. The President of Cyprus: Iran, Israel, and the Cyprus Issue (Nikos Christodoulides)

What role does Cyprus play in the Middle East conflicts? How can Europe and the United Kingdom strengthen their relations during this tumultuous time? How can governments fight corruption? ... Continue