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
6 Apr 2026
183. From Bradford to Westminster: Faith, Identity, and Power (Naz Shah)How did Naz Shah’s experience growing up in Bradford and her experience with her family in the legal system influence her to go into politics? What does it mean for a political party to truly “stand for something” in modern Britain? How can faith influence politics in a secular society? Rory and Alastair are joined by Labour MP, Naz Shah, to discuss all this and more.
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
148. France on fire, Thames Water troubles, and NHS privatisation
What's happening in France? How did Thames Water become saddled with debt? Are we on course for inevitable NHS privatisation? Join Alastair and Rory as they discuss the main issues of the we... Continue
Alastair Campbell’s Diary: To undo the damage, we need to understand WHY people voted for Brexit
The key to winning Leave voters over to our side is not to tell them they were wrong, but that the liars in charge let them down. And the dial is shifting... Continue
25: Michael Ignatieff: Fighting Orban’s Global Conservative Cabal
What's it like to know how your obituary will read? What makes the democratic system the best for fighting against climate change? How does politics change a person, whether they like it or n... Continue
147. Question Time: The next global superpower, a royal panic, and Rory on Austerity
How did Rory get stuck in the royal panic room? Why do Labour politicians attend Murdoch parties? Which country will be the next global superpower?Rory and Alastair answer all these questions... Continue
146. Putin vs. Prigozhin, the power of Lebedev, and the battle for Southeast Asia
Is this the beginning of the end for Vladimir Putin? Did Boris Johnson overrule MI6 during his time as Prime Minister? Will Sunak be able to control inflation?Rory and Alastair answer these ... Continue
24: John Major: The Gulf War, Black Wednesday, and Populism (Part 2)
What was it like fighting New Labour? Why did Black Wednesday happen? How did Ian McKellen help bring the campaign for gay rights into Downing Street?Join Alastair and Rory as they answer all... Continue
145. Putin under threat as Wagner mutiny
As Wagner Group mercenaries led by Yevgeny Prigozhin apparently rebel against the Russian Army, what impact could this have on the war with Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s position as presiden... Continue
Alastair Campbell: Question Time and an audience full of Leavers
The Brexit-voting audience was friendly and open to argument – but why was there no one from the government on the panel?... Continue