Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart break down current affairs in the UK and abroad.
The Rest Is Politics analyses the latest international news, provides debate on global issues, and reveals secrets from Westminster, whilst bringing back the lost art of disagreeing agreeably. With insider perspectives and expert analysis, The Rest Is Politics is the go-to podcast for anyone seeking intelligent, engaging discussions on British and global politics.
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Social Producer: Celine Charles
Lead Video Editor: Josh Smith
Assistant Producer: Daisy Alston-Horne
Producer: Evan Green
Exec Producer: Chris Sawyer
General Manager: Tom Whiter
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Alastair Campbell and Liam Byrne continue their discussion on beating populism, examining practical strategies beyond diagnosing the problem. They advocate for a balanced immigration approach combining strong borders with a path to citizenship based on contribution. The conversation also introduces a 'fairness code' to challenge unethical corporate practices, address consumer rip-offs, and combat wealth inequality through progressive tax reforms and a universal basic capital concept. Finally, they emphasize the importance of reviving civic engagement and community bonds, while confronting disruptive forces like big tech and kleptocracy.
Alastair and Rory dissect the Hungarian election results, exploring Peter Majar's victory over Viktor Orban and the broader implications for global populist movements, including Trump's diminishing brand. They examine how new strategies are needed to combat populism and corruption, specifically looking at crypto donations to UK's Reform Party. The discussion also covers the evolving multi-party landscape in UK local elections and the critical need for discernment in the age of social media.
This episode delves into the profound implications of Donald Trump's naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, analyzing his unpredictable decision-making and the catastrophic global economic and political consequences. The hosts also share insights from Alastair's exclusive interview with President Zelensky, discussing Ukraine's military innovation and a potential new European security architecture. The conversation highlights the US's shifting role on the world stage and the urgent need for a cohesive international response.
The podcast explores the significant implications of Viktor Orbán's unexpected ousting in Hungary, highlighting how his defeat exposes the vulnerabilities of far-right populist strategies embraced by figures like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. It delves into Peter Magyar's successful campaign, which leveraged an inclusive form of nationalism and exposed government corruption, contrasting it with Orbán's hubris and misjudgment of public sentiment. The outcome brings renewed optimism for democratic movements globally and offers a critical boost to Ukraine, potentially unlocking much-needed EU funding.
The hosts discuss the existential threat Trump poses to NATO, exploring his "America First" stance and its historical roots, while Europe grapples with its dependence on the US. They then pivot to Hungary's upcoming election, analyzing Viktor Orbán's populist strategies, voter manipulation, and the broader challenges of addressing genuine grievances that fuel populism. The episode also touches on the political right's effective use of history, critiques Keir Starmer's communication, and unpacks the commercialization and political aspects of modern football.
Alastair Campbell and Dominic Sandbrook delve into the controversial question of whether Donald Trump has crossed into fascism, examining his contempt for democratic norms and comparing his actions to historical fascist characteristics. They also provide a critical assessment of the escalating war in Iran, discussing Trump's erratic leadership, the conflict's regional impacts on Lebanon and Iraq, and its broader geopolitical implications, including how it benefits global rivals like China and Russia. The hosts also touch on the unsettling intertwining of religion and politics within the Trump administration's war rhetoric.
Alistair Campbell and Liam Byrne delve into the true drivers of populism, tracing its origins to the global financial crisis, stagnant wages, and the unaddressed downsides of globalization. They discuss how populist leaders capitalize on a sense of dispossession, community decline, and a longing for a mythologized past. The conversation highlights the urgent need for mainstream politics to offer plausible optimism and solutions for a better future to counter populist appeals.
Rory and Alastair delve into pressing global and domestic issues, examining Trump's strategic moves against Cuba and the potential pitfalls of interventionist foreign policy. They also scrutinize the growing legal challenges and regulatory debates surrounding social media's impact on youth, contrasting the bold approaches of some countries with the UK government's cautious stance. The discussion further encompasses the Green Party's political identity and credibility, as well as a comprehensive analysis of the dangers posed by strongman leaders such as Putin and Netanyahu in an increasingly interconnected international political landscape.
This episode explores the current US approach to the Iran war, highlighting a perceived lack of strategic thinking and the country's economic insulation, which leads to a disconnect from the severe impacts felt by allies. Drawing parallels to historical US foreign policy, Rory and Alastair scrutinize American arrogance and its implications for international alliances. The conversation then shifts to the emerging threat of polymarket betting, where anonymous cryptocurrency allows for insider trading on sensitive global events, raising serious ethical questions. Finally, they examine the Rycroft Review's recommendations for reforming UK political financing, particularly addressing foreign and crypto interference, and the broader challenges of ensuring transparency and accountability in political donations.
Why is 1984 as relevant today as when it was published? Who is Big Brother, and why is he so powerful? What was George Orwell's intention when creating the world of 1984, and what does it tell us about politics today? Alastair Campbell is joined by Dominic Sandbrook to delve into the fascinating story behind the writing of 1984, the world it was born of, and the novel itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices...
This episode delves into the UK government's controversial decision to significantly cut its foreign aid budget, drawing comparisons to past administrations and global spending trends. It also examines the evolving debate around the UK rejoining the EU, including shifting political stances and economic impacts. Additionally, the hosts discuss lessons from Australia's recent election, focusing on how a centrist landslide coexisted with the rise of the far-right, and critically analyze the increasing politicization of religion and Islamophobia in UK and international politics.
Rory and Alastair discuss the catastrophic consequences of Donald Trump's Iran policy, revealing how his hubris led to a dangerous crisis from which Russia and Israel stand to gain. They detail the immense economic and humanitarian fallout for Gulf nations, emphasizing the necessity for European and middle powers to forge new alliances and establish a rules-based international system. The episode also critiques the House of Lords' controversial tactics in blocking the Assisted Dying bill, sparking a broader debate on constitutional reform and ethical governance.
Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell, with Iran expert Karim Sadjadpour, explore why Western powers often misunderstand Iran, its deep-rooted nationalism, and the regime's surprising stability despite external pressure. They analyze the unfolding war, its impact on the global economy through the Strait of Hormuz, and the ideological clashes with Gulf states. The discussion also covers the new Ayatollah's precarious position, the parallels with the Soviet Union's collapse, and the limited, difficult options for achieving resolution or regime change, concluding that a rapid fix is unlikely and highlighting the profound predicament for all involved.
Rory and Alastair discuss the unpredictable and damaging consequences of Trump's Iran policy, including its economic impact on Gulf states and Russia's unexpected gains. They then expose GB News as a "Reform TV" propaganda outlet, scrutinizing Ofcom's failure to regulate impartiality in the evolving media landscape. Finally, the episode highlights the tragic and systemic failures of England's privatized water system, revealing the severe environmental and public health risks.
This episode of The Rest Is Politics Question Time delves into Tony Blair's highly scrutinized remarks regarding Keir Starmer's approach to the Iran crisis and Trump's foreign policy. Rory and Alastair explore the implications of former Prime Ministers intervening in live political issues, the state of UK defense capabilities, and the need for a unified European strategy to assert independence from US influence. The discussion also provides insights into the challenging reality for Iranians caught between a repressive regime and foreign military action, while questioning the integrity of media narratives and the motivations behind current geopolitical strategies.
Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell discuss how the Iran war, initiated by Donald Trump, is rapidly becoming a global crisis, revealing fragilities in world order and energy supply. They examine the appointment of a new Ayatollah, the soaring oil prices, and the war's far-reaching economic consequences for Europe and Asia, particularly regarding fertilizer production. The hosts also delve into the changing nature of warfare with drones and AI, the erosion of international trust in the US, and the formation of new global alliances.
Is Europe sleepwalking into American AI dependency? Are we building toward a world where AI genuinely thinks for itself? And as AI becomes the backbone of modern warfare, who's really in control? Join Rory Stewart and Matt Clifford as they answer all of these questions and more. For the full AI series, sign up at therestispolitics.com For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to goalhanger.com Instagram: @restispolitics Twitter: @restispolitics Email: therestispolitics@goalhanger.com __________ Social ...
Does the Gorton and Denton by-election result suggest Labour has been underestimating the threat of the Green Party? Is the UK's tuition fee system less like a loan and more like a punishing graduate tax? As America retreats from the world stage under Trump, could the UK seize the moment to reassert itself as a cultural superpower? Join Alastair and Rory as they answer all these questions and more. __________ Sign up HERE to the free TRIP newsletter. Join The Rest Is Politics Plus: Star...
This episode delves into the current chaotic situation with Iran, scrutinizing the US and Israel's actions as triggers for the conflict and the contradictory objectives of American leadership. The hosts also debate Keir Starmer's difficult political tightrope walk, balancing UK national interests with international alliances, while critiquing inconsistent responses from other middle powers and the dangerous erosion of international law. They conclude by exploring the conflict's potential unintended consequences, including its human cost and global economic impact.
The episode reacts to the confirmed death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, highlighting the US/Israeli military operation and the resulting power vacuum. Rory and Alastair express deep concern over the lack of a clear "day after" plan and draw parallels to disastrous past interventions in Iraq and Libya. They critically examine Trump's perceived low-risk approach to warfare, his disregard for international law, and the potential for destabilizing global order, contrasting the response to Iran with the overlooked threat of Russia.
As Tehran launches retaliatory strikes against Israel and US military bases, how dangerous is this moment for the Middle East and the wider world? Are the attacks an attempt by Trump to shift attention away from the Epstein files? Will any of this lead to regime change in Iran? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more. __________ Join The Rest Is Politics Plus: Start your free trial at therestispolitics.com to unlock exclusive bonus content – including Rory and Alastair...
On the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, what's the reality on the ground? Why is Trump still calling the shots on negotiations with Russia, given the huge withdrawal of US military aid? Why are Ukrainians tired of being praised for their resilience? __________ Sign up HERE to the free TRIP newsletter to receive Alastair's diary from Ukraine, and much more. The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/p...
Rory and Alastair discuss the implications of the Supreme Court's decision to strike down Trump's unilateral tariff authority, exploring his past actions, furious reaction, and future "torture" tools, while also noting the resilience of US institutions. They then analyze the historical impact of Prince Andrew's arrest and the monarchy's response, alongside the UK government's new schools white paper focusing on special educational needs and broader concerns about childhood development.
Explore why Donald Trump fixated on Greenland, examining the influence of figures like Ronald Lauder and the political calculus behind his ambition, including claiming false victories. The episode also contrasts the US's short-term Arctic strategy with China and Russia's long-term approaches. Finally, it highlights how Greenlanders themselves navigate global attention and their complex relationship with independence versus Danish support.
Alastair Campbell and Lord Falconer analyze the shock and legal ramifications of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor's arrest, delving into the specifics of the "misconduct in public office" charge and the unusual "heavy-handed" nature of the police action. They critically examine King Charles's impactful statement, its message of duty over family, and the profound, potentially years-long damage this scandal inflicts upon the monarchy, drawing comparisons to past royal crises and the varying levels of scrutiny for Epstein's associates in the UK versus the US.
Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell dissect Nigel Farage's controversial political career, questioning how he avoids proper media scrutiny despite alleged electoral breaches, foreign funding, and links to international populists like Steve Bannon. The discussion extends to the struggles of nascent democracies in Thailand and Bangladesh, comparing their economic and political trajectories with autocratic states. They also provide insights from the Munich Security Conference regarding US commitment to NATO, alongside reflections on Keir Starmer's character and the broader tension between science's long-term warnings and politics' short electoral cycles.
This episode, recorded live from the Munich Security Conference, delves into the evolving international landscape. Rory and Alastair analyze Marco Rubio's 'love bomb' speech and Keir Starmer's address, debating Europe's unity in the face of Trump 2.0. They discuss the profound shifts in US-European relations, the need for a unified European defense, and the differing interpretations of the current global 'rupture'.
Alastair Campbell and author Kenneth R. Rosen delve into the intensifying geopolitical struggle for the Arctic, highlighting how climate change is rapidly transforming the region by opening sea lanes and exposing immense mineral wealth. They discuss the strategic military significance of the icy north, contrasting Russia's formidable presence and advanced infrastructure with the United States' underdeveloped capabilities and misplaced focus. The episode also touches on the author's personal connection to the Arctic and its potential as a flashpoint for global conflict.
This episode delves into global political shifts, discussing Japan's recent election and its implications for relations with China and Taiwan amidst renewed talks of militarization and economic policy. It also examines the Portuguese presidential election, highlighting civil society's role in countering far-right movements. The hosts explore the unifying power of sport through the Winter Olympics and Super Bowl, touch upon environmental policy in the UK, and share personal insights on finding happiness and fulfillment in a turbulent world.
This episode delves into the profound challenges facing Keir Starmer's Labour leadership, triggered by key aide resignations and intensified by the Peter Mandelson-Epstein revelations. Rory and Alastair dissect Starmer's struggles with defining a clear national narrative, navigating policy U-turns, and maintaining party unity. The discussion extends to the broader implications of the Epstein scandal, revealing deep-seated political corruption and the pervasive influence of informal networks in modern governance, prompting personal reflections on accountability and integrity.
