The Rest Is Politics

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. The Rest Is Politics Plus: Join with a FREE TRIAL at therestispolitics.com for exclusive bonus content including Rory and Alastair’s first ever miniseries, early access to episodes and live show tickets, ad free listening, our exclusive newsletter, discount book prices on titles mentioned on the pod, and our members chatroom. For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com. 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

Last refreshed: July 2nd, 2026 at 11:14 PM

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Episodes

550. Will Farage's Extreme Wealth Be His Downfall?

How has Farage become the highest earning MP, while still claiming to be “for the everyday Briton”? Has Farage become part of the establishment? And how much more is there to discover about Farage’s £5 million "gift"? Join Alastair and Cat Neilan, journalist at the Observer, as they answer all these questions and more. To hear the whole of "Who Funds Reform?", sign up here at therestispolitics.com __________ Enjoy Rory and Alastair’s interview with Malcolm Turnbull by searching ‘Leading’ on Spot...

Jul 02, 2026•51 min•Ep. 550

549. Mamdani’s Wrecking Ball and the Rise of Anti-Migrant Vigilantes

Is Zohran Mamdani becoming much more than a mayor and effectively running a shadow presidential campaign through the candidates he's backing? How significant is Australia’s new centrist party and could something similar be done in the UK? Are the anti-migrant protests and vigilantes in South Africa unique to the region, or part of a global populist pattern of scapegoating migrants for the failures of politics? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more in this week's edit...

Jul 01, 2026•45 min•Ep. 549

548. Burnham vs. Westminster and Trump’s Next Target

Will Andy Burnham’s plan for a ‘Number 10 North’ actually work in practice? What does Rory make of Burnham’s growth strategy? Who is Donald Trump’s next target in Latin America? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more. __________ Enjoy Rory and Alastair’s interview with Malcolm Turnbull by searching ‘Leading’ on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Go deeper into the world of The Rest Is Politics by signing up for our free newsletter HERE , featuring exclusive interviews, analy...

Jun 30, 2026•54 min•Ep. 548

547. The Truth About Russian Oil, Net Zero, and North Sea Drilling

This episode features European Commissioner Dan Jørgensen addressing Europe's energy challenges, including dependencies on Russian oil and geopolitical shocks. He outlines the transition to renewables, emphasizing the economic benefits and the critical role of grid infrastructure and energy efficiency. The discussion also explores the political complexities of achieving net zero, the rapid growth of data centers, and the ongoing debate about the true costs and trade-offs of green energy.

Jun 24, 2026•1 hr•Ep. 547

546. Keir Starmer Resigns: What Happens Next?

Following Keir Starmer's unexpected resignation, this episode explores the implications for UK politics and the likely ascent of Andy Burnham as the seventh Prime Minister since Brexit. Discussions delve into Starmer's overlooked achievements, the critical need for a clear growth strategy, and the immense domestic and geopolitical challenges awaiting Burnham, including the future of the economy, foreign policy, and the impact of AI. The hosts also debate the crucial role of leadership style, MP relations, and early policy decisions in navigating a deeply polarized and unstable political landscape.

Jun 22, 2026•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 546

545. Burnham Beats Reform: Britain’s Next Prime Minister?

The episode dissects Andy Burnham's significant win in Makerfield, highlighting its defiance of political norms and its profound implications for Keir Starmer's position as Labour leader. Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell discuss the intense pressure on Starmer, the broken trust between him and Burnham, and the likelihood of a leadership challenge. They also touch upon the Conservative victory in Aberdeen South, the perceived weakening of Reform, and the rising influence of mayoral power in national politics.

Jun 19, 2026•44 min•Ep. 545

544. How Trump Is Weaponising AI and Martial Arts at the White House

This episode delves into the critical issue of the US withholding advanced AI models, forcing allies like the UK into a potential "vassal state" dependency and highlighting the need for sovereign AI development. Rory and Alistair also scrutinize current British defense strategies, deeming them ill-suited for modern warfare. The conversation shifts to reflect on the "banalization" of politics through events like Trump's controversial UFC birthday celebration at the White House, the very close Peruvian presidential election, and the excitement surrounding Scotland's World Cup journey.

Jun 17, 2026•49 min•Ep. 544

543. The Disaster Britain Still Can't Escape and Trump’s Iran ‘Deal’

Marking ten years since Brexit, this episode critically assesses its economic damage, the unfulfilled promises of "Singapore on Thames" and "Global Britain," and the puzzling resilience of pro-Brexit leaders. The discussion expands to the alarming rise of far-right populism across Europe, including Russian interference and the debate over banning Germany's AFD. Finally, the hosts express deep skepticism about Trump's new Iran 'deal,' analyzing its potential pitfalls and the severe economic consequences of the Strait of Hormuz conflict.

Jun 16, 2026•53 min•Ep. 543

542. Starmer Loses His Defence Secretary: What Next?

This episode discusses the fallout from Defence Secretary John Healy's surprise resignation, which puts Keir Starmer's leadership under intense scrutiny amidst ongoing debates about defence spending and global threats. Rory and Alistair explore the political motivations, the UK's challenging defence options, and the perceived indecision within Labour. They also consider the upcoming Makerfield by-election and its potential impact on a looming leadership contest.

Jun 11, 2026•39 min•Ep. 542

541. Trump’s World Cup Mess and Kushner’s Albania Deal

Rory and Alastair discuss the increasingly political 2026 World Cup, examining Trump's travel bans and FIFA's role. They analyze the US midterms, the impact of a divided Congress, and the unexpected strength of Trump's support. The episode also investigates Jared Kushner's opaque real estate ventures in Albania and the wider Balkans, raising concerns about corruption. Finally, they cover Argentina's bold move to allow AI-run corporations without human accountability, contrasting it with EU regulations, and reflect on the challenges of modern politics.

Jun 10, 2026•46 min•Ep. 541

540. The Untold Iran Crisis, Henry Nowak, and Farage’s Politics of Rage

Rory and Alastair discuss the dire implications of the Iran crisis and the blocked Strait of Hormuz, revealing how governments are unprepared for a looming energy and economic catastrophe, exacerbated by the US's self-interested energy independence. They then pivot to the Henry Nowak murder, analyzing how figures like Nigel Farage and JD Vance exploit the tragedy with divisive rhetoric, fueling 'politics of rage' and distorting facts, ultimately reflecting a radicalization of British political debate.

Jun 09, 2026•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 540

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