The Rest Is Politics 452. Question Time: America’s New Martyr and Westminster’s Hidden Spies
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Sep 24, 2025 Charlie Kirk is stirring controversy as he becomes a potential martyr for far-right sentiments. The discussion highlights alarming trends in ethnic nationalism and the politicization of events like funerals. Insights into the extent of Chinese spying in Western politics raise concerns about global stability. Meanwhile, the podcast explores Russia's meddling in Moldova and historical influences on European politics. A lighter segment reminisces about iconic TV adverts, reflecting on their cultural significance as the ad landscape shifts.
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Funeral Speech As Political Rally
- Stephen Miller's funeral speech fused ethnic nationalism with political mobilisation in ways the hosts found alarming.
- Alastair Campbell warns it framed opponents as "barbarians" and mobilised identity-based grievance.
Weaponisation Of Tragedy
- Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell say the funeral was weaponised into a political rally within minutes.
- They argue many speakers rejected free-speech principles, celebrating only like-minded voices.
Guns, Violence, And Inexplicable Shooters
- The hosts connect US gun culture and political violence, noting rising gun deaths across decades.
- They say perpetrators often appear deeply disturbed, mirroring school-shooter profiles and defying easy explanations.
