The Rest Is Politics
Goalhanger
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
262 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 27min
482. A Trumpian Year, the Politics of Hope and Highlights of 2025
In an engaging discussion, Rory and Alastair explore the chaos of Trump's second presidency and its implications worldwide. They liken Trump's behavior to reality TV, leaving global leaders bewildered. Personal anecdotes pop up, including Rory's emotional bagpipe moment and Alastair's croissant runs with his kids. They share book recommendations, cultural reflects on films and notable places visited, and highlight Zora Mamdani as campaigner of the year. It's a mix of politics, culture, and heartfelt moments.
170 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 1h 2min
481. Polanski, Macron & al-Sharaa: The Best & Worst Politicians of 2025
The hosts debate the UK politician of the year and the worst political figures, spotlighting Rachel Reeves and Nathan Gill. They highlight Zack Polanski's impact on the Green Party and Alok Sharma's military credibility. The discussion also features a frank assessment of Emmanuel Macron's leadership. Notable moments include Zelensky in the Oval Office and a reflection on Trump's tariffs affecting global trade. They cap it off with festive banter, Christmas cheer, and humorous gibbon impressions.
109 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 18min
Will AI Take Our Jobs? (Ep 2)
Matt Clifford, a former government advisor on AI and author of the AI Action Plan, joins Rory Stewart to dive into the implications of artificial intelligence. They discuss which jobs are at risk, particularly in junior legal and consultancy sectors. Matt draws parallels between AI disruption and the Industrial Revolution, warning of potential living-standard delays. The conversation shifts to the UK's need to embrace AI for competitive advantage, challenges in worker retraining, and the bittersweet nature of productivity gains.
112 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 56min
480. Trump, China, and the Scramble for Latin America (Question Time)
The discussion dives into Trump's strategic focus on Latin America, questioning whether it's driven by oil, drugs, or democracy. They examine the rise of right-wing populism in the region amid growing US-China competition. The hosts tackle stalled reform promises in the UK's House of Lords and highlight the troubling media silence surrounding hunger strikes related to Palestine Action. Additionally, they consider the implications of long-form podcasts as a medium for nuanced political debate.
220 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 59min
479. Russian Influence in Britain: How Exposed Are We?
Top military and intelligence chiefs are raising alarms about Putin's influence in Britain. The podcast dives into how Russia's hybrid tactics, like disinformation and polarization, have permeated British politics and media. They discuss the UK’s struggle to counter these threats due to cuts in intelligence capacity. The announced inquiry into Russian interference is also examined, alongside the challenges of proving covert influence in politics. Finally, they explore the complexities of using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine amidst legal hurdles.
225 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 14min
How Will AI Change The World? (Ep 1)
In this engaging discussion, Matt Clifford, a former UK government AI advisor and entrepreneur, dives deep into the future of Artificial Intelligence and its monumental rise over the past decade. He sheds light on how AI is shaping economic growth and the fierce competition for talent and resources. Matt addresses concerns of potential risks versus benefits, emphasizing AI's capabilities in medicine while cautioning about its dangers. The conversation also highlights the influence of major firms and the public's swift embrace of AI technologies like ChatGPT.
161 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 4min
478. Farage’s Crypto Megadonor and the Graduate Jobs Disaster (Question Time)
A crypto billionaire’s £9 million donation to Nigel Farage raises eyebrows and prompts discussions on political funding reforms. The graduate jobs crisis is highlighted, with concerns over AI and competition impacting opportunities for young Brits. They also debate the feasibility of the fragile Gaza ceasefire amid humanitarian challenges. The hosts tackle the influence of class on access to political discourse and criticize the government’s lack of bold economic actions as they navigate complex global issues.
228 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 51min
477. How Trump’s Security Strategy Destroys The Old World Order
The discussion dives into how Trump's new national security strategy might overturn decades of US foreign policy. It highlights concerns over Europe's stability and the far-right's rise. The hosts critique the strategy’s lack of focus on traditional threats like climate change and major adversaries. They explore America's changing role from alliance-building to a more transactional approach, with Europe treated as a subordinate. The conversation also touches on demographic fears and the implications for Europe's defense and industry.
170 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 2min
476. Polanski’s Problem, Westminster’s Russia Blind Spot, and Justice Without Juries? (Question Time)
Rory and Alastair dive into the economic messaging of the Greens, questioning the clarity of their vision. They tackle the risks of distancing jury trials in the UK and explore the implications of Russian influence in British politics. The duo also discusses modern monetary theory and its political relevance, while critiquing media accountability and foreign lobbying. They highlight the escalating climate crisis with alarming floods in Southeast Asia and reflect on proposed reforms to jury participation and the potential impacts on civic duty.
299 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 2min
475. The Budget Backlash – and Trump’s Plan to Profit from Peace in Ukraine
The hosts delve into the messy fallout from the recent Budget turmoil and the impact on government trust. They debate whether media coverage of politicians like Reeves and Starmer is fair or biased. Trump's Ukraine peace proposals are also scrutinized, revealing potential personal profit motives. Additionally, they discuss the evolving nature of military technology in the Ukraine conflict and question the legality of recent US strikes on Venezuela. The conversation is lively, blending political insight with expert analysis on contemporary issues.
