

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

Aug 21, 2024 • 51min
304. Question Time: Could Trump try and subvert the US election results?
The hosts tackle the unsettling potential for Trump to undermine U.S. election results by exploiting shaky state laws. Public perception of his leadership is shifting, with growing concern over certifying election outcomes. Meanwhile, Eastern Europe grapples with rising populism and authoritarianism, impacting civil society and electoral integrity. The discussion also dives into social media dynamics, comparing experiences on Twitter and Blue Sky, before touching on crucial topics like prison rehabilitation and the impact of recent protests on political hope.

9 snips
Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 7min
303. The speech Joe Biden never wanted to give (Live from the Democratic National Convention)
Explore the rapid unity behind Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention, juxtaposed with the influence of Project 2025 on political narratives. Dive into the dynamics of the U.S. prison system and the educational challenges in Chicago. The podcast critiques the disconnect between media portrayals and real-life experiences, especially regarding immigration and climate policy. With a lively atmosphere and key speeches from female politicians, the conversation underscores the significance of election strategies and unity within the Democratic Party.

6 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 56min
302. It’s Trump’s Race to Lose
Is Trump preparing to contest a potential loss in the upcoming elections? Kamala Harris's unexpected VP pick raises eyebrows, while the Republican Party grapples with its identity amid Trump's influence. The importance of engaging young voters and the implications of the Electoral College are discussed, alongside the challenge of gerrymandering on democracy. The shift in Republican values from optimism to nativism and the future of the party in a post-Trump world adds depth to the conversation, exploring what it means to be a Republican today.

5 snips
Aug 14, 2024 • 35min
301. Question Time: Iran’s retaliation, Labour "press bias" and an Olympic hangover
The discussion kicks off with a dive into media bias regarding Labour, questioning public perceptions fueled by political donations. Changing political appointments raise concerns over transparency amidst a backdrop of global democratic challenges. Tensions in the Middle East heat up with a focus on Iran and Israel, while the normalization of violence across various regions is critically examined. The Olympic spirit in France sparks national pride and political implications for Macron, alongside urgent calls for better management of national parks. Urban green spaces and eco-friendly housing solutions also take center stage.

33 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 59min
300. Why Ukraine invaded Russia, the Musk-Trump love-in, and Rory’s visit to Afghanistan
Elon Musk’s recent spat with Scotland's First Minister raises eyebrows in the tech world. The podcast dives into Ukraine's bold maneuvers against Russia, analyzing the shifting tides of war. The relationship between China and Serbia sparks concern amid broader geopolitical discussions. Insights from a recent trip to Afghanistan highlight pressing issues like women's rights and security. Plus, feel-good stories celebrate the achievements of refugee athletes, weaving in historical reflections from the Vietnam War.

Aug 8, 2024 • 57min
299. The Secret Behind Trump's Silence
The discussion delves into Kamala Harris's controversial choice of Tim Walz as her running mate. There's curiosity about Trump's silence post-assassination attempt and how it might affect his campaign. The impact of celebrity endorsements, especially from icons like Taylor Swift, on the younger voter demographic is vividly explored. Also, insights on the evolving political identities of Irish and Italian Americans reveal shifting allegiances. Humor intertwines with personal anecdotes, painting a relatable picture of political figures.

Aug 7, 2024 • 45min
298. Question Time: Venezuela’s fate, Hezbollah’s response, and how prisoner swaps really work
Venezuela's political turmoil takes center stage as the impact of US sanctions is dissected. The interplay of global interests from countries like Russia and China sheds light on the ongoing crisis. In the Middle East, escalating tensions involving Hezbollah and Israel raise questions about military strategy and regional dynamics. Meanwhile, the UK Conservative Party navigates internal challenges and shifting leadership, influenced by public perception and social media discourse. Insights into the role of the arts in public policy offer a refreshing perspective on community engagement.

16 snips
Aug 6, 2024 • 57min
297. Far-right chaos, Harris’ running mate, and Bangladesh’s power vacuum
This intriguing discussion dives into the far-right riots erupting in England, fueled by misinformation and social media's role in spreading extremist views. The potential choice of Tim Waltz as Kamala Harris's running mate adds another layer of political intrigue. In Bangladesh, protests ignite over an authoritarian regime following a controversial election. The podcast explores societal tensions and the impact of political narratives on public perception, highlighting the challenges of asylum seekers in the UK.

7 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 49min
296. Could Donald Trump drop out?
The discussion dives into Trump's turbulent week and the future of his campaign. Controversial remarks at a conference reveal his outdated views and impact on voter demographics. The complex ties with evangelicals and Jewish voters on nationalism are explored next. The role of personal dynamics in political relationships is emphasized. Lastly, insights into Kamala Harris's nomination and the challenges for female politicians highlight the evolving landscape as the election approaches.

4 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 36min
295. Question Time: Israel vs. Hezbollah, legalising cannabis, and Kamala Harris' Middle East strategy
Tensions rise as Israel and Hezbollah face the threat of war following deadly drone strikes. The podcast dives into Kamala Harris's evolving Middle East strategy in contrast to Trump’s. Political suspensions within the Labour Party spark debate about dissent versus party unity. The complexities of legalizing cannabis and its medical implications are also examined, providing a thought-provoking perspective on activism and healthcare challenges. Personal anecdotes add a light-hearted touch amidst these serious discussions.


