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
7 snips
Apr 16, 2024 • 59min
237. Iran, Israel, and the Middle East: Stopping the slide into all-out war
Tensions between Iran and Israel heat up, prompting debate over military escalations and U.S. foreign policy. The discussion shifts to President Biden’s strategies concerning Ukraine and the South China Sea, revealing the complexities of international alliances. South Korea’s challenges, including political scandals and demographic issues, take center stage, highlighting the impact of leadership on public approval. Meanwhile, Liz Truss's controversial policies come under scrutiny, raising questions about ethical accountability in politics.
Apr 10, 2024 • 33min
236. Question Time: The fight to be Donald Trump’s VP nominee
Who will be Trump's running mate? The podcast dives into potential vice presidential candidates and the strategies of Trump's campaign. It also reveals the scandal around William Ragg and the challenges LGBTQ+ politicians face. The conversation shifts to the radical ideas of Project 2025 and how AI could impact military conflicts. Amidst these serious topics, listeners are entertained with intriguing stories from Westminster and a mysterious disappearance in the horse racing world.
18 snips
Apr 9, 2024 • 1h 14min
235. What Britain really thinks of politics
Fabian Picardo, the Chief Minister of Gibraltar, engages in a revealing discussion about his controversial decision regarding the police commissioner. He reflects on Gibraltar's unique political landscape and the pressing challenges it faces post-Brexit. The conversation navigates voter sentiments in Britain, exploring the disconnect between politicians and the public. They also touch on the influence of polling data on political strategies and speculate on Narendra Modi's impact in India, raising questions about democracy and governance in both regions.
4 snips
Apr 3, 2024 • 31min
234. Question Time: Why New Labour introduced tuition fees, Thatcher and Blair’s canvassing secrets, and the greatest prime minister we never had
What if Rory had won the 2019 Tory leadership contest? Dive into hypothetical cabinet picks and how they might reshape British politics. Explore the pressing challenges facing universities and the conversation around NHS staff migrating to Australia for better opportunities. A look at Turkey's surprising local elections offers a glimpse into shifting political power. Plus, enjoy anecdotes from canvassing that highlight the importance of genuine community connections, all while comparing the political climates of the U.S. and U.K.
8 snips
Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 1min
233. From peerages to Putin: the fight against corruption in politics
Political corruption takes center stage as they explore the intertwining of financial influence and governance, spotlighting the British Honour System's integrity crisis. A comparison of Singapore's anti-corruption measures reveals stark differences with the UK. The complexities of Israel's political tensions emerge, especially concerning the Haredi community. They also humorously dissect Sam Bankman-Fried's rise and fall in crypto, questioning his true motivations. Our hosts unravel the societal implications of high-profile prison sentences and their cultural reflections.
9 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 36min
232. Question Time: ISIS-K vs Russia, radical reform of the NHS, and the fight against child poverty
The podcast delves into the geopolitical fallout from a recent ISIS-K attack in Moscow, exploring radicalization in Tajikistan. It grapples with pressing issues like the need for NHS reform and the rising tide of child poverty in the UK, critiquing government policies. A light-hearted segment contrasts this serious discourse with a playful dinner story and fascinating AI advancements. The closing thoughts celebrate creativity's role in personal well-being while reflecting on the challenges of adapting to an ever-changing world.
9 snips
Mar 27, 2024 • 56min
231. Labour's struggle for economic vision and Haiti on the brink
Explore the tumultuous situation in Haiti, from gang violence to the failures of international aid, and understand the nation's complex socio-political landscape. Dive into Labour's economic strategy, as Rachel Reeves faces scrutiny for her proposals. The podcast also discusses the media's role in shaping political narratives and the parallels between past and present political rhetoric. Additionally, recent political resignations and the emergence of younger leaders signal shifts in the global landscape.
5 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 43min
230. Question Time: £91,000… Should MPs be paid more?
The podcast dives into pressing political questions, like why so many people don’t know the Lib Dem leader. It discusses the role of freeports and their potential impact on local governance and economic inequality. Urban planning challenges in London are tackled, with a focus on functional housing post-Grenfell. There's also a look at geopolitical shifts and their implications. Finally, it addresses alarming gaps in political awareness among young individuals and the arts' role in education and politics.
Mar 20, 2024 • 47min
229. Putin’s sham election, Sunak under threat, and the rift between France and Germany
The discussion kicks off with a look at the shaky relationship between France and Germany, especially in the context of military support during the Ukraine crisis. There's a deep dive into Putin's election tactics, revealing how he manipulates the political landscape to maintain control. The hosts also humorously reflect on politicians' awkward attempts in sports, adding a light touch. Finally, they examine the turbulent state of the UK Conservative Party, including the potential challenges Rishi Sunak faces amidst low polling and calls for leadership change.
Mar 14, 2024 • 44min
228. Question Time: The legacy of Theresa May, abolishing National Insurance, and Sweden joins NATO
The podcast dives into Theresa May's contentious legacy as Prime Minister, provoking discussions about her policies and their societal impact. Sweden's recent NATO membership sparks a conversation on shifting European security dynamics amid geopolitical tensions. The hosts also analyze the intricate relationship between party loyalty and personal beliefs within UK politics. Plus, they tackle the ramifications of abolishing National Insurance, dissecting its financial implications and addressing the deep-rooted issues of colonialism and populism.
