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
Feb 8, 2024 • 34min
217. Question Time: How to cover Israel-Gaza, Labour’s £28bn green investment, and Taylor Swift vs Donald Trump
The discussion kicks off with Labour's puzzling retreat on its ambitious £28 billion green investment plan. They dive into Biden’s sanctions against Israeli settlers and what that really means. An intriguing exploration of lobbying's role in shaping podcast content leads to a debate on celebrity endorsements, spotlighting Taylor Swift's surprising influence in politics. Amidst all this, they even ponder the global implications for small nations like Tuvalu, blending serious topics with light-hearted anecdotes about Valentine's gifts.
23 snips
Feb 7, 2024 • 54min
216. King Charles, Sunak’s £1000 bet, and the future of North Korea
Delve into the latest political maneuvering in Northern Ireland as leaders from Sinn Féin and the DUP signal a new era of collaboration. Discover Rishi Sunak's controversial media strategy and his provocative bet on government policies. Explore why Kim Jong Un declared unification with South Korea off the table, and consider the implications of authoritarianism in El Salvador and North Korea. With a blend of serious politics and light-hearted commentary, this conversation keeps you both informed and entertained.
13 snips
Feb 1, 2024 • 41min
215. Question Time: An election in May, combatting homelessness, and investigating think tanks
Dive into the murky waters of political funding as the hosts unravel how anonymous donors are propping up British parties. They tackle the controversial topic of voter ID laws and their potential impact on democratic participation. With a keen eye on homelessness, they highlight the urgent need for a national strategy. The role of think tanks in shaping policy receives scrutiny, calling for greater transparency. Plus, an intriguing comparison of political leadership across sports rounds off this engaging discussion.
29 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 55min
214. Israel in court, attacks on American soldiers, and the problem with polling
The significance of the International Court of Justice ruling on Israel sparks intense discussion. Tensions involving Iranian-backed militias and U.S. military actions pose pressing geopolitical questions. Voter dynamics take center stage as polling shifts and the importance of youth turnout is underscored. The complexities of Israel and Hamas conflict reveal the tug between diplomatic solutions and military actions. Lastly, global politics brightens with updates on Sweden, Finland, and Australia, showcasing shifts in leadership and regional alliances.
16 snips
Jan 25, 2024 • 39min
213. Question Time: Standing up to Netanyahu, why Starmer would work with Trump, and the differences between Sunni and Shia
Controversies rage around Netanyahu's stance on the two-state solution, sparking debates on Western complicity. The discussion also probes whether Keir Starmer can manage a potential Trump partnership. Interesting insights emerge on the complexities of populism and its political ramifications. The hosts navigate the challenges of addressing controversial figures and the moral dilemmas faced by leaders amidst conflicts, while also reflecting on the impact of Brexit on Britain's steel industry. A captivating blend of politics and ideology unfolds.
9 snips
Jan 24, 2024 • 57min
212. Why Trump's return wasn't inevitable
Dive into the complexities of Russian propaganda in occupied Ukraine and the chaos surrounding Ron DeSantis's faltering political career. Explore the far-right surge in Germany and its implications on global politics. The discussions reveal how Trump's resurgence has reshaped loyalty dynamics within the Republican Party, alongside humorous reflections on campaign blunders. Unpack the challenges posed by conspiracy theories and the controversial UK Rwanda immigration policy, illuminating the intersections of politics, justice, and public perception.
9 snips
Jan 18, 2024 • 40min
211. Question Time: Taiwan’s new president, Macron's successor, and the difference between Tories and Conservatives
What led to the escape of Ecuador's infamous gang leader? A discussion on Taiwan's new anti-Beijing president raises questions about the island's future and its complex political dynamics. The podcast also delves into the rise of youthful political leaders in France, while exploring the troubling surge of gang violence in Ecuador. Additionally, an analysis of varying political identities in Britain highlights accountability issues, alongside an inspiring look at humanitarian efforts that promote community empowerment in challenging regions.
23 snips
Jan 17, 2024 • 54min
210. Is the Middle East sliding into a wider regional conflict?
The podcast dives into the escalating violence in Yemen and the Houthi movement's ties to Hamas during the Israel-Gaza conflict. It reveals the intricacies of US military interventions in the region and their effects on global trade. There's a discussion on the legal frameworks governing humanitarian crises, contrasting the ICC and ICJ. The hosts also tackle the political ramifications of the post office scandal and the accountability of leaders, exploring the shifting dynamics within the Conservative Party and public perception.
7 snips
Jan 11, 2024 • 39min
209. Question Time: What happens when privatisation goes wrong?
Civil servants grapple with political ambitions and professional integrity. The discussion dives into the pitfalls of privatization, highlighting failures of Private Finance Initiatives and their impact on public services. With a lens on Myanmar's political turmoil, the need for international collaboration surfaces. Meanwhile, cheerful banter about books and food offers a lighter touch, with personal reading recommendations and favorite dining experiences adding flavor to the conversation.
9 snips
Jan 10, 2024 • 58min
208. History's warning to Labour, the Post Office scandal, and Bangladesh's battle for power
The fallout from the Post Office scandal raises questions about accountability and public trust. The hosts delve into the complexities of this crisis and the impact of past injustices on today’s politics. They also analyze shifting political dynamics in the UK, particularly for Labour candidates as elections approach. Switching gears, they discuss the turbulent political landscape in Bangladesh, marked by opposition struggles and economic growth, amidst the legacies of colonial governance. This engaging conversation weaves together historical lessons and contemporary challenges.
