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
5 snips
Oct 18, 2023 • 37min
184. Question Time: Why Britain Needs Shorter Prison Sentences
Delve into the pressing need for reform in the UK’s prison system and the adverse effects of short sentences on reoffending. Discover the political motivations behind the rise in prison populations and the financial implications of new constructions. Troubling WhatsApp revelations among officials during the pandemic raise questions about leadership credibility and accountability. The aftermath of Brexit is explored, focusing on public sentiment towards rejoining the EU, while political dynamics in Scotland add another layer to the complex landscape.
21 snips
Oct 17, 2023 • 56min
183. Israel-Gaza: What Happens Next
The podcast dives into the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, assessing the implications of Joe Biden's upcoming visit. It also tackles the complex narrative of victim versus oppressor in this context. The discussion shifts to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the changing political responses in the UK and the U.S. Moving on, the hosts explore recent political developments in Poland and New Zealand, focusing on the significance of youth engagement amidst rising populism and shifting governance dynamics.
48 snips
Oct 17, 2023 • 1h 1min
182. Palestine, Gaza, and Israel
Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, shares profound insights into life in Gaza during a time of crisis. He delves into the historical roots of the Palestinian identity and the political landscape shaped by factions like Hamas and the PA. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggles for recognition and the impact of Israeli settlements on peace prospects. Zomlot emphasizes the necessity of understanding diverse viewpoints and advocates for a two-state solution, acknowledging the urgency of addressing the complex realities on the ground.
58 snips
Oct 13, 2023 • 46min
181. Israel, invasion, and the trap laid by Hamas
Israeli historian Yuval Noah Harari, known for his thought-provoking insights on human history, joins the discussion on the recent Hamas attacks. He explores whether Hamas desires an Israeli invasion of Gaza and warns of the potential rise of ultra-nationalism in Israel. Harari reflects on the emotional toll of the conflict, emphasizing the need for urgent humanitarian efforts. He also discusses the complicated nature of global solidarity and the moral implications for political leaders as they navigate these turbulent waters.
Oct 11, 2023 • 26min
180. Question Time: Is Suella Braverman pretending to be right-wing?
The podcast dives into whether Keir Starmer may support proportional representation and critiques the Tory right's opportunism. It tackles the complexities of a proposed wealth tax as a fix for adult social care funding. The discussion also navigates the UK’s move towards net zero emissions, examining the impact of environmental taxes amidst rising populism. Additionally, the speakers reflect on government decision-making challenges and the evolution of language teaching, emphasizing immersive experiences in learning.
10 snips
Oct 10, 2023 • 54min
179. Is Keir Starmer ready to be Prime Minister?
The hosts dive into the readiness of the Labour Party for government, examining their recent conference dynamics and strategic messaging. They explore the role of AI and deepfake technologies in elections, notably their impact on recent Slovakian outcomes. A touch of humor comes from a badger suit disruption at the Conservative Party conference, juxtaposed with serious discussions about crisis management and the humanitarian issues in Gaza. Overall, it offers a compelling blend of politics, technology, and personal anecdotes.
55 snips
Oct 9, 2023 • 39min
178. Israel At War
The podcast dives deep into the historical roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, illuminating the complexities that have shaped the region. It discusses the recent unprecedented Hamas attacks and their repercussions, drawing parallels with past conflicts like the Yom Kippur War. The conversation explores contrasting perspectives from both sides, highlighting ongoing humanitarian crises and defense strategies. It also navigates the current political landscape, emphasizing the faltering hope for a two-state solution and the urgent need for renewed dialogue.
9 snips
Oct 4, 2023 • 33min
177. Question Time: A new centrist party, mafia politics in New Jersey, and was Jesus a socialist?
Discover how political corruption is increasingly influencing U.S. politics and the potential rise of a new centrist party in the UK. Hear about Tony Blair's techniques for conquering public speaking jitters and the humor behind political impressions. Dive into the complexities of narcotics reform and the parallels drawn between Jesus' teachings and modern political ideologies. All this while exploring gang violence in Sweden and its impact on political discourse, making for a captivating and thought-provoking discussion.
44 snips
Oct 3, 2023 • 57min
176. Can the Tory Party be saved?
The podcast dives into the inner workings of Conservative and Labour Party conferences, revealing intriguing contrasts in experiences. It tackles the Conservative Party's struggle to reclaim its center-ground amidst loyalty challenges and leadership critiques. A significant discussion on post-truth politics highlights how misleading statements shape public perception. Additionally, the podcast explores escalating tensions in the Balkans, particularly between Kosovo and Serbia, emphasizing the historical context and urgent need for reconciliation.
Sep 27, 2023 • 28min
175. Question Time: The Power of Rupert Murdoch
Rupert Murdoch's influence on media and politics sparks a lively discussion about his legacy, especially during the pivotal 1997 UK election. A personal encounter sheds light on Murdoch's charm and the communications that shaped narratives. The role of media in public perception and its biases raise concerns about democratic engagement. Additionally, local governance takes center stage, emphasizing inclusivity and electoral reform, while humorous anecdotes about education and music provide entertaining insights into childhood experiences.
