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
Nov 30, 2022 • 49min
79. Protests in China, UK strikes, and crypto bros
Protests erupt in China over strict zero COVID policies, drawing historical parallels with Tiananmen Square. The impact of COVID-19 on global leadership and its electoral consequences is scrutinized. Political shifts in Malaysia come into focus, highlighting Anwar Ibrahim's journey. With Scotland's independence debate gaining momentum, the recent Supreme Court ruling stirs further discussion. Labor strikes in the UK reflect economic pressures, echoing past challenges, while recent UK political controversies spark debates about democracy and governance.
Nov 24, 2022 • 26min
78. Question Time: Nigel Farage, proportional representation, and mandatory ID cards
The hosts tackle the recent antics of Eton students and the implications for the school’s reputation. They discuss the political complexities of the House of Lords and the potential effects of proportional representation. The need for voter ID cards sparks a debate about fairness and disenfranchisement, especially for younger voters. Hypothetical scenarios around Rishi Sunak's political appointments lead to reflections on integrity in leadership. Finally, they explore the shifting dynamics of Northern Irish politics and the rise of Sinn Féin.
Nov 23, 2022 • 50min
77. Qatar, the World Cup, and Sunak vs. Starmer
Get ready for a lively discussion on the political implications of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with a focus on labor rights and LGBTQ+ acceptance. The hosts dive into the dynamics of Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer's performances while unpacking the nuanced idea of 'flying kites' in political strategy. They'll also ponder the future of aging leaders like Trump and Biden, and critique the COP conference's effectiveness amid media disparities on human rights issues. Plus, enjoy a satirical take on the quirky side of football ownership!
Nov 17, 2022 • 33min
76. Question Time: Food banks, ageing populations, and 'virtue signalling'
The hosts tackle the accountability of cabinet ministers for economic mismanagement. They discuss the challenges of low birth rates on the economy, especially with an aging population. A surprising angle is the often misunderstood use of food banks, particularly by professionals. Humorous insights into minimalist travel packing are shared, alongside thoughts on language learning and local political engagement. Plus, there's a nostalgic look at wireless service promotions and memorable moments during World Cup qualifiers.
Nov 16, 2022 • 48min
75. Trump vs. DeSantis, Sunak on the world stage, and Iran
The hosts tackle the shifting political landscape as Rupert Murdoch pivots support from Trump to DeSantis. They examine the significance of Biden and Xi's meeting and Rishi Sunak's rising prominence on the world stage. The conversation also spotlights Britain’s economic challenges, particularly concerning the NHS and austerity. Additionally, they discuss geopolitical unrest, with a focus on Iran and insights from a war surgeon. The emotional struggles of veterans and the competitive spirit of athletes add a poignant touch to the discourse.
Nov 10, 2022 • 36min
74. Question Time: Women in politics, AI advancements, and airports
Dive into a lively discussion on the role of women in UK politics, celebrating their achievements amidst ongoing challenges. Explore the fascinating rise of AI and its impact on the workforce, paired with fun travel tips for airports. Revel in anecdotes about childhood journeys and the intersection of arts, feminism, and cultural identity. Additionally, uncover the ethical dilemmas of corporate power and its parallels with historical colonialism, prompting listeners to rethink the balance between tech and politics.
Nov 9, 2022 • 49min
73. COP, Gavin Williamson, and US midterms
Tune in for a lively discussion on the role of politicians in reality TV and how it reshapes public perception. Delve into Gavin Williamson's controversial rise and the tension between fame and political integrity. The hosts critique knighthood symbols amidst contemporary issues, spotlighting Rishi Sunak's COP performance. Hear urgent calls for climate accountability from vulnerable nations while exploring the unpredictable U.S. midterms and international diplomacy. Plus, insights on the unique challenges women face in politics make for a thought-provoking conversation!
Nov 4, 2022 • 53min
72. Julia Gillard on Rishi Sunak, compulsory voting and that misogyny speech
Julia Gillard, a former Prime Minister of Australia, shares her insights on the dynamics of British politics. She discusses the implications of compulsory voting, emphasizing its role in fostering political moderation. The conversation also dives into the challenges of leadership during financial crises and how global sentiments shape local politics. Gillard reflects on her influential misogyny speech, tackling sexism in politics, and the urgency of empowering women in leadership roles. Her journey showcases resilience and the importance of political activism for future generations.
Nov 3, 2022 • 34min
71. Question Time: Elon Musk, Twitter, and regulating 'Big Tech'
Elon Musk's Twitter takeover raises questions about misinformation and social media's impact on democracy. The discussion touches on the political implications of big tech and barriers for diverse political candidates in the UK. Personal stories about parenting a transgender child highlight the need for compassionate dialogue amid societal polarization. Cultural controversies, including identity recognition and women's rights, add to the political tension. Lastly, a light-hearted exchange featuring Scottish heritage injects humor into the conversation.
Nov 2, 2022 • 52min
70. Braverman, Brazil, and Hancock in the jungle
Rory and Alastair dive into Suella Braverman's controversial return to politics, questioning the implications of security breaches. They unpack Lula's recent success in Brazil's elections and explore the impact of Rishi Sunak's new cabinet. The conversation takes an intriguing turn with Matt Hancock's reality TV stint, examining the blurry lines between politics and celebrity. They also discuss the varying global approaches to asylum seekers and the challenges faced by leaders in navigating these tumultuous political waters.
