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
147 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 45min
374. Question Time: Why The US Needs A Leader Of The Opposition
The need for a leader of the opposition in the US highlights its role in enhancing political accountability. The geopolitical dynamics between Europe and the US during the Ukraine crisis raise concerns about exclusion from peace talks. Discussions on NATO spending and post-Brexit challenges reveal complications for UK businesses. A potential fragmentation of international cooperation and the rise of new security structures signal shifts in global governance. Intriguingly, the concept of 'Sleekit' politics explores the complexities of national identity and political narratives in a rapidly changing landscape.
215 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 58min
373. Europe vs. America: Crisis in the West
Dive into the geopolitical tensions between Europe and America, as the hosts explore Trump's influence on democracy and the rise of extremism in Europe. Discover the precarious situation of Ukraine and how American isolationism affects European security. The discussion includes critiques of political rhetoric, internet security concerns, and the implications of misinformation in legal contexts. Witness the courage of political figures like Alexei Navalny and the controversies surrounding cryptocurrency in Argentina, highlighting ongoing struggles against oppression.
224 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 1h 7min
372. Syria, al-Sharaa, and the future of the Middle East
David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst with nearly a decade of experience covering Syria, discusses the implications of Ahmed Al-Sharaa's rise to power. He sheds light on the changing political landscape in Syria and how contemporary intelligence analysts adapt to these shifts. The conversation explores the fragmentation of Syria's military and potential new insurgencies, as well as the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and international intelligence sharing. Here, we see how the tumultuous dynamics in Syria resonate globally.
90 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 37min
371. Question Time: Buying Gaza, Macron’s AI Stunt, and Europe on a Knife’s Edge
The podcast dives into Trump's contentious plans and their impact on Middle Eastern relations. It tackles President Macron's daring AI deep fake stunt and its ethical dilemmas. The conversation shifts to Canada's trade strategies under pressure from the US, alongside a look at Europe's rising far-right movements. The hosts also reflect on the complexities of political communication in the digital era, highlighting the repercussions of leaked messages among politicians. Each topic intertwines global issues with personal stories and opinions!
133 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 2min
370. Starmer’s Silver Bullet and Trump’s War on the Poor
Can Elon Musk's ambitions exacerbate global poverty? Keir Starmer seems to be struggling with his cabinet's control. Delve into contrasting political styles of Trump and Starmer, showcasing their unique challenges. What happens when U.S. aid cuts impact vulnerable populations in sub-Saharan Africa? The podcast also touches on the granting of refugee status to white South Africans and the shadows of rising authoritarianism. Join a thought-provoking discussion on these pressing political dynamics!
168 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 46min
369. Question Time: China’s DeepSeek, Ambassador Mandelson, and misogyny in politics
The discussion kicks off with concerns over China’s disruptive DeepSeek AI and its potential effects on Western tech. The hosts delve into the persistent stereotypes facing male and female politicians, exploring the nuances of their treatment in media. They also tackle the tricky territory of political appeasement and the challenges of navigating relationships with contentious leaders. Plus, there's a look into the implications of rising populism in Australia and insights on effective interviewing techniques that balance confrontation with curiosity.
96 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
368. Trump's Plan for Gaza
The podcast dives deep into Trump's controversial proposal for Gaza, discussing the implications of U.S. control and the humanitarian crises in the region. The conversation critiques the ethical dilemmas of potential Palestinian relocation and explores historical injustices tied to current foreign policy. Listeners will learn about the shifting political landscape and the divisions within Israeli society regarding the conflict. Additionally, it highlights the global ramifications of U.S. politics and the urgent need for a unified response to ongoing geopolitical complexities.
76 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 6min
367. Rory vs JD Vance, recording from Damascus, and Trump’s tariffs
Rory and Alastair dive into the political turbulence of Syria during their time in Damascus, revealing the struggles of daily life under authoritarianism. They also dissect Trump's contentious tariff policies and their ripple effects on international relations and economies. Additionally, the duo explores the shifting political landscapes in Germany and the UK, particularly focusing on immigration and the rise of far-right sentiments. Finally, they debate the environmental versus economic implications of Heathrow's proposed expansion.
119 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 51min
366. Question Time: Why do dictators bother with sham elections?
Explore the strange allure of sham elections through the lens of Belarus's authoritarian practices. Delve into the challenges of confronting the political complexities post-Brexit, especially for the Labour Party. Discover the intricate ties between Canada and global politics, highlighting its strategic importance in the Five Eyes alliance. Reflect on the role of hope in leadership and personal growth amid the chaotic world of journalism and politics. Engage with fresh insights on how to stay politically aware without losing your peace of mind.
208 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 53min
365. Trump's Mafia World Order
The discussion dives into alarming parallels between Trump's politics and historical fascism. It analyzes shifting U.S. foreign aid strategies and their impact on global stability, especially in Jordan. The influence of the MAGA movement on the Republican Party raises concerns about far-right ideologies. Prince Harry's media struggles spark a dialogue on celebrity privacy and journalistic ethics. The conversation also touches on political disruption and the bravery of activists confronting power in the realm of accountability.
