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
285 snips
Feb 28, 2026 • 55min
506. Trump Attacks Iran: What Happens Now?
They unpack Tehran’s strikes and Iran’s counterattacks on Israeli and US assets. Discussion covers US and Israeli military buildup and intelligence misreads. They debate political timing and whether actions are meant to distract from domestic scandals. The conversation explores regional escalation risks, legal limits on intervention, and possible political outcomes inside Iran.
231 snips
Feb 25, 2026 • 1h 6min
505. Are Trump and Putin Underestimating Ukraine?
Reporting from Kyiv on the fourth anniversary of the invasion, they explore morale, national pride and the toll of casualties. They question US influence as funding cuts shift negotiating power and probe why Europe is not leading talks. Practical wartime innovations, corruption and reconstruction costs are discussed alongside the political friction with Hungary and debates over sporting ties.
187 snips
Feb 24, 2026 • 57min
504. Is Trump Losing His Tariffs War? (Question Time)
They debate whether recent court rulings have neutered one leader’s tariff tactics and what alternative trade tools might follow. They consider how a royal arrest and shocking images could reshape the monarchy’s standing. They question whether proposed SEND school reforms will boost inclusion or weaken legal protections for vulnerable children.
37 snips
Feb 23, 2026 • 9min
Why Trump Wants Greenland
Kenneth R. Rosen, investigative journalist specializing in geopolitics and the Arctic. He unpacks why Trump eyed Greenland, the role of wealthy advisers and mineral hopes. He explores political incentives for quick wins, long-term development challenges, and how Greenlanders view Danish ties and independence.
258 snips
Feb 19, 2026 • 28min
503. Andrew’s Arrest: What Next?
Charlie Faulknor, former Lord Chancellor and senior government lawyer, offers legal and constitutional perspective. He unpacks why the arrest occurred and the legal reasoning behind a forceful detention. He explains the misconduct-in-public-office charge, historic precedent for royal arrests, and how recent disclosures sped up action. He previews the long, high-stakes legal and reputational road ahead.
133 snips
Feb 19, 2026 • 57min
502. How Nigel Farage Gets Away With It (Question Time)
They dissect why Nigel Farage slips through media scrutiny and how political style shapes coverage. They map alleged foreign links, fundraising worries and campaign finance gaps. They connect Farage to an international populist network and flag democratic risks. They also cover recent elections in Thailand and Bangladesh and security takeaways from Munich.
175 snips
Feb 16, 2026 • 42min
501. Is Starmer Too Soft on Trump? Inside the Munich Security Conference
A lively rundown from the Munich Security Conference on Rubio’s diplomatic charm offensive and how it echoes last year’s hardline rhetoric. Sharp debate about whether Starmer is underplaying a major transatlantic rupture or simply buying time. Detailed scenes on Europe’s tech sovereignty, defense gaps, and the politics shaping closer Europe–UK ties.
158 snips
Feb 13, 2026 • 19min
The Battle for the Arctic
Kenneth R. Rosen, author and Arctic specialist, explains why the polar north matters for climate and power. He maps which nations dominate the region. He explores melting ice opening shipping and resources. He discusses military stakes, Russia’s Arctic buildup, and why the US lags on infrastructure.
242 snips
Feb 12, 2026 • 53min
500. Japan, China, and the Fight for Taiwan (Question Time)
Discussion of Japan’s surprise election win and what it could mean for China and the security of Taiwan. Examination of economic risks from bold fiscal plans and the debate over constitutional change and military posture. Analysis of shifts in Hispanic voting and the political reaction to a Spanish-language Super Bowl set. Thoughts on sport, nature policy, and how people find happiness amid political turmoil.
281 snips
Feb 9, 2026 • 60min
499. Is It Game Over for Starmer?
A tense look at whether Starmer’s grip on power is slipping as aides resign and political narratives swirl. They probe the explosive fallout around Mandelson and links to Epstein. The conversation broadens into how elite networks, reputation laundering and cosy norms let abuse go unchecked. They debate fixes: clearer rules on gifts, less centralised control and a revived push for accountability.
