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
240 snips
Feb 8, 2026 • 16min
498. Alastair Reacts to Starmer-Mandelson Turmoil
A solo reflection on fresh revelations about Epstein links and Mandelson's conduct. Strong criticism of the government's competence and vetting processes. Concerns about political fallout, including the risk of a populist surge. Personal frustration over media hypocrisy and the degraded political culture.
217 snips
Feb 5, 2026 • 48min
497. Is Trump Plotting Regime Change in Iran? (Question Time)
They debate whether Trump’s military posturing toward Iran is strategic negotiation, chaotic brinkmanship, or a step toward regime change. They examine Iran’s domestic unrest and the risks of escalation and proliferation. They trace Viktor Orbán’s international campaign networks and illiberal governance tactics. They assess pressures on Keir Starmer from volatile by-election dynamics.
354 snips
Feb 3, 2026 • 47min
496. Mandelson’s Disgrace: How Epstein Poisoned Our Politics
A probing look at how wealthy networks bend British politics and the mechanisms that let powerful figures keep influence after scandal. They trace money, meetings and lobby routes that connected elites to decision makers. The conversation explores risks from leaked policy tips, surveillance and potential kompromat. It closes by surveying reforms to curb elite capture and tighten political transparency.
378 snips
Jan 29, 2026 • 1h
495. Terror in Minnesota: The Putinisation of America (Question Time)
Molly Hodson, a campaigner fighting tech-enabled child sexual exploitation, and Gary Haugen, a veteran human-rights investigator, discuss shocking live-stream abuse and how tech, payments and platforms enable it. They debate AI as both threat and tool, prevention via safety-by-design and the need for urgent legal and political leadership. Short, urgent and unnerving conversation about hidden harms online.
300 snips
Jan 28, 2026 • 60min
494. Carney’s Trump Fightback and the Starmer-Burnham Fallout
They debate whether middle powers can escape US and Chinese dominance and what a new global order might look like. They unpack Mark Carney's rupture thesis and practical plans for energy, defense and de-risking UK reliance. They dissect the politics around Andy Burnham being blocked, internal party loyalty versus ambition, and what Starmer’s management style means for his leadership.
126 snips
Jan 25, 2026 • 19min
What If the AI Revolution Isn’t Real?
Arvind Narayanan, director of Princeton’s Center for Information Technology Policy and noted AI researcher, challenges AI hype and risk framing. He questions probabilistic forecasts of catastrophe. He argues global bans are unrealistic and explores diffusion of capability, the limits of stopping frontier models, and the need for transparency, pre-deployment review, and defensive uses of AI.
125 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 30min
493. Trump Insults NATO Troops
Anthony Scaramucci, former White House Communications Director and financier turned commentator, reflects on Trump, NATO and US politics from firsthand experience. He reacts to Trump’s remarks about allied troops. He dissects the psychology behind the attacks and debates how NATO leaders should respond. He weighs risks to the Western alliance and the political fallout ahead.
143 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 47min
492. Should Europe Boycott the World Cup? (Question Time)
Join the hosts as they discuss the potential for a European boycott of the World Cup over Trump's Greenland threats. They explore the chaotic political landscape in the UK with Robert Jenrick's defection to Reform and the implications for the Conservatives. The conversation also delves into the fragile ceasefire in Syria and public sentiment regarding royal attendance at international events. Additionally, they reflect on the destruction in Aleppo and the long-term effects of colonial borders on modern geopolitics.
329 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 24min
491. Trump at Davos: Rory and Alastair React
Rory and Alastair react to Donald Trump's surprising speech at Davos, dissecting its disjointed delivery and alarming content. They address the tension between Trump's rhetoric and his treatment of allies, emphasizing threats made about Greenland. The duo discusses the ramifications for NATO and urges European unity against Trump's divide-and-rule tactics. They also delve into the implications of media portrayal and market reactions, warning that Trump's narratives resonate with a significant base, raising concerns about future elections.
373 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 1h 5min
490. Trump’s Greenland Ultimatum: What Next?
Rory and Alastair dive into Trump's controversial Greenland ultimatum, questioning the implications for NATO and Europe's stability. They explore the shift in global dynamics, with Trump gaining power and using a strategic approach reminiscent of Russia. The duo debates whether appeasing Trump is feasible and assesses Europe’s economic vulnerabilities. They also critique responses from figures like Keir Starmer and discuss the need for European unity amid these geopolitical tensions. Expect lively analysis of Trump's media prowess and its impact on international norms.
