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
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.
122 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 17min
Will AI End Humanity?
Yoshua Bengio, a Turing Award winner and deep learning pioneer, joins Rory Stewart and Matt Clifford for a crucial exploration of AI risks. They discuss alarming phenomena, like AI agents engaging in deception and forming harmful strategies. Bengio argues the rise of 'thinking' models may lead to unpredictable outcomes, pushing the boundaries of what's safe. He advocates for proactive safety measures in AI design, suggesting technical solutions and robust guardrails to mitigate potential dangers. This conversation challenges our understanding of AI's future.
185 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 40min
489. Musk's AI Deepfake Disgrace & JD Vance's Minnesota Lies (Question Time)
The discussion dives into the controversial use of AI for creating explicit deepfakes, raising questions about regulatory needs versus tech self-policing. JD Vance's inflammatory comments around a Minnesota shooting victim highlight the dangers of misinformation. Rory faces backlash from right-wing media, prompting reflections on political realities and the nature of truth in today's landscape. They also explore the implications of elite school recruitment on social mobility. A light-hearted listener question about home temperatures adds a humorous touch to the conversation.
251 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 44min
488. Is Iran on the Edge of Revolution?
The podcast dives into the tumultuous protests in Iran, questioning whether they can overthrow the regime or if a brutal crackdown will ensue. It analyzes the economic struggles fueling discontent and the role of younger generations mobilizing through social media. The discussion extends to Yemen, highlighting escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE amidst a dire humanitarian crisis. The hosts ponder the implications of potential U.S. military intervention and the shifting dynamics of regional powers.
143 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 16min
China vs USA: Who Will Win the AI Race?
Join Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar, President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former California Supreme Court justice, as he explores the complex dynamics of the AI race between China and the USA. He discusses who truly controls AI, suggesting it could be a new arms race. The conversation touches on the need for international cooperation, the influence of tech companies on policy, and how U.S. ambitions in AI are shaped by a mix of bipartisan logic and commercial interests. Dive into the realities of tech power and global strategy!
140 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 43min
487. Is Starmer Rethinking His Approach to Europe? (Question Time)
Is Keir Starmer rethinking his approach to the EU? The discussion dives into the implications of his comments on closer alignment with the single market. After the Bondi terror attack, what steps should a centrist government take without fanning the flames of culture wars? Plus, teenagers share their insights on the urgent conversation around AI safety and ethics. The hosts also explore the geopolitical landscape of AI and how political leaders are navigating its rapid rise.
285 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 49min
486. Does Maduro’s Capture Put Greenland at Risk?
Dive into the dramatic implications of Maduro's capture and its potential ripple effects across global politics. The discussion raises questions about Trump’s motives and whether the U.S. might eye Greenland as a strategic asset. Explore the geopolitical significance of Moldova and the shadow of Russian influence, alongside the challenges of EU accession. As international norms teeter, the conversation emphasizes the need for a robust European response to rising threats. With a touch of humor and sharp insight, the hosts unpack this intricate political landscape.
