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
Aug 10, 2022 • 46min
38. Amnesty International, cabinet duels, and fuel poverty
Alastair and Rory dive into pressing issues like Amnesty International’s challenging report on Ukraine and the ongoing climate bill in the U.S. They explore the political debacles of Boris Johnson amid rising fuel poverty and inflation. Historical political rivalries come alive with tales of dueling politicians forming a surprising connection to today’s leaders. The duo even lightens the mood with a listener-created bingo game that highlights their trademark phrases. It's an engaging blend of serious topics and lighthearted banter!
Aug 4, 2022 • 21min
37. Question Time: Scottish Unionism, growth, and cannibalism
Dive into a quirky discussion on Bhutan's Gross Domestic Happiness and the unexpected ties between economic growth and personal joy. Explore the complexities of Scottish Unionism, especially under Nicola Sturgeon, and the dynamics shaping UK politics today. Enjoy some light-hearted banter on political biographies, alongside a whimsical chat about cannibalism. The hosts weave together humor and historical insights, revealing the intricacies of political narratives and the figures that shaped them.
Aug 3, 2022 • 51min
36. William Hague on Boris Johnson, Blair, and Brexit
Former British Foreign Secretary William Hague shares his insights on British politics, tackling the future of Boris Johnson and reflecting on his confrontations with Tony Blair. He discusses the nuances of Brexit and the challenges of leadership in its aftermath. Hague also touches on the importance of transformative education and the potential optimism in navigating political complexities. His rich experiences shed light on the shifting landscape of UK politics, offering a historical context to current challenges.
Aug 2, 2022 • 42min
35. Al-Qaeda, Pelosi in Taiwan, and working for Truss
Dive into international hotspots like Kosovo, Kenya, and Tunisia, where political disillusionment is on the rise. The discussion underscores the complexities surrounding Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit amidst growing tensions with China and al-Qaeda's evolving narrative. Explore the dangers of populism and the manipulative tactics of political leaders. With insights into Boris Johnson's cronyism and the intricacies of character in politics, this conversation reveals the far-reaching implications of global power dynamics.
Jul 28, 2022 • 32min
34. Question Time: The last days of Blair and May, carbon footprints, and remaining hopeful
Dive into the political rollercoaster as hosts discuss May’s downfall and the Blair-Brown saga. They tackle climate change and the need for innovative ideas like charter cities. With a dose of nostalgia, they share insights on governance issues while searching for hope in the younger generation. From quirky name pronunciations to the historical weight of 'America First,' their entertaining analysis balances humor with serious reflection on today's pressing challenges.
Jul 27, 2022 • 47min
33. Blue on blue, famine in Africa, and David Trimble
Join a riveting discussion on the Tory leadership race and its implications. The conversation pays homage to David Trimble's pivotal role in Northern Ireland's peace process. Explore criticisms of economic policies, including the challenges of the NHS and the reduction of British aid in favor of Ukraine. Delve into the complexities of populism and the revival of Scottish Gaelic. Plus, enjoy some poetic musings on Marilyn Monroe. The dynamics of political leadership and cultural memory add depth and intrigue to this engaging dialogue.
Jul 22, 2022 • 26min
32. Question Time: Treating addiction, feminism, and a fear of ketchup
In this lively discussion, the hosts tackle the stigma surrounding addiction and the importance of recovery support. They delve into feminism and the profound influence of male involvement in its progress. With a humorous twist, they share Alastair's irrational fear of ketchup, connecting it to deeper emotional themes. The conversation smoothly transitions to political quandaries, including Scotland’s push for independence and the complexities of Taiwan's geopolitical scenario. Personal anecdotes add a light-hearted touch to these serious topics.
Jul 21, 2022 • 36min
31. Rishi Sunak vs. Liz Truss
The podcast dives into the intense rivalry between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss for the UK Prime Minister position. There's a thorough analysis of their reputations and leadership styles during challenging economic times. As they navigate public perception and media portrayals, the discussion highlights the implications of leaking culture on national security. Moreover, they explore how past leadership influences current messaging, making for a fascinating exploration of political dynamics within the Conservative Party.
Jul 20, 2022 • 48min
30. Keir Starmer on rebuilding Labour, Tory leadership, and Brexit
Keir Starmer, the Leader of the Labour Party, dives into the challenges of rebuilding his party while navigating the divisive waters of Tory leadership and Brexit. He articulates Labour's ambitious plans for transformation, emphasizing grassroots engagement and economic growth. Starmer critiques the current political landscape, advocating for effective taxation strategies amid rising debt and inflation. With a touch of humor, he discusses the potential revival of the Department for International Development, linking it to broader global growth issues.
Jul 19, 2022 • 43min
29. Heatwaves, semiconductors, and Johnson's return?
The hosts dive into the implications of extreme heatwaves, connecting them to climate change, food security, and economic stability. They analyze contrasting leadership styles within the Conservative Party as candidates vie for attention. Historical narratives, like the Black Tom explosion, add depth to the discussions. Populism's rise in global politics, particularly in Taiwan and the US, highlights shifting sentiments. With a nod to Italy's political drama, the conversation wraps up with the excitement of a forthcoming special guest.
