The Real Reasons Populism Is Taking Over

2 April 2026 · 20m

The Rest Is Politics

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Show notes

What is populism, and why is it so attractive to voters? Which human instincts do populists tap into to get votes? And what does a populist-led country look like?

Alastair is joined by Liam Byrne, MP who served in both Blair and Brown's government, and who has been conducting deep research into the rise of populism.

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Social Producer: Celine Charles

Video Editor: Kieron Leslie

Producer: India Dunkley

Exec Producer: Tom Whiter

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