Why has Alastair Campbell stopped campaigning against the monarchy?

Alastair Campbell traces his republicanism to refusing, aged six or seven, to watch the Queen's Christmas message with his monarchist mother. He now argues that there are only so many fights to fight and that part of persevilience is knowing when a cause is lost. The monarchy will outlast him, so his energy is better spent elsewhere. He also credits King Charles with a strong speech to Congress and with persevilience over his health.

• Campbell's mother was born the same week as the Queen and shared her first name, Elizabeth.
• Campbell says his objection is mainly about class and privilege.

Source: our own transcription of the episode. The full conversation is on The Rest Is Politics (2026-10-15). Read the whole episode summary →

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