alastair john campbell (born 25 may 1957) is a british journalist, broadcaster, political aide and author. he worked as tony blair's spokesman and campaign director (1994–1997), followed by downing street press secretary (1997–2000), for labour prime minister tony blair. he then became downing street director of communications and spokesman for the labour party (2000–2003). he resigned in august 2003. he published his fifteenth book in 2018.