S2 Ep1025: Bill Kristol: Hegseth Keeps Proving his Unfitness
Apr 21, 2025
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Bill Kristol, Editor at large of The Bulwark and a seasoned political commentator, teams up with Joe Perticone, a Congressional correspondent with a unique lens on international affairs from Rome. They dive into the shocking appointment of a Secretary of Defense who mishandles classified information. The discussion also touches on the decline in trust towards the Trump administration from the Supreme Court and how past grievances resonate with today's political missteps. Perticone pays tribute to Pope Francis, exploring his legacy and recent passing.
The death of Pope Francis symbolizes a significant shift in the Catholic Church's engagement with progressive issues, including inclusivity for marginalized communities.
Concerns about Pete Hegseth's capabilities as Secretary of Defense highlight the alarming consequences of prioritizing party loyalty over competent leadership in national security.
Ongoing debates about U.S. foreign policy towards Ukraine reflect a troubling potential for isolationism that could undermine America's commitments to allies.
Deep dives
Pope Francis: A Notable Legacy
The death of Pope Francis is a significant moment in the Catholic Church, marking the loss of its first Jesuit pope and a figure known for his progressive views. He notably acknowledged the existence of gay Catholics and displayed compassion by washing the feet of AIDS patients in Argentina. His leadership redefined the tone of the papacy, emphasizing humanity and inclusivity, contrasting with the more traditional stances of his predecessors. Despite lacking substantial doctrinal changes, his approach reshaped the perception of the Church, allowing for greater acceptance and dialogue regarding marginalized communities.
Diverse Reactions and Political Implications
The death of Pope Francis prompted varied reactions that highlighted the intersection of faith and politics, particularly in the context of Catholicism in America. Although J.D. Vance, the current Vice President, met with the Pope shortly before his passing, the Pope's progressive stances on issues like immigration starkly contrast with Vance's political agenda. The ongoing divergence within the Church's hierarchy, especially among American bishops who lean towards conservative politics, may complicate the selection of the next pope. This polarization reveals larger societal divides, where the representation of faith can often fuel partisan conflict.
Challenges within the Catholic Church
The discussions surrounding Pope Francis's death reflect deeper challenges faced by the Catholic Church today, particularly concerning its approach to modern issues. While Francis made strides in advocating for the marginalized and critiquing capitalist excesses, critics argue that significant changes, such as the ordination of women, remain absent. The tension within the Church illustrates a broader struggle between traditional and progressive factions, raising questions about the future direction of its leadership. This internal conflict may shape the next conclave as it seeks to balance continuity in doctrine with the changing values of contemporary society.
Implications for National Security and Leadership
Recent political developments highlight concerns about leadership quality and national security under the current Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, who is facing allegations of incompetence and reckless behavior. The discussions surrounding his actions, including leaking sensitive military information, have raised alarms about the implications of such disarray for the U.S. military. Observers note how Hegseth’s past experiences and personal conduct do not align with the traditional expectations of a leader in a pivotal role, posing risks to effective governance. The broader narrative reveals a troubling environment in which party loyalty may overshadow the need for qualified leadership in matters of national importance.
The Tumultuous Landscape of U.S. Foreign Policy
Current U.S. foreign policy regarding Ukraine reflects a chilling attitude, suggesting a potential withdrawal of support if negotiations do not yield favorable outcomes. Discussions around shifting responsibilities onto Ukraine highlight the precarious nature of American commitments abroad, particularly under the influence of figures who lean toward isolationism. Reports indicate that the U.S. may lean towards abandoning its allies, particularly if a sustainable peace is not achieved soon, thereby emboldening adversaries like Russia. The potential for a sudden withdrawal also raises concerns about the moral and strategic implications of leaving allies to fend for themselves amidst ongoing aggression.
Republican senators could have insisted on someone who was even minimally competent to run our military, but because of their spinelessness, we've now got a SecDef who can't resist texting top secret war plans. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court shows it doesn't trust the Trump administration, and judges on lower federal courts have stopped believing what its lawyers say. Plus, Joe Perticone joins from Rome to discuss the passing of Pope Francis. And the uncanny relevance of the American revolutionaries' grievances against King George.
Bill Kristol and Joe Perticone joins Tim Miller. show notes
