

S2 Ep1012: Sam Stein: Elon Is Toxic
55 snips Apr 2, 2025
Sam Stein, managing editor of The Bulwark, shares sharp insights on the political ramifications of Elon Musk's influence in Wisconsin. He highlights the surprising voter turnout that tarnished Musk's brand. The conversation dives into engaging Democratic base trends, Cory Booker's powerful filibuster, and how upcoming foreign challenges are linked to Trump's policies. Stein also explores the impact of layoffs on health agencies and the emotional toll of securing medical research funding, illuminating the intricate dynamics at play in today’s political landscape.
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Elon's Overreach
- Elon Musk overstated the Wisconsin Supreme Court race's importance, claiming it would steer Western civilization.
- Despite his $20 million investment, his influence likely backfired.
Elon's Toxicity
- Elon Musk's money and influence didn't guarantee a win in Wisconsin.
- This suggests he isn't all-powerful in elections and may even be toxic to some voters.
Flipped Turnout Dynamics
- Traditional special election turnout dynamics have flipped.
- Democrats now perform better in these races due to an engaged base.