
The Rebooting Show The Bulwark's anti-neutrality approach
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Nov 5, 2025 Sarah Longwell, publisher of The Bulwark and founder of Republican Voters Against Trump, discusses the decline of neutrality in political journalism. She argues that transparency and conviction are essential for trust in today's polarized climate. Longwell highlights The Bulwark's evolution from a Never Trump site to a pro-democracy platform, emphasizing the importance of defending liberal democracy against anti-democratic forces. The conversation touches on the site's diverse audience and its strategic use of YouTube to engage and expand its reach.
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Neutrality Has Lost Its Persuasive Power
- Studied neutrality no longer convinces audiences in a low-trust, polarized world.
- Transparent conviction plus rigorous reporting builds more trust than feigned objectivity.
From Never Trump To Pro-Democracy Mission
- The Bulwark evolved from 'never Trump' to a pro-democracy, nonpartisan defender of liberal institutions.
- They no longer aim to salvage the Republican Party but to protect American liberal democracy.
Born From The Weekly Standard's Ashes
- The Bulwark began as an ad-hoc project to employ Weekly Standard staff after the magazine closed.
- Sarah Longwell transitioned the site from a side political project into a news-focused business over time.

