The Bulwark Podcast Bill Kristol: Trump Wants Troops in Portland
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Sep 29, 2025 
Bill Kristol, a renowned conservative analyst and founder of The Bulwark, dives into urgent national security issues with Tim Miller. They dissect President Trump's controversial troop deployments to Portland, arguing it aims to normalize military responses to public protests. Kristol also shares concerns over a mysterious military meeting in Quantico, viewing it as a potential loyalty test. Additionally, he addresses the troubling prospect of military action in Venezuela and the implications of domestic terrorism narratives on free speech.
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Generals Risk Becoming Political Props
- Bill Kristol warns the White House planned the Quantico event to signal the military is aligned with Trump’s agenda.
- He says generals risk being used as props and should resist political pressure.
Generals Should Prepare For Optics
- Kristol urged generals to anticipate being used and prepare to avoid applause or optics that endorse political aims.
- He recommends they consider silent pushback and understand the stakes ahead of time.
Event Doubles As Intimidation Tactic
- Kristol and Miller note the gathering can intimidate officers and identify dissenters rather than just review roles.
- The event signals "Trump's military" rather than an independent U.S. military.