The Bulwark Podcast John Heilemann: The Year Is Ending a Lot Better than It Started
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Dec 31, 2025 Join John Heilemann, a prominent journalist and political analyst, as he dives into a year of shifting dynamics in American politics. Heilemann discusses how the Epstein revelations have weakened Trump's cultural grip, while cultural commentators have reshaped public perception. With talk of potential reform candidates on the Democratic side, he also hints at an optimistic outlook despite ongoing challenges. Plus, the duo celebrate the revival of rock music, highlighting artists like Oasis, as a sign of cultural longing.
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Vibe Shift Against Trump
- The vibe around Trump shifted from looming threat to visible weakening over the year.
- Cultural blows like the Epstein revelations and comedian backlash eroded his aura of invincibility.
Culture Drives Political Weakness
- The Epstein revelations created a cultural off-ramp for podcasters and comedians who once defended Trump.
- That cultural withdrawal amplified political damage beyond legal or electoral effects.
Vibes Over Policy
- Trump’s power relies heavily on controlling cultural vibes rather than policy depth.
- When culture turns against him, his political control visibly deteriorates.