The Bulwark Podcast Tom Nichols: The Buzz Has Worn Off
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Dec 23, 2025 
Political commentator Tom Nichols, also a professor emeritus at the U.S. Naval War College, joins Tim Miller to dissect the current state of MAGA supporters as they navigate infighting and unmet promises. They critique Trump’s impractical 'golden fleet' of warships and explore the dangerous implications of nuclear arms on surface ships. The duo also dives into the Epstein controversy, reflecting on political consequences of past behaviors, while addressing the erosion of enthusiasm within Trump's base. A candid discussion on future GOP leadership wraps up their insights.
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Golden Fleet Misses Naval Reality
- Trump is fixated on building oversized, flashy surface ships despite the Navy needing more agile, well-maintained vessels.
- Tom Nichols warns this plan lacks shipbuilding capacity and misunderstands modern naval priorities.
Zumwalt Example Of Overambitious Shipbuilding
- Nichols compares the failed Zumwalt destroyer program to flashy projects that collapse into tiny fleets.
- He warns new ambitious ship classes often end with far fewer vessels than planned.
Nukes On Surface Ships Are Dangerous
- Reintroducing nuclear munitions to surface ships is strategically and logistically dangerous.
- Nichols says nuclear weapons on slow surface platforms make them obvious targets and add onerous handling burdens.
