The Grill Room The Bulwark’s Seven-Year War
Oct 21, 2025
Sarah Longwell, the co-founder and publisher of The Bulwark, shares her insights on the media landscape as a former Republican strategist. She discusses the evolution of their never-Trump mission into a broader pro-democracy agenda. The conversation reveals their strategies for audience engagement, including live events and multi-platform content. Longwell also reflects on their growth during pivotal political moments and warns of right-wing media consolidation, stressing the importance of maintaining editorial independence.
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From Never-Trump To Pro-Democracy Voice
- The Bulwark shifted from “never-Trump” branding to a broader pro-democracy, centrist commentary outlet as the GOP changed after January 6.
- Sarah Longwell emphasizes influence without normalizing Trump and protecting editorial independence.
Growth Beyond Resistance Media
- The Bulwark grew during Biden years by building reporting, video, and podcast teams rather than relying on resistance outrage.
- Multi-platform journalism and original reporting sustained growth beyond the Trump shock cycle.
Sold-Out Live Shows Prove Community
- The Bulwark sold out live podcasts in New York and DC, proving strong audience appetite for in-person events.
- Sarah Longwell likens the outlet to an indie band turning listeners into a sticky, event-going community.