The Bulwark Podcast Sam Stein: Trump Is Trying to Instigate Unrest
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Jan 15, 2026 
Sam Stein, Managing Editor at The Bulwark and a keen political analyst, dives into the recent federal escalations in Minneapolis. He explores how Trump's methods are backfiring in the media and urges Democrats to focus their messaging on leadership figures like Trump and Stephen Miller, rather than internal disputes. They also discuss the alarming possibility of inexperienced recruits in ICE, the chilling effects on journalism from government actions, and the absurdities of recent cabinet missteps. Tune in for insightful commentary on current events!
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Federal Deployment Aims To Instigate Chaos
- The federal deployment to Minneapolis reads as deliberate chaos, not neutral law enforcement.
- Sam Stein argues Trump and Stephen Miller aim to create unrest to justify more federal power and mass deportations.
Winning The News Cycle Not A Long-Term Plan
- The political endgame appears short-sighted and media-driven rather than strategic.
- Tim Miller says Trump is living day to day, using dramatic moves to 'win the news cycle' without long-term plans.
Ordinary Resident Turned Protester
- A Minneapolis resident who never protested described being radicalized into attending after seeing federal agents' violence.
- His raw reaction captured why ordinary citizens are now showing up in the streets, Sam and Tim note.
