
Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast Rick Wilson & Tim Wu
Dec 8, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Rick Wilson, co-founder of the Lincoln Project, critiques Trump's controversial pardons and the underlying motives, highlighting how Trump's decisions often prioritize loyalty over governance. Tim Wu, a law professor and tech policy expert, sheds light on his book, explaining how big tech monopolies have reshaped the economy, and discusses radical ideas for breaking them up. Their insights combine political strategy and technological critique, making for a thought-provoking conversation about today’s pressing issues.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Racial Attacks As Political Distraction
- Trump uses racially charged attacks to distract from failing policy and energize his base.
- Rick Wilson says these tactics signal weakness, not strength, and should be condemned by Republicans.
Pardons Reflect Corruption, Not Justice
- Trump’s recent pardons appear driven by corruption, graft, and personal loyalty rather than justice.
- Rick Wilson calls the pattern quintessential mobster behavior and a systemic pay-to-play problem.
Use Full Disclosure In Crisis Management
- In a crisis, get the truth out quickly and propose reforms transparently.
- Rick Wilson advises that drip-drip leaks worsen outcomes compared with full disclosure and reform.





