The Next Level

Voters delivered a significant blow to Trumpism with key Democratic wins in governor races across New Jersey and Virginia. The hosts delve into the implications of Abigail Spanberger's victory and Zohran Mamdani's surprising win in New York City, analyzing turnout dynamics and messaging strategies. They discuss the Democratic leverage amid a government shutdown and the ongoing GOP crisis post-Trump. The conversation also touches on the humorous moments from a viral subway trial, wrapping up with reflections on the political landscape as the midterms approach.

The hosts dive into the Heritage Foundation's unease over Tucker Carlson's connections with Nick Fuentes. They dissect how socialism will be weaponized in post-election rhetoric and explore the blurred lines between government and private market interests. A heated debate unfolds on whether government ownership equates to socialism. The duo also covers shifting voter sentiments in key states and how high turnout could signal an anti-Trump wave benefiting certain Democrats. It's a whirlwind of political analysis that's both sharp and witty.

Dive into the heated intra-MAGA battles as the hosts dissect ICE's hardline reshuffling and the tension between Tom Homan and Border Patrol. They unravel Stephen Miller's power plays and RFK Jr.'s chaotic tenure at HHS. The discussion gets lively over U.S. actions near Venezuela, exploring Trump’s motives and the possibility of escalation. The Democratic memo sparks debate on strategies to win back working-class voters with a focus on economics and clear messaging. This dynamic conversation captures the pulse of current political turbulence.

The hosts dive into Trump's latest antics, examining the significance of the East Wing controversy. They debate whether focusing on symbolism distracts from real issues and discuss elites' fears of challenging Trump's authority. The conversation shifts to Trump's preference for authoritarian leaders, highlighting how it shapes international relations. Canada’s contentious ad triggers a trade row, revealing the geopolitical implications of Trump's tariff policies. The duo also critiques the media's struggle to adequately cover the extensive nature of Trump's corruption.

Drama unfolds as hosts tackle the controversy surrounding Democrat Graham Platner's “Nazi tattoo.” They dive into the Maine Senate race and the left’s hunt for a Trump-like outsider. A deep discussion reveals Trump’s remodeling of the White House ballroom and its implications. The intriguing 'No Kings' protests highlight concerns over authoritarianism. They also question the legalities of presidential renovations and discuss whether Democrats should pledge to demolish the ballroom as a bold statement against Trump's legacy.

JVL and Sarah dive into a whirlwind of dark political topics, starting with the indictment of John Bolton and comparisons to past high-profile cases. They explore the nuances of classified-document mishandling and discuss fears of retaliation in politics. The discussion takes a turn to the Pentagon press corps purge, examining the threat of state-sanctioned media. Concerns rise over media ownership concentration and its implications for independent journalism. It’s a provocative journey through a quietly depressing week in politics.

This discussion dives into the GOP's moral decline, revealing the troubling implications of leaked chats among Young Republicans. They explore MAGA's attempts to label No Kings protests as anti-American and the ethical breaches in Kristi Noem's taxpayer-funded ads. The team dissects the manipulative nature of government propaganda and how social media fuels political extremism. Lastly, there’s a critique of the Democratic establishment's choices and strategies, emphasizing the need for better messaging to resonate with voters.

Live from New York, the hosts dissect America's billionaire culture, spotlighting Mark Benioff's controversial support for Trump while hiding in Hawaii. They explore the legal intimidation tactics Trump uses against critics and the chilling effect this has on donors. Discussion turns to the Democrats' cautious strategies and the urgent need for bolder candidates who communicate plainly. The panel also delves into the shifting dynamics within the MAGA movement, highlighting figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and the implications of extremist rhetoric.

Join Sarah and JVL as they have a relaxed chat, reflecting on their personal journeys and career choices. They share insights on loneliness after college and how it shaped Sarah's career. JVL contemplates a shift to medicine amidst today's political climate. The duo discusses how their backgrounds align with The Bulwark’s mission while navigating the challenges of growth. It's a candid look at their experiences and the responsibilities they feel in a changing world.

The hosts dive into pressing issues, from the Texas National Guard's presence in Illinois to the legality of federal troop actions. They share eye-opening incidents like civilian casualties and discuss ICE's frightening expansion. A playful suggestion emerges about infiltrating ICE with unconventional recruits, mixing humor with stark realities. As the federal shutdown looms, they debate the political fallout and the Democrats' strategies for the future. Amidst dark times, they emphasize community strength and the importance of civic engagement.