

The Next Level
The Bulwark
Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and Jonathan V. Last bring their signature political insight and banter to the masses in The Next Level podcast. Tune in to hear them discuss the news of the week, break down campaigns and elections, and wade into pop culture feuds. www.thebulwark.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Fight Trump Has To Lose
Dive into the chaos of political maneuvers as President Trump defies a Supreme Court ruling over a contentious deportation case. The gang debates the Democrats' strategy, signaling a need for boldness on immigration. They tackle the unsettling perception of America becoming a police state, fueled by international warnings. Plus, Elon Musk's unconventional family dynamics and controversial views on reproduction spark a cultural critique that questions societal values and personal relationships. It's a wild ride through politics, ethics, and societal absurdities!

7 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 56min
The Damage Can't Be Undone
Delve into the chaos of Trump's tariffs and their lasting impact on America's economy. The discussion highlights the fluctuating stock market and the resulting erosion of public trust. As political strategies evolve, Democrats must navigate economic turmoil and address cultural resentments. A lighter note shifts to protecting personal data in today's digital world, emphasizing the urgency of privacy amidst rising identity theft. The podcast wraps up with a playful take on a military parade and the importance of dissent in preserving democracy.

11 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 58min
What a Stupid, Stupid Day This Is
The discussion centers on Trump's controversial 'Liberation Day' and the economic fallout of his tariffs. Voter turnout trends and party dynamics following the Wisconsin election are analyzed, highlighting the urgent need for electoral reform. The humor emerges with anecdotes from a 25-hour filibuster, blending nostalgia and political engagement. The implications of deportation cases raise critical questions about due process amidst misleading narratives. Finally, the potential NIH and CDC budget cuts are examined, revealing their far-reaching effects on public health.

Mar 26, 2025 • 49min
The Incompetence In This Administration Is STAG-GER-ING!
Sam Stein fills in for Sarah to talk the continued fallout of the Trump administration’s signal group chat, with newly released texts detailing the “attack plans.” Plus, Tesla’s brand disintegration continues and Vice President JD Vance gets roped into accompanying his wife, Usha, to Greenland.
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Mar 19, 2025 • 49min
All the Ways Trump Is a B*tch
The gang discuss President Trump’s bonkers interview with Laura Ingraham, his obsession with making Canada the 51st state, his call with Vladimir Putin, Federal Trade Commission firings, and how Sen. Chuck Schumer is not meeting the moment as Minority Leader.
Plus, what happens when Bad JVL meets Bad Tim & Sarah?
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Mar 14, 2025 • 59min
We're All His Enemies
The hosts dive into the bizarre implications of the Alien Enemies Act amidst today's political landscape. They reflect on the stock market's nervous state and tackle the fallout from a Columbia University protestor's arrest. With humor, they discuss Gavin Newsom's new podcast and dive into the implications of Pete Buttigieg's decision not to run for the Senate seat. Conversations about free speech, political protests, and the nuances of parental life amidst geopolitical chaos keep the laughter flowing!

Mar 6, 2025 • 1h
Trump's Economy In Peril
The gang break down the administration’s shameful abandonment of Ukraine, and speak to how our allies can no longer trust the United States
They also discuss Trump’s joint address to Congress, Sen .Elissa Slotkin’s response, Gavin Newsom’s new podcast, whether tariffs will actually stick around this time, and Sen. Lindsey Graham “joking” about Trump 2028.
Get tickets for our live Phoenix show here: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events
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Feb 26, 2025 • 54min
Da Bomb Threat Beyond Insanity
The hosts dive into the chaotic bomb threat at a recent conference, uncovering the emotional fallout and resilience shown by attendees. They discuss significant political developments, including the GOP's budget resolution and the controversial targeting of Medicaid cuts. Tech figures like Elon Musk gain access to government data, raising eyebrows. Amidst these discussions, humor lightens the mood as they explore the importance of healthy eating while navigating the complex relationship between politics and personal wellness.

Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
America's Villain Era
The discussion delves into America's shifting image on the global stage, challenging the notion of the U.S. as a hero. Political dynamics around leaders like Trump and Zelenskyy highlight a growing apathy towards democracy. The speakers humorously analyze the bizarre interplay between Trump and Musk, examining the implications of extremist ideologies and the complexities of voter sentiments. They tackle the intricacies of international relations and critique the 'America First' mentality, urging a reconnection with foundational values for a cohesive national narrative.

9 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 47min
The DOGE Days Are Far From Over
The discussion kicks off with the rapid decline of government integrity amid Musk’s influence, pondering his hold over Trump. As inflation rises, the group debates if red states will turn their frustration on Democrats. They also critique key government roles and explore the divided sentiments of Trump supporters, especially among Hispanic voters. The interplay between political loyalty and funding sources comes to light, alongside concerns about media integrity, accountability, and the challenges posed by moderate Republicans in a shifting political landscape.