The Bulwark Podcast

George Packer, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of a profile on J.D. Vance, joins Melanie Stansbury, a Democratic Congresswoman from New Mexico. They delve into Vance's political transformation and how he navigates identity and ambition in a populist landscape. The conversation critiques moral inconsistencies in current politics, the tension between fiscal conservatism and Trump's influence, and the impact of rising authoritarianism. Stansbury shares insights from her unique political journey in a conservative region, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.

Pete Buttigieg, former mayor of South Bend and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, discusses the necessity for Democrats to embrace imaginative solutions to tackle the country's pressing challenges, from political strife to climate change. He critiques Trump's approach and addresses why the Democratic Party must evolve in its communication strategies. Buttigieg also reflects on COVID responses, advocates for stronger connections with diverse voters, and emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership in today’s divided political landscape.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, joins to discuss significant contemporary issues. He critiques the implications of Trump's mercantilist agenda on America's global standing. The conversation highlights the need for robust support for Ukraine amid threats from Russia and addresses Congress's hesitance to act decisively. Kristol also raises alarms about the recent reconciliation bill, warning of its potential impact on American competitiveness. Their poignant reflections on Memorial Day emphasize the juxtaposition of honoring veterans and critiquing modern political leadership.

James Comey, former FBI director and author of the legal thriller "FDR Drive," dives into the concerning dynamics of public corruption today. He discusses the alarming shift in FBI priorities, the politicization of the bureau, and the importance of maintaining its integrity. Comey reflects on how recent leadership changes impact justice and public trust. The conversation touches on the ethical implications of Donald Trump’s financial dealings and the barriers of political polarization, all wrapped in Comey's personal anecdotes and insights.

Jonathan Chait, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his sharp political insights, discusses the chaotic Republican push for a controversial House bill that endangers health insurance and deepens the deficit. He critiques the party's fervent commitment to privileging the wealthy over vulnerable populations. Chait also delves into the Democratic Party's leadership issues and their disconnect with younger voters. Additionally, he reflects on the media's role in political narratives and the dire implications of radical ideologies in today's political climate.

Susan Glasser, a Staff writer for The New Yorker and co-author of The Divider, discusses the troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. They explore how Trump’s transactional diplomacy compromises American values and mishandles relationships with global leaders, especially regarding Ukraine. Glasser shares anecdotes from her time at Mar-a-Lago, reflecting on the atmosphere there. They also touch on the plight of Venezuelan migrants, raising concerns about habeas corpus violations and the integrity of the U.S. government.

David French, an opinion columnist for The New York Times and co-host of the legal podcast Advisory Opinions, dives into the perplexing political shifts of Trump. He critiques recent foreign policy contradictions and analyzes the implications of Trump's Supreme Court appointees. French discusses the bizarre blend of fiscal ideologies amongst politicians, scrutinizing proposed budget cuts and their effects on vulnerable populations. He also reflects on the current challenges of American democracy, emphasizing the critical need for legal accountability amid ongoing political tensions.

Bill Kristol, a sharp political analyst and commentator, joins Tim Miller to dissect the current political landscape. They discuss how the Trump administration prioritizes personal gain over public welfare, particularly in his dealings with foreign entities. Kristol critiques the latest reconciliation bill, linking it to the U.S. credit downgrade, and dives into Biden's health concerns. The conversation touches on the moral dilemmas in U.S. foreign policy and examines the complexities of political loyalty and intimidation tactics in modern governance.

Peter Hamby, host of Snapchat's Good Luck America and partner at Puck News, joins for a lively discussion. They dissect the absurdities of political antics, from MAGA's outrage over a meme to figures like Kristi Noem and Tulsi Gabbard's extreme loyalty to Trump. Hamby shares insights on Biden’s successes amid GOP chaos and the need for Democrats to re-engage disillusioned voters. They also weigh in on Gavin Newsom's controversial healthcare proposals and the implications of AI in parenting. The conversation is a blend of humor, reflection, and sharp political analysis.

Michael Weiss, Editor of The Insider and expert on Russia, delves into the murky waters of U.S. foreign policy, shedding light on Trump's dealings with authoritarian regimes and the implications for democracy. He discusses how Qatari investments and autocratic influences shape politics, revealing a troubling pivot away from values-based diplomacy. Weiss also critiques the ineffective U.S. military strategies against the Houthis, reflecting on the broader challenges and repercussions of American intervention in complex global conflicts.