The Bulwark Podcast

Marc Elias, a partner at Elias Law Group and founder of Democracy Docket, dives into the current landscape of gerrymandering in Texas and its implications for the upcoming elections. He stresses the urgency for Democrats to adopt aggressive strategies to combat Republican tactics. The discussion also touches on the ethical challenges faced by legal professionals opposing Donald Trump and the need for accountability in political discourse. Furthermore, Elias examines the role of redistricting in shaping voter confidence and the integrity of elections.

Franklin Foer, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the intricate relationship between Elon Musk and NASA. He discusses how SpaceX's rise has reshaped America's dependency on private aerospace, while also critiquing Musk's hypocrisy in dismantling the government that supported him. The conversation also touches on Ukraine's Zelensky facing corruption challenges and the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. Foer's insights offer a compelling look at the interplay between technology, politics, and ethical responsibilities in today's world.

David French, an opinion columnist for the New York Times and veteran of the Iraq War, joins Tim Miller to tackle pressing issues surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They discuss Israel's obligations amidst the chaos while drawing parallels to U.S. military missteps. The conversation shifts to the consequences of USAID cuts, the evangelical community’s moral responsibilities, and the bizarre political distractions in the U.S. Finally, they reflect on Trump's political maneuvers and the evolving discourse on issues like LGBTQ+ acceptance within Christian circles.

In this engaging conversation, Bill Kristol, Editor at large of The Bulwark, and Stacey Williams, a former model who bravely speaks out about her experiences with Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump, expose the chilling connections between these two figures. They discuss Trump's apparent lack of empathy towards victims and his tangled responses to controversies involving Epstein. Stacey shares her personal stories of harassment and the challenges of coming forward, shedding light on the broader societal implications of victimization and accountability.

Andrew Weissmann, a Professor of law at NYU and legal analyst for MSNBC, joins to dissect the murky ties between Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and Ghislaine Maxwell. The discussion highlights the unsettling implications of Maxwell's potential motives for exculpating Trump and the broader consequences for judicial integrity. Weissmann explores the chaotic political landscape, scrutinizing the government's contradictory stances on legal transparency and the politicization of the Department of Justice. Expect sharp insights into the fragility of the rule of law and legal complexities surrounding high-profile cases.

Mike Murphy, a veteran political strategist known for his work with major figures like McCain and Romney, dives deep into the evolving persona of Donald Trump. He discusses Trump's shift from an anti-establishment hero to a scandal-ridden politician facing declining public approval. Murphy analyzes the implications of the current economic climate on Trump's strategies and critiques the automotive industry amidst rising inflation. The conversation also touches on potential Democratic strategies and the emerging political landscape in California.

Neera Tanden, President and CEO of the Center for American Progress and former Domestic Policy Council Director, joins to discuss pressing political issues. She addresses the fallout from the Epstein scandal and Republican leadership's handling of it. The conversation turns to the Democrats' strategies for the midterms, including the need for thorough investigations akin to Benghazi-style hearings. They also explore new immigration policies and the crucial fight against gerrymandering in Texas to protect democratic processes.

Chris Murphy, a U.S. Senator from Connecticut and a fierce advocate for gun control, joins the discussion about the alarming erosion of democratic norms. He highlights how one political party is breaking all the rules while the other struggles to uphold them. Murphy warns that democracies are at risk when the rules change and opposition parties refuse to adapt. The conversation also touches on Trump's controversial tactics and their implications for democracy, reinforcing the urgent need for public action to preserve meaningful elections.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, shares sharp insights on the U.S. government's controversial actions regarding Venezuelan detainees and the geopolitical implications. He discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding immigration policies and the emotional toll on affected communities. The conversation shifts to the troubling connections between Trump and Epstein, hinting at potential cover-ups. Kristol also examines how recent political dynamics may influence future cooperation and legislative decisions among parties.

Tom Nichols, Professor Emeritus at the Naval War College and a notable Atlantic staff writer, dives into the controversial ties between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He discusses the implications of Trump's behavior amid ongoing legal challenges, including the recent firing of a prosecutor linked to Epstein's cases. Nichols also raises concerns about the intersection of nuclear security and AI decision-making, highlighting global geopolitical tensions and the uncertainties surrounding presidential capabilities in crisis situations.