The Bulwark Podcast

Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and staunch Never Trumper, joins Tim Miller to discuss the gullibility of certain Republicans, like Susan Collins, regarding Trump's integrity. They dissect Trump’s history of fraud, from his businesses to his media persona. Kristol also highlights the defiance shown by Colombia and Mexico towards Trump’s whims. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of contentious debates surrounding immigration and the internal struggles of the Catholic Church in the U.S., revealing broader implications for political alliances and societal values.

David French, a New York Times opinion columnist and former army lawyer, dives into the troubling dynamics of Trump's presidency. He discusses how political loyalty poses risks to democracy and examines the implications of Trump's pardons for January 6 rioters. French also critiques recent immigration policies and the challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. He sheds light on the impacts of federal hiring freezes and the complex history of the Equal Rights Amendment, highlighting the intricate balance of power and accountability in today's political landscape.

Sam Stein, the Managing Editor at The Bulwark, and Adrian Carrasquillo, author of the newsletter "Huddled Masses," dive into a whirlwind of current events. They tackle the bizarre world of social media battles involving government contractors. The conversation highlights Trump's controversial remarks on January 6th, emphasizing political narratives. They also dissect alarming immigration policies, including raids in sensitive locations and the targeting of non-threatening individuals. The political climate is charged, and their insights shed light on complex issues facing America today.

Stephanie Ruhle, a senior business correspondent at NBC News, dives into the tumultuous intersection of corporate power and politics. She discusses how CEOs flocked to Mar-a-Lago seeking freedom from social justice demands, yet now crave financial support sans regulations for their grand ambitions. Ruhle critiques the rise of unregulated cryptocurrencies and the potential backlash against economic inequality, all while reflecting on the precarious balance between truth, corporate responsibility, and the evolving landscape of tech and politics.

Tom Nichols, an author and political columnist for The Atlantic, joins Tim Miller for a lively discussion on the tumultuous political landscape. They dissect Trump's pardons for insurrectionists and the alarming normalizing of such actions. Nichols critiques the influence of tech moguls in politics, questioning the ties between wealth and leadership. They also touch on the emotional repercussions of recent immigration policy shifts and examine the fractured narratives affecting public trust in governance, all delivered with sharp wit and insight.

Bill Kristol, a Conservative political commentator known for his role in the Never Trump movement, dives into the dangers of political nihilism in modern America. He critiques Trump's recent cryptocurrency venture as a major scam deceiving ordinary investors. Kristol discusses the troubling impact of authoritarianism and the necessity of principled opposition in political discourse. Additionally, he reflects on the ramifications of executive orders and the ethical responsibilities of the wealthy in today's capitalism, emphasizing a need for integrity and accountability.

Ron Brownstein, a senior editor at The Atlantic and CNN political analyst, dives into the politics of America's cultural battlegrounds. He urges Democrats not to get sidetracked by niche issues while tackling key economic concerns. Brownstein analyzes how Trump's influence is growing, especially among disenchanted voters. He highlights the impact of California's climate crises on political dynamics and warns Republicans about the looming reality of extreme weather. The discussion ultimately centers on adapting strategies to win the next election.

Melissa Murray, a law professor at NYU and MSNBC contributor, and John Avlon, an author and journalist, dive into the troubling implications of Pam Bondi's nomination as Attorney General. They dissect the glaring red flags surrounding her confirmation, particularly her allegiance to Trump over the U.S. They also discuss the ramifications of Supreme Court rulings on democracy and electoral integrity. Additionally, they tackle the challenges women face in politics and the urgent need for citizens to engage in democracy, urging action to revitalize the middle class.

Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, known for his bold Trump critiques, and Senator Mark Kelly, a former NASA astronaut, dive deep into the political intricacies of military oversight. They critique the recent defense nominee hearings, discussing troubling political influences and the dangers of partisan dynamics. Kinzinger and Kelly analyze Joe Kent's extreme views and their potential threat to national security as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership in intelligence and defense.

Peter Hamby, a partner at Puck News and host of Snapchat's Good Luck America, gives sharp insights into the devastating fires in Los Angeles and their political implications. He highlights how Mayor Karen Bass's absence has led to a perception of unfitness for her role. The conversation critiques the social media response to crises and explores the disconnect between leaders like Gavin Newsom and the public. Hamby also discusses the TikTok debate, emphasizing the complexities of free speech among Gen Z and the tech influence on political narratives.