The Bulwark Podcast

Bill Kristol, a veteran conservative commentator and columnist, dives into intriguing political topics alongside Tim Miller. They discuss the controversial actions of Aileen Cannon, Trump's favored judge, and her overreach in the Jan 6 investigations. The conversation highlights the politicization of the FBI, particularly as hearings for Trump's nominees unfold. Kristol also critiques the handling of classified documents that raise questions of justice and accountability, all while navigating through the complexities of American law and politics.

Amanda Carpenter, a writer and editor at Protect Democracy, dives into the fascinating political dynamics surrounding Karen Pence's sharp snub of Trump at Jimmy Carter's funeral. She discusses the absurdity of the 'catturd' crowd's outrage towards Amy Coney Barrett and the chaotic implications of Trump's legal battles. Carpenter highlights the urgent need for a robust electoral infrastructure to combat authoritarianism, while weaving in humorous personal anecdotes about comfort amidst political turmoil, showcasing the intersection of serious politics and daily life.

Derek Thompson, a Staff writer for The Atlantic focusing on economics and social trends, joins Elizabeth Weil, a Features writer for New York Magazine, known for her work on California fires. They explore the alarming rise of solitude in America and its effects on youth and society, linking it to political polarization. They also discuss the environmental causes of Los Angeles wildfires and the personal story of Sam Altman's sister, touching on themes of loneliness and family amidst climate challenges.

Liam Donovan, a political analyst and former aide to Senate Republicans, and Brendan Boyle, a Democratic congressman from Pennsylvania, dive into the intricate world of tax policy negotiations. They discuss the looming expiration of Trump's tax cuts and the reconciliation process that could allow Republicans to make significant budget adjustments. The duo also examines potential corruption in the new administration and the implications of a government shutdown. Along the way, they sprinkle in humor and commentary on the cultural impact of politics.

Charlie Warzel, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of Galaxy Brain, dives into the intrigue behind Mark Zuckerberg’s efforts to cozy up to Trump. They discuss Zuckerberg's shift in Meta's policies, eliminating fact-checking in the name of free speech. The conversation also touches on the alarming conspiracies linking January 6th and 9/11 and explores the potential pitfalls of cryptocurrency threatening the financial system. Warzel's insights into tech's interplay with politics make this discussion particularly engaging.

In this engaging discussion, Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and columnist, shares his insights on the absurd conspiracy theories surrounding the January 6th insurrection. He critiques the notion that the FBI could foresee Trump’s electoral loss and orchestrate the Capitol attack. Kristol also reflects on the changing narratives within the GOP about honoring Capitol police versus embrace of conspiracy theories. Additionally, he analyzes the shifting landscape of journalism, particularly the impact of Trump's presidency on major publications like The Washington Post.

Jonathan Martin, an acclaimed author and political commentator, shares insights on the unique resilience of New Orleans, a city rich in culture yet challenged by adversity. He discusses the political fallout following recent incidents in the French Quarter and the importance of restoring safety ahead of major events like the Super Bowl. Martin also delves into the Democratic Party's struggles with messaging and the dichotomy between centrist and progressive factions, highlighting the complexities they face in today's political climate.

David Frum, an insightful author and political commentator, joins Tim Miller to discuss the darker sides of American political culture. They delve into how social media amplifies tribalism and normalizes violence, particularly in response to tragic events. Frum critiques the rise of fringe figures within the Republican Party post-2020 and the political manipulation of law enforcement. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by journalists in a hostile environment, highlighting the need for unity in the media during turbulent times.

The hosts dive into the refusal to accommodate Trump in media and the challenge of discerning real issues from trolling. They explore the political landscape shaped by Trump's endorsements and the influence of tech leaders like Elon Musk. The conversation touches on political uncertainty linked to potential third terms and the future of the GOP amidst Trump's legacy. They emphasize the importance of focusing on personal values amid political chaos and advocate for authenticity in podcasting as a response to sensationalized media.

Bill Kristol, an influential voice in the conservative realm and a key figure in the Never Trump movement, discusses the emerging rifts within the MAGA landscape. He highlights that the infighting signals a weakening grip on power for Trump, while geopolitical tensions continue to rise. Kristol also reflects on Jimmy Carter’s legacy, contrasting past and present challenges in politics. Additionally, he shares insights on the cultural scene, praising Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Dylan in a recent film, adding a refreshing note to a complex political conversation.