The Bulwark Podcast

George Conway, a lawyer and vocal critic of Donald Trump, joins Sarah Matthews, a former Trump White House aide who resigned during the Capitol riot. They dive into the psychological traits of Trump, dissecting his narcissism and its implications for leadership. The discussion highlights the alarming indifference Trump showed towards his VP on January 6, drawing parallels to voter experiences. Conway and Matthews also touch on the importance of integrity and accountability in politics, sharing anecdotes that blend serious critique with moments of humor.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward, renowned for his investigative work on Watergate and 9/11, discusses critical moments in recent history. He highlights General James Mattis's endorsement of his book, warning against downplaying Trump's threats. Woodward delves into Kamala Harris's strategic counsel to Ukraine and the Biden administration's efforts to prevent nuclear escalation amid Russian tensions. He also critiques the lack of accountability in Trump’s leadership, drawing troubling comparisons to Nixon's presidency.

Susan Rice, former National Security Advisor, highlights Donald Trump's detrimental impact on U.S. national security, calling him a 'surrender monkey' who harms alliances with Russia and China. She warns of the risks to citizens under a potential Trump presidency. Mondaire Jones sheds light on a critical congressional race and the need for political engagement to counter extremist candidates. Together, they discuss the evolving global landscape, emphasizing the importance of collective action to protect democratic values.

In this discussion, Tom Nichols, a Professor Emeritus at the Naval War College and a staff writer at The Atlantic, shares insights on the precarious state of American politics. He criticizes Trump's erratic town hall antics and questions his fitness for office. The conversation delves into the erosion of political norms historically established by George Washington. Nichols also highlights the troubling strategies of politicians like Glenn Youngkin and expresses concerns over unchecked presidential power affecting the Republican Party's integrity.

Jason Calacanis, an angel investor and early backer of Uber, dives deep into Silicon Valley's political divide. He discusses how tech leaders are reacting to figures like Trump, revealing tensions between self-made entrepreneurs and elite groups. The conversation touches on the significant shifts following January 6th and the growing skepticism around cryptocurrency, emphasizing the need for better regulations. Calacanis also shares insights on the emotional currents influencing the upcoming elections, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

In this engaging conversation, Bill Kristol, a renowned political commentator and a key figure in the Never Trump movement, dives into the alarming rise of authoritarianism in contemporary politics. He discusses Trump's increasingly aggressive rhetoric, including threats to media freedoms and the targeting of political rivals. Kristol emphasizes the urgent need for political elites to connect with average voters amidst this cultural divide. The dialogue also touches on the historical echoes of past legislation, illuminating the grave implications for democracy and voter engagement.

Susan Glasser, a staff writer at The New Yorker and co-author of "The Divider," teams up with Jared Polis, the progressive Governor of Colorado. They dive into Obama’s call to disenchanted Trump voters and the dangers of his rogue foreign policy. The discussion highlights Trump’s relation with Putin, his pandemic actions, and the impact of oligarchic influences like Elon Musk. Polis shares insights on the misrepresentation of Aurora, emphasizing community growth despite political rhetoric and the complexities of Venezuelan immigration.

In a compelling discussion, David Axelrod, former chief strategist for Barack Obama and political analyst on CNN, shares insights on the current political landscape. He emphasizes the pressing desire among voters for a break from divisive politics. Axelrod analyzes key strategies for appealing to undecided voters, especially in battleground states like Wisconsin. He discusses the significance of candidate authenticity and effective messaging while reflecting on America's identity and the contributions of immigrants in shaping national narratives.

James Carville, a legendary Democratic strategist known for his role in Bill Clinton's campaigns, discusses the turbulent political landscape today. He critiques the surge of misinformation in politics and urges the need for effective messaging. Carville shares fascinating insights about his new documentary, 'Winning Is Everything, Stupid,' including how it evolved as events unfolded. He emphasizes the urgency of engaging young voters and highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership.

Timothy Snyder, a Yale history professor and expert on authoritarianism, digs into the troubling dynamics of modern politics. He discusses how figures like Trump and Vance create a culture of despair and division. The conversation explores the unsettling parallels between historical fascism and today's political climate, highlighting the rise of antisemitism. Snyder also delves into the complexities of freedom in America and the importance of state involvement in ensuring equitable conditions, alongside an insightful analysis of recent polling trends.