The Bulwark Podcast

Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Mona Charen, a savvy political commentator, dive into the complexities of Democrat unity and the challenges posed by rising conservatism. They discuss the efficacy of Kamala Harris in bridging party divides and the pressing issue of housing affordability. Schatz emphasizes the need for effective regulations that meet community demands, while Charen critiques the impact of Trump's divisiveness on conservative values, challenging listeners to consider the evolution of trust within the party and its implications for upcoming elections.

Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and co-founder of the Never Trump movement, joins to dissect the political landscape as the election approaches. He argues that Kamala Harris needs a more aggressive campaign strategy to resonate with voters. The conversation highlights the vital impact of clear stances on abortion rights and the intertwining of evangelical sentiments with political choices. Kristol also reflects on the personal nature of voter engagement and the need for thoughtful political discourse in today’s climate.

Margaret Hoover, a PBS host known for her special 'Counting the Vote,' discusses Kamala Harris's impressive navigation of complex political issues, including fracking and immigration. The conversation highlights Trump's ongoing struggles with abortion and attempts to delegitimize elections. Hoover emphasizes the urgency of electoral engagement, particularly among women, and the significance of reforms in ensuring election integrity post-January 6th. The podcast also explores the tensions of interviewing Republican politicians in the current landscape.

Adam Kinzinger, a former politician known for his fierce criticism of Donald Trump, dives into the current political landscape and the urgent need for pro-democracy candidates. He discusses how Trump's return to conspiracy rhetoric threatens national stability, while emphasizing the importance of accountability in the GOP. The conversation touches on the Arlington incident, the impact of early voting, and the recent developments in Ukraine. Kinzinger and the host also share a humorous critique of political antics and the absurdities within today's media narratives.

D.L. Hughley, a celebrated comedian and insightful commentator, teams up with Teddy Goff, a savvy digital strategist, to discuss Kamala Harris's adeptness in navigating the political landscape against Trump. They highlight how she's already in control of the narrative while critiquing the superficial strategies aimed at younger voters. The conversation delves into identity, authenticity in politics, and the challenges faced by Black women. It also touches on memorable fashion moments in politics and the media's obsession with image over substance.

Mark Leibovich, a noted journalist and author, teams up with Juleanna Glover, a savvy political strategist, to dissect the Democrats' current landscape. They delve into rumors of Biden's discontent and examine Kamala Harris's collaboration with emerging party stars like Pete Buttigieg. The duo also critiques the chaotic financial maneuvers of the Trump campaign, exposing hidden donation practices. With humor and insight, they illuminate the evolving dynamics within both parties, offering a refreshing take on today's political climate.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and commentator, joins Tim Miller to dissect the current political landscape. They highlight the compelling arguments that ex-Trump Cabinet members could present against him. Kristol critiques the recent dynamics of Trump's viewpoints, especially concerning RFK, Jr.'s antivax stance. They also reflect on Kamala Harris's speech, focusing on the significance of her unspoken words. Additionally, the duo discusses the shifting political narratives within the Republican Party and the contentious strategies leading up to the upcoming debates.

A.B. Stoddard, a renowned political analyst, shares her insights on Kamala Harris’s recent impactful speech, celebrating themes of unity and democracy. They discuss Harris as a formidable challenger to Trump, highlighting her unique position as a Black woman in politics. The conversation dives into the shifting dynamics within the Republican Party post-Trump, exploring the tension between traditional values and self-serving interests. Stoddard emphasizes the importance of connecting with diverse voter bases while staying true to core principles.

Al Franken, a former senator from Minnesota and comedian renowned for his SNL sketches, shares intriguing insights on political dynamics and personal storytelling. He explores his admiration for Tim Walz and reflects on modern challenges within the Democratic Party. The conversation addresses the polarized political climate, critiquing social media's impact on community interactions. Franken also delves into his comedic past, discussing the cultural relevance of SNL and the profound connections between comedy and politics.

Jon Favreau, an author and political commentator, joins Tim Miller to discuss the art of political speechwriting and the importance of engaging undecided voters. They analyze Michelle Obama’s impactful speeches and the role of personal storytelling in politics. Favreau emphasizes the need for inclusivity within Democratic discourse, especially towards younger audiences and showcases the changing dynamics of young male voters. Expect humor as they explore celebrity influence in politics, making the complex landscape more relatable.