The Bulwark Podcast

Beto O'Rourke, a passionate advocate for voter registration in Texas, dives into critical topics that resonate with today's political landscape. He discusses the importance of genuine connections in politics, sharing insights on engaging younger and Latino voters. Beto highlights the need for personal involvement in rural areas, critiques the Republican education agenda, and emphasizes tackling local issues like healthcare. He also addresses the nuances of immigration, advocating for humane treatment and pathways for legal entry that reflect real-world concerns.

Bill Kristol, a leading political commentator and founding editor of The Weekly Standard, teams up with Michael Weiss, an acclaimed journalist focused on the Middle East and national security. They discuss Kamala Harris's strong presidential candidacy and Trump's contentious reactions. The conversation shifts to Ukraine's surprising military actions against Russia, revealing the complexities of international relations and military strategies. Their insights provide a compelling overview of the current political and geopolitical climate.

Brian Beutler, a prominent analyst on mass psychology and consumer confidence, discusses the surprising surge in optimism among Democrats and independents following potential leadership changes. The conversation highlights Trump's press antics as strategic distractions and critiques extreme political narratives that shape public sentiment. They explore the deep psychological factors influencing voter perceptions today, contrasting emotion-driven views with traditional policy discussions. Humor and sharp insights illuminate the intersection of politics and public vibes.

Congress members Dean Phillips and Mikie Sherrill stress the urgent need for change in the Democratic Party, reflecting on voter demands for new leadership. They explore the party's disconnect with working-class values and the importance of engaging rural voters. Amid political challenges, they highlight the necessity of accountability and addressing economic issues. The conversation also touches on the significance of platforms for dissenting voices in a democracy, while emphasizing the relevance of integrity and effective governance.

Brian Tyler Cohen, an author focusing on political dysfunction, and Carol Leonnig, an investigative journalist known for her national security reporting, delve into pressing political issues. They discuss the impact of right-wing media and how to challenge it effectively. Carol reveals insights from her investigations into potential corruption involving Trump and a $10 million bribe from Egypt. They also explore systemic failures of the Secret Service, connecting historical security breaches to contemporary challenges in safeguarding democracy.

Amanda Carpenter, a political commentator and former GOP strategist, dives into Trump's recent tumultuous month. The discussion touches on Trump's fears of an assassination attempt while holed up at Mar-a-Lago. Carpenter critiques the media's handling of 2024 campaign documents and highlights the strange influence of county clerks on electoral voting. She also discusses Kamala Harris's media strategy and the rising challenges to election integrity, pointing to the need for reform amidst a landscape rife with misinformation.

Bill Kristol, a noted political analyst, and journalist Christopher Cadelago delve into the chaotic currents of today's political landscape. They discuss Trump's denial over Kamala Harris's crowds and explore the fallout from his bizarre helicopter anecdotes. Cadelago shares insights on tensions within Kamala's campaign team, shedding light on her 2020 staffing choices. The duo analyzes the psychological impact of Trump's behavior on the Republican Party and the shifting dynamics affecting candidates ahead of upcoming elections.

Nate Silver, a renowned statistician famous for his polling and political analysis, joins Tim Miller to talk about the shifting political landscape ahead of the election. They discuss how Kamala Harris could be a formidable candidate against Trump and analyze polling trends in key states. The conversation also covers the application of game theory in electoral strategy and the risks of a potential Trump comeback. Additionally, they explore the gambling world, including tips for sports betting and the responsibilities of risk-takers in today's tech-driven society.

Adam Kinzinger, a former U.S. Congressman and political commentator renowned for his critiques of Trump and the GOP, joins Tim Miller for a thought-provoking discussion. Kinzinger argues that Trump supporters are at odds with the true essence of America today. They reflect on how Democrats have reclaimed patriotism and contrast that with attacks on figures like Tim Walz, emphasizing the unfair treatment of veterans in political discourse. Their conversation sheds light on the complexities of military service and the evolving nature of American identity.

Peter Callaghan, a local Minnesota reporter, and Isaac Stanley-Becker from the Washington Post dive into the political landscape shaped by Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz. They discuss his shift from moderate to progressive politics, tackling challenges like the 2020 riots in Minneapolis. The conversation also highlights the troubling connections of Senator JD Vance with extremist figures, juxtaposing local governance with national controversies. Their insights reveal the complexities and dynamics at play within modern politics.