The Bulwark Podcast

Bill Kristol, Editor-at-large of The Bulwark and a seasoned political commentator, discusses the troubling alliance between billionaire tech moguls and authoritarian movements. He highlights how these figures are influencing the Republican Party and showering Trump with financial backing. Kristol also analyzes the geopolitical implications of Israel's actions since October 7, the risks of political violence fueled by inflammatory rhetoric, and the responsibility of influential figures in today's polarized climate.

Doug Emhoff, the Second Gentleman of the United States, shares his insights on the recent campaign dynamics, praising Vice President Kamala Harris for her impressive performance. He discusses the challenges and significance of presidential debates, emphasizing the need for unity against anti-Trump sentiments. A highlight includes his commitment to combating anti-Semitism, with a focus on fostering safe cultural spaces in academia. The conversation also lightens up with reflections on culinary delights and a spirited debate on sports legends.

John Dickerson, anchor at CBS's The Daily Report and author of "The Hardest Job in the World," joins Tim Miller to discuss the political landscape post-January 6. They delve into Liz Cheney's steadfast values amidst pressure and the implications for the GOP. The conversation also covers FEMA's leadership failures during crises, the role of misinformation in disaster reporting, and the socio-economic impacts of port strikes and automation. They emphasize the need for accountability and nuanced discussions in today's political climate.

Kaitlan Collins, a CNN anchor celebrated for her incisive White House reporting, joins Tim Miller for a captivating discussion. They dive into the intriguing details of Trump’s legal challenges surrounding January 6, revealing his disregard for key events. Collins shares insights on the unique pressures of being a CNN anchor and reflects on the shifting conservative media landscape. The conversation also humorously touches on the 'deep state' and balancing work-life amidst the chaos of politics, offering a mix of serious analysis and lighthearted banter.

Jim Messina, a seasoned political strategist and campaign manager for Obama's 2012 re-election, teams up with Michael Weiss, an expert on Russia’s intelligence as the editor of The Insider. They dive into the strategies of current political races, analyzing debate performances and the importance of voter engagement among key demographics. The conversation also touches on immigration communication tactics and the geopolitical implications of military actions abroad. Expect insights that blend sharp political analysis with a touch of humor!

Lis Smith, a Democratic strategist and author of "Any Given Tuesday," dives into the peculiarities of the current political landscape. She discusses the fallout from recent debates, particularly how JD Vance's controversial views may backfire. The conversation highlights Kamala Harris's evolving media strategy and the implications of upcoming vice-presidential debates. Smith urges the need for authenticity in political discourse while also touching on serious topics like abortion and immigration, showcasing the complex dynamics at play in shaping voter perceptions.

Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and strategist known for his role in the Never Trump movement, joins Tim Miller for a deep dive into political messaging. They discuss the urgency for Kamala Harris to counter Trump’s trans panic narrative and the significant role of foreign policy in the election. Kristol emphasizes the need to address swing voters’ concerns around abortion and cultural issues, while critiquing extreme rhetoric in campaigns. The duo also reflects on the political implications of disasters like Hurricane Helene on election strategies.

Amanda Carpenter, a writer and editor at Protect Democracy and co-author of "The Authoritarian Playbook for 2025," joins Tim Miller to discuss pressing political dynamics. They touch on Mitt Romney and Mike Pence's potential roles in a cross-partisan movement, the ramping up of the MAGA retribution agenda, and Kamala Harris's border security initiatives. Carpenter shares insights into immigration politics and the distortions surrounding voter fraud narratives. The conversation delves into the influence of tech titans on political discourse and accountability in the aftermath of January 6th.

Pete Buttigieg, the thoughtful U.S. Secretary of Transportation, joins political analyst A.B. Stoddard to dissect the current political landscape. They explore the myth of a manufacturing renaissance under Trump, contrasting it with past economic challenges. Kamala Harris's emerging leadership is praised, while they critique figures like Clay Higgins for their divisive rhetoric. The duo emphasizes the need for Democrats to connect with younger voters and the importance of local elections in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, all while keeping the conversation lively and engaging.

Dana Milbank, an author and political columnist, dives into the chaotic state of Congress and the absurdities of today's political landscape. He highlights how the current Congress is the least productive since 1861, examining the impact of Trump on GOP dynamics. Milbank critiques the use of Russian propaganda in impeachment efforts and discusses the growing internal conflicts and questionable integrity within the Republican Party. He also warns of potential chaos if Trump loses in the upcoming elections, revealing political scandals and the ridiculous antics of lawmakers.