The Bulwark Podcast

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.

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.