The Bulwark Podcast

Join Andrew Weissmann, a professor at NYU Law and the lead prosecutor of the Mueller investigation, as he unpacks alarming trends in modern governance. He discusses Trump’s questionable military actions in LA and their potential assault on First Amendment rights. Weissmann critiques immigration enforcement's impact on communities and reflects on legal battles over due process. Along the way, he blends serious analysis with humor, touching on the cultural relevance of musicals amid political chaos.

Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, a former commanding general of U.S. Army Europe, joins the discussion on the intersection of military and politics. He critiques Trump’s politically charged speeches and underscores the necessity for military personnel to maintain an apolitical stance. The conversation delves into the implications of military presence in civilian contexts, particularly in Los Angeles, and the ethical dilemmas faced by Guardsmen. Hertling also analyzes the emerging escalation in Ukraine amidst a distracted America, drawing attention to the pressing challenges of national security.

Bill Kristol, Editor-at-large and seasoned political commentator, joins Tim Miller for a deep dive into the current political landscape. They tackle the controversial military deployment in Los Angeles and its implications for civil liberties, drawing historical parallels to past civil rights movements. Kristol critiques the growing influence of conspiratorial beliefs in politics, especially within Trump's base. The discussion also touches on the impact of immigration policies on urban issues and the shifting dynamics of the Democratic Party as upcoming elections loom.

Ta-Nehisi Coates, acclaimed author known for addressing racial issues, and Lindsay Toczylowski, a dedicated attorney for asylum seekers, engage in a thought-provoking discussion. They reflect on the complexity of modern protests versus the Civil Rights Movement, exploring the instinctual responses to political turmoil. Coates highlights the necessity of cultural narratives in politics and the importance of due process for democracy. Together, they dive into the harsh realities faced by immigrants, blending personal stories with broader societal challenges.

Sam Stein, Managing Editor of The Bulwark, joins Tim Miller to unpack the explosive feud between Elon Musk and Donald Trump, filled with accusations and implications for their businesses. The duo examines the political fallout surrounding a controversial debt and tax bill, showcasing the frantic maneuvers of Republicans and the chaos that ensues from the volatile dynamics of social media. They also weave in lighthearted anecdotes about cats and tariffs, blending humor with serious discussions about the current political climate.

Matt Yglesias, a columnist for Bloomberg and the voice behind Slow Boring on Substack, joins Tim Miller for a riveting chat. They dissect the fallout from Elon Musk's antics, notably the misadventures with Dogecoin and how cuts in spending are affecting the vulnerable. The discussion takes a sharp turn towards how Democrats can strategize to thrive in traditionally conservative states and tackle cultural warfare while maintaining a focus on the everyday challenges of the working class.

Rahm Emanuel, former congressman and U.S. ambassador to Japan, shares insights on Trump’s feckless negotiation tactics, particularly with China. He critiques Democratic strategies, urging a focus on tangible issues over identity politics. Emanuel emphasizes the gap between political leaders and average families, advocating for grassroots accountability. He also discusses the importance of effective communication in the Biden administration and suggests that Democrats must reconnect with working-class voters to revive the American Dream.

Catherine Rampell is a syndicated opinion columnist at The Washington Post and co-host on MSNBC, renowned for her insights on economics. In this conversation, she highlights Jamie Dimon's concerns about the bond market and the chaos surrounding tariffs affecting economic stability. Rampell also discusses the troubling implications of current immigration policies on innovation and the alarming rise of anti-Semitism across political landscapes. The complexities of tax legislation and its impact on healthcare are critically analyzed, shedding light on the nation's pressing fiscal challenges.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, joins Tim Miller to discuss pressing political issues. They dive into the grotesque lies surrounding Medicaid and USAID cuts, highlighting the harmful implications for vulnerable populations. Kristol critiques Joni Ernst's troubling reinterpretation of Christian values and addresses the alarming rise of anti-Semitism in politics. Amidst this, they celebrate Ukraine's resilience and military successes, juxtaposing serious political discourse with a humorous take on wellness culture and political absurdities.

Adam Serwer, a Staff writer at The Atlantic and author, joins Tennessee state representative Justin Jones, known for his activism, to discuss the Trump administration's efforts to manipulate knowledge and its impact on society. They explore how censorship in education threatens marginalized voices and the dangers of misinformation in the digital era. The duo emphasizes the urgent need for a more engaged political dialogue and the role of charisma in mobilizing voters, underlining the importance of fighting back against a party intoxicated by power.