The Bulwark Podcast

Zerlina Maxwell, a political analyst and host on SiriusXM, and Josh Barro, a Substack writer and legal podcast co-host, tackle urgent political issues. They discuss the racial implications of gerrymandering in Texas, targeting disenfranchisement of Black voters. The conversation dives into the slow job growth climate and economic challenges, including rising prices. The duo also examines political accountability in light of the Epstein case, pushing for leaders who genuinely resonate with the working class and address their concerns.

Chuck Todd, former moderator of Meet the Press and head of politics at Newsphere, joins Tim Miller to dissect the shifting landscape around Trump as the economy falters. Todd reveals how Trump's economic image, once a cornerstone, is now crumbling, impacting his support among voters. The Democratic Party struggles with branding and engagement despite high voter interest, while the need for revitalized local journalism emerges as crucial in restoring public trust. Explore the complexities of current political dynamics and voter sentiment in a rapidly evolving environment.

Bill Kristol, Editor-at-large of The Bulwark and a veteran political analyst, joins Tim Miller to discuss the alarming pressures on government workers to distort economic data for political gain. They delve into the implications of misleading economic indicators and the erosion of trust in institutions. Kristol critiques the Texas redistricting stand-off and rising authoritarian tendencies in governance, while also examining the controversial treatment of Ghislaine Maxwell in prison. The conversation highlights pressing concerns about election integrity and the challenges facing democracy.

Dan Osborn, a steamfitter and union member running as a populist independent for Nebraska's Senate, shares insights from his close campaign last year. He discusses the urgency for Democrats to connect with working-class voters and address their economic struggles. Osborn criticizes his corporate-funded opponent while reflecting on the negative impact of tariffs on small businesses. He also emphasizes the importance of bridging political divides, particularly in engaging Trump voters and discussing the complexities surrounding immigration policies.

Marc Elias, a partner at Elias Law Group and founder of Democracy Docket, dives into the current landscape of gerrymandering in Texas and its implications for the upcoming elections. He stresses the urgency for Democrats to adopt aggressive strategies to combat Republican tactics. The discussion also touches on the ethical challenges faced by legal professionals opposing Donald Trump and the need for accountability in political discourse. Furthermore, Elias examines the role of redistricting in shaping voter confidence and the integrity of elections.

Franklin Foer, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the intricate relationship between Elon Musk and NASA. He discusses how SpaceX's rise has reshaped America's dependency on private aerospace, while also critiquing Musk's hypocrisy in dismantling the government that supported him. The conversation also touches on Ukraine's Zelensky facing corruption challenges and the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. Foer's insights offer a compelling look at the interplay between technology, politics, and ethical responsibilities in today's world.

David French, an opinion columnist for the New York Times and veteran of the Iraq War, joins Tim Miller to tackle pressing issues surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They discuss Israel's obligations amidst the chaos while drawing parallels to U.S. military missteps. The conversation shifts to the consequences of USAID cuts, the evangelical community’s moral responsibilities, and the bizarre political distractions in the U.S. Finally, they reflect on Trump's political maneuvers and the evolving discourse on issues like LGBTQ+ acceptance within Christian circles.

In this engaging conversation, Bill Kristol, Editor at large of The Bulwark, and Stacey Williams, a former model who bravely speaks out about her experiences with Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump, expose the chilling connections between these two figures. They discuss Trump's apparent lack of empathy towards victims and his tangled responses to controversies involving Epstein. Stacey shares her personal stories of harassment and the challenges of coming forward, shedding light on the broader societal implications of victimization and accountability.

Andrew Weissmann, a Professor of law at NYU and legal analyst for MSNBC, joins to dissect the murky ties between Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and Ghislaine Maxwell. The discussion highlights the unsettling implications of Maxwell's potential motives for exculpating Trump and the broader consequences for judicial integrity. Weissmann explores the chaotic political landscape, scrutinizing the government's contradictory stances on legal transparency and the politicization of the Department of Justice. Expect sharp insights into the fragility of the rule of law and legal complexities surrounding high-profile cases.

Mike Murphy, a veteran political strategist known for his work with major figures like McCain and Romney, dives deep into the evolving persona of Donald Trump. He discusses Trump's shift from an anti-establishment hero to a scandal-ridden politician facing declining public approval. Murphy analyzes the implications of the current economic climate on Trump's strategies and critiques the automotive industry amidst rising inflation. The conversation also touches on potential Democratic strategies and the emerging political landscape in California.