The Bulwark Podcast

Ben Wittes, Editor-in-chief of Lawfare and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, delves into the chaos of current legal politics. He discusses the Trump administration's questionable actions, including who’s really running the show behind DOGE. Wittes highlights the troubling changes within the FBI, pointing out how political appointments could affect agency morale and public safety. They also touch on the complexities of U.S.-Ukrainian relations, introducing a new podcast that explores these vital foreign policy dynamics.

Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator known for his Never Trump stance, teams up with Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who advocates market-based reforms. They dive into the troubling trend of unqualified appointments in government, particularly within Trump's administration, and discuss the risks posed to democracy. Polis shares insights on government waste, housing strategies, and the vital need for the Democratic Party to refine its messaging to resonate with working-class citizens. Their spirited exchange underscores the importance of courage in today's political landscape.

Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman and Air Force veteran, discusses the shifting dynamics within the party, highlighting grassroots movements against corporate influence. He remarks on the reaction of the public towards political elites and the need for diverse candidates. Kinzinger critiques Trump's inner circle, noting their focus on optics over substantive issues, especially regarding Ukraine. He also emphasizes the importance of humor and resilience in the face of intimidation in today’s political climate.

David Graham, a lead writer at The Atlantic and author of "The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America," teams up with Pablo Torre, an insightful podcast host and sports commentator. They dive into a quirky theory about Marco Rubio as a potential Cuban communist agent. The conversation shifts to the intertwining of politics and sports, dissecting Trump's controversial ties to golf and the LIV-PGA deal. They also navigate voter disillusionment and dissect Mitch McConnell's complicated role in the Republican Party, highlighting today's political complexities with humor and acumen.

Zeke Faux, an investigative reporter for Bloomberg and author of "Number Go Up," joins Congressman Jared Moskowitz, who formerly directed Florida's emergency management. They dive into the complicated world of cryptocurrency, discussing how scams operate within the market and the political ramifications of these financial maneuvers. They also explore the absurdities of meme coins and the ethics surrounding political endorsements in crypto. The conversation touches on the alarming rise of anti-Semitism in America and Trump's contentious foreign policy.

Susan Glasser, a noted Staff writer at The New Yorker and co-author of 'The Divider', shares her insights on the perilous state of U.S.-Russia relations under Trump. She unveils the mockery surrounding Trump's approach to Ukraine, sidelining its leadership in favor of backdoor deals with Putin. Glasser also tackles the threat to the First Amendment from the White House's actions and discusses the curious origin of Trump's infamous Greenland obsession, blending humor with critical analysis of democracy and press freedom.

Bill Kristol, a Conservative political commentator and columnist known for his Never Trump stance, joins Tim Miller to tackle the turbulence in U.S. governance. They delve into how Musk's reforms may jeopardize safety in vital services and discuss the Democrats' need for a more aggressive political strategy. Kristol highlights the U.S.'s declining global influence, particularly in Ukraine, while urging for accountability and revitalized leadership to counteract rising autocracy and maintain democratic values.

Andrew Weissmann, former FBI general counsel, and Michael Weiss, Russia-focused editor and author, dive into the murky waters of political power and legal integrity. They discuss the troubling case against New York Mayor Eric Adams and the implications of political entanglements within the Justice Department. The conversation also touches on Trump's alarming connections with Russia and the insights on geopolitical maneuvers in Ukraine. Weissmann and Weiss highlight the shifting landscape of ethics in politics, peppering the discourse with their expert analysis.

Alex Wagner, MSNBC host and podcaster known for her incisive reporting on Trump, joins Tim to dissect the absurdities of today's political landscape. They delve into Musk's controversial $400 million Tesla deal with the State Department, highlighting corruption in high places. Wagner emphasizes the emotional toll of the polarized political climate and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Their discussion also touches on the curious dynamics of masculinity in politics, encouraging a deeper understanding of political manipulations in modern governance.

Carol Leonnig, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter, and Robert Putnam, Harvard's Professor Emeritus of Public Policy and author of "Bowling Alone," dive into pressing issues of accountability in politics and community. They discuss recent scandals within the FBI and the ramifications of political misconduct. The conversation transitions to the decline of social connectedness, particularly among young men, and the necessity of fostering community ties. They emphasize our moral obligation to care for one another to combat modern isolation and polarization.