The Bulwark Podcast

Neera Tanden, President and CEO of the Center for American Progress and former Domestic Policy Council Director, joins to discuss pressing political issues. She addresses the fallout from the Epstein scandal and Republican leadership's handling of it. The conversation turns to the Democrats' strategies for the midterms, including the need for thorough investigations akin to Benghazi-style hearings. They also explore new immigration policies and the crucial fight against gerrymandering in Texas to protect democratic processes.

Chris Murphy, a U.S. Senator from Connecticut and a fierce advocate for gun control, joins the discussion about the alarming erosion of democratic norms. He highlights how one political party is breaking all the rules while the other struggles to uphold them. Murphy warns that democracies are at risk when the rules change and opposition parties refuse to adapt. The conversation also touches on Trump's controversial tactics and their implications for democracy, reinforcing the urgent need for public action to preserve meaningful elections.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, shares sharp insights on the U.S. government's controversial actions regarding Venezuelan detainees and the geopolitical implications. He discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding immigration policies and the emotional toll on affected communities. The conversation shifts to the troubling connections between Trump and Epstein, hinting at potential cover-ups. Kristol also examines how recent political dynamics may influence future cooperation and legislative decisions among parties.

Tom Nichols, Professor Emeritus at the Naval War College and a notable Atlantic staff writer, dives into the controversial ties between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He discusses the implications of Trump's behavior amid ongoing legal challenges, including the recent firing of a prosecutor linked to Epstein's cases. Nichols also raises concerns about the intersection of nuclear security and AI decision-making, highlighting global geopolitical tensions and the uncertainties surrounding presidential capabilities in crisis situations.

David Wallace-Wells, a science writer for the New York Times and author of 'The Uninhabitable Earth', discusses the stark energy landscape where China is outpacing the U.S. in renewable projects. He highlights the alarming rise in inland flooding and its inadequate media coverage, and critiques the U.S. focus on AI instead of urgent climate action. Wallace-Wells also explores the intertwined fates of elite accountability, climate policy, and the mystery surrounding ties to Jeffrey Epstein, as well as the pressing need for effective responses to global climate challenges.

Ben Wittes, editor of Lawfare, and Michael Feinberg, a former top FBI deputy, dive into the FBI's internal turmoil. They discuss how political pressures, including an enemies list from Kash Patel, are reshaping the Bureau, detracting from its core national security mission. Feinberg shares personal anecdotes about the impact of friendships on careers within the agency. The duo also addresses the deteriorating morale among agents, the bizarre conspiracies surrounding high-profile cases, and the complexities of U.S. military aid to Ukraine.

Brian Beutler, co-host of the Politics with an X podcast and a progressive writer, discusses how elected Democrats struggle to connect with voters beyond policy. He argues that they need to engage in more relatable conversations to resonate with younger audiences. Beutler also delves into the necessity for transparency around issues like Epstein's legacy and critiques the ramifications of Trump's healthcare policies, urging Democrats to take ownership. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic communication and adapting strategies for a diverse electorate.

Political analyst Bill Kristol dives into the complexities of Trump's recent controversies, particularly his connection to the Epstein case and how it's affecting his support among MAGA followers. He discusses how Trump may be realizing the unpredictable nature of his ties with foreign leaders like Putin. Kristol also critiques the aggressive immigration policies being misapplied in urban settings and raises concerns about the ethical impact of military presence in cities like Los Angeles, drawing attention to the ongoing tensions in U.S. political discourse.

In a thought-provoking conversation, Sam Stein, Managing Editor of The Bulwark's Morning Shots, tackles the troubling state of American politics. He discusses the chilling shift towards an immigration police state, driven by the desire for political wins rather than human dignity. Stein critiques the administration's impact on migration and the economy, as well as the freeze on military aid to Ukraine. He also shares a personal reflection on his evolving views about Bill Kristol and the absurdity permeating today's political commentary.

Galen Druke, host of the GD Politics Podcast and writer for Substack, dives into the shifting public sentiment on immigration under Trump. He argues that the administration’s tactics have backfired, shaping negative perceptions. The discussion also highlights Democrats' need to focus on fiscal issues, such as Medicaid cuts, to resonate with voters. Galen explores the challenges in navigating legislative complexities and the importance of connecting with diverse constituencies. A fascinating glimpse into the future of the 2028 Democratic nomination follows!