The Bulwark Podcast

Melissa Murray, a law professor at NYU and MSNBC contributor, and John Avlon, an author and journalist, dive into the troubling implications of Pam Bondi's nomination as Attorney General. They dissect the glaring red flags surrounding her confirmation, particularly her allegiance to Trump over the U.S. They also discuss the ramifications of Supreme Court rulings on democracy and electoral integrity. Additionally, they tackle the challenges women face in politics and the urgent need for citizens to engage in democracy, urging action to revitalize the middle class.

Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, known for his bold Trump critiques, and Senator Mark Kelly, a former NASA astronaut, dive deep into the political intricacies of military oversight. They critique the recent defense nominee hearings, discussing troubling political influences and the dangers of partisan dynamics. Kinzinger and Kelly analyze Joe Kent's extreme views and their potential threat to national security as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership in intelligence and defense.

Peter Hamby, a partner at Puck News and host of Snapchat's Good Luck America, gives sharp insights into the devastating fires in Los Angeles and their political implications. He highlights how Mayor Karen Bass's absence has led to a perception of unfitness for her role. The conversation critiques the social media response to crises and explores the disconnect between leaders like Gavin Newsom and the public. Hamby also discusses the TikTok debate, emphasizing the complexities of free speech among Gen Z and the tech influence on political narratives.

Bill Kristol, a veteran conservative commentator and columnist, dives into intriguing political topics alongside Tim Miller. They discuss the controversial actions of Aileen Cannon, Trump's favored judge, and her overreach in the Jan 6 investigations. The conversation highlights the politicization of the FBI, particularly as hearings for Trump's nominees unfold. Kristol also critiques the handling of classified documents that raise questions of justice and accountability, all while navigating through the complexities of American law and politics.

Amanda Carpenter, a writer and editor at Protect Democracy, dives into the fascinating political dynamics surrounding Karen Pence's sharp snub of Trump at Jimmy Carter's funeral. She discusses the absurdity of the 'catturd' crowd's outrage towards Amy Coney Barrett and the chaotic implications of Trump's legal battles. Carpenter highlights the urgent need for a robust electoral infrastructure to combat authoritarianism, while weaving in humorous personal anecdotes about comfort amidst political turmoil, showcasing the intersection of serious politics and daily life.

Derek Thompson, a Staff writer for The Atlantic focusing on economics and social trends, joins Elizabeth Weil, a Features writer for New York Magazine, known for her work on California fires. They explore the alarming rise of solitude in America and its effects on youth and society, linking it to political polarization. They also discuss the environmental causes of Los Angeles wildfires and the personal story of Sam Altman's sister, touching on themes of loneliness and family amidst climate challenges.

Liam Donovan, a political analyst and former aide to Senate Republicans, and Brendan Boyle, a Democratic congressman from Pennsylvania, dive into the intricate world of tax policy negotiations. They discuss the looming expiration of Trump's tax cuts and the reconciliation process that could allow Republicans to make significant budget adjustments. The duo also examines potential corruption in the new administration and the implications of a government shutdown. Along the way, they sprinkle in humor and commentary on the cultural impact of politics.

Charlie Warzel, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of Galaxy Brain, dives into the intrigue behind Mark Zuckerberg’s efforts to cozy up to Trump. They discuss Zuckerberg's shift in Meta's policies, eliminating fact-checking in the name of free speech. The conversation also touches on the alarming conspiracies linking January 6th and 9/11 and explores the potential pitfalls of cryptocurrency threatening the financial system. Warzel's insights into tech's interplay with politics make this discussion particularly engaging.

In this engaging discussion, Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and columnist, shares his insights on the absurd conspiracy theories surrounding the January 6th insurrection. He critiques the notion that the FBI could foresee Trump’s electoral loss and orchestrate the Capitol attack. Kristol also reflects on the changing narratives within the GOP about honoring Capitol police versus embrace of conspiracy theories. Additionally, he analyzes the shifting landscape of journalism, particularly the impact of Trump's presidency on major publications like The Washington Post.

Jonathan Martin, an acclaimed author and political commentator, shares insights on the unique resilience of New Orleans, a city rich in culture yet challenged by adversity. He discusses the political fallout following recent incidents in the French Quarter and the importance of restoring safety ahead of major events like the Super Bowl. Martin also delves into the Democratic Party's struggles with messaging and the dichotomy between centrist and progressive factions, highlighting the complexities they face in today's political climate.