The Bulwark Podcast

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.

Adam Kinzinger, a former U.S. Representative known for his principled opposition to Trump, joins Tim in Chicago for a lively discussion. They dive into Trump’s questionable economic policies, including his 'TACO' trade, and critique his foreign policy towards Russia and Ukraine. Kinzinger also emphasizes the importance of addressing authoritarianism in countries like El Salvador. The conversation is a call to action for the current generation to rise to the occasion and honor the sacrifices of the past.

George Packer, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of a profile on J.D. Vance, joins Melanie Stansbury, a Democratic Congresswoman from New Mexico. They delve into Vance's political transformation and how he navigates identity and ambition in a populist landscape. The conversation critiques moral inconsistencies in current politics, the tension between fiscal conservatism and Trump's influence, and the impact of rising authoritarianism. Stansbury shares insights from her unique political journey in a conservative region, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.

Pete Buttigieg, former mayor of South Bend and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, discusses the necessity for Democrats to embrace imaginative solutions to tackle the country's pressing challenges, from political strife to climate change. He critiques Trump's approach and addresses why the Democratic Party must evolve in its communication strategies. Buttigieg also reflects on COVID responses, advocates for stronger connections with diverse voters, and emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership in today’s divided political landscape.

Bill Kristol, a prominent political analyst and founder of The Bulwark, joins to discuss significant contemporary issues. He critiques the implications of Trump's mercantilist agenda on America's global standing. The conversation highlights the need for robust support for Ukraine amid threats from Russia and addresses Congress's hesitance to act decisively. Kristol also raises alarms about the recent reconciliation bill, warning of its potential impact on American competitiveness. Their poignant reflections on Memorial Day emphasize the juxtaposition of honoring veterans and critiquing modern political leadership.

James Comey, former FBI director and author of the legal thriller "FDR Drive," dives into the concerning dynamics of public corruption today. He discusses the alarming shift in FBI priorities, the politicization of the bureau, and the importance of maintaining its integrity. Comey reflects on how recent leadership changes impact justice and public trust. The conversation touches on the ethical implications of Donald Trump’s financial dealings and the barriers of political polarization, all wrapped in Comey's personal anecdotes and insights.

Jonathan Chait, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his sharp political insights, discusses the chaotic Republican push for a controversial House bill that endangers health insurance and deepens the deficit. He critiques the party's fervent commitment to privileging the wealthy over vulnerable populations. Chait also delves into the Democratic Party's leadership issues and their disconnect with younger voters. Additionally, he reflects on the media's role in political narratives and the dire implications of radical ideologies in today's political climate.

Susan Glasser, a Staff writer for The New Yorker and co-author of The Divider, discusses the troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. They explore how Trump’s transactional diplomacy compromises American values and mishandles relationships with global leaders, especially regarding Ukraine. Glasser shares anecdotes from her time at Mar-a-Lago, reflecting on the atmosphere there. They also touch on the plight of Venezuelan migrants, raising concerns about habeas corpus violations and the integrity of the U.S. government.