Impolitic with John Heilemann

John welcomes celebrated photojournalist Christopher Anderson to discuss the controversy over his portraits of Donald Trump’s inner circle in Vanity Fair. Anderson explains his trepidation over taking the assignment and his approach to it once he did; why the outrage over his pictures in some quarters is a result of a growing confusion between political figures and celebrities, the proliferation of photo filters and A.I. image distortion on social media, and a lack of comprehension that photojournalism is, in fact, journalism; and why no one should be shocked that he didn’t conceal signs of Karoline Leavitt's cosmetic enhancements or shoot Stephen Miller as if he were Brad Pitt (beyond the obvious, that is). See all the ways bp is investing in America at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠bp.com/InvestingInAmerica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ . To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jordan Klepper, a comedian and correspondent for The Daily Show, joins to reflect on the lives of Rob and Michele Reiner, sharing heartfelt stories from their collaboration. He discusses his daring fieldwork, including a naked anti-ICE protest that led to pepper spray confrontations. Klepper also tackles the evolving challenges of late-night comedy amidst corporate pressures and political turbulence. His insights on finding humor in dark times and the future of comedy provide a thought-provoking take on the current landscape.

John welcomes lapsed Republican strategist and Lincoln Project cofounder Rick Wilson back to the show to discuss the mounting signs that, less than one full year into his second term in office, Donald Trump has reached his sell-by date – and the implications of Trump's political decline for the MAGA-fied Republican Party. See all the ways bp is investing in America at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠bp.com/InvestingInAmerica⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ . To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Retired four-star U.S. Army General Barry McCaffrey discusses the escalating conflict between America and Venezuela. He critiques Trump’s regime change rhetoric, suggesting the real motive is seizing Venezuelan oil reserves. McCaffrey warns against potential military interventions, labeling ground wars as disastrous. He also critiques the administration's framing of drug cartels and the implications of labeling groups as terrorists, emphasizing the long-term damage to U.S. alliances and the need for a more coherent national security strategy.

Steven Lepper, a retired U.S. Air Force Major General and former Deputy Judge Advocate General, discusses the troubling legal landscape surrounding the Trump administration’s Venezuelan boat strikes. He argues these strikes lack legal justification, suggesting that they verge on murder rather than being classified as war crimes. Lepper also highlights the dangers of firing top JAGs, emphasizing how their presence is vital for lawful military operations. He calls for congressional investigations to restore legal integrity and accountability in military actions.

Retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, a respected military analyst and former commander of U.S. Army Europe, joins the discussion on the controversial air strikes ordered during the Trump administration. He critiques Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's leadership and contrasting narratives about the strikes in Venezuela. Hertling emphasizes the importance of civilian-military relations and how current tensions threaten democratic norms. He also reflects on his upcoming book, exploring leadership during wartime. A thought-provoking dive into ethics and accountability in military actions!

Jonathan Karl, ABC News chief Washington correspondent and bestselling author, shares insights from his new book, *Retribution*. He discusses Trump's enduring desire for vengeance, which now fuels his 2024 campaign, alongside his complex dynamic with the media. Karl reflects on how Trump's behavior has remained stable over decades while subtly shifting focus on legacy. He also reveals Nancy Pelosi's covert role in prompting Biden's reelection exit and clarifies Steve Bannon's influence over Trump’s decisions.

Jonathan Freedland, a prominent journalist and author, shares insights about his latest book, The Traitor’s Circle, a gripping historical narrative about a secret resistance network in Nazi Germany. He explains how he combines rigorous historical research with thriller pacing to engage readers. Freedland reveals the dramatic story of a betrayal at a tea party that led to devastating consequences and discusses the delayed cultural memory of the Holocaust. He also reflects on modern resistance and the challenges of navigating different audience expectations in his work.

Stuart Stevens, a former Republican consultant and anti-Trump advocate, discusses the waning influence of Trump and the fractures within the GOP. He examines the implications of Trump's potential lame-duck status and likens the 2024 political landscape to Pickett's Charge, signaling a peak for Trumpism. Stevens critiques J.D. Vance as a troubling front-runner and highlights a talent gap between the parties heading into 2028, while also delving into the GOP’s relationship with Russia and challenges posed by Trump's rhetoric.

Tim Miller, a political commentator and host of The Bulwark Podcast, dives into the unraveling of MAGA, exploring tensions over the Epstein files and rising anti-Semitism within the movement. He discusses how Trump's miscalculations might alienate younger supporters and reshapes party dynamics. Miller also dissects the evolving role of figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and the growing factions within MAGA, questioning whether current infighting can be reconciled. Expect insightful commentary peppered with cultural critiques and political analysis!