The Bulletin

David Bahnsen, managing partner and CIO of The Bahnsen Group, sheds light on President Biden's mental acuity, stressing the nuanced motivations behind the scrutiny. The urgent situation of Afghan refugees in Iran is also tackled, highlighting the need for international support. Bahnsen offers valuable insights into the national debt, breaking down complex financial topics and emphasizing responsible fiscal policies. He argues that understanding economic principles is crucial for the nation's future, especially in the wake of significant government spending.

Peter Wehner, a contributing writer at The Atlantic and former speechwriter for George W. Bush, dives into the troubling trend of evangelicals pulling support for PEPFAR, a crucial HIV/AIDS initiative. He discusses the recent IRS ruling allowing churches to endorse political candidates, raising concerns about church and state separation. Alongside Ingrid Delgado from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, they examine the impacts of the 'Big Beautiful Bill' on vulnerable communities, revealing the complex intersection of faith, politics, and social justice.

Justin Giboney, an attorney, political strategist, and ordained minister, dives into pressing issues facing urban Christians. He discusses the importance of Christian lament in response to the devastating Texas floods. Giboney emphasizes the need for compassion in the debate over transgender athletes, advocating for a nuanced understanding of identity. He also highlights the role of local involvement in politics, encouraging Christians to engage authentically in civic matters while promoting unity and meaningful dialogue in divisive times.

Megan Fowler, a religion reporter at Christianity Today, delves into what makes a summer camp truly great—or not. She shares insights on the emotional and spiritual influence summer camps have on children, highlighting the importance of nurturing relationships between campers and counselors. In a broader discussion, she emphasizes the necessity for parents to thoroughly evaluate camp options to ensure safety and positive experiences. This episode also touches on pressing issues like Peter Thiel's views on technology and the plight of Iranian Christians detained by ICE.

Steve Taylor, a prolific singer and songwriter known for his satirical take on Christian themes, reflects on his journey with the Newsboys and addresses the shocking allegations against Michael Tait. The conversation dives into the complexities of band dynamics in the Christian music industry, revealing the emotional toll on artists and fans alike. Taylor discusses the weight of expectations on Christian leaders, the intricacies of navigating faith and fame, and the urgent need for accountability in evangelical culture.

Yossi Klein Halevi, a fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute, explores the U.S. bombing of Iran and its effects on regional peace efforts. He shares insights into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict amidst geopolitical tensions. Michael Wear discusses the NYC Democratic primary and the rise of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani, analyzing its impact on the Democratic Party. They also address the challenges Christian artists face in light of scandals, such as allegations against Michael Tait from Newsboys, urging accountability in the music industry.

Steve Hayes, CEO and editor of The Dispatch, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of conservatism, rooted deeply in his 18 years of experience in Washington. He discusses the troubling rise of populism and authoritarianism within the Republican Party, drawing connections to evangelical movements. Hayes emphasizes the importance of preserving core conservative values despite these shifts. He also highlights the sense of estrangement many conservatives feel today, calling for honest discourse and the courage to question political leaders.

Harvest Prude, CT’s national political correspondent, dives into the 'No Kings' protests linked to a military parade, emphasizing the urgency of constitutional rights in today's climate. She discusses the impact of political violence and extremism, connecting it to broader societal tensions. Author Hannah Anderson examines why Gen Z hesitates to embrace parenthood, attributing it to a cultural concern over repeating past mistakes. Together, they explore the complex interplay of political unrest and personal choices shaping modern life.

Sita Slavov, a professor of public policy at George Mason University, dives deep into pressing issues in this discussion. She unpacks Israel's military actions against Iran and examines the geopolitical tensions involved. The conversation also touches on the disturbing connection between political violence and public discourse. Sita shares insights into the economics of aging, addressing challenges like retirement satisfaction and caring for aging parents, while offering a hopeful outlook for future generations.

Jill Nelson, Christianity Today’s Ukraine and Israel correspondent, brings her expertise to a critical discussion on LA immigration protests and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. She highlights the chaos wrought by ICE sweeps and community activism in response. The dire food shortages faced by families in Gaza are put into perspective, illustrating the severe challenges of aid distribution amidst ongoing conflict. Nelson's insights delve into the broader implications of these intertwined issues, shedding light on the global impact of local struggles.