Bulwark Takes

Matthew MacWilliams, a Fellow at the German Marshall Fund and expert on authoritarianism, joins Sam Stein to explore how authoritarian tendencies predict support for Donald Trump. They delve into the psychological roots of this phenomenon, discussing how fear fuels such dispositions and the pivotal role social media plays in spreading Trump’s message. MacWilliams warns of the dangers of America’s drift towards authoritarianism and emphasizes the urgent need to engage younger voters in democratic principles.

Senator Joni Ernst's potential decision not to run for reelection in 2026 raises alarms about deeper issues in the GOP. The discussion delves into the ramifications of retirements and changing voter sentiment, highlighting the struggle candidates face amid Trump's dominance. There's a closer look at Iowa's shifting political terrain, where traditional conservative strongholds are feeling the pressure. Amidst this chaos, cautious optimism about Democratic gains in 2026 emerges, as the party seeks to navigate the evolving landscape.

Michael Fanone, a former Capitol Police officer, reflects on his harrowing experience defending the Capitol on January 6th. He expresses his outrage at Trump’s pardons for rioters and the honor bestowed upon Ashley Babbitt, calling it a betrayal of the Constitution. The conversation touches on the emotional toll of that day, the complicated perceptions of law enforcement and military roles, and the worrying normalization of authoritarianism in America, especially among younger generations. Fanone's insights bring urgency to the discussion on police reform and civic responsibility.

Governor Wes Moore takes a bold stand against Trump, criticizing his petty politics and actions affecting Maryland. The governor addresses the negative impacts on federal funding and disaster relief amidst rising tensions. He highlights how Maryland creatively navigates these challenges, showcasing resilience in a divided political climate. Political strategies from Moore and other Democratic governors are examined as they confront adversaries, emphasizing the importance of responsible governance and principled leadership.

Josh Turek, an Iowa Democratic State Representative and Paralympian running for U.S. Senate, shares his insights on Iowa's shifting political dynamics. He discusses recent victories for Democrats and how Trump’s faux populism is backfiring. Turek emphasizes the urgent need for affordable healthcare, critiquing cuts that harm vulnerable communities. He also sheds light on prairie populism's impact on the middle class and highlights the importance of grassroots efforts in the upcoming Democratic primary, aiming to address the pressing needs of Iowans.

Tom Steyer, a climate investor and former presidential candidate, dives into the complexities of populism on the left. He warns that quick fixes like rent control can have unforeseen negative consequences. Steyer emphasizes the need for shared economic growth to combat rising inequalities. He critiques the Biden administration's disconnect between promises and actual infrastructure progress. Additionally, he discusses strategies for the Democratic Party to counter Trump's influence by focusing on addressing real voter concerns and providing a compelling vision for the future.

JVL and Sarah Longwell dive into the uproar over Cracker Barrel's logo change and its unexpected impact on corporate branding and stock values. They dissect how this seemingly trivial issue reflects broader cultural tensions and influence from political figures like Trump. The discussion examines how companies navigate cultural battlegrounds and the consequences of shifting public sentiment. They also connect these controversies to larger themes of authoritarianism and mob mentality, raising questions about democracy in today's climate.

Join Jonathan Cohn, a savvy author of the Breakdown newsletter, and Dan Diamond, a health policy reporter for The Washington Post, as they dive into the chaos at the CDC. They discuss shocking mass resignations that pose risks to America’s health security. Cohn and Diamond analyze RFK Jr.'s influence on public health policies and the fallout from conflicts over vaccine initiatives. With a letter pointing to data manipulation and escalating concerns about public trust, the conversation unpacks the uncertainty in national health leadership.

A devastating shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis left two children dead and seventeen injured. The discussion delves into the emotional fallout and the societal implications of gun violence. Reflecting on the recurring nature of such tragedies, the conversation urges a collective response to protect children and families from future harm. City officials' reactions and the ongoing struggle for effective gun control are also highlighted, making for a poignant commentary on America's challenges with gun violence.

The hosts dive into Charlie Kirk's strange twist on traditional masculinity, highlighting its link to insecurity within the MAGA movement. They discuss Taylor Swift and Travis Kelsey's pop culture impact and how it shapes political narratives. Modern masculinity is dissected, revealing contradictions among male influencers. The importance of equitable partnerships in marriage is emphasized, debunking the myth of submission for relationship success. Ultimately, the discussion champions respect and support in modern relationships over outdated norms.