Bulwark Takes

Tim Miller and Sam Stein delve into the chaos of Pete Hegseth's public meltdowns and social media antics. They discuss the prospects of a major shake-up in the Trump administration, particularly regarding the Secretary of Defense. The duo critiques how trivial social media distractions overshadow critical global issues. They also engage in playful predictions about who might exit the cabinet first, all while keeping the banter lively with potential sponsorships. The podcast wraps up with insights on gaming and educational opportunities.

The bizarre theft of a cabinet secretary's purse raises eyebrows about her decision to carry $3,000 in cash. Security questions swirl as humor mixes with serious concerns. The strange cash habits spark debates over practicality and secrecy in government roles. Shifting gears, the hosts dive into a politically charged relationship, revealing ethical dilemmas and past controversies. It's a wild ride through political intrigue, complete with witty commentary and unexpected twists.

In this conversation, Joe Perticone, a Congressional correspondent in Rome, shares firsthand experiences from the Vatican following Pope Francis' passing. He captures the mixed emotions of joy and sorrow felt by the faithful during this pivotal moment. The duo discusses the Pope's profound legacy, highlighting his messages of empathy and inclusivity. They also delve into the reactions from the MAGA world and the ongoing intersection of faith and politics, reflecting on how the Pope's teachings challenge contemporary ideological divides.

Tim Miller dives into the chaos surrounding Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who’s embroiled in a scandal over sharing sensitive military intel in an unsecured Signal chat. His connections to a Fox News producer wife and a personal lawyer raise eyebrows. The show also reveals increasing distrust within Trump’s circle, as highlighted by a scathing op-ed from a former ally. Tensions are high as discussions of leadership and accountability unfold in the wake of these controversies.

Tim Miller and Sam Stein dive into the evolving strategies around immigration politics, focusing on Democratic pushback against Trump's deportation tactics. They discuss the clash between authenticity and political maneuvering, highlighting the importance of constitutional principles. The conversation critiques current approaches, emphasizing the need for a principled stance that addresses both humanitarian concerns and enforcement. They also analyze the implications of political maneuvering and the shifting dynamics within parties.

National Review's Jay Nordlinger joins Bill Kristol on this week’s Bulwark on Sunday to discuss what you should be reading right now to understand the world around us.

In this engaging conversation, veteran Will Selber, who works with Afghan nonprofits including the Afghan American Veterans Alliance, discusses the dire situation facing Afghan refugees under the Trump administration's self-deportation order. He highlights the dangerous implications for those who risked their lives helping American forces and the emotional turmoil felt by veterans witnessing this betrayal. Selber emphasizes the urgent need for better support systems and critiques the government's inconsistent refugee policies, particularly for Afghan Christians.

Tim Miller takes on the shocking drop in visitors from Europe, Central America, and beyond, explaining why Trump's America is now seen as a potential nightmare for international tourists. 

Molly White, a software engineer and cryptocurrency researcher, joins Tim Miller to discuss the murky interplay between Trump and the crypto industry. They uncover how Trump's business interests thrive amid regulatory rollbacks, potentially jeopardizing public protections. The conversation highlights Truth Media's controversial financial ventures and the complex ties between crypto and global politics, especially regarding China and Russia. With a focus on meme coins linked to Trump and Melania, they emphasize the looming risks of deregulation in the crypto landscape.

The podcast delves into the troubling situation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador, revealing the politician's push for legal access amidst growing human rights concerns. It juxtaposes a U.S. senator's serious commitment to justice against President Bukele’s troubling mockery of the crisis. The discussion includes the political fallout from a controversial photo involving an MS-13 member, shedding light on the dire realities faced by detainees and the urgent need for accountability in a system rife with violations.