Bulwark Takes

Sarah Longwell discusses the political fallout from the Epstein scandal and how it challenges Donald Trump's appeal. His base feels betrayed by his failure to unveil the Epstein files, a promise that resonated deeply with supporters. Tensions are rising within the Republican Party as members face pressure from constituents, calling for investigations. Meanwhile, Democrats are keen to keep the spotlight on Trump, resisting any attempts to shift blame. The conversation sheds light on the fragile myths that underpin the MAGA coalition.

Tim Miller takes on the Senate vote that threatens critical UNICEF funding—putting children’s lives at risk around the world. Republicans are pushing a budget cut that targets aid for the most vulnerable, despite recent massive spending elsewhere. Take immediate action and call your senators now: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

Tim Miller joins MSNBC's Katy Tur Reports to discuss how the Epstein files are driving a wedge between Donald Trump and his most loyal supporters. They also examine MAGA’s backlash to Trump’s foreign policy flip-flops and President Obama’s leaked warning for Democrats to toughen up. Bring on the good vibes and treat yourself to Soul today! Right now, Soul is offering my audience 30% off your entire order!  Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES. 

Tim Miller explains exactly what’s likely still hidden in the so-called Epstein files: the computers, surveillance tapes, heavily redacted FBI records, mysterious finances, and unanswered questions from Epstein’s death.  Why is so much still secret? Who benefits from keeping it that way? This analysis draws heavily from Julie K. Brown’s groundbreaking reporting at the Miami Herald. Check out her work for more in-depth coverage of the Epstein investigation: https://www.miamiherald.com/profile/218644665 Sponsor Info: Bring on the good vibes and treat yourself to Soul today! Right now, Soul is offering The Bulwark fans 30% off their entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES. Further Reference: The Epstein files: What is public, and what is still secret? (Julie K. Brown): https://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/article301174364.html Bill Kristol's July 15, 2025 interview with Julie K. Brown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtWnaJdNO2k Tim Miller's January, 2024 interview with Julie K. Brown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7QG9PXLbXk

Bill Kristol, a renowned political commentator and Professor Emeritus, joins Sam Stein to dissect the ongoing ramifications of the Epstein scandal on Donald Trump. They delve into the restless sentiments within the MAGA base and how conspiracy theories continue to shape the political narrative. The conversation highlights Democrats' challenges in leveraging the Epstein connection while navigating a complex landscape of accountability and public opinion surrounding political scandals.

Tim Miller and JVL discuss how Marc Andreessen unleashes a full-throated rant against DEI, immigration, the media, and what he sees as a cultural takeover by the left. Despite being one of the wealthiest and most influential people in tech, Andreessen frames himself as a victim of systemic bias—sparking a conversation about billionaire grievance, hypocrisy, and the broader culture war within Silicon Valley. Bring on the good vibes and treat yourself to Soul today! Right now, Soul is offering my audience 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES. That’s https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off. Become a Bulwark Youtube Plus Member here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Hp1KbGw4e02N7FpPXDgQ/join

Tim Miller goes on MSNBC to break down how the Epstein story is turning into a real political vulnerability for Donald Trump, and why Democrats should lean into it. This scandal, once used to fuel MAGA conspiracy theories about Democrats is now coming home to roost for Trump and his allies.

At a White House Faith Office Luncheon, Donald Trump delivered a meandering and often off-topic speech weaving from divorce jokes to trans athletes to divine intervention. Sam Stein and Andrew Egger break down the event’s surreal moments and what it says about Trump’s evolving relationship with the religious right.

Tim Miller talks about a wave of red-pilled influencer, including Andrew Schulz, begin turning on Trump, calling out his broken promises, warmongering, and ties to Epstein. Former Trump allies are questioning everything from his foreign policy to his authenticity.

Join Bill Kristol and Julie K. Brown on this week's livestream of Bulwark on Sunday. Brown is an investigative journalist and THE preeminent expert on Jeffrey Epstein. She was almost single-handedly responsible for the re-opening of the Jeffrey Epstein sexual abuse case with her 2018 reporting.