Bulwark Takes

Canadian PM Mark Carney's recent Oval Office visit sparks discussions on fluctuating trade dynamics and Trump's unpredictable tariffs. The dialogue contrasts Carney's diplomatic approach with Trump's erratic style. There's a critical look at trade disputes, including skepticism about Canada’s trade partnership. The conversation also touches on intriguing themes like backyard chickens and central control in trade policies, highlighting the complexities of U.S.-Canada relations. Expect a blend of wit and insight as the hosts dissect these pivotal moments!

Fox News has morphed into an extension of the Trump administration, with cabinet members appearing to curry favor and spread propaganda. The collaboration blurs the lines between government and media, influencing narratives and visibility. The hosts humorously critique the simplicity of securing media spots while highlighting the absurdity of military travel. Alarmingly, they discuss troubling political rhetoric and its implications on discourse, wrapping up with light reflections on unexpected views of Fox News.

A viral video depicting a woman's racial slur directed at a child sparks outrage and unexpected support from MAGA influencers. The podcast highlights her rise from shame to fundraising success, revealing unsettling dynamics surrounding cancel culture. It also discusses how crowdfunding platforms have shifted from noble causes to backing controversial figures. The conversation deepens around societal divisions and the Republican Party's problematic endorsement of racially charged rhetoric, raising critical questions about our cultural landscape.

Jonathan Cohn, a policy-focused colleague at The Bulwark, joins hosts Sam Stein and Lauren Egan to dissect the diverse approaches top Democrats are taking against Trump. They explore Gretchen Whitmer's collaborative strategy compared to Alyssa Slotkin's confrontational stance. The discussion reveals how these tactics reflect the shifting political landscape in Michigan and the challenges Democrats face in balancing local needs with national strategies, all while weighing the risks for future leaders.

Dive into the unsettling dynamics of Donald Trump’s infatuation with Vladimir Putin, likening their relationship to historical romances. Discover how Trump's admiration leads him to dismiss serious concerns about Russian aggression and prioritize Putin over U.S. intelligence. The podcast critiques the moral implications of such admiration during global conflicts, raising alarms about masculinity, dominance, and the troubling narratives surrounding Ukraine. It compellingly explores the intersections between personal admiration and international consequences.

Sonny Bunch, a movie guru known for his contributions to Morning Shots, joins the discussion to unpack Donald Trump’s bizarre proposal for 100% tariffs on foreign films. The trio examines the impracticalities of the plan and its potential chaos in the Hollywood ecosystem. They dive into the absurdity of enforcing such tariffs, especially on digital content, and debate its broader implications for American media. With a mix of humor and skepticism, they explore how these policies could disrupt the film industry’s recovery and reshape our media landscape.

Ben Terris, an author from New York Magazine, delves into Senator John Fetterman's mental health struggles and erratic behavior post-stroke. He reveals startling insights from a former aide, raising concerns about Fetterman’s paranoia and fitness for office. The conversation touches on the delicate balance of loyalty and public disclosure in politics, alongside debates on internal party tensions regarding his controversial positions. The podcast further explores the challenges of discussing mental health in such a scrutinized political arena.

Joseph Cox, co-founder of 404 Media and a cybersecurity expert, joins Andrew Egger to unravel the shocking SignalGate breach that jeopardized sensitive White House communications. They discuss how a simple photo inadvertently exposed security flaws in government messaging apps. The conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas of journalism where revealing vulnerabilities must be balanced against public safety. Expect insightful narratives on the implications of these security lapses and the need for robust government digital tools.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger dive into the chaos of Trump's Sunday tweets, showcasing how his off-the-cuff musings can morph into significant policy shifts. They examine the whimsical nature of his potential second term and the unexpected consequences of his social media antics. The conversation touches on the quirky intersection of tariffs and film production, along with humorous takes on everything from NFL drafts to the reactivation of Alcatraz. It's a lively blend of serious discussion and entertaining anecdotes that highlight the unpredictability of today's political landscape.

Jonathan Cohn, a senior fellow at the Niskanen Center and healthcare policy expert, joins for a deep dive into the shortcomings of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in public health. They discuss the far-reaching impacts of proposed Medicaid budget cuts on vulnerable populations. Insights into the consequences of slashing funding for organizations like the NIH and CDC reveal dire threats to medical research. Cohn also shares thoughts on post-pandemic vaccine advancements and how political dynamics surrounding health policies will shape the 2026 elections.