Bulwark Takes

CBS just took a major hit to its journalistic credibility. In a stunning memo, 60 Minutes Executive Producer Bill Owens announced his resignation, saying he could no longer make independent decisions about the show’s content. Why? Pressure from the Trump-aligned right, a bizarre lawsuit over a Kamala Harris interview, and a looming Paramount merger that needs government approval. Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell share their take on the cowardice of institutions, the bravery of individuals, and the terrifying implications of a media ecosystem that’s bending to MAGA pressure. What does it mean when even 60 Minutes, a cornerstone of American journalism, can’t stand its ground?

Senator Ron Johnson just floated a shocking 9/11 conspiracy theory, claiming the government might have been involved. Sam Stein, Sarah Longwell, and Will Sommer dive into this alarming trend of politicians promoting dangerous conspiracies, why these ideas keep spreading, and how they're impacting American politics.

Tim Miller breaks down Bro Comedian Andrew Schulz’s bizarre logic for going MAGA and embracing . From “who gets the most p*ssy” to ignoring real threats to free speech, Tim unpacks why this kind of red-pilled nonsense is as dumb as it is dangerous.

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.