Bulwark Takes

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.

A Reagan-appointed judge delivers a stinging critique of the Trump administration's immigration policies, spotlighting due process violations. The conversation delves into calls for humane immigration treatment and the ethical responsibilities of policy. Additionally, the discussion touches on the unsettling political rhetoric surrounding Trump, its implications for universities, and concerns over anti-Semitism. Notably, there's a focus on the reactions from figures like Senator Lisa Murkowski, who express apprehension about Trump's authoritarian tendencies.

Tensions are escalating as Trump targets Fed Chair Jerome Powell, pushing for interest rate cuts. The discussion highlights the chaotic relationship between presidential authority and Fed independence. Concerns arise over the potential for disruptive leadership changes that could destabilize markets. Trump's impulsive threats raise alarms about economic risks and investor uncertainty. Effective communication within the administration is crucial, as leadership unpredictability could jeopardize financial stability and global security.

Sarah Longwell and JVL discuss new polling showing Trump’s declining support among Republicans as voters blame him for economic instability caused by his tariffs and broken promises.

Senator Lisa Murkowski opens up about her fears stemming from threats within her own party. The discussion dives into the chilling effect on honest political discourse and the courage needed to speak out. Tim Miller challenges Murkowski's loyalty to a party that perpetuates fear and calls for a bold reassessment of allegiance. The importance of taking moral responsibility over blind loyalty to party lines is emphasized, with a suggestion that joining forces with Democrats could create positive change in the Senate.

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell unpack the hypocrisy of political leaders like JD Vance and Marco Rubio, who once condemned authoritarian tactics but now remain silent as Trump weaponizes the IRS. They delve into the chilling effects of government targeting on free speech and explore historical precedents, questioning the integrity of current political stances. The discussion highlights the dangers of evolving ideologies and the troubling parallels to authoritarian regimes, emphasizing the ongoing threat to democracy and fundamental U.S. values.