Bulwark Takes

Margaret Manto, a reporter at Notice known for her investigative work, joins to dissect Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s MAHA report. They delve into the alarming inaccuracies within its 522 citations, revealing issues like broken links and dubious studies. The conversation also highlights the serious implications of compromised credibility in health reporting, discussing the potential influence of AI and concerns from the scientific community. Plus, they share reflections on the investigative journey and anticipate the reactions from the Maha movement.

Ro Khanna, a progressive U.S. Representative from California, joins Sam Stein to dissect Elon Musk's political missteps. They discuss Musk's unrealized ambitions and the tangled web of governance he faces. Khanna emphasizes the importance of educational equity, critiquing policies that may lower academic standards. The conversation also touches on the Democratic Party's need to navigate political extremes and balance innovation with traditional values in governance, highlighting the challenges of maintaining accountability in education.

Katie Couric, a renowned journalist and media founder, teams up with Tim Miller to dive into the political landscape of 2028 candidates. They address Trump-era corruption and the disturbing dynamics of modern political discourse, featuring personal anecdotes and critiques. The duo also highlights the importance of community involvement in democracy, emphasizing that individual actions and protests can drive change. Plus, they take a light-hearted jab at Donald and Melania Trump’s mundane wedding. Buckle up for a blend of serious insights and entertaining commentary!

The hosts dive into a chaotic press conference where Trump faces a pointed question about the 'TACO' term that humorously underscores his reluctance to confront difficult issues. They explore intense discussions on trade negotiations and tariffs, especially with China and the EU, showcasing the highs and lows of his emotional responses. Finally, the analysis of the taco trade proposition opens up a conversation about market uncertainty and the potential fallout of Trump's unpredictable economic strategies.

Jonathan Cohn, a healthcare expert from The Bulwark, joins to unpack the Republican effort to dismantle Obamacare. He discusses the sweeping new bill targeting Medicaid and ACA marketplaces, revealing the serious risks of losing coverage for millions. The conversation also delves into the political gamesmanship surrounding vaccine safety and public health, and how these dynamics could influence future healthcare legislation. Cohn highlights the intricacies of navigating insurance challenges, from premium spikes to potential improvements under pressure.

Tim Miller, a former Republican operative and writer for The Bulwark, shares his insights on Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill', which aims to cut Medicaid and taxes. He delves into the potential fallout for working-class voters and the national debt crisis. Sam Sanders, host of Vibe Check, steers the dialogue toward Pride, exploring its historical roots and the importance of advocacy. Together, they discuss the need for genuine representation and tackle the messiness of contemporary political landscapes with humor and seriousness.

Will Sommer, a journalist and expert on right-wing media, joins to unpack the chaos within the MAGA sphere. He discusses the deepening rift between RFK Jr. and anti-vaccine advocate Del Bigtree, signaling turmoil in the movement. Sommer also dives into the controversies surrounding Project Veritas, including its former leader’s problematic documentary and management woes. The conversation is rich with insights into the shifting landscape of vaccine skepticism and the ethical challenges facing these organizations.

Elon Musk takes a jab at the GOP's ambitious spending bill, sparking discussions on its real impact and the disconnect in Republican sentiments. The conversation explores how tech leaders like Musk navigate politics, especially in light of recent AI events. There's also a deep dive into Musk's frustrations with governance and the implications of his techno-libertarian views. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the complex relationship between technology, business, and political realities.

Dive into the murky waters of Trump's pardons and the troubling trend of using presidential power for political gain. The discussion reveals how these actions may normalize corruption in the justice system. Explore the psychological transformation of figures within the administration as they shift towards MAGA ideologies. Additionally, the implications for whistleblowers and the integrity of legal standards are critically examined, highlighting how these political maneuvers threaten the foundational principles of justice.

Caolan Robertson, an independent journalist reporting from Ukraine, shares firsthand insights into the relentless bombardments in Kyiv. He highlights the devastating impact on civilians and crucial facilities, expressing concerns over U.S. hesitance in providing air defense support. The discussion delves into the psychological toll of war, the struggle for Ukrainian self-reliance in military capabilities, and the resilience of locals finding joy amidst chaos. Robertson also reflects on the hope and uncertainty that define the human experience in a conflict zone.