Bulwark Takes

Tesla is in hot water, with Cybertruck sales plummeting by 50% and profitability sinking. Elon's blame game is in full swing, as he insists on more control while the company's fortunes wane. The absence of an affordable model raises eyebrows, and the myth of the robo-taxi seems further away than ever. With European sales collapsing and a troubling earnings call, the hosts dissect the cult of Elon and the absurd PR spins surrounding his leadership. What does this spell for Tesla's future?

A tense clash unfolds between Trump and Fed Chair Powell, who fact-checks him live, showcasing the friction in their power dynamics. The discussion critiques Trump's theatrical tactics aimed at undermining Powell's authority, while exposing budget discrepancies in real-time. Amid this political theater, there's a humorous take on Trump's views about the Fed's renovation, revealing the broader implications of their conflict for the economy and future Fed leadership.

Fox News faces criticism for its lack of coverage on the Epstein scandal, especially regarding Trump's connections. A surprising bipartisan push for transparency is emerging, revealing public outrage. The discussion delves into how MAGA circles are grappling with Ghislaine Maxwell's ties to Trump. Ineffective crisis communication strategies are also scrutinized, highlighting political mismanagement. Finally, the importance of whistleblowers in safeguarding democracy is emphasized, urging those with information to step forward.

Sonny Bunch, the Culture editor at The Bulwark and a savvy film critic, joins Tim Miller to dissect South Park’s bold season premiere that takes a sharp aim at Donald Trump. They discuss the absurdity of Trump’s cartoonish lawsuit threats and his quirky desert PSA with googly eyes. The conversation further delves into how satire challenges political narratives, the impact of media ties on journalistic integrity, and South Park’s playful commentary on power and censorship, showcasing the show’s fearless approach to contemporary issues.

Dr. Zeke Emanuel, an oncologist and bioethicist with a history in health policy at the NIH and Obama administration, joins to discuss the turbulent landscape of American healthcare. He recounts a surprising healthcare strategy call with Trump during the 2016 election. The conversation dives deep into reforming Medicaid, advocating for automatic enrollment, and tackling the burdensome application processes. Emanuel also critiques cuts to medical research funding and emphasizes the urgency of maintaining America's competitive edge against countries like China.

In a riveting discussion, Will Sommer, an expert on right-wing online culture and author of the False Flag newsletter, dives into the chaos surrounding Candace Owens. They dissect her controversial claims about the French First Lady and the legal troubles that ensue. The duo explores the bizarre reactions from the MAGA community and the implications for foreign policy. Additionally, they tackle the fallout within right-wing media and the difficulties of proving libel while navigating this chaotic landscape.

Will Sommer, a leading journalist on the Epstein controversy, dives deep into the shocking confirmation of Donald Trump’s name appearing several times in the Epstein files. He and host Sarah Longwell dissect the political fallout of these revelations and what they mean for Trump’s narrative. They explore the complexities of ongoing investigations, scrutinize Trump's connections to Epstein and Maxwell, and analyze the implications of these connections on his political future. Tune in for a riveting exploration of a scandal that refuses to fade.

James Talarico, a Democratic member of the Texas House of Representatives known for his savvy social media presence, joins to discuss innovative political strategies in a red state. He explores how young leaders are harnessing platforms like TikTok to engage voters and reshape communication. The conversation touches on the importance of adapting to digital landscapes and the need for unified Democratic strategies in response to GOP tactics. They also share lighthearted banter about college football to wrap up this engaging dialogue.

Jared Moskowitz, US Representative for Florida's 23rd district, joins to discuss the GOP's inaction on Epstein file disclosures and the allegations of cover-ups involving DOJ officials. He sheds light on internal conflicts within the Republican Party, revealing tensions between justice for victims and the protection of alleged perpetrators. Moskowitz also addresses the urgency of FEMA's preparations as hurricane season approaches, emphasizing concerns over the agency's efficiency and readiness in disaster response.

Beto O’Rourke, a former member of the House and political activist, sits down for a frank discussion on democracy’s precarious state. He addresses the severe impacts of gerrymandering in Texas and encourages Democrats to adopt ruthless strategies to navigate upcoming political battles. O’Rourke emphasizes the significance of grassroots activism and community engagement for fostering unity among voters. He argues that acknowledging threats to democracy is crucial for instigating real change, particularly in a divided political landscape.