The Bulwark Podcast Sam Stein and Talmon Smith: Brain Drain
27 snips
Aug 28, 2025 
Sam Stein, managing editor at The Bulwark, and Talmon Smith, an economics reporter at The New York Times, dive into the alarming resignations at the CDC over anti-vaccine pressures. They highlight the potential threats from domestic terrorism and discuss Trump's risks to the Fed's independence. The duo also critiques shifting Democratic attitudes toward Israel and examines the latest developments in Ukraine, while reflecting on New Orleans' resilience against climate change. It’s a captivating mix of public health, politics, and social issues.
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Experts Leaving Key CDC Roles
- Sam names departed CDC leaders including Dimitri Daskalakis and others who ran COVID and monkeypox responses.
- He warns credible scientists will avoid CDC jobs while quackery appears to drive leadership.
Putin Uses Diplomacy Delays As Leverage
- Russia's heavy attack on Kyiv exposes weaknesses in U.S. strategy and Trump's diplomacy theatre.
- Sam and Tim say Putin is mocking U.S. policy and delays in firm responses matter on the ground.
Democrats' Stance On Israel Is Shifting
- Democratic attitudes toward Israel are shifting; conditioning aid is becoming defendable.
- Sam notes Jake Sullivan and others now see leverage and regret earlier policy choices.