The Bulwark Podcast Sarah Longwell: No One Should Trust this Government
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Mar 9, 2026 
Sarah Longwell, a political consultant and publisher known for voter analysis, discusses skepticism about the government's motives and trustworthiness. She examines U.S. actions in the Iran conflict, rising oil prices, civilian casualties, and Israel's influence on decision making. She also previews her book on winning voters by listening and improving Democratic messaging.
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Gas Prices Drive Voter Perception Of War
- War's economic effects reach voters through visible prices like gas and diesel.
- Sarah Longwell points to diesel jumping from $3.69 to $4.99 and how that raises costs across trucking, food, and plastics.
Trump's Insulation From Feedback Undermines Political Constraints
- Trump appears indifferent to public opinion and focused on praise from loyalists, reducing incentives to justify costly policies.
- Sarah argues he hears only flattering cabinet responses and MAGA approval metrics (98%) that insulate him from backlash.
Cabinet Meetings Full Of Flattery
- A White House anecdote described staff telling Trump he's 'the greatest' in every office, illustrating a culture of constant flattery.
- Tim relayed an offhand story where aides in Marco Rubio's office praise Trump in the same breathless terms.
