The Bulwark Podcast

Sam Stein, Managing Editor at The Bulwark and a sharp political analyst, teams up with Francis Fukuyama, renowned political scientist and author. They dive deep into the aggressive deportation tactics emerging in Chicago and how Trump's allies are eager to escalate this nationwide. Fukuyama examines why populism thrives even in prosperous times, linking it to the dynamics of social media and cultural grievances. The duo also critiques liberalism’s challenges and explores how enforced social norms can alienate potential supporters.

Bill Kristol, a renowned political commentator and conservative analyst, joins to discuss the latest chaos in U.S. trade policy. He critiques Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods, exposing how they harm American farmers. Kristol delves into the alarming corruption linked to Trump Jr. and highlights corporate America's complicity with the administration. He also considers the potential for reform-minded Democrats in this populist age and reflects on the risks of a Trump VP candidacy in 2028. The discussion balances dark political realities with a glimmer of hope for democracy.

Ryan Holiday, an author and expert on Stoic philosophy, shares insights from his latest book, Wisdom Takes Work. He emphasizes the importance of opposing bootlicking in politics and how ancient wisdom remains relevant in today's landscape. Ryan discusses the dangers of echo chambers, particularly for figures like Elon Musk and Trump, noting how their media diets skew reality. He offers advice on avoiding groupthink, urging listeners to seek diverse information sources. Plus, he suggests ways to engage modern men with Stoic values.

Anna Bower, a Senior Editor at Lawfare and investigative reporter, shares her surprising communication with U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan, discussing the peculiar norms surrounding prosecutors reaching out to the media. Meanwhile, Ben Wittes, Editor-in-Chief of Lawfare, delves into the implications of Trump's outrageous demand for $230 million in damages from the DOJ, highlighting ethical conflicts for involved attorneys. The duo navigates through legal intricacies and absurdities surrounding high-profile prosecutions with sharp insight and wit.

Jon Favreau, co-founder of Crooked Media and a former White House speechwriter, discusses vital issues facing America, including the alarming practices of ICE and the impact of public perception on immigration enforcement. He highlights the troubling fitness standards for ICE recruits and the dangerous consequences of political rhetoric labeling Democrats as terrorists. Favreau advocates for relatable candidates in politics, emphasizing the need to win working-class voters and strategize effectively against authoritarian threats.

Michael Weiss, a journalist focused on Russia and international security, joins Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House Press Secretary, to discuss the impact of Trump's foreign policy on Ukraine and Gaza. Weiss highlights Trump's diminished leverage and erratic behavior while trying to position himself as a peacemaker. Jean-Pierre reflects on her experience in the Biden administration, addressing representation issues for marginalized communities and the precarious state of party politics. Their candid conversation unveils deep insights on modern democracy and political dynamics.

Bill Kristol, a conservative political analyst and founder of several public-policy ventures, joins Tim Miller to discuss a range of pressing topics. The duo reflects on the impactful No Kings protests, criticizing Trump's immature response. They debate whether the protest messaging could help Democrats regain the patriotism narrative from Republicans. Kristol also delves into Trump's troubling affection for authoritarian figures, the implications of the El Salvador prison deal, and the government's shutdown, highlighting its visibility issues and political stakes.

Join journalist and podcaster Peter Hamby as he dives into the complexities of American politics. He discusses the contentious Bolton indictment and how classified documents are wielded as political weapons. Hamby and Tim Miller break down Marco Rubio's push for intervention in Venezuela, exploring the implications for U.S. military norms. They tackle redistricting battles in California and the impact on the Democrat's chances to regain the House. Plus, a fresh perspective on cultural topics, including the unexpected popularity of Bad Bunny. A thought-provoking conversation awaits!

Anne Applebaum, a historian and staff writer at The Atlantic, dives deep into the decline of democratic faith in the U.S. She discusses how Trump's policies undermine America's global democratic leadership, examining proposed refugee restrictions and authoritarian tactics creeping into domestic governance. Applebaum also touches on the chilling effect of social media jokes turning into real policy, and warns against potential U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. Her insights reveal the fragility of unity in a diverse society against rising authoritarianism.

Heather Cox Richardson, a Boston College professor and insightful author of "Letters from an American," provides a compelling look at the current political landscape. She discusses how Congressional Republicans have surrendered their power to unelected officials, echoing concerns about Trump's influence. Heather also critiques Trump's proposed arch as a troubling symbol near the Lincoln Memorial. Additionally, they tackle issues like gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the implications of military deployments in urban areas, sparking profound reflections on America's constitutional framework.