The Bulwark Podcast

Will Saletan, a sharp political commentator, and Scott Lincicome, a trade expert from the Cato Institute, delve into the alarming political shifts in the U.S. They critique the administration's anti-democratic maneuvers, including the troubling shake-ups within the Justice Department. The duo discusses the detrimental effects of ethnic scapegoating and identity politics, while also examining the fallout from proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico, highlighting the complex interplay of trade and agriculture in current governance.

Andrew Weissmann, former FBI general counsel and lead prosecutor in the Mueller investigation, dives into pressing issues surrounding political integrity and law enforcement. He critiques the nomination process that seems to favor untested candidates, revealing the FBI's weakening meritocracy. Weissmann humorously reflects on the absurdities of political maneuvers today, including Trump's meddling in corporate affairs. He also raises alarms about civil service violations under the current administration, emphasizing the need for accountability in these tumultuous times.

Tommy Vietor, co-founder of Crooked Media and former Obama spokesman, dives deep into the farcical nature of political confirmation hearings where honesty is sidelined. He critiques political converts like RFK Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard for their inconsistent views and lack of knowledge. The discussion shifts to the media's misleading portrayals after tragedies, the public’s misunderstanding of healthcare issues, and the challenges Democrats face in countering Republican narratives while engaging with voters more effectively.

Join political commentator Mona Charen as she unpacks Trump's power grabs aimed at circumventing Congress, raising questions about the Supreme Court's potential role. She also dissects RFK Jr.'s conspiratorial takes, particularly his anti-vaccine rhetoric, and its dangerous impact. Charen shares insights on Elon Musk’s controversial moves in tech and politics, suggesting a troubling trend towards replacing qualified talent with loyalists. Dive into a discussion blending politics, ethical practices, and pressing social issues!

Chris Hayes, MSNBC host and author of "The Siren's Call," delves into the chaotic attention economy and its effects on politics. He argues that Trump's style exemplifies a dangerous sociopathy, exploiting the allure of attention. Alex Kantrowitz, a tech reporter, introduces DeepSeek, a groundbreaking Chinese AI model, highlighting its global implications. The discussion also touches on the troubling dynamics of masculinity in crypto, raising questions about fraud and the need for regulatory oversight in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Bill Kristol, a prominent conservative commentator and staunch Never Trumper, joins Tim Miller to discuss the gullibility of certain Republicans, like Susan Collins, regarding Trump's integrity. They dissect Trump’s history of fraud, from his businesses to his media persona. Kristol also highlights the defiance shown by Colombia and Mexico towards Trump’s whims. Additionally, the conversation touches on the impact of contentious debates surrounding immigration and the internal struggles of the Catholic Church in the U.S., revealing broader implications for political alliances and societal values.

David French, a New York Times opinion columnist and former army lawyer, dives into the troubling dynamics of Trump's presidency. He discusses how political loyalty poses risks to democracy and examines the implications of Trump's pardons for January 6 rioters. French also critiques recent immigration policies and the challenges of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. He sheds light on the impacts of federal hiring freezes and the complex history of the Equal Rights Amendment, highlighting the intricate balance of power and accountability in today's political landscape.

Sam Stein, the Managing Editor at The Bulwark, and Adrian Carrasquillo, author of the newsletter "Huddled Masses," dive into a whirlwind of current events. They tackle the bizarre world of social media battles involving government contractors. The conversation highlights Trump's controversial remarks on January 6th, emphasizing political narratives. They also dissect alarming immigration policies, including raids in sensitive locations and the targeting of non-threatening individuals. The political climate is charged, and their insights shed light on complex issues facing America today.

Stephanie Ruhle, a senior business correspondent at NBC News, dives into the tumultuous intersection of corporate power and politics. She discusses how CEOs flocked to Mar-a-Lago seeking freedom from social justice demands, yet now crave financial support sans regulations for their grand ambitions. Ruhle critiques the rise of unregulated cryptocurrencies and the potential backlash against economic inequality, all while reflecting on the precarious balance between truth, corporate responsibility, and the evolving landscape of tech and politics.

Tom Nichols, an author and political columnist for The Atlantic, joins Tim Miller for a lively discussion on the tumultuous political landscape. They dissect Trump's pardons for insurrectionists and the alarming normalizing of such actions. Nichols critiques the influence of tech moguls in politics, questioning the ties between wealth and leadership. They also touch on the emotional repercussions of recent immigration policy shifts and examine the fractured narratives affecting public trust in governance, all delivered with sharp wit and insight.