The Bulwark Podcast

Bill Kristol, a renowned political analyst and conservative commentator, joins Tim Miller to dissect the growing unrest within the MAGA coalition and the waning control of Trump over the Republican Party. They explore how dissent is replacing fear among Republicans as electoral failures intensify. Kristol also critiques the disastrous DOGE initiative and Trump's record of enriching his allies while failing to deliver on promises. Additionally, they debunk the myth of Trump as a true populist and discuss critical political dynamics within Congress.

Adam Kinzinger, former U.S. Representative and Air Force veteran, dives into Trump's recent flailing amid scrutiny over the Epstein case. He discusses how Trump's fear is shaping his behavior, highlighting the implications of newly uncovered emails from Ghislaine Maxwell. The duo tackles Republican defenses of Trump and the political landscape, while pondering Marjorie Taylor Greene's tactical shifts. Kinzinger also shares insights from his documentary, revealing his motivation to document history for future generations.

Susan Glasser, a staff writer at The New Yorker and co-author of 'The Divider,' joins Tim Miller to discuss the alarming ties between tech giants and authoritarian leaders, highlighting their complicity in undermining democracy. They dive into Trump's troubling relationship with MBS and the implications of his embrace of a 'grotesque oligarchy.' Glasser also critiques the GOP's internal dynamics, Trump's foreign policy missteps, and the chilling effects of targeting vulnerable communities through fear. It's a passionate take on current political threats and societal ramifications.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris joins Tim Miller to discuss her book '107 Days' and reflect on her intense campaign. She passionately critiques the current administration's actions, particularly regarding misinformation and corporate power. Harris shares insights into her emotional journey, the challenges of being in a supportive role, and the necessity of grassroots organizing. Highlighting the importance of engaging younger voters, she emphasizes reclaiming democracy and standing up for American values in turbulent times.

Jonathan Karl, Chief Washington correspondent for ABC News and author of "Retribution," dives into the chaotic dynamics of Trump's administration. He discusses the troubling loyalty of Trump's inner circle and the implications of their actions on law and ethics. Karl also explores decreasing public trust in institutions due to rampant misinformation, and the dangerous intersection of madness and leadership. Insightful anecdotes about Trump's demeanor and his administration's corruption provide a captivating look at the current political landscape.

Bill Kristol, a renowned conservative commentator and founder of The Bulwark, joins Tim Miller to dive into the shifting political landscape. They discuss Trump's surprising retreat on the Epstein files and how it reveals unexpected leverage for Democrats. The duo analyzes the fractures within the MAGA coalition and the implications of Marjorie Taylor Greene's potential political shift. They also explore the fallout from aggressive immigration enforcement and the pressing issue of elite accountability highlighted by the Epstein emails.

David Frum, a staff writer at The Atlantic, joins to discuss the shamefaced state of Trump and the GOP amidst the Epstein scandal. They dissect how fringe narratives have amplified this controversy with antisemitic tones. Frum highlights the four types of corruption in Trump’s administration and the implications of recent economic policies. The conversation veers into the complexities of antisemitism, its modern forms, and the challenges of critiquing Israel without crossing into dangerous territory.

Journalist Alex Wagner, host of Runaway Country, joins Tim Miller to dissect the tangled web of Trump's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. They explore the contradictory defenses from the White House and Fox, revealing the chaotic narrative around Epstein's influence and Trump's involvement. Wagner highlights how sexual insecurity among powerful men and political grievances intertwine, while also analyzing the recent Democratic strategies amid a government shutdown. Tune in for sharp insights on politics, masculinity, and the challenges facing both parties.

Mikie Sherrill, the governor-elect of New Jersey and former U.S. representative, shares insights on her campaign focused on affordability and grassroots turnout. She emphasizes concrete policies like expanding homebuyer access and tackling federal challenges. Michael Fanone, a January 6th attack survivor and former police officer, discusses ongoing threats to his safety, the inadequacies of FBI responses, and concerns about politicization within law enforcement. Together, they delve into accountability issues and the impacts of national policies on local communities.

Chris Hayes, a prominent television host and author known for his sharp political insights, joins Tim Miller for a lively discussion. They unpack how Trump has shifted from anti-establishment hero to an emblem of the establishment itself. The conversation delves into the Democrats' current strategic position and the implications of the filibuster. Hayes also shares his thoughts on the attention economy and how modern campaigns need to adapt. They explore the rise of antisemitism in media, the influence of algorithms on youth, and the evolving role of tech elites in politics.