Conversations with Bill Kristol

“It’s hard for me to see how [the war] ends in a way that enhances our position in the world generally—and, in particular, enhances our position with relation to the country that I still think is our principal strategic challenge, namely China. And that’s what really worries me.” So argues Princeton professor and Aaron Friedberg in an incisive and sober conversation on the war in Iran and its broader geopolitical implications. Noting that there are a wide range of possible outcomes to the war, ranging from the positive to the very negative, Friedberg warns that China may see the American war in Iran as “working in their favor.” He also points to the damage to relationships with allies in Europe and Southeast Asia, who were not informed about US war plans—and the erosion of US credibility to lead a coalition of free countries to counter China and Russia.   

“Whatever happens in 2026, I think no one should take any interpretation of that as a precursor to what’s going to happen in 2028.” So argues Doug Sosnik, former political director for Bill Clinton and one of the shrewdest and most imaginative analysts of American politics. Sosnik considers possible scenarios in 2026 including a wave election year for Democrats driven by higher turnout of college-educated voters—but their prospects in a presidential election year are threatened by "atrophied support amongst all working-class voters…. that is a barrier for winning the White House in ‘28 if we can’t do better.” In his deeply perceptive and often surprising account of the state of our politics, Sosnik shares his perspective on the challenges facing both parties in the lead up to 2028—which may prove to be one of the most significant elections in American history.

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, Senior Fellow at the American Immigration Council and immigration lawyer, explains the administration's drive for mass deportations. He breaks down the rapid expansion of arrests, detention capacity, and staffing. He also covers courtroom practices, policy tools to limit asylum and legal immigration, and the wider implications for civil liberties and American society.

In this engaging conversation, Francis Fukuyama, a renowned political scientist and author, sheds light on the troubling dynamics of U.S. foreign policy under Trump. He argues the U.S. now poses a threat to its allies, as seen in the Greenland controversy. Fukuyama critiques Europe’s appeasement and discusses the dangers of Trump’s autocratic tendencies, both domestically and internationally. He also examines the implications of American economic coercion and warns of rising defense needs in Europe amidst growing tensions with Russia and China.

Ron Brownstein, a senior political analyst and columnist for Bloomberg Opinion, dives into the intricate dynamics of American politics leading up to the 2026 midterms and 2028 presidential elections. He underscores how Trump's fluctuating approval ratings are pivotal, with economic factors playing a significant role. Brownstein discusses the challenges facing both parties, including demographic shifts and the potential for a Democratic wave. He also highlights the pivotal swing states that will shape future elections and the importance of early primary coalitions.

In this engaging conversation, historian Robert Kagan discusses the implications of Trump's foreign policy, suggesting it marks a significant departure from the post-1945 international order. He warns of a return to a dangerous multipolar world and the erosion of American security as allies reconsider their reliance on the U.S. Kagan also critiques Trump's anti-liberal stance, connects domestic politics to foreign policy shifts, and highlights the risks of rearmament in Europe and Asia. His insights underscore the precariousness of global stability in this new era.

Dick Cheney (1941-2025) is widely regarded as one of the most consequential vice presidents in American history. To discus his life and legacy, we are joined by Steve Hayes, CEO and editor of The Dispatch and author of Cheney (2007), who had extraordinary access to Cheney during his time as vice president. In this Conversation, Hayes shares his personal reflections on Cheney’s character, views, and decades of public service, which spanned from the Ford through the George W. Bush administrations. Hayes reflects on the ways in which Cheney was understood—and misunderstood—by the media and public, and what the story of Cheney's life can teach us about the last half century of American political history.

Jonathan Karl, a veteran political journalist and author of 'Retribution,' discusses the unique dynamics of Trump's second presidency, highlighting how personal experiences and courtroom trials shape his approach to power and loyalty. Karl emphasizes retribution as a driving theme, influencing Trump's strategy and reshaping his team. He details the impact of assassination attempts on Trump's resolve, the evolving role of allies like Elon Musk and J.D. Vance, and the uncertainties that lie ahead in a transformed political landscape.

Timothy Snyder, a historian renowned for his insights on Eastern Europe and authoritarianism, discusses the U.S. political landscape nine months into Trump's second term. He highlights the dangers of mechanized lying and the erosion of truth, examining how right-wing narratives justify authoritarianism. Snyder also delves into Ukraine, emphasizing its resilience despite the ongoing war while warning that a Russian victory could reshape global norms. He stresses the importance of a robust U.S. presence for informed policy-making and draws parallels between domestic and international governance.

“It’s hard for me to imagine a voter that votes in 2026 that doesn’t have Trump on their mind.”According to veteran Democratic strategist James Carville, Trump "keeps jacking the stakes up, every day” and remains the focal point of American politics as we head towards the midterms next year. As he puts it, the Republican Party has become a “personality cult” while the Democratic Party is "a coalition in search of itself." As he explains: “I don’t think Democrats can know who they are until Democratic primary voters weigh in and decide. It’s not up to me to say what the Democratic Party should be. It’s for eight people to run for president and then have Democratic primary voters pick one, and then that’s what the party becomes.” In a wide-ranging Conversation, Carville shares his distinctive perspective and characteristically shrewd insights on where our politics might be headed as we look toward the midterms and 2028.