Bulwark Takes

Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Mark Hertling shares heartwarming insights on Thanksgiving in the military. He recounts the festive spirit of garrison dining halls, complete with dress uniforms and ice carvings. Mark details the immense logistics that bring Thanksgiving meals to troops in combat zones, as well as cherished traditions like Twinkies and near beer. Personal stories highlight the camaraderie and joy shared among soldiers, while he encourages civilian support through Operation Gratitude, which delivers care packages to deployed service members.

Discover the bizarre world of James Fishback, a young GOP candidate with a questionable past. He inflates his résumé and utilizes sock-puppet schemes to bolster his campaign against Trump’s pick. Delve into his provocative policy positions, including anti-H-1B rhetoric and plans for property tax abolition. The hosts reveal unsettling details about his campaign's tone, marked by racial attacks and subterfuge. As they analyze Fishback's potential in the election, they also reflect on the troubling acceptance of such figures in modern Republican politics.

Tim Miller, a sharp political commentator and Bulwark contributor, dives into the chaos of GOP politics. He discusses Trump's recent string of election losses and examines Marjorie Taylor Greene's critique of him, suggesting her comments could destabilize Trump's support among his base. Miller also highlights the shifting Republican outlook for 2026, with growing fears about retaining the House and retirements on the rise. Finally, he explores Greene's appeal to economic populism and what it means for her future in the party.

Pablo Torre, a journalist known for his sharp investigative work and host of 'Pablo Torre Finds Out,' joins Tim Miller to unpack the transformation of Riley Gaines from college swimmer to prominent anti-trans political figure. They delve into the complexities of her rise, driven by conservative media and a pivotal moment tied to Leah Thomas. The conversation explores how allegations against her coach were overshadowed, the financial motivations behind her narrative, and the broader implications of the trans sports debate.

In this lively discussion, Kyle Cheney, a seasoned POLITICO reporter, breaks down the recent dismissal of indictments against James Comey. He details how the court invalidated Lindsay Halligan's appointment, affecting subsequent legal actions. The conversation dives into the implications of this ruling on current and future prosecutions, exploring DOJ strategies and potential workarounds. They also examine the broader impact on politically charged investigations and criticize the prosecution's handling, all while speculating on the political fallout. A must-listen for legal and political enthusiasts!

Tim Miller and Will Sommer dive into Candace Owens' wild conspiracy theories, including her claim of being targeted by France and Israel. They explore the right-wing's alarming reactions and how these ideas are gaining traction. The hosts dissect bizarre links she's made, like connecting Charlie Kirk's situation to a grand international plot. They also discuss the influence of social media and the legal risks Owens faces over her claims. It's a deep dive into the absurdities of modern conspiracy culture and its troubling impact.

Erin Banco, a national security reporter for Reuters, shares insights on a clandestine Miami meeting involving key figures like Jared Kushner and Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev. The discussion revolves around a controversial 28-point peace plan that appears to favor Russian interests. Erin highlights the U.S. government's confusion and mixed reactions to the plan, particularly concerning territorial concessions and NATO exclusion. She also examines potential implications for Ukraine and the dynamics of U.S.-Russia relations.

Polling reveals Trump's approval ratings are plummeting, particularly regarding economic issues. The hosts discuss a CBS poll that shows skepticism about military action in Venezuela. Inflation emerges as a major vulnerability, contradicting Trump's optimistic messaging that fails to resonate with voters. A critique of the administration's lack of clear communication highlights confusion surrounding tariffs and economic policies. Humorous examination of mixed messages about bananas adds a light touch to the serious political discourse.

Tim Miller, a savvy political commentator and strategist, joins Catherine Rampell to dissect the latest in Republican politics. They dive into Trump's odd meeting with Zoran Mamdani, exploring the optics and underlying motivations at play. Miller speculates on why Marjorie Taylor Greene abruptly left Congress, hinting at possible safety fears. They also tackle the impending release of the Epstein files and what potential revelations could mean for Trump’s support, highlighting the impact of elite associations on his populist image.

Catherine Rampell, an astute opinion writer and economist, joins Bill Kristol to dissect the puzzling state of the economy. They tackle missing government economic data and the risks of relying on imperfect private statistics. Rampell highlights the struggles facing young workers amid a K-shaped recovery, while also critiquing the administration's selective economic messaging. They ponder the uncertainties surrounding tariffs, Fed independence, and the implications for inflation. Plus, discussions on holiday shopping trends promise to keep listeners engaged!