Rick Wilson's The Enemies List

The B-2 strike on Iran's Fordow nuclear facility was a show of unmatched precision and power—but the rush to celebrate masks a dangerous truth. Triumphalism, especially from Trump's political base, treats the attack as an end rather than a beginning. But Iran has built its legacy on asymmetric warfare, and tonight's strike may have opened a long, uncertain chapter rather than closed one. This isn't just about a bomb dropped—it's about what comes next. Iran doesn't need nukes to retaliate; it needs patience and proxies. The enemy gets a vote, and Tehran is likely already planning its next move. Triumphalism isn't victory—it's the prelude to tragedy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes your questions on everything from the economic outlook going into the midterms to the definition of neocon. A lot of you were curious about the possibility of a Musk redemption story arc, and about the right way to protest. Rick answers all and delivers this instant classic: It's too late to work inside the system, but too soon to start shooting motherf****. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Political violence doesn't emerge in a vacuum — MAGA has built a system of terror out of manufactured rage and conspiracy. The assassinations and attempted assassinations in Minnesota over the weekend are the logical result of this effort. Fox News, Facebook, and Twitter are the hypodermic needles injecting the MAGA base with vile hatred, allowing them to see anyone who disagrees with them not as adversaries, but as existential threats—pedophiles, communists, invaders, subhumans. These stories aren't just fringe; they're algorithmically amplified, monetized, and echoed by politicians and law enforcement alike. When this kind of rhetoric becomes normalized, stochastic terrorism becomes inevitable. The country is reaching a flashpoint — not because individuals snap, but because entire platforms profit from pushing them to the edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump's invasion of Los Angeles isn't about immigration—it's about power, manipulation, and preparing you for a crackdown. WE are the real targets. The Trumps, the Millers, the Bondis, the Patels, they are praying for violence to legitimize a massive military escalation. Fox News, Twitter, and Facebook are deeply complicit. They may be pulling immigrants off the streets for the cameras, but they're really coming for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Miller is a familiar face on the Enemies List, but over the weekend, the stakes ramped up to a million. He isn't just a policy advisor—he's the mastermind behind the deliberately cruel strategy to provoke unrest and justify state violence. This incursion into the streets of Los Angeles with the ICE raids isn't LIKE a Nazi tacting. It IS on: provoke resistance, claim victimhood, then strike harder. It's not about law enforcement—it's about staging a spectacle of repression that delights the authoritarian base and erodes democratic norms. If that's not scary enough, the suspension of ABC's Terry Moran under political pressure is proof that our media is buckling under this pressure. When cruelty becomes policy and dissent becomes criminalized, the danger isn't just to immigrants—it's to everyone. In other words...you're next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes your questions this week, and there were plenty to choose from. You sent in hundreds. Sadly, we can't get to all of them, but it was clear that there were some trends. Ricks covers ground from Trump's recent pardons to his craven desire to stoke chaos in order to crush dissent with violence. And one of you, at least, wondered if Trump was actually a spy. Please, keep the questions coming! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This may get some blowback, but it has to be said: This week's entry to the Enemies List are those Democratic consultants who spend millions of dollars talking at men. The crisis facing the Democratic Party isn't just about policy—it's about perception, narrative, and emotional connection. MAGA gives disaffected men a sense of belonging, identity, and power. Democrats give them slide decks. The party's elite consultants are disastrously out of step with the people they absolutely must reach if they ever hope to regain power and save Democracy. This is a five-alarm fire. The Democrats' performative branding in place of raw, honest storytelling grounded in shared pain and promised purpose will lose an entire generation to cynicism and extremism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"These people thought Epstein was the Rosetta Stone for the globalist elite cannibal pedophile ring—but the truth hits too close to home." Pam Bondi, Dan Bongino, and Kash Patel are the Three Stooges of the Pizza-Gate-Qanon-Apocalypse. They've been pretty constant figures in and around the Enemies List. But, recently, they've become pariahs not just among those of us on the pro-Democracy side, but within MAGA ranks as well—largely because of their involvement in obscuring the contents of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Once the loudest human blowhorns spreading conspiracy theories about elite pedophile rings, they now appear to be actively protecting the very circles they once claimed to expose. Their sudden pivot, particularly in light of Donald Trump's deep and well-documented ties to Epstein, has fueled backlash from the same extremist audiences they once courted. You won't believe it, but they are, in fact, hypocrites. But that hypocrisy is grim, as it's meant to protect Trump from being implicated in one of the darkest scandals of the last twenty years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Johnson's push to gut Medicare and Medicaid isn't just a budgetary decision—it's a declaration of priorities. You, my friend, are not on the priority list. Stripping health care from tens of millions to fund tax breaks for a shrinking circle of billionaires lays bare a political ideology rooted in cruelty and indifference. It's a familiar trade: short-term power for long-term damage, justified by performative piety and cloaked in procedural gamesmanship. Mike Johnson is the reigning Enemy on the Enemies List because his ploy is so cynical, so callous, and so catastrophic to our way of life that it can only be described as evil. This episode is a double-decker! Rick takes your questions in the back half on everything from Elon Musk's public implosion and Trump's ongoing submission to Putin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Speaker Mike Johnson is looking to blow a $4 trillion hole in the deficit, cut back on Medicare and Medicaid, and dole out billions in tax breaks to a handful of ultra-rich Americans. He's an easy target, but that doesn't mean we should let him off the hook. The chaos within the ranks belies a bitter truth: this budget, if enacted, would be a moral and economic calamity. It would reshape our society in ways that are hard to imagine. And Mike Johnson is the kind of guy who probably knows, but doesn't care. He might be a mumbly little nerd, but he's earned his spot on the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"All bets are off if they start snatching judges." Judges are being threatened, civic institutions are under assault, and authoritarian tactics are becoming normalized. The right's strategy is relentless: show up, take over, and silence dissent. Meanwhile, apathy and disengagement from the left have created a vacuum that fascists are more than willing to fill. Fighting back won't come from Washington—it starts with showing up at the most local levels and refusing to cede ground. The time is now, people. You are the heroes of this story...if you show up. Rick takes your questions on everything from Little Marco, the new Pope, the backslide of American Democracy, and the non-doctor, non-expert Trump wants for Surgeon General. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Normies—the wealthy, connected conservatives who always knew better—saw exactly what Trump was and supported him anyway. Obsessed with tax cuts and terrified of Kamala Harris, they cloaked their fears in talk of markets and freedom while enabling chaos, cruelty, and economic sabotage. Their silence wasn't ignorance—it was complicity. While Trump's base waved flags and spread conspiracies, the Normies offered respectability to a movement they knew was dangerous. Now, with recession looming, civil norms unraveling, and the moral cost mounting, the truth is unavoidable: they made this happen. They gambled with democracy to protect their comfort, and the bill is coming due. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes audience questions, and you sent some doozies. Rick answers questions about Elon, Hegseth, George Santos - MAGA's best and brightest. But you were also wondering if these tariffs might actually be working (spoiler: no), about the legality of arresting judges, where Rick might flee to in a pinch, and...well...how Rick's doing. This is a rebroadcast - keep sending in your questions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steven Miller is a well-known weirdo, anti-immigration ideologue, and is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous men to walk the Earth. For years, he's lurked in the shadows, hovering over Trump, stoking his worst impulses. But he's having a bit of a coming-out-party, as he's poised to become the National Security Advisor. He's in line for this position not because he's qualified, mind you - he's dramatically unqualified - but because of his preternatural, deep-seated feelings of hatred for non-white, non-male Americans. This 2nd term is already catastrophic. But Steven Miller will bring us into a darkness Americans aren't prepared for. Buckle up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pam Bondi fits a certain MAGA mold. She's blonde. She's attractive. She's blindly obedient to Trump. And she's, well, not smart. Instead of making her someone to disregard as just another make-up-slathered clown, it makes her one of the most dangerous figures on the Enemies List. This is a rebroadcast. Make sure to catch up on all the episodes you missed. The Enemies List isn't getting any shorter, folks... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes audience questions, and you sent some doozies. Rick answers questions about Elon, Hegseth, George Santos - MAGA's best and brightest. But you were also wondering if these tariffs might actually be working (spoiler: no), about the legality of arresting judges, where Rick might flee to in a pinch, and...well...how Rick's doing. You're the best audience in the business, and curious, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pete Hegseth went from being a tatted-up, Fox News weekend host with a frat-boy persona to being Secretary of Defense. It's going as well as any rational person might have expected. That is to say, according to insiders, reporting, and our own eyes and ears, it's a disaster. His time at the Pentagon has been marked by leaked classified information, paranoia-driven purges of senior staff, and an obsession with dismantling diversity programs, even if it means erasing sacred military history. Hegseth, who has a history of alleged abuse and heavy drinking, threatens to lead the greatest military the world has ever seen over a cliff. Even MAGA allies and Republican officials can see the edge quickly approaching and are now scrambling to distance themselves from the fallout. But here's the thing: Trump is stuck with him. Find out why in this episode of the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pam Bondi fits a certain MAGA mold. She's blonde. She's attractive. She's blindly obedient to Trump. And she's, well, not smart. Instead of making her someone to disregard as just another make-up-slathered clown, it makes her one of the most dangerous figures on the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't let them decouple Donald Trump from the economy we're about to have. In this episode, Rick goes back to #1 on the Enemies List: Donald Trump. He's giving you everything we need to defeat him...but it's up to us - and Democrats - to use it. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Instagram Facebook TikTok Sez Us BlueSky YouTube Xitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rick boards the F-bomb train to lead us into the unsettling world of Howard Lutnick, the billionaire CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and Donald Trump's Secretary of Commerce - and the most hated man on Wall Street (and that's a high bar). Lutnick's MAGA superpower is his willingness to destroy the global economy and ensure abject financial misery for most Americans in exchange for kudos from his favorite special guy. Kidding aside, there is almost no cleaner parallel to the fealty authoritarian regimes require than Howard Lutnick. The damage his loyalty-over-competence approach threatens the global order, American power, and our democratic institutions. That means it also threatens your job, your financial well-being, and the future security of your family. As Rick says, Lutnick is building a temple of stupid on top of a mountain of burning tires. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Instagram Facebook TikTok Sez Us BlueSky YouTube Xitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rick does something a little different - a solo deep dive into someone who is actively destroying American institutions and harming citizens. Today, he breaks down the dangerous conduct of Karoline Leavitt, a key figure in the Trump administration, exposing her deceitful actions and the toxic political culture she embodies. Rick draws parallels between Leavitt's behavior and the influence of figures like Roy Cohn on Donald Trump's political strategy. The episode emphasizes the importance of holding these bad actors accountable and stresses the need for a free and inquisitive press during these turbulent times. 00:00 Introduction and New Format Announcement 02:04 Highlighting the Enemies: Carolyn Levitt 03:41 The Influence of Roy Cohn and Roger Stone 05:53 Carolyn Levitt's Media Tactics 11:40 The Hypocrisy of the Trump Administration 14:10 Conclusion: Carolyn Levitt on the Enemies List Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For all of the head scratching by Trump supporters over his literal, real-life, actual love of tariffs, it's worth noting that for everyone who thought he'd never be crazy enough to go through with them, there were those who knew the whole time that this outcome was at best likely - and worst inevitable. One of those sounding the alarm was Rick Wilson. In this rebroadcast episode from the lead up to the election, Rick sat down with Edward Goldberg, an adjunct professor at NYU's Center for Global Affairs and expert on political economy and trade. Together, they predict the dangers of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs and the broader risks of economic isolationism - the risks we're now facing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Enemies List, Rick is joined by the head of the ACLU in DC, Monica Hopkins. In its 105-year history, the ACLU has never faced a president like Trump, and that's all the more reason to fight back. Rick and Monica discuss Trump's defiance of court orders, utter disrespect for the law, his desire to reshape DC in his own grotesque image, and the overall state-of-play of the rule of law in America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to win back voters in red districts and break through the noise? On today's episode Rick sits down with Congressman Ro Khanna to discuss his work engaging communities where Democrats have struggled, emphasizing the importance of showing up and fighting for working-class Americans. They also explore the rising influence of Bitcoin among young voters, the dangers of anti-tech sentiment, and how Democrats can rebuild trust with a clear, action-oriented plan. Timestamps: (00:01:25) Voters in Bakersfield (00:07:30) What do non-democrats want? (00:14:08) What are democratic voters looking for? (00:16:49) Where do democrats need to go on bitcoin? (00:24:21) Giving America a set of principles Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three top intelligence officials sat before Congress and lied through their teeth. In another classic Rick rant, our host unpacks a jaw-dropping hearing featuring Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, and John Ratcliffe, the classified Signal chat scandal, and the dangerous implications for U.S. national security. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to go from Googling “how to run for office” to becoming one of the most compelling voices in American politics? In this episode Rick speaks with Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow to discuss her new book Hate Won't Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You Found It. They dive into her unexpected path into politics, what drives her to fight back against extremism, and how everyday people can reclaim their power in a chaotic political landscape. Mallory also hints at a possible run for U.S. Senate and shares her thoughts on trade, tariffs, and the importance of staying engaged. Mallory's book, Hate Won't Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You Found It, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:48) Hate Won't Win (00:11:54) What should people do? (00:16:08) Michigan's response to the trade war Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick kicks off this episode with a blistering rant on Trump and his blatant, idiotic buffoonery. He couldn't wait so we put it at the top of the show. Then he speaks with authors Sarah Vowell and Casey Cep about their contributions to the new Michael Lewis anthology Who is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service. They discuss the often-overlooked dedication of public servants, from archivists preserving the nation's history to veterans ensuring the dignity of military burials. Through their compelling profiles, Vowell and Cep highlight the essential yet under appreciated roles these individuals play in upholding democracy. Who is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service, available now. Timestamps: (00:11:50) Who is Government? (00:14:57) The Sentinal (00:27:52) Keepers of the Tradition Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Politics is a battlefield, and right now, Democrats are struggling to break free from the traps set by Republicans. In this episode Rick Wilson sits with Democratic strategist Joel Payne to discuss the current political landscape and the challenges facing the Democratic Party. They break down the Republican Party's attempts to box Democrats in on spending bills, the broader cultural and messaging battles, and how Democrats can better connect with voters by focusing on real-world concerns rather than policy jargon. Payne offers insight on the evolving political spectrum, the need for Democrats to fight smarter, and how Trump's chaos-driven approach presents both challenges and opportunities. Timestamps: (00:01:36) Should they be helping Mike Johnson? (00:09:04) Speaking American (00:14:53) An agenda that doesn't rely on Trump (00:18:27) Susie Wiles and Elon Musk Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What really fueled Donald Trump's 2024 comeback? In this episode Rick sits with journalist and author Alex Isenstadt to discuss his new book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power. They dive into Trump's campaign strategy, his ability to harness cultural resentment, and the political maneuvers that secured his victory. From his outreach to young male voters through podcasts to the decisive role of figures like JD Vance and Elon Musk, Isenstadt provides an insider's perspective on how Trump reshaped his movement. They also explore the psychological impact of the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania and how it further galvanized his supporters. Alex's book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power, available here. Timestamps: (00:01:30) What people missed in the Trump Campaign (00:02:50) How Trump used the culture war (00:14:53) Revenge (00:24:13) Susie Wiles and Elon Musk Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The fight for civil rights wasn't just waged in the streets, it was built in classrooms led by unsung heroes. In this episode Rick speaks with author Elaine Weiss about her new book, Spell Freedom: The Underground Schools That Built the Civil Rights Movement. They discuss the little-known history of citizenship schools—grassroots educational programs in the 1950s and 60s that empowered Black Americans to pass literacy tests, register to vote, and fight systemic oppression. Weiss sheds light on the broader civil rights movement, the institutional barriers activists faced, and the enduring importance of civic education in today's political landscape. Elaine's book, Spell Freedom: The Underground Schools That Built the Civil Rights Movement, available now. Timestamps: (00:02:00) The history of the citizenship schools (00:07:32) The institutional opposition (00:16:15) The post war era ripple effect Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The balance of power in American democracy is being tested like never before. In this episode Rick is joined by legal expert and author Tristan Snell to discuss the latest legal battles surrounding Trump, the Supreme Court's role in shaping executive power, and the broader implications for American democracy. They break down key cases, including the limits of presidential immunity, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the growing constitutional crisis if Trump defies court rulings. Visit Tristan's Substack at tristansnell.com. Timestamps: (00:01:26) Watching the legal battles unfold (00:10:59) What happens when Trump denies a court order? (00:20:24) The protection of executive action Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America's political landscape is shifting in dangerous ways. On today's episode Rick is joined by journalist and author Garrett Graff to dissect the current crisis in U.S. democracy, where unchecked power, disruptive media narratives, and the staggering influence of figures like Elon Musk are redrawing the rules of governance. Graff introduces his incisive newsletter, Doomsday Scenario, which reimagines American news as if it were unfolding overseas—casting a stark light on the nation's mounting instability and the erosion of federal institutions. Subscribe to Garrett's newsletter at doomsdayscenario.co. Timestamps: (00:01:44) Doomsday Scenario (00:13:08) The machine moves with the president (00:22:53) Dismantling the federal government Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gen Z is at a political crossroads, and the battle for their votes is intensifying. In this episode Rick speaks with Gen Z political commentator Dash Dobrofsky to discuss the shifting political landscape among young voters. Dash shares his journey into political activism, the impact of social media on shaping narratives, and the growing influence of right-wing messaging on Gen Z—particularly young men. They dive into economic frustrations, media strategies, and the urgent need for Democrats to improve their branding and messaging. With insights on the future of digital political engagement and the 2028 election, this conversation sheds light on the evolving battle for young voters' attention and trust. Timestamps: (00:01:15) The Gen Z voice (00:04:39) How Gen Z is processing today's politics (00:11:39) Who can reach Gen Z? (00:22:06) The 2028 election Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have entered a whirlwind of chaos and controversy as the new order attempts to reshape the American political landscape. In this episode Rick sits with Andrew Egger, chief White House correspondent for The Bulwark, to dissect the early months of Trump's second first term in the White House. They explore how a disruptive, Doge-fueled approach is reshaping federal agencies, from hasty cuts in key national security institutions to internal power struggles, and debate the evolution of conservative politics. And of course, Rick adds to the Enemies List. Timestamps: (00:01:08) Covering the second Trump white house (00:05:52) What the public doesn't know about DOGE (00:16:29) Trumpism is not inevitable (00:23:01) Trump's fear mongering Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The chaos isn't slowing down, it's accelerating. In this episode Rick is joined by Will Saletan from The Bulwark to dissect the unfolding turmoil in D.C. and beyond. They discuss Elon Musk's growing influence, Trump's erratic decision-making, the GOP's shift toward isolationism, and the potential global and domestic fallout from these radical changes. From economic instability and foreign policy upheaval to the looming dangers of reckless governance, the two break down the woodchipper-like destruction of key institutions and its long-term consequences. Timestamps: (00:01:17) Where does the DOGE arc end? (00:07:13) Trump's attitude toward Europeans (00:14:00) MAGA and expanding the American empire (00:18:31) "Burn it all down, we'll figure it out later" Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is America's economic power a weapon, or a ticking time bomb? In this episode Rick is joined by Edward Fishman, author of Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare. They dive into the rise of economic warfare as the primary battleground for global powers, exploring how tariffs, sanctions, and export controls have reshaped international relations. Fishman discusses the risks of Trump's aggressive trade policies, the potential fallout of economic isolationism, and the unintended consequences of a fractured global economy. Edward's book, Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare, available for pre-order now. Timestamps: (00:01:43) Anticipating Harris or Trump (00:05:25) The first month of Trump (00:14:45) How will the rest of the world react to Trump? Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Democrats win back rural and working-class voters before it's too late? In this episode Rick Wilson sits down with Adam Frisch, former congressional candidate from Colorado, to discuss the state of the Democratic Party and its challenges in connecting with rural and working-class voters. Frisch shares insights from his campaign against Lauren Boebert, emphasizing the importance of dignity, economic messaging, and breaking through the Democratic Party's institutional mindset. He also critiques the party's communication strategies and highlights the need for candidate-led campaigns. Together, they explore the impact of Trump's policies, the role of soft power, and the looming economic consequences that could shift voter sentiment in the coming months. Timestamps: (00:01:26) How the democratic party is responding to Trump (00:14:02) Rural America and Trump (00:24:21) How to draw back the soft republicans Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

USAID being dismantled before our eyes is just the beginning. In this episode Rick is joined by Josh Rogin, Lead Global Security Analyst for Washington Post Intelligence, to discuss the shocking dismantlement of USAID by Elon Musk and Donald Trump. They explore the broader implications of this decision, including the erosion of America's global influence, the potential humanitarian crisis, and how adversaries like China and Russia stand to benefit. The conversation also delves into Trump's complicated relationship with Xi Jinping, the future of Taiwan, and the geopolitical risks of a second Trump presidency—particularly regarding Ukraine, where Vladimir Putin is poised to take advantage. Timestamps: (00:02:08) Filling the gap after USAID (00:10:29) Giving up Taiwan (00:19:32) If Trump tries to "buy" Gaza Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we tackle a new age of politics and propaganda as Rick is joined by philosopher and author Jason Stanley. The two discuss the manipulation of language, propaganda, and the rise of authoritarianism in modern politics. They examine how global far-right movements are using nationalism, immigration fears, and media control to consolidate power, drawing parallels to historical fascist strategies. The conversation delves into the role of education, corporate-state alliances, and the erosion of democratic norms, highlighting the dangerous shift toward kleptocratic authoritarianism. Stanley also discusses his latest book, Erasing History, and the ongoing battle for truth in an age of disinformation. Jason's book, Erasing History, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:40) The use and abuse of language (00:13:18) The new reality (00:17:07) Classic and diet authoritarianism Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the world on the brink of permanent instability? In this episode Rick Wilson sits down with renowned author and geopolitical analyst Robert D. Kaplan to discuss his latest book, Wasteland: A World in Permanent Crisis. Together, they explore the challenges of our increasingly interconnected and unstable world, from the decline of great powers and the erosion of democracy to the disruptive forces of AI and automation. Kaplan offers a sobering comparison to the Weimar Republic and stresses the urgent need to rediscover the principles of historic liberalism in the face of rising global disorder. Timestamps: (00:01:42) The current geopolitical order (00:06:48) The overt desire for chaos (00:11:55) The currency of freedom (00:15:25) Facing AI Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when traditional media faces off against a generation raised on TikTok and influencers? In this episode Rick chats with political scientist and journalist Jason Johnson for a discussion on the evolving landscape of media, politics, and culture. They explore how generational shifts and platforms like TikTok are reshaping news consumption, the deeper racial and gender dynamics fueling Trumpism, and the media's struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing audience. From the rollback of DEI policies to the future of journalism, this conversation dives into the critical challenges facing the press and its role in holding power accountable in the Trump era and beyond. Timestamps: (00:01:42) Our definitions of the press (00:11:39) The economic disconnect in media (00:26:28) The responsibility of the press Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens introduces the topic of today's episode, Trump's disastrous first week and the incoming deportation calamity likely to take place. The story that leads off Chapter 6 of Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal, Mass Deportation Disaster captures the struggles of 12-year-old Alvaro and his mother in a fictional detention center in West Texas. Alvaro expresses his hunger to his mother, who is too weak to properly care for herself. As they navigate the deteriorating conditions of the camp—overcrowded with diminishing food supplies, hostile guards, and a sense of fear from both authorities and fellow detainees—Alvaro reflects on lost friendships and longing for better times. His mother's health declines as she sacrifices for him, giving him her piece of bread despite needing it more herself. This highlights Alvaro's growing awareness of their desperate situation. He learns from a friend, Manuel, about possible escape routes and decides to plan his own escape to ensure both his and his mother's safety. In the second half of Chapter 6, in a parallel narrative, soldier Jake Caldwell describes the chaos of the detention center from his perspective. As he witnesses the overwhelming influx of women and children, he feels the systemic failures of the camp. The environment strips away humanity, leading children to escape in search of freedom. As both narratives unfold, Alvaro attempts to escape the camp, filled with hope for a future where he can see his mother smile again even as Jake grapples with the moral dilemmas of his role in the oppressive system. Their stories intertwine themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the harsh realities faced by both detainees and guards in the unjust conditions of the camp. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Mark Ruffalo and Andrea Guidry who read the chapters and others who contributed character voices.   Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump's Project 2025:Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens starts by detailing the potential horrors to come from Trump's cabinet. From Kash Patel, Pam Bondi and the rest, this is a group specifically designed to carry out the President's unchecked retribution against his political enemies. In Chapter 5, Part one, the fictional characters Congresswoman Louise Getty and Senator Wade Stiller, former rivals, meet at the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. They reflect on their pasts and express concern over a hostile political climate under Trump's second term, feeling fear and paranoia about being surveilled and targeted by the government. Their conversation reveals a sense of vulnerability as they confront the reality that many of their colleagues have abandoned principles out of fear. Louise recalls the intense political maneuvering and betrayals leading up to and following the January 6 insurrection. In Part Two, Woody Nuxhall, the newly appointed head of the Treason and Political Crime Section of the DOJ, oversees his zealous young team of prosecutors, eager to pursue investigations and vendettas against political enemies. The group discusses tactics to surveil and undermine former colleagues and opposition figures, planning a strategy fueled by partisan loyalty and vengeance, while embracing a radical transformation of the DOJ's role in politics. The narrative emphasizes the deeply entrenched fear and moral compromise within Washington's political landscape, contrasting the idealistic memories of past sacrifices with the present-day weaponization of governmental power. Overall, the story highlights the erosion of democratic norms, and the personal toll this environment takes on the individuals involved.  While these stories are fictional, they are based on Trump's own words and Project 2025. In fact, the New York Times, just last week reported just how Trump would use the Justice Department to go after his enemies. We'd like to thank the artists who contributed their time to make this episode: Richard Schiff and Morgan Fairchild read the chapters and others who contributed character voices. Sound Design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump's Project 2025:Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens kicks off the episode reminding us of the true danger of RFK Jr. and Trump's willingness to put the nation's health at risk with his confirmation. So what could happen if RFK is confirmed? Today's story helps illustrate that potential reality. This episode tells the fictional story of a middle school that opens its doors to unvaccinated students after a possible second -term President Trump eliminates Federal funding for schools with vaccine mandates. The story follows the school nurse, Stephanie Morris, as she navigates the influx of unvaccinated students and the resulting disease outbreaks that spread rapidly through the school and community. The narrative illustrates the real-world implications of the president's policy, with outbreaks of diseases like measles, whooping cough, and the flu causing hospitalizations and even deaths among vulnerable students and staff. The story highlights the challenges faced by the school nurse in trying to protect the health of all students, including her own daughter who has an autoimmune condition, without the backing of mandatory vaccination policies. Overall, the episode demonstrates how Donald Trump's promise to defund schools with vaccine mandates could have devastating consequences for children's health and safety. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. To start, special guest host Stuart Stevens weighs in on day one of the confirmation hearings and the abomination that is the slate of nominees Trump has put forward for some of the most important positions in the Executive Branch. In Chapter 3, the fact-based fictional story of Dr. Yvette Hardman and JJ Newsom depicts the dismantling of expertise and science-based decision making in the federal government under a possible second Trump administration guided by Project 2025. Dr. Hardman, an experienced infectious disease expert, is removed from her position at the CDC and replaced by JJ Newsom, an unqualified political loyalist with no relevant experience. This reflects Project 2025's plan to fill government positions with partisan appointees rather than nonpartisan experts. The new administration rejects science-based pandemic response recommendations from Dr. Hardman instead prioritizing political and economic considerations over public health. This aligns with Project 2025's directives to limit the CDC's ability to make public health recommendations. The story highlights the Trump administration's hostility towards science and the displacement of experienced civil servants, which Project 2025 seeks to accelerate through measures like the "Schedule F" executive order to reclassify and fire federal employees. Overall, the narrative illustrates how a second Trump term guided by Project 2025 would undermine the role of expertise and independent scientific advice in government, with potentially disastrous consequences for public health and safety. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd also like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: CCH Pounder, Richard Schiff and Jason Kravits who read the chapters and Omid Abtahi, Tom Nichols, Laurie Burke and Joanne Carducci who did the voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So you think you've heard it all about JFK? Think again. In this episode Rick is joined by bestselling author Brad Meltzer to discuss his new book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy and Why It Failed. Brad uncovers the little-known story of a 1960 assassination attempt on JFK's life by disgruntled postal worker Richard Pavlik and explores its historical implications. Together, Rick and Brad dive into the parallels between the political climate of the 1960s and today, JFK's transformation of American politics, and the pivotal role of Jackie Kennedy in shaping the Kennedy legacy. Timestamps: (00:01:29) The JFK Conspiracy (00:04:56) The recipe for authoritarianism Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Chapter Two of Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal depicts the personal story of Eve, a nurse struggling with infertility, whose treatment is threatened by the new president's executive order banning certain fertility treatments. The episode explores how the president's policies would impact everyday Americans, particularly women and families, by interfering with reproductive freedom and the right to self-determination. The author of the serialized novel “2025,” upon which this podcast series is based, David Pepper, highlights how the fictional story is directly based on the policies outlined in the Trump's Project 2025 and the president's own words, underscoring the very real and devastating consequences a second Trump term and the implementation of Project 2025 could have. You can read Chapter Two of David Pepper's “2025: A Novel” at davidpepper.substack.com/p/2025-a-novel-chapter-2 Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd also like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode. Heather Thomas, J. Smith Cameron, Omid Abtahi, Kirk Acevedo and Bayo Akinfemi. Audio finishing by Marilyn Ernst. This series is produced by David Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our first episode of 2025, Rick takes a hard look back at January 6th, 2021—a day he calls a stain on American democracy. He reflects on the failures of leadership, the lack of accountability, and the enduring dangers posed by Trump and his movement. With unflinching honesty, Rick explores the authoritarian vision of MAGA, the moral compromises of its enablers, and the need to remember and confront the truth of that infamous day. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are entering a new chapter where the children are taking the wheel. In this episode Rick speaks with journalist and author David Corn to discuss the chaotic implications of a Trump administration return, the rise of figures like Elon Musk and RFK Jr., and the dangerous erosion of government institutions. They dive into concerns about unqualified leadership, the dismantling of public health systems, and the weaponization of agencies like the FBI under Trump loyalists. Timestamps: (00:01:10) American Psychosis (00:08:13) How long can Trump and Elon Musk co-exist? (00:18:04) DOJ and Kash Patel Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump's Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Chapter One of Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal depicts how the lives of everyday Americans would be impacted by the policies outlined in Trumps's Project 2025 and the return of Donald Trump to power. The fictional story follows Ammon Maher, a college student and immigrant, as he is detained and deported without due process due to his involvement in past campus protests. This narrative directly reflects Trump's campaign promises to crack down on student protesters and his administration's policies that target undocumented immigrants, including so-called "dreamers." The author of the serialized “2025: A Novel” upon which this podcast series is based, David Pepper, highlights how these policies, if implemented, would violate civil liberties and human rights in an alarming and unjust manner. The podcast series aims to raise awareness of the very real dangers posed by Trump's extremist agenda and the disturbing implications of "Project 2025" for the American people. You can read  Chapter One of David Pepper's “2025: A Novel” at davidpepper.substack.com/p/2025-a-novel Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the post election dust begins to settle, we look to the future. On today's episode Rick is joined by political strategist and author David Pepper to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the post-Trump landscape. They delve into the importance of state-level elections, the lessons from past midterms, and the critical need for focused messaging to counteract chaos. David also introduces his compelling Project 2025 series, which uses storytelling to highlight the real-world impacts of Trump's proposed policies. Together, they explore how to prepare for the battles ahead and inspire proactive action to defend democracy. Timestamps: (00:01:39) The resistance to Trump (00:10:53) Winning state elections (00:15:13) The Wisconsin Supreme Court race (00:24:45) Project 2025 Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices