Podcast appearances and mentions of Charlie Sykes

In this important episode, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis break down the stunning Texas Senate special election upset: Democrat Taylor Rehmet flips a +17 Trump district by 14 points (31-point swing!) despite massive GOP spending and Trump intervention. Is this the start of a midterm wave driven by ICE overreach, Minneapolis protests/shootings, and cratering Hispanic support?We also discuss:— The heartbreaking-then-hopeful story of 5-year-old Liam Ramos released from ICE detention after a scathing judge's opinion— Fresh Epstein file dumps raising Russian ties and elite scandals— Why Trump's mass deportation chaos is backfiring and supercharging Democratic motivation— And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2026, BBL & BWL, LLC

Today on the Saturday show, Mike shares a conversation he had with Charlie Sykes, former host of The Bulwark and current host of the new podcast To the Contrary. They discuss how ordinary citizens with cell phones in Minneapolis became Donald Trump's kryptonite, exposing the chaos of his immigration enforcement strategy and forcing a rare retreat from the administration. Charlie and Mike break down why the "chaos as a ladder" theory backfired, why ICE's brutality is finally breaking through to the "normies," and whether Republicans in Congress will ever rediscover their spines and reclaim their Article I powers. Produced by Corey Wara Coordinated by Lya Yanne Video and Social Media by Geoff Craig Do you have questions or comments, or just want to say hello? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠thegist@mikepesca.com For full Pesca content and updates, check out our website at https://www.mikepesca.com/⁠ For ad-free content or to become a Pesca Plus subscriber, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ For Mike's daily takes on Substack, subscribe to The Gist List https://mikepesca.substack.com/ Follow us on Social Media:⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pescagist/ X https://x.com/pescami TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@pescagist To advertise on the show, contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠ad-sales@libsyn.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ or visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGist

Nicolle Wallace covers the surveillance technology ICE has access to due to its increased federal funding. This technology includes biometric trackers, facial recognition, and military drones, which are all used to track protestors and potential candidates for deportation.Later, Ben Terris and Charlie Sykes join Nicolle to discuss the mysterious bruising on Trump's hands as well as his tendency to doze off during his lengthy cabinet meetings.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this timely Substack LIVE discussion, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis break down the horrifying Minneapolis shootings by federal agents under the Trump administration. They discuss:-- The Trump administration's pattern of killing + immediate smears-- How video evidence destroys the ICE narrative, and the potential for mischief when no cameras are around-- Why this feels like a true breaking point for many Americans. -- Risks of escalation to Insurrection Act (Is this the tipping point against authoritarian tactics? Or will the chaos ladder continue?)-- Second Amendment hypocrisy, & the NRA's surprising response-- And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2026, BBL & BWL, LLC

To The Contrary’s Charlie Sykes examines how Donald Trump is bringing fear to America’s streets.Then Market Scoreboard Report’s Ron Insana details Trump’s erratic NATO negotiations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comCharlie is a journalist and podcaster. From 1993 to 2016, he hosted a conservative talk show on WTMJ in Milwaukee. He was also the editor of Right Wisconsin, the editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, and a commentator on MSNBC. He recently went fully independent with his own substack, “To the Contrary” — subscribe! The author of many books, the latest was 2017's How the Right Lost Its Mind.An auto-transcript is available above (just click “Transcript” while logged into Substack). For two clips of our convo — on the Trump admin's soulless response to the ICE killings, and if the GOP is starting to turn on Trump — head to our YouTube page.Other topics: growing up in a contrarian liberal home; his dad a journalist prof who ran Eugene McCarthy's 1968 campaign in Wisconsin; Charlie converting to Catholicism in college; TS Eliot's influence on his faith; writing his first book based on his dad's essay against academia; getting into talk radio in the early years; the Limbaugh effect; the MSM disdain over talk radio; my early campaign for marriage equality reaching Charlie's show; the lost culture of healthy debate; Gingrich's contempt for the opposition; Vince Foster; Bush discrediting conservatism; the demonization of Obama; the failure of GOP gatekeepers; both parties embracing mass migration; “The Flight 93 Election”; the groups controlling the Dems; Biden empowering Trump on immigration; the Fox News fallacy; the anti-Semite card with respect to Israel and the settlements; Gaza; the war in Ukraine; the ICE killing in Minneapolis; JD's soulless presser; the indecency of Matt Walsh and Megyn Kelly; the threats to Greenland; the persecution of Jerome Powell; civil war rhetoric; the Caribbean boats and Maduro's ouster; our Viking foreign policy; Cardinal Dolan embracing MAGA; Pope Leo replacing Dolan; tariffs as protection money; the abuse of the pardon; ICE recruitment ramping up; and how dogs are the best people.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy. Coming up: Kevin Williamson on the devolution of the GOP, Jeffery Toobin on the pardon power, Jason Willick on trade and conservatism, Vivek Ramaswamy on the right's future, and Michael Pollan on consciousness. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

This week, protests continued against the Iranian government with the death count rising to more than 3,000, according to Iranian health officials. Jonathan Schanzer joins Mike, Russell, and Clarissa to discuss why this is such an important moment for the Iranian people and for peace in the Middle East. On Sunday, the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell released a video responding to grand jury subpoenas regarding renovation costs for federal buildings. Charlie Sykes explains the backdrop of the DOJ's investigation and what this could mean for the economy. Then, Christine Emba stops by for a discussion about Grok, Elon Musk's AI chatbot, which has begun granting a large number of user requests to undress images posted by other people.  REFERENCED IN THE EPISODE: -Updates on X's policies regarding Grok's image generation. ABOUT THE GUESTS:  Jonathan Schanzer is senior vice president for research at Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), and he is also on the leadership team of FDD's Center on Economic and Financial Power. He previously worked as a terrorism finance analyst at the US Department of the Treasury. Schanzer has appeared on CNN, Fox News, Al-Arabiya, and Al-Jazeera. Charles J. Sykes is a political commentator who hosted a conservative talk show in Wisconsin for 23 years. He was the former editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, and is currently an MSNBC contributor. Sykes has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Politico, Salon, USA Today, National Review, The Weekly Standard, and has appeared on the Today Show, ABC, NBC, Fox News, CNN, PBS, and the BBC. Christine Emba is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where her work focuses on gender and sexuality, feminism, masculinity, youth culture, and social norms. She is concurrently a contributing writer at The New York Times, and previously was a staff writer at The Atlantic, a columnist and editor at The Washington Post. She is the author of Rethinking Sex: A Provocation.  GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  -Join the conversation at our Substack.  -Find us on YouTube.  -Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.  ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor-at-large and columnist) and Mike Cosper (senior contributor). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today  Producer: Clarissa Moll  Associate Producer: Alexa Burke  Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps  Executive Producer: Erik Petrik  Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this explosive Substack LIVE discussion, Charlie Sykes and I dive deep into the chilling events of early 2026 under Trump's second term. We cover:— A weaponized DOJ, mass deportations turning violent, and warnings that the “resistance libs were right.”— Trump's aggressive threats to seize Greenland, a move that would effectively end NATO.— FBI raiding a Washington Post journalist's home in a classified leaks probe.— Disturbing DHS/DOL slogans echoing Nazi propaganda (“One Homeland, One People, One Heritage”).— The fatal ICE shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old American mom and poet in Minneapolis — called “domestic terrorism” by the Trump administration despite video evidence.— And much, MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2026, BBL & BWL, LLC

Nick Cohen talks to influential leading US commentator Charlie Sykes who has a grim warning for the West about Trump and the far-right revolutionaries now in charge of the White HouseAmerica's dark revolution threatens the world"We're not dealing with something that's going to be fixed by a midterm election. We are dealing with a fundamentally revolutionary time - a revolutionary age in which America has gone from being a reliable ally and a role model to being a genuine threat to being a genuine threat to western values, to western democracy and frankly to the western economies as well."Trump's ICE - the real and current threat faced by all AmericansCharlie talks to Nick about the recent fatal shooting by an ICE agent in cold blood of mother of three Renee Good this week. Trump has awarded ICE a huge $170 billion budget - far beyond what most of the world's militaries could hope to expect. Charlie says, "This was police murder in the same city in which George Floyd was murdered by police, and, and I don't think that this is going to go away anytime soon ...Is this going to be the pivot point? Is this going to be a turning point? And it often turns out not to be, but in this particular case, this was not just a one off. This is the inevitable result of this deliberate policy of fear."Trump intends to demoralise his political enemiesCharlie believes Trump and his acolytes are determined on permeating a feeling of hopelessness in their political opponents, adding, "It is painful and a lot of Americans are really struggling with that right now. And of course, that's what authoritarians want. They want people to be completely demoralised, to be completely depressed. You know, pessimism is a great weapon. But I'll be honest with you, we struggle with that every single day and this week feels."Read all about it!Charlie Sykes @SykesCharlie is a leading highly respected United States conservative political commentator who was formerly editor-in-chief and founder of the highly influential website The Bulwark. Charlie has been a leading Never Trump Conservative since Trump stood for the presidency in 2015. Charlie's Substack - To the contrary is a must read, and his regular podcast - also called To the contrary - a must listen. He has also been a columnist and author for the progressive channel MSNBC.Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comClaire is an American novelist, essayist, and journalist living in Paris. She's the editor-in-chief of The Cosmopolitan Globalist — subscribe! — and the author of many books, including There Is No Alternative: Why Margaret Thatcher Matters, and the novel Loose Lips.An auto-transcript is available above (just click “Transcript” while logged into Substack). For two clips of our convo — on the US returning to the Monroe Doctrine via Venezuela, and if Rubio is gunning for Cuba next — head to our YouTube page.Other topics: Claire's grandpa fleeing Nazi Germany and joining the French Foreign Legion; the new movie Nuremberg; her mom a world-class cellist; Claire raised in California; seeing me debate at Oxford; my 1988 hatchet job on Ben Sherwood; our mutual love of Thatcher and how she wielded femininity; getting the Iraq War wrong; Trump increasingly looking senile; Stephen Miller's fascism; Michael Anton and the new National Security Strategy; debating the war in Ukraine; Russia's threats to Europe; NATO and defense spending; the growing isolationism of Americans; conspiracy theories; AI slop; Trump's threats over Greenland; resource extraction; the Taiwan question; nuclear proliferation and A House of Dynamite; the irrelevant Congress; the poison of the identitarian left; Tom Holland's Dominion; Keir Starmer less popular than Prince Andrew; migrants in France; the last gasps of Macron; AfD and Reform; the tariff war; and the new McCarthyism.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy. Coming up: Charlie Sykes on the GOP ditching conservatism, Jason Willick on trade, Vivek Ramaswamy on the right's future, and Michael Pollan on consciousness. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

On this week's Substack LIVE conversation, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis discuss: - January 6th anniversary - Venezuela operation & Trump's ambitions - Stephen Miller's CNN comments: Imperialism & power- Greenland threats & historical parallels- The broader implications for U.S. identity and the loss of moral authority- The Minnesota corruption scandal, and Gov. Tim Walz's decision not to seek re-election- Whether JD Vance is the inevitable GOP nominee in 2028- And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2026, BBL & BWL, LLC

While Saving Elephants defends the classical conservative position, the loudest voices on the Right today coalesce around different policies, priorities, and goals.  Those that form the dissident Right are comprised of multiple sub-groups with overlapping and, at times, incompatible views.  So who is this disparate group of dissidents?  What holds them together, and how do they differ from conservatives?  Joining Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis is Stephanie Slade to explore the contours of the dissident Right.   About Stephanie Slade From reason.com Stephanie Slade is a senior editor at Reason, the magazine of "free minds and free markets," and a fellow in liberal studies at the Acton Institute. Her writing has appeared in America magazine, The New York Times, U.S. News and World Report, the Online Library of Liberty, and elsewhere. She covers the intersection of religion and politics.   Slade is best known for her piece "Why I Am a Pro-Life Libertarian," her magazine feature on booze-producing monks, and her defenses of "fusionism" (which probably isn't what you think!). Don't miss her discussing the differences between comprehensive and political libertarianism on The Reason Interview With Nick Gillespie.   In 2013, Slade was named a finalist for the Bastiat Prize for Journalism. In 2016, she was selected as a Robert Novak Journalism Fellow. She serves as a member of the board of advisors for Young Voices and has been a guest on a variety of podcasts, including Jonah Goldberg's The Remnant, Charlie Sykes' The Bulwark Podcast, and The New York Times' Ezra Klein Show.   Prior to joining Reason, Slade worked as a speechwriter and pollster. She's a proud graduate of the University of Florida, where she studied economics and political science. Follow her on X: @sladesr.  

On this week's Substack LIVE, Charlie Sykes and Matt discuss:— Elise Stefanik Schadenfreude: The latest example of someone who fully embraced MAGA only to be discarded.— Turning Point USA (TPUSA) AmericaFest drama: Explosive infighting, including Ben Shapiro attacking Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Megyn Kelly, and others over antisemitism and conspiracy theories.— Bari Weiss and 60 Minutes controversy: Accusations that Weiss spiked a major story on abuses in El Salvador's CECOT prison related to Trump deportations, seen as political censorship.— Potential 2028 contenders: Speculation on Ted Cruz considering a run (dismissed), JD Vance's challenges, and the unlikelihood of a smooth succession.— All the Epstein files redactions— The Trump-Kennedy Center — and the desecration of institutions— And much MUCH moreSubscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

Tonight on The Last Word: New polls paint a bleak picture for the Trump economy. Plus, the weekly jobless claims hit their highest level in over four years. Also, Trump's redistricting push fails in Indiana. Rep. Brendan Boyle, Jared Bernstein, Charlie Sykes, Tom Nichols, State Sen. Shelli Yoder, and Rep. Maxwell Frost join Ali Velshi. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this week's livestream, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis discuss:-- The heartbreaking loss of Hollywood legend Rob Reiner (director of The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Stand By Me) and his wife in an apparent homicide-- The antisemitic terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach, killing at least 15 Jewish Australians-- Rising antisemitism on both the left and right, including warnings about “globalize the intifada” rhetoric turning violent-- Political violence in America: Remembering the assassinations of Charlie Kirk and Minnesota's Melissa Hortman, and selective media coverage-- Indiana GOP defying Trump by rejecting his aggressive redistricting plan despite intense pressure-- Trump's potential move to reschedule marijuana and debates on legalization vs. commercialization-- The need for moral courage, rejecting extremes, and preserving liberal democracy amid gerrymandering concerns-- And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

Trump and MAGA see European values and societies as the real enemiesNick Cohen talks to the leading US commentator Charlie Sykes about the impact of the highly controversial US National Security Strategy 2025 which has overturned 80 years of post-war security strategy and threatens the very social and political fabric of Europe, as well as its security.Incredibly, in this document, the US says it will support nationalist far right parties in overturning European governments and says it will do all it can to destroy the European Union. The document - described as "obscene" by one former US ambassador to the EU - also strikes a dagger to the heart of NATO, clearly marking out its former security partners in the Alliance as the real enemies while failing to criticise the brazen illegality and aggression of Putin's Russia.The US has "switched sides" to stand shoulder to shoulder with our enemiesCharlie's stark conclusion: "This is what they're saying to the entire world. And again, the loathing for the democracies of Western Europe, the loathing for the allies who have been with us since World War II really can't be overstated. It is deep and, quite frankly, there has to come a moment when I think the rest of the world has to say that the United States has switched sides."Discussion summaryCharlie and Nick discuss the implications of the new strategy for American foreign policy, particularly regarding relations with Russia and Europe. The discussion explores how the strategy aligns with Moscow's vision and promotes radical right-wing parties, while contrasting conservative reactions between the US and UK. The conversation concluded with an examination of Trump's presidency and its potential dangers, including immigration policies, weaponisation of justice departments, and the broader implications for American democracy and political norms.Read all about it!Charlie Sykes @SykesCharlie is a leading highly respected United States conservative political commentator who was formerly editor-in-chief and founder of the highly influential website The Bulwark. Charlie has been a leading Never Trump Conservative since Trump stood for the presidency in 2015. Charlie's Substack - To the contrary is a must read, and his regular podcast - also called To the contrary - a must listen. He has also been a columnist and author for the progressive channel MSNBC.Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To The Contrary’s Charlie Sykes examines Donald Trump’s unpopular reign over America.Then Jacob Silverman details his new book Gilded Rage and the latest in crypto grifts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, officials examine Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's role in recent drug boat strikes. Charlie Sykes joins Mike and Clarissa to explain the legalities of the recent military action. Then, President Trump's tariffs are beginning to affect US farmers. Gretchen Ronnevik shares perspectives from America's heartland. Finally, a new Pew report says religiosity in America isn't diminishing quite as quickly as in previous years. We ask veteran journalist Bob Smietana to help us interpret the new data. REFERENCED IN THE SHOW:  -⁠Hamas Crackdown, Rural Hospitals, and Why Brides Wear White⁠ - The Bulletin GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  -Join the conversation at our Substack.  -Find us on YouTube.  -Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.  ABOUT THE GUESTS: Charles J. Sykes is a political commentator who hosted a conservative talk show in Wisconsin for 23 years. He was the former editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, and is currently an MSNBC contributor. Sykes has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Politico, Salon, USA Today, National Review, The Weekly Standard, and has appeared on the Today Show, ABC, NBC, Fox News, CNN, PBS, and the BBC.  Gretchen Ronnevik is the author of Ragged: Spiritual Disciplines for the Spiritually Exhausted and the co-host of the weekly podcast Freely Given. She and her family live in Minnesota on the family farm. Bob Smietana is a national reporter for Religion News Service based near Chicago, covering evangelicals, weird religion, and the changing religious landscape. ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor-at-large and columnist) and Mike Cosper (senior contributor). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today  Producer: Clarissa Moll  Associate Producer: Alexa Burke  Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps  Executive Producer: Erik Petrik  Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Democrats are self-sabotaging the ONE state that could flip the Senate in 2026. On this week's Substack LIVE, Matt Lewis and Charlie Sykes break down why Rep. Jasmine Crockett pushing Colin Allred out of the Texas Senate race could hand the seat (and the Senate) to MAGA on a silver platter.We also discuss:-- The chilling “Ho Ho Ho You're Going Home” ICE Christmas deportation campaign-- Trump pardons Democrat Henry Cuellar… Then Goes Full Mob Boss-- Why young voters are finally waking up to Trump's grift and cruelty-- Tump's mafia-style pardons, farmer bailouts, and the total collapse of shame-- The Economy Is Rigged – And Trump Just Proved It-- Why Are We Bailing Out Farmers Again?-- Trump Falling Asleep in Cabinet Meetings – What Is Going On?-- Even AI George Washington Thinks America Has Lost Its Moral Compass-- Karoline Leavitt's Family Member Detained by ICE – The Cruelty Is the Point-- And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

On a special MONDAY Substack LIVE conversation, Charlie and Matt discuss:-- Is Pete Hegseth finished? A shocking Washington Post report alleges he ordered a missile strike that intentionally killed unarmed survivors clinging to wreckage — a potential war crime.-- Trump's decades-long obsession with extrajudicial killings and why this is “Trumpism in full”-- The staggering hypocrisy: Trump pardons Honduran ex-president Juan Orlando Hernández — a convicted cocaine kingpin who took $1M from El Chapo — while threatening war on “narco-terrorists”-- Trump's approval plunges to 36–38% — the historic free-fall even on his strongest issues: Why second terms collapse & Trump's hubris looks identical to late-stage authoritarian overreach-- Jamie Dimon and corporate America begin quietly hedging against future Democratic DOJ accountability-- Ukraine sellout: Jared Kushner & Steve Witkoff caught carving up Ukrainian assets with Russian sovereign-wealth fund-- The tragic D.C. shooting of two National Guardsmen by an Afghan national — and Trump's immediate leap to collective guilt & racism-- And MUCH more!Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

Trump's revenge tour is imploding. In this explosive Bulwark podcast breakdown, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis reveal:• Why the Pentagon is now investigating Senator Mark Kelly (and why it's blowing up in Trump's face)• Marjorie Taylor Greene suddenly quits Congress and torches the White House• GOP lawmakers openly plotting mass resignations over Trump's “arrogance”• Kash Patel's SWAT-team girlfriend scandal, RFK Jr.'s leaked sex poems, and the Epstein files humiliation• Trump's poll numbers collapsing and the MAGA honeymoon officially over Subscribe to Matt Lewis on Substack: https://mattklewis.substack.com/Support Matt Lewis at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's books: FILTHY RICH POLITICIANS: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416TOO DUMB TO FAIL: https://www.amazon.com/Too-Dumb-Fail-Revolution-Conservative/dp/0316383937Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

I tre delar undersöker podden hur Trump kom att dominera amerikansk politik i ett decennium och vad som väntar den dag han inte längre gör det. I första delen beger vi oss till USA för att förstå hur en person utan politisk erfarenhet kunde bli landets starkaste politiska kraft, trots att många betraktade honom som ett skämt. Gäster: Charlie Sykes, grundare av Bulwark och konservativ talk show-värd Katty Kay, USA-korrespondent för BBC Karin Henriksson, journalist baserad i Washington Raynard Jackson, republikansk politisk konsult Henry Olsen, senior fellow på the Ethics and Public Policy Center

In case you missed this morning's LIVE conversation, Charlie Sykes and I overcame internet obstacles and outages to bring you another terrific conversation. Today's chat included the following topics:— Trump's cave on the Epstein files: The House votes today, but there's zero trust Trump's DoJ won't redact everything incriminating to him.— Marjorie Taylor Greene's surprise face-turn: from MAGA firebrand to the one Republican actually forcing Trump to back down on Epstein — is it wrong for Matt to be cheering for MTG?— The coming MAGA civil war: post-Trump-era succession fights are already exploding — the Groyper wing vs. old-school populists, Heritage Foundation meltdown, Tucker vs. Cruz/Shapiro, and everyone jockeying for 2028.— Trump 2.0's loyalty-over-competence disaster: surrounding himself with sycophants and ideologues (Stephen Miller, Russ Vought, stunningly incompetent appointees) guarantees policy train wrecks — and no one to tell the emperor he has no clothes.— “Bad optics” and the Mar-a-Lago bubble: from gaudy White House ballroom renovations to tone-deaf tariff flip-flops and 50-year mortgages — Trump's inner circle is completely detached from normal voters.— Foreign policy amorality on steroids: red-carpet treatment for MBS the “bone-saw murderer,” praise for Putin, and reckless Venezuela/Cuba adventurism that looks more like Marco Rubio's neocon wish list than “America First.”— D.C. gossip interlude: What everyone in Washington is actually whispering about this week (plus the lingering “Who is Bubba?” Epstein mystery).— And MUCH more!Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

During Tuesday's Substack LIVE, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis discussed the Democrats' epic cave-in, including:-- How Dems snatched defeat from victory by folding on the government shutdown after just five days of momentum.-- Shutdown Leverage Squandered: Why bailing out Trump when polls blamed Republicans was a strategic disaster—handing him a win on hostage-taking tactics.-- Authoritarian Context Ignored: From troops in streets to DOJ weaponization, this isn't “normal politics”—treating it as such is malpractice in abnormal times.-- Morale-Killing Surrender: The cave crushed Democratic excitement post-election wins, destroying the fragile coalition built in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York.-- Chuck Schumer's Leadership Crisis: Out of touch with the moment—time for generational change; he's playing “before times” rules in a Thunderdome era.-- Trump's Madman Theory Works: By scaring moderates like Angus King and Jeanne Shaheen, he proves craziness pays—Dems must stop pre-surrendering.-- Gavin Newsom emerges as the fighter trolling Trump with memes, blocking gerrymandering, and rallying in Texas — moxie in a party of squishes.-- Marie Antoinette Optics: Lavish Mar-a-Lago parties amid SNAP cuts and premium spikes—Trump's out-of-touch hubris is gift-wrapped ammunition.-- And MUCH more!Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewisreels/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

On the latest Substack LIVE with Charlie Sykes, we discussed:— Today's elections in New York City, New Jersey, and Virginia— The Tucker Carlson/Nick Fuentes/Heritage Foundation blowup, and why everyone seems so shocked SHOCKED! that there is gambling in Casablanca.— The wild optics of Donald Trump's ballroom construction and “Great Gatsby” party taking place during a government shutdown. — Donald Trump's plummeting approval ratings, and why the economy is likely to get worse. Trump says he has ‘no idea who' Binance's CZ is after pardoning him— Dick Cheney's legacy — And MUCH more!Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

President Trump has been dropping hints that he will run for a third presidential term. Charlie Sykes joins Russell, Mike, and Clarissa to discuss if there's any merit to these claims. Elizabeth Neumann stops by to talk about the US's continued strikes on boats off the coast of South America. And, ChatGPT announces it will offer erotica content to adult users. Brandon Rickabaugh discusses spiritual formation for an AI world. REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: -The Bulletin's AI Miniseries. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  -Join the conversation at our Substack.  -Find us on YouTube.  -Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.    ABOUT THE GUESTS:   Charles J. Sykes is a political commentator who hosted a conservative talk show in Wisconsin for 23 years. He was the former editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, and is currently an MSNBC contributor. Sykes has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Politico, Salon, USA Today, National Review, The Weekly Standard, and other national publications. He has appeared on the Today Show, ABC, NBC, Fox News, CNN, PBS, and the BBC and has been profiled on NPR.  Elizabeth Neumann is a national security expert who has served across three presidential administrations: on the inaugural staff of the White House Homeland Security Council under President George W. Bush, as an advisor to the office of the director of national intelligence during the Obama Administration, and as the Department of Homeland Security's deputy chief of staff and assistant secretary for counterterrorism and threat prevention in the Trump administration. Neumann is also a national security contributor for ABC News. Brandon Rickabaugh is the founder and director of NOVUS, a center dedicated to applying Christian wisdom for the renewal of public life and academia. He is the co-author of The Substance of Consciousness and the author of two forthcoming books: What is Consciousness? and The Unity of Consciousness and Self. ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor-at-large and columnist) and Mike Cosper (senior contributor). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today  Producer: Clarissa Moll  Associate Producer: Alexa Burke  Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps  Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper   Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's Substack LIVE discussion, Charlie Sykes and I dive into the latest political headlines shaking up the U.S. and beyond.We discuss:-- Trump's Third Term Tease? Steve Bannon dropped a bombshell in an Economist interview, claiming Trump “is going to get a third term” and hinting at a secret plan.-- Tariff Tit-for-Tat with Canada: Trump announced a 10% hike on U.S. imports from Canada, firing back at Ontario's anti-tariff ad featuring Ronald Reagan's voice and words.-- Key Elections Ahead: Spotlight on upcoming races in NY, NJ, and VA — how can Democrats thread the needle between rallying extremists and appealing to steady centrists?-- Trump's Health Update: The president revealed he had an MRI earlier this month, calling results “perfect” but dodging details on why docs ordered it.-- Obama's Pelosi Frustration: In his new book “Retribution,” ABC's Jonathan Karl reveals Obama was furious over Nancy Pelosi's swift endorsement of Kamala Harris, reportedly blasting her with, “What the f–k did you just do?”-- Venezuela's CIA Conspiracy Claim: Officials say they nabbed a “mercenary group” tied to the CIA, plotting a false-flag attack. Could this war escalate?-- Biden Doc Under Fire: President Biden's physician, Kevin O'Connor, faces referral to the DC Board of Medicine for potential license revocation or sanctions.-- And MUCH more!What do you think — wild times or business as usual? Drop your takes in the comments. Don't forget to tell a friend, like, and subscribe for more daily political breakdowns.Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

To The Contrary’s Charlie Sykes examines Trump’s destruction of the White House—both literal and metaphorical. Then Lawfare’s Anna Bower details her wild text exchanges with prosecutor Lindsay Halligan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's Substack LIVE episode of "Sykes & Lewis," Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis discuss:-- Trump is taking a wrecking ball to the East Wing of the White House.-- Charlie and Matt talk about their experiences attending ‘No Kings' rallies in Wisconsin and West Virginia. -- George Santos gets pardoned — and TMZ reports that Trump is considering commuting Diddy's sentence. Could Derek Chauvin be next?-- Following last week's Young Republicans chat scandal, Trump's nominee to lead the Office of Special Counsel once attacked the MLK holiday and claimed he has a “Nazi streak.”-- Democrats' hopes of retaking the House in the 2026 midterms are starting to look dicey.-- Marco Rubio reportedly betrayed U.S. informants to secure Trump's El Salvador prison deal. Why should anyone ever trust us again?-- And much more!Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

Harry talks with a great set of Talking Feds stalwarts—Charlie Sykes, Ali Vitali, and Jacob Weisberg—to get a handle on the fast-changing politics of the shutdown, the worthiness of the case against John Bolton, and the new group chat scandal roiling the GOP. Why is Vice President J.D. Vance calling criticism of leaked racist messages by rising Republicans "pearl-clutching"? Is the indictment against John Bolton just another political prosecution? And are top Republicans gearing up to give into Democrats on healthcare to get the government reopened? Mentioned in this episode: Charlie's Substack: https://charliesykes.substack.com/ Ali's interview with Senate Leader John Thune: https://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/news/thune-msnbc-offered-democrats-vote-obamacare-subsidies-rcna237914 Politico's story revealing a Young Republicans groupchat: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/14/private-chat-among-young-gop-club-members-00592146 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As is our custom, Charlie Sykes and I co-hosted another Substack LIVE today.In case you missed it, we covered a TON of topics, including …— Donald Trump's victory lap in Israel— Saturday's ‘No Kings' Rally: What to bring, and how to act— Pope Leo and the value of moral authority vs. MAGA— Knives are out for Katie Porter— MTG tears into “weak” GOP men— JD Vance: Talented liar?— Multiple airports refuse to play Kristi Noem's video blaming Dems for shutdown— Some Texas National Guard troops are too fatSupport "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

With Trump already deploying troops to major American cities, it's concerning to think about what the MAGA regime will do next. Steve Schmidt sits down with Charlie Sykes to discuss the situation in cities like Portland and the need to form a resistance. Subscribe for more and follow me here:Substack: https://steveschmidt.substack.com/subscribeStore: https://thewarningwithsteveschmidt.com/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thewarningses.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteveSchmidtSES/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewarningsesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewarningses/X: https://x.com/SteveSchmidtSESSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During this action-packed Substack LIVE conversation, Charlie Sykes and Matt Lewis discuss:— The October 7 attack on Israel (and where we are today)— Why Charlie thinks Trump WILL invoke the Insurrection Act (and what that means)— MTG breaks with Republicans and says she's “disgusted” that health insurance premiums are going to double this year— Kristi Noem's ridiculous comments about Bad Bunny— Bari Weiss is Taking Over CBSSupport "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

This week Murphy and Heilemann were joined by the sharp-witted Charlie Sykes — author of How the Right Lost Its Mind and host of the Substack newsletter and podcast To the Contrary. The Hacks dive into an exhaustingly eventful week: Hegseth's body-shaming of our troops, Trump declaring a war from within, the chaotic deployment of ICE and the military to U.S. cities, the looming shutdown, Comey's indictment, and the first crack in Trump's armor. And so much more! Photo by Alex Wong via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charlie Sykes, author of the "To The Contrary" substack newsletter joins Matt for a Substack LIVE conversation about the government shutdown, Pete Hegseth's "woke" military speech, and why Jimmy Kimmel's survival is a lesson for everyone that standing up to bullies can pay off.Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

I've got a special bonus episode for you today. In August, I attended the second annual Liberalism for the 21st Century conference in DC, organized by the Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism. That's the group that runs The UnPopulist, a publication I occasionally guest host for on their Zooming In podcast. I led a special live recording of that show at the conference, a conversation with journalist (and ReImagining Liberty guest) Radley Balko and commentator Charlie Sykes. I framed the conversation around the second Trump administration as vigorous effort to roll back the Civil Rights Movement, legally, institutionally, and culturally. This led to a deep and spirited discussion. I hope you enjoy this very ReImagining Liberty adjacent discussion.

To The Contrary’s Charlie Sykes examines Trump’s fast-paced authoritarianism. The New York Times’ Jonathan Mahler details his powerful story on the Trump administration cutting cancer research funding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on Mea Culpa, I'm joined by Charlie Sykes, political commentator, author of “How the Right Lost Its Mind,” writer of the Substack newsletter “To the Contrary,” and MSNBC contributor, for a hard-hitting conversation on Trump's unraveling of American leadership at home and abroad. Once at the center of the conservative movement, Sykes brings invaluable insight into Trump's grip on the GOP. We break down Trump's UN General Assembly speech, his pivot to isolationism, and how his rhetoric is reshaping the GOP into an authoritarian, nationalist movement. We also dig into Trump's attacks on the press, the fight over Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, and what escalating political violence means for America's future. Thanks to our sponsors: Hims: Start your free online visit today at https://Hims.com/COHEN Superpower: Go to https://superpower.com and use code COHEN to get $50 Off your annual Superpower subscription. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpod Subscribe to Michael's Substack: https://therealmichaelcohen.substack.com/ Subscribe to Michael's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMichaelCohenShow Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PoliticalBeatdown Add the Mea Culpa podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen Add the Political Beatdown podcast feed: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Kimmel's show returns to ABC's air after a brief suspension over his comments about Charlie Kirk's murder — what he had to say. Then, Donald Trump talks poll numbers and border security as he brings a campaign-style speech to the U.N. Plus, what business leaders are really thinking about the state of Trump's economy. Luke Broadwater, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Gillian Tett, Carlos Curbelo, Oliver Darcy, Angelo Carusone, and Charlie Sykes join The 11th Hour this Tuesday night. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On today's episode, Charlie Sykes joins Matt Lewis to break down the latest in politics and culture:— Jimmy Kimmel's return to late-night TV— Kamala Harris' new book tour— The contrast between Trump's “I hate my opponent” rhetoric and the Christian message from Charlie Kirk's wife— Trump's controversial claim that “taking Tylenol is not good” during pregnancy— Border czar Tom Homan reportedly caught on tape taking $50kTune in for smart, lively analysis you won't hear anywhere else!Support "Matt Lewis & The News" at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattlewisFollow Matt Lewis & Cut Through the Noise:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MattLewisDCTwitter: https://twitter.com/mattklewisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattklewis/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVhSMpjOzydlnxm5TDcYn0A– Who is Matt Lewis? –Matt K. Lewis is a political commentator and the author of Filthy Rich Politicians.Buy Matt's book: https://www.amazon.com/Filthy-Rich-Politicians-Creatures-Ruling-Class/dp/1546004416Copyright © 2025, BBL & BWL, LLC

Guest host Jonathan Alter convenes Peter Baker, Molly Jong-Fast, and Charlie Sykes to talk through Trump's latest lunge for unchecked power. The quartet dig into the week's flurry of controversial firings and the prospects for a long-promised, now long-overdue peace deal in Ukraine. They then put Trump's mafioso tactics under a microscope, investigating why they've worked so well, and what everyone can do to resist them.Mentioned in this episode:Jonathan's Substack: https://oldgoats.substack.com/Peter's reporting: https://www.nytimes.com/by/peter-baker#latestMolly's podcast: https://fastpoliticspod.com/Charlie's Substack: https://charliesykes.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook vows that she won't go down without a fight against Trump, saying she will "see him in court". Then, Trump weaponizes allegations of mortgage fraud to silence his political opponents. Plus, with Democratic governors taking a stand against Trump, how his attacks are actually helping them. Jeff Mason, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Adam Wren, Dan Nathan, Gillian Tett, Charlie Sykes, and Matt Bennett join The 11th Hour this Tuesday night.

National guard troops and federal agents arrive in Washington D.C. as part of President Trump's anti-crime push – Attorney General Pam Bondi met with the D.C. mayor Muriel Bowser to lay out Trump's plan. The White House scrambles to make arrangements for Trump and Putin's Alaska summit set to occur this Friday. A new inflation report today has investors celebrating July's better-than-expected numbers, as inflation held steady and grocery and gasoline prices declined. Natasha Korecki, Charlie Sykes, Jeff Mason, David Gura, Ron Insana, Michael McFaul, and Jessica Knurick join The 11th Hour this Tuesday night.

To The Contrary newsletter author Charlie Sykes examines how Democrats are dropping the ball in opposing Trump. Party Chair of the Texas Democratic Party Kendall Scudder details how they’re fighting back against Greg Abbott’s gerrymander. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicolle Wallace is joined by Sam Stein, Vaughn Hillyard, Charlie Sykes, Steve Liesman, Ben Rhodes, Eddie Glaude, State Rep. John Bucy, Lisa Rubin, and Jacob Soboroff.

Nicolle Wallace discusses Trump's strange comments about one of Jeffrey Epstein's most prominent victims, late night comedy's refusal to backdown on Trump's Epstein connection, new reporting from inside New York City's immigration court, Emil Bove's nomination hurdling towards confirmation despite more whistleblowers, and more.Joined by: Sen. Dick Durbin, Sam Stein, Claire McCaskill, Tara Palmeri, Marc Santia, Chris O'Leary, Jacob Soboroff, Andrew Weissmann, Charlie Sykes, and Dominic Patten.

Nicolle Wallace is joined by Vaughn Hillyard, Harry Litman, Glenn Thrush, Beto O'Rourke, Dominic Patten, Michael Grynbaum, Charlie Sykes, and Ian Bassin.

Joined by: David Gilbert, Charlie Sykes, Alex Wagner, Michele Norris, Sen. Cory Booker, Marc Elias, Angelo Carusone and Sarah Longwell. 

Nicolle Wallace is joined by Adam Goldman, Michael Feinberg, Sue Gordon, Vaughn Hillyard, Rev. Al Sharpton, John Heilemann, Mitch Landrieu, Charlie Sykes, Michele Norris, Ian Bassin, and Dr. Irwin Redlener.