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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
Nick Cohen talks to leading US political commentator Charlie Sykes about the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on American politics and conservative institutions, with Charlie sharing his perspective as one of the first "Never Trump" conservatives and discussing the erosion of traditional conservative values and principles. They examine how Trump's rise was connected to broader trends in right-wing politics, including the appeal to "own the libs" and the normalisation of previously unacceptable behaviour. They discuss their concerns about Trump's potential future political influence and the need for institutions, media, and individuals to push back against extreme political trends in both the US and U.K.Conservatives voices must take on Trump & the radical rightCharlie says his fellow "Never Trump" Conservatives made a huge strategic error in confronting Trump and MAGA before the 2024 presidential election, saying, "I think it was a major mistake for much of the Never Trump movement to basically become Liberal Democrats. Because what happened is they were no longer speaking to those centre Right. Conservative swing voters. They were perceived to be simply just parroting the other lines. And by the way, take some responsibility. I'm a contributor for the Progressive network, MSNBC, and I think this is a real problem."The other problem was that during the Biden years, I think that one of the, the fundamental roles of the centre. You know, the centre should have been to keep the administration from, from going too far left on all of the issues on crime, on immigration, on the trans issue. And by the way, Democrats are still deeply in denial."You have to stop Farage now - before it's too late Charlie Sykes warns the UK that Nigel Farage and Reform have to be stopped now before it is too late. Ciservative vocies must play their part in preventing the UK sinking into a Trump-like darknes, adding, " If in late 2015 if you had big conservative voices like Rush Limbaugh, not a fan, but if Rush Limbaugh would've told his audience, come on, people. Donald Trump's a joke. Donald Trump is not what we have fought for all these years. the best time to get these to stop these guys is on the launchpad before they achieve velocity."Maybe too late. but it's gotta be done early and it's gotta be done forceful because it's if you, if if you, if you don't do it now, it's gonna be exponentially harder a year from now. "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 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.
Join Matt Lewis and Charlie Sykes in a lively podcast episode diving into the Sydney Sweeney controversy, the ongoing culture wars, and the complex Israel-Gaza conflict. From debating the backlash against Sydney Sweeney's jeans ad to exploring the crisis of young men and the political missteps of both sides, this conversation covers it all. Plus, hear their candid thoughts on Bibi Netanyahu's leadership and the moral challenges of modern warfare. Don't miss this engaging discussion on pop culture, politics, and global issues!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
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.
Nicolle Wallace on the DOJ opening criminal investigations into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey and Trump setting more tariff ultimatums for trading partners.Joined by: Former CIA Director John Brennan, Marc Elias, Julian Barnes, David Gura, Alex Wagner, Michael Feinberg, Mike Schmidt, Charlie Sykes, and Paul Rieckhoff.
Alicia Menendez – in for Nicolle Wallace – on the division in the Republican Party as Trump's megabill reaches the Senate floor, continued ICE raids in Los Angeles stoking fear, and the Trump administration's plan to build a national citizenship data system.Joined by: Vaughn Hillyard, Charlie Sykes, Cornell Belcher, Angelo Carusone, Jacob Soboroff, Andrea Flores, Sen. Cory Booker, Eddie Glaude, Kim Atkins Stohr, Marc Elias, John Hudson, and Justin Wolfers.
Nicolle Wallace discusses brand new reporting on the U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear facility as President Donald Trump lashes out at both Iran and Israel, his attacks on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, the latest example of the administration's cruel immigration policy going viral, a whistleblower's claim about a top DOJ official, and more. Joined by: Rep. Jason Crow, Courtney Kube, Michael Crowley, Ned Price, Justin Wolfers, Charlie Sykes, Alejandro Barranco, Jacob Soboroff, Ian Bassin, and Mike Schmidt.
Alicia Menendez – in for Nicolle Wallace – on how Trump is weighing U.S. military action in Iran, the administration's continuing immigration crackdown in Los Angeles, and America's top CEOs issuing the worst economic outlook since 2020. Joined by: Helene Cooper, David Frum, Claire McCaskill, Angelo Carusone, Jacob Soboroff, Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Michael Crowley, Tom Nichols, Lt. Gen. Stephen Twitty, Alex Jacquez, Charlie Sykes, Catherine Rampell, and Michael Eric Dyson.
To The Contrary newsletter author Charlie Sykes examines the escalation of Trump’s actions since his first administration. Ed Luce details his new book Zbig: The Life of Zbigniew Brzezinski, America's Great Power Prophet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nicolle Wallace on the forcible removal and handcuffing of Senator Alex Padilla from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's press conference today, reactions from outraged Democratic lawmakers, and the stunning moment's implications. Joined by: Jacob Soboroff, Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, Ben Rhodes, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, Rep. Mikie Sherill, Rep. Robert Garcia, Maj. Gen. Randy Manner, Charlie Sykes, Justina Machado, and Alicia Menendez.
Nicolle Wallace and Alicia Menendez tag team today's Deadline White House and discuss Trump's escalating military response to the protests in Los Angeles as well as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s gutting of the CDC advisory board. Joined by: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Jacob Soboroff, Charlie Sykes, Elizabeth Findell, retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, David Noriega, Mary McCord, Angelo Carusone, and Dr. Vin Gupta.
Nicolle Wallace on the Congressional Budget Office's bleak assessment of Trump's megabill, how Trump's tariffs are hurting supply chain industries, and how Pete Hegseth is working to erase civil rights history.Joined by: Scott Horsely, Mitch Landrieu, Tim Miller, Jacob Soboroff, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Alex Wagner, Ryan Nobles, Charlie Sykes, Iowa State Rep. J.D. Scholten, Paul Rieckhoff, and Ukraine National Baseball Team pitcher Andrii Boiko.
Nicolle Wallace on Trump's tariff troubles in court, global fallout from DOGE imposed USAID cuts, and blowback from constituents at GOP town halls.Joined by: Charlotte Howard, Robert Armstrong, Mary McCord, Charlie Sykes, Antonia Hylton, Pablo Torre, Brett Murphy, Eddie Glaude, Tyler Pager and Sam Stein.
Nicolle Wallace discusses the politicization of the Department of Justice after they charged a New Jersey congresswoman, Donald Trump's latest comments on the war in Ukraine after his phone call with Putin, Elon Musk's announcement that he plans to do less political spending, the companies preparing to raise prices due to tariffs, and more. Joined by: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Alex Wagner, David Jolly, John Hudson, Anne Applebaum, Derek Thompson, Charlie Sykes, Teddy Schleifer, Matt Dowd, and Mary McCord.
Wall Street reacts to Trump's budget bill that could add trillions to the deficit. Then, a look at what Moody's credit downgrade means for Americans. And, Democrats hit reboot ahead of next year's midterms. Peter Baker, Tyler Pager, David Drucker, Natasha Sarin, David Gura, Charlie Sykes, Molly Jong-Fast, and Dr. Kavita Patel join The 11th Hour this Monday.
Nicolle Wallace on Trump's lack of tariff deals despite his promises, low consumer sentiment amid rising fears of inflation, and the MAGA infighting causing trouble for Trump.Joined by: Justin Wolfers, Charlie Sykes, Lisa Rubin, John Brennan, Mike Schmidt, Maria Aspan, Rev. Al Sharpton, Tim Miller, Allen Orr, and Kristy Greenberg.
Nicolle Wallace discusses Donald Trump's first major international trip to Saudi Arabia while he faces scrutiny from all sides over his administration's plan to accept a luxury jet from Qatar to be used as Air Force One, his deal with China on tariffs, the growing backlash over his extreme immigration policies, his hostile takeover of the Library of Congress, and more.Joined by: Senator Chris Murphy, Sam Stein, Luke Broadwater, David Gura, Daniel Schuman, Rep. Joseph Morelle, Lee Gelernt, Matt Dowd, Charlie Sykes, and Pablo Torre.
It was a week that brought a series of stinging court defeats for Trump and his bevvy of executive orders, which have as a common theme the disregard of constitutional limits. Michael Scherer, Ali Vitali, and Charlie Sykes join Harry to consider whether Trump is adjusting his approach or just erratic. They break down Trump's recent legacy media blitz before moving to the inauspicious mess of his tariff policy. Finally, they take up the significance of the defeat of the Ed Martin nomination.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nicolle Wallace on the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, the nationwide crisis of masculinity, and the warning signs for America's democracy. Joined by: Chris Jansing, Mike Barnicle, Christopher White, Steve Liesman, Scott Galloway, Tim Miller, and Charlie Sykes.
Alicia Menendez – in for Nicolle Wallace – discusses the 100 day mark in President Donald Trump's second term as he loses ground with voters on the economy, the shocking results of the Canadian election that became a referendum on America, the continued attacks on federal workers by the Trump administration, and much more. Joined by: Senator Mark Kelly, Jacob Soboroff, Ashley Parker, David Gura, Charlie Sykes, Richard Madan, Alanah Odoms, Jasmine Garsd, Angelo Carusone, Tim Miller, Mary McCord, and Stacey Young.