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Today on Mea Culpa, I'm joined by Rick Wilson, Lincoln Project co-founder, political strategist, and author, to break down the fallout from the government shutdown. Rick and I dissect the disastrous shutdown “deal” Democratic senators voted for on Sunday, how Trump continues to fool average Americans, and what the discharge petition means for the release of the Epstein files. We dig into the GOP's accelerating slide into authoritarianism and the weaponization of power against ordinary Americans through frozen SNAP benefits and soaring healthcare premiums. This conversation was recorded on Tuesday, November 11th, prior to the government reopening. Thanks to our sponsors: L-Nutra: Just visit https://ProlonLife.com/MEACULPA to claim your 15% discount plus a $40 bonus gift. Shopify: Sign up for a $1 per month trial period at: shopify.com/COHEN Soul: Go to https://GetSoul.com and use code: COHEN to get 40% OFF your order! 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
Hawk welcomes back Reed Galen President of JoinTheUnion.us and Co-Founder of the Lincoln Project for a deep discussion about the newly released Jeffrey Epstein emails and their shocking connections to Donald Trump, Ghislaine Maxwell, and author Michael Wolff. Hawk and Reed examine what these revelations mean for the Republican Party, the MAGA movement, and how the myths around Trump and Epstein continue to shape the political right.The conversation also dives into the government shutdown deal, the state of the Democratic Party, and the larger struggle over power, policy, and the future of American democracy. Reed Galen and Hawk focus on the failures of imagination that have allowed authoritarian tendencies to grow, why the pace of Trump's agenda has been so rapid, and what comes next for both parties as 2026 approaches.With insight, realism, and moments of humor, Hawk leads an honest conversation about politics, government, and the urgent need for voters to recognize the stakes for democracy. SUPPORT & CONNECT WITH HAWK- Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mdg650hawk- Support Hawk's Merch Store: https://hawkmerchstore.com- Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hawkeyewhackamole- Connect on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mdg650hawk.bsky.social- Connect on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hawkpodcasts ALL HAWK PODCASTS INFO- Additional Podcasts Available Here: https://www.hawkpodcasts.com- Listen to Hawk Podcasts On Your Favorite Platform:Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RWeJfyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/422GDuLYouTube: https://youtube.com/@hawkpodcastsiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/47vVBdPPandora: https://bit.ly/48COaTBSimplecast: https://hawk-droppings.simplecast.com- Hawk Podcasts RSS Feed: https://feeds.simplecast.com/pPVtxSNJ
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines how Trump continues to lose the messaging war over the shutdown. The Fight Agency’s Rebecca Katz and Morris Katz detail how Democrats continue to win heading into the midterms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Co-founder and Board Member of The Lincoln Project, Rick Wilson is a renowned political strategist, infamous award-winning ad-maker and podcast host, writer, speaker, and political commentator on MSNBC, CNN, ABC News, NPR, Real Time with Bill Maher, and various American and international news national outlets. A 30-year veteran of national Republican politics, Rick got his start in the 1988 Presidential campaign of George Herbert Walker Bush and has produced groundbreaking and award-winning political advertising, strategic counsel to winning political candidates, SuperPACS, state parties, the national campaign committees, and corporate, association, and government clients across the nation and around the world. Rick has authored two New York Times bestsellers – Everything Trump Touches Dies and Running Against The Devil – A Plot To Save America from Trump And Democrats From Themselves – and often writes for The Washington Post, Politico, Rolling Stone, The Hill, The Bulwark, and the London Spectator. Rick brings his inimitable wit and wisdom back to The Back Room for a post-election wrap up! Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel
To join our Mega Orderers Club, and get ad free listening, early episode releases, bonus content and exclusive access to live events, visit https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/ In institutional design, the US justice system is more independent than its European counterparts. Even though the US President selects his Attorney General, a corrupt President can be dealt with not only via impeachment, but in Principal through independent special counsels pursing justice while avoiding potential conflicts of interest. And yet… from Hillary's emails to Trump's possible collusion with Russia and promotion of an insurrection, the Special Prosecutor system hasn't worked as it should. And now despite all those checks and balances, we have a weaponized justice, with a more political DOJ under Pam Bondi being used to pursue revenge against Trump's enemies. How did we get to here? Why can't the American system – designed with the most checks and balances -- work to hold power to account? To find out, Jason is joined this week by Elie Honig, senior legal analyst for CNN and author of When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the New Books Network. They discuss the legal details of Watergate, Hillary Clinton's emailgate, the Mueller investigation, and Jan 6. As they order the disorder, Elie and Jason consider whether and how the system can be reformed, and the importance of courage and integrity within the justice system. Producer: George McDonagh Subscribe to our Substack - https://natoandtheged.substack.com/ Disorder on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DisorderShow Show Notes Links: Join the Mega Orderers Club via this link: https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/ For more on our New Books Network partnership visit https://newbooksnetwork.com/category/up-partners/disorder Buy When You Come at the King: Inside DOJ's Pursuit of the President, from Nixon to Trump by Elie Honig https://www.amazon.co.uk/When-You-Come-King-President/dp/0063447363 Read Why The Supreme Court Might Strike Down Trumps Tariffs https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/why-the-supreme-court-might-strike-down-trumps-tariffs.html Read The John Bolton Indictment Is Different https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/opinion/the-john-bolton-indictment-is-different/ar-AA1OESRh?apiversion=v2&domshim=1&noservercache=1&noservertelemetry=1&batchservertelemetry=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1 Watch Elie Honig on the Lincoln Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSEytVs2Er4 Read a review of Elie's book at https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/elie-honig/when-you-come-at-the-king/ Another take on Elie's book https://historynerdsunited.com/2025/09/when-you-come-at-the-king-by-elie-honig-book-review/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines how Trump’s government has become so dysfunctional it can’t even keep airports running. New York Magazine’s Irin Carmon details her new book Unbearable: Five Women and the Perils of Pregnancy in America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, the Holler sits down with Reed Galen—veteran GOP strategist turned democracy defender, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, founder of The Union, and host of The Home Front podcast.Reed opens up about his decades inside Republican politics—from running campaigns for John McCain, George W. Bush, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, to walking away from the party when Trumpism took hold. He talks war stories from the campaign trail, what really happened inside the McCain–Palin operation, and why he believes both parties helped create today's political crisis.We dig into the collapse of trust in democracy, why working-class voters are abandoning the left, and how Democrats keep losing the messaging war. Reed doesn't hold back on the failures of the establishment, the rise of MAGA, and what it'll take to rebuild a politics rooted in belief, honesty, and results—not purity tests or platitudes.Connect with Reed at https://substack.com/@reedgalenThe Hometown Holler is made possible by the generous support of our monthly sustainers. If you find our work valuable, we invite you to consider becoming a sustainer on Patreon. Tap here to join our community and help us keep hollerin'!
Text us your questions!We talk with political strategist, author, and Lincoln Project member Mike Madrid about data, culture, and why both parties keep getting the Latino vote wrong.Mike takes us inside the Lincoln Project's 2020 strategy and the personal costs of resisting Trumpism, then draws a sharp line between principled conservatism and punitive nationalist populism. From energy policy to border security to employee ownership, we explore how Democrats ended up carrying a slate of classically conservative positions and why that still isn't landing with working class voters. The throughline is practical: housing, wages, and permitting timelines beat slogans every time, especially for a young, US‑born Latino electorate that's increasingly moderate, less partisan, and focused on near‑term economic mobility.We also discuss culture and faith, challenging lazy “machismo” tropes with the maternal core of Latin American Catholicism and a track record of electing women. Mike explains how generational change, not country of origin, drives political behavior and why Latino voters split roughly 50–50. That elasticity could be the system's safety valve, if the parties learn to speak to pocketbook priorities instead of waging endless culture wars.We also confront the rise in political violence. Mike argues we're already in a civil conflict—more Troubles than Gettysburg—and that healing will be social before it's political. The antidote starts local: honest conversations, community action, and leaders calling out extremism in their own ranks. Along the way, we have occasion to toast some tequila and hear about Mike's storytelling project on the Cuervo–Sauza rivalry, expanding how Latino lives are portrayed beyond tired stereotypes.If this conversation challenges and energizes you, follow, rate, and share the show with a friend.=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Follow us on social media at @PPWBPodcast Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Trump receiving an illegal $130 million donation from one of his top donors. Then the DLCC’s Heather Williams details how Democrats win.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Across the country, ICE detentions are growing more horrific and inhumane by the day. Families are being torn apart, people are disappearing into detention centers, and the silence from those in power is deafening. This morning, Don asks the hard questions: How far will this go, and what can we do about it? He's joined by Rick Wilson, political consultant and co-founder of The Lincoln Project, and Katie Phang, lawyer, commentator, and former MSNBC host. Together, they break down the politics, the legality, and the moral crisis unfolding in real time. This episode is sponsored by Henson Shaving. Go to https://hensonshaving.com/LEMON and enter LEMON at checkout to get a free pack of 100 blades with your purchase. (Note: you must add both the blades and the razor for the discount to apply.) This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Go to https://msiunitedstates.org or text “lemon” to five eleven five eleven. Text “lemon” to 511511 and see all the Wonderful services they provide. Text Fees May Apply. This episode is sponsored by Ollie. Take the guesswork out of your dog's well-being. Go to https://ollie.com/lemon and use code lemon to get 60% off your first box! This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Where baseball, family, and democracy meet — Mike Madrid reminds us what's worth fighting for in America. If you didn't catch our most recent conversation with friend of the pod, Mike Madrid, well... where were ya? We recorded this one right around July 4th and it's still on point! What'd ya expect with the brilliant Mike Madrid?!?! So join us in welcoming back political consultant, author, and Substack contributor Mike Madrid. A renowned expert on Latino voters and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Mike brings his profound insights on American politics, identity, and democracy. Together, Corey and Mike explore deeply personal stories, historical context, and present-day political dynamics, all while weaving in the emotional fabric that connects generations and communities.
Where baseball, family, and democracy meet — Mike Madrid reminds us what's worth fighting for in America. If you didn't catch our most recent conversation with friend of the pod, Mike Madrid, well... where were ya? We recorded this one right around July 4th and it's still on point! What'd ya expect with the brilliant Mike Madrid?!?! So join us in welcoming back political consultant, author, and Substack contributor Mike Madrid. A renowned expert on Latino voters and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Mike brings his profound insights on American politics, identity, and democracy. Together, Corey and Mike explore deeply personal stories, historical context, and present-day political dynamics, all while weaving in the emotional fabric that connects generations and communities.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Trump’s increasingly unpopular agenda. The New York Times’ Adam Liptak details originalism in the Supreme Court and how it affects the firing of government employees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson joins us to discuss Trump’s increasing hints that he will enact the Insurrection Act. Then we’ll talk to CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin about his new book, 1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History—and How It Shattered a Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Michael breaks down the GOP's Senate blockade of the Voter Rights Bill. Next, the GOP's war on wokeness and obsession with critical race theory. Then the news that Trump sought to shutdown SNL for his portrayal. Finally, Tara Setmayer from Lincoln Project's The Breakdown joins Mea Culpa. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices Michael breaks down the GOP's Senate blockade of the Voter Rights Bill. Next, the GOP's war on wokeness and obsession with critical race theory. Then the news that Trump sought to shutdown SNL for his portrayal. Finally, Tara Setmayer from Lincoln Project's The Breakdown joins Mea Culpa. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Stephen Miller’s continued efforts to cast Democrats as terrorists.Then Senator Chris Murphy details how Democrats are fighting back against Trump’s aggressions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the impending government shutdown.Former CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden details his new book The Formula for Better Health: How to Save Millions of Lives—Including Your Own.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the insane accusations of bribery against Tom Homan.Then The Eurasia Group’s Ian Bremmer details how Trump’s reckless monetary policy is playing out on the world stage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
George Conway is an attorney, political activist, and legal and political commentator. He is board president of the Society for the Rule of Law, and a founder of the Lincoln Project. He is also a host of The Bulwark's podcast George Conway Explains It All (to Sarah Longwell), and he is a contributing writer to The Atlantic. He previously worked as a litigator for three decades at the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz in New York City. George is back in THE BACK ROOM to discuss the Jimmy Kimmel free speech fiasco, the Charlie Kirk assassination and aftermath, and the intensifying Epstein scandal. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel
The Lincoln Project's Rick Wilson parses the right’s escalating rhetoric of revenge for Charlie Kirk’s death. Former chair of the Wisconsin Democrats Ben Wikler discusses how the Democratic Party effectively builds to counter the GOP.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The death of Charlie Kirk and the reaction to it have shaken millions of Americans, at least those who have managed to hold on to their humanity in the past ten years. Even if the prominent Democrats in the party tried to project a uniform message of decency, to condemn the violence and offer condolences to the family, it was increasingly evident that they were no longer in control of their own party. Not even President Barack Obama himself could set the tone for these people, so consumed with hatred are they. Maybe they thought selling fear for ten years and calling Trump and his supporters an existential threat was a good idea because it would motivate their voters to the polls. Instead, they've created a Frankenstein monster that is now roaming the quiet countryside and scaring the crap out of normal Americans.They want all of us in this country to join them, to agree that Charlie Kirk got what he deserved. He supports gun rights, after all. That alone meant they would shed no tears for him, his wife, or his kids. That was the least of it. On TikTok, Blue Sky, and X, they went on and on, plastering the social media apps with negative stories about Kirk to erase any legacy the Right might try to build in his name.And maybe they thought the rest of America would agree that they should close off their hearts and separate themselves from their empathy to serve the greater political cause that has taken the place of just about everything else in their lives. But they miscalculated how normal people view violent death, especially political assassinations.On TikTok, many users were expressing their anger at the Left, and some of them even said this was it; they were no longer a part of the Democratic Party. Here is a video:And Jennifer Sey just registered as a Republican from “unaffiliated.”And Colin Wright redrew his famous chart:This is the last thing the Democrats needed. All they have left is Zohran Mamdani and Gavin Newsom's meme factory of would-be nepo babies of the Lincoln Project. They have no vision, no hope, no policies, no fixes, no solutions - nothing. All they have is this. Their hatred of anyone who doesn't conform and comply. Their approval rating has never been lower. Registrations are down by the millions. They're losing the support of Gen-Z. They have no plan to bring voters in except to draw more militant fanatics, and now, they've once again exposed how lacking in any common decency they have become. Congratulations, Democrats, oops, you did it again.From the New York Post:They're an army of Lord of Flies whose parents coddled them and raised them to believe all of their finger paintings were masterpieces, that their traumas defined them, and were “gentle-parented,” and when that didn't work, were drugged into perfection. They don't seem to understand that no one deserves to die just for having a different opinion.When one person's death means nothing to you and all you do is make a video where you calmly recite the reasons you don't care and why no one else should care? What is left of you?They sound like modern versions of the Stepford Wives who say exactly what they're supposed to say, repeating it almost word for word like robots:There is no one to pull them back from the brink. They collect so many likes that it messes with their heads. Their followers demand more, give us more. They're punished if they dissent, if they disagree, if they do any critical thinking whatsoever. Anyone who uses TikTok and any social media app knows that it's dominated by the Left. We built it, after all, oh so long ago. Even the Democrats themselves are under the control of the fanatics in their party, which is why they all felt emboldened to boo Charlie Kirk's name when they called for a moment of silence. Even if they didn't agree with it, why would they want to show the public just how petty they are?Not that we needed this tragic event to expose that ugly truth. It's been obvious for some time that the Left has been hijacked by the modern equivalent of the Manson Family. Joe Biden was the George Spahn-like figure who presented the mask of normalcy for what was most definitely not normal.All they had to do was the bare minimum, either stay silent or offer condolences and some generic comment on free speech and how political violence is never okay. But they couldn't even do that. Why? Because there is nothing left of them. All they have is this pathological need to control everyone and everything, whether it's destroying the careers of convicted thought criminals or celebrating their assassinations. All they know is they wanted them gone. In all of their lies about Charlie Kirk, their endless posts with hundreds of thousands of likes that prop up their own manufactured goodness as if to say, See, we still have the moral high ground, they came off somehow looking worse than they ever have. Charlie Kirk was a nice guy. They're celebrating his death because they didn't know that. They didn't know that because no one would tell them. Not their own social media feeds, not the legacy media. And when Ezra Klein tried to tell them with a New York Times op-ed, they began attacking him too, because of course they did. The dehumanization is a feature, not a bug. Here is Benny Johnson and Chris Cuomo:The Left so badly wants this to be a “both sides” issue, but it isn't. The Right mourned the death of Congresswoman Melissa Hortman. They did not blanket X or Blue Sky or any other social media site, smearing her. They would not have posted something like this on the Right:But until the people with the real power on the Left condemn them, nothing will change. They can make any false reality they want. They can tell themselves any lies they want. But what we've seen now in how they've responded to something that would shake any normal person out of their partisan stupor could cost them not just for the midterms but for 2028 and beyond.They think they have the narrative well in hand because the media is so supportive of everything they do. But every once in a while, they go too far, and they end up red-pilling Americans who shrink back in horror at who and what they've become and want no part of it.I am not saying “The Left” killed Charlie Kirk. Maybe someone on the Left did. Maybe they didn't. It doesn't really matter because they've shown their true colors in their perilous moment in our history. It's like that scene in The Dead Zone when Martin Sheen picks up the baby to protect himself. There is no unseeing that.They might think the silencing of Charlie Kirk will cripple the MAGA movement and everything he's done to build Turning Point USA and mobilize the young. But because of his death, MAGA will be more energized, not less, more motivated, not less, more determined than ever to save America from this madness. And they must because they are our only hope.Charlie Kirk has left a legacy, whether they realize it or not. It isn't just how psychotic they've become, and how so many of us have fled. But it's all of those young people he inspired who adored him. They will remember the assassination of Charlie Kirk. It will shape their youth the way the killing of Martin Luther King, Jr., RFK, and JFK shaped generations before. They will know that he was killed to silence him, and they will remember how the Left reacted to his death. And they will grow up knowing that it was wrong.Most of all, they will know that he built a movement that would ultimately defeat the most powerful political machine in American history. And if he can do it, so can they./// This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sashastone.com/subscribe
Andy, Massie, Comer, even Rand Paul - everywhere you look, Kentucky's politicians are in the spotlight. Aaron & Chris will break down what it means for our commonwealth, then check in with Forward Kentucky's Bruce Maples about his fast-approaching Summit 2025, a great online event for KY's progressive change-makers. #ColonelsOfTruthNEWS OF THE WEAK STORY 1: Massie's got a spine, Lincoln Project interview: https://x.com/projectlincoln/status/1965505635140681929?s=46&t=vUHbQ-mJ7i9U7cVZZFDtVgSTORY 2: Andy's got a messagehttps://www.instagram.com/p/DOZPPvIkm40/?igsh=NmJqeTNidGZ4NHozhttps://www.facebook.com/share/v/12K88qjfpE7/?mibextid=wwXIfrSTORY 3: Rand's got a pointhttps://www.facebook.com/share/16dmvPwDTe/?mibextid=wwXIfrSTORY 4: Opossum Fest welcomes a Hick Lib (not Annabelhttps://kentuckylantern.com/2025/09/10/at-possum-fest-i-found-out-what-being-a-hick-lib-really-means/CAMPAIGN CORNER INTERVIEW: Bruce Maples - Forward KY Summit, Sept. 27, online - Register here: https://summit25.forwardky.com/?ac=LoMAidQbCALL TO ACTION: Join the SUN DAY movement! Inspired by our recent interview with Bill McKibben, we're cohosting an event on Sept. 21 at the Franklin County Extension Office, showing off their awesome solar array - for more details and RSVP, head here: https://actionnetwork.org/events/sun-day-frankfort-learn-about-the-power-of-solar?source=direct_linkProgressKentucky - #ColonelsOfTruthJoin us! http://progressky.org/Support us! https://secure.actblue.com/donate/progresskyLive Wednesdays at 7pm on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/progressky/live/and on YouTube http://bit.ly/progress_kyListen as a podcast right here, or wherever you get your pods: https://tr.ee/PsdiXaFylKFacebook - @progressky Instagram - @progress_ky Bluesky - @progressky.bsky.socialhttps://linktr.ee/progresskyEpisode 227 was produced by Parker WilliamsTheme music from the amazing Nato - hear more at http://www.NatoSongs.com
September 6, 2025; 9am: “It's not fair to say they're losing credibility. We're past that now,” is what a judge recently said about the Department of Justice's handling of arrests during Trump's law enforcement surge in DC. The DOJ incurred a substantial amount of losses in court recently concerning deportations, tariffs, college grants, and more – though the Trump administration has already appealed many of these rulings in the hope of getting them in front of the conservative majority Supreme Court. Legal expert Andrew Weissmann and senior adviser of The Lincoln Project, Stuart Stevens, join “The Weekend” to discuss what's next.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
Gavin Newsom is redefining Democratic strategy by taking on Donald Trump with humor, cultural battles, and fearless tactics. Political strategist Mike Madrid, co-founder of the Lincoln Project and author of The Latino Century, joins Matt Lewis to break down Newsom's playbook, the shifting Latino vote, gerrymandering battles in Texas and California, and the culture wars shaping 2026 midterms. From Cracker Barrel's logo controversy to economic messaging, discover what's driving American politics. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of the Democratic Party and the fight against Trump's influence!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
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines why Democrats are failing to register voters.Graham Platner details his run for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Maine against Senator Susan Collins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CannCon and Zak “RedPill78” Paine dive into a packed Monday news cycle, kicking off with reactions to the world premiere of Brad Zerbo's documentary CODEX 9/11 and its explosive revelations. From John Bolton's FBI raid and its deep state implications, to Rick Wilson's meltdown and the Lincoln Project's scandals, the hosts break down the hypocrisy of political elites. They cover Tulsi Gabbard's alleged Five Eyes directive, new Nord Stream pipeline revelations, and Justice Gorsuch slamming rogue lower courts. The discussion heats up with Florida's immigration battles, Trump's nationwide National Guard mobilizations, and fresh Epstein-related disclosures including Maxwell transcripts, DOJ document handovers, and Virginia Giuffre's upcoming memoir. With fiery commentary, sharp analysis, and plenty of humor, this episode pulls no punches on corruption, cover-ups, and the fight for accountability.
SEASON 4 EPISODE 6 - COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OLBERMANN A-Block (1:45) SPECIAL COMMENT: Thank you William Barr! Thank you Jamie Comer! Thank you for rei-igniting Trumpstein! Turns out the Barr testimony to Comer that he never saw anything in the Epstein Files that implicated Trump (which may be officially released as early as today) is based on a little detail Comer didn't know about. Geoffrey Berman, the Barr-Trump prosecutor in the Epstein case, says he NEVER SHOWED ANY OF THE EPSTEIN FILES TO BARR. It's the Sgt. Schultz "I Know Nothing" defense. So trying to re-enact the washing of the Mueller Report won't work this time. PLUS: WHAT'S TRUMP DOING WITH UKRAINE? Stalling. It's obvious now. He's just killing time for Putin because that's what Putin wants. And those "post-war guarantees" for Ukraine? Turns out Russia would be able to veto any country's efforts to defend Ukraine. THE BEST NEW NICKNAME OF THE YEAR: As the tiny shiny nut job treated the military thugs occupying DC to Shake Shack (not increased VA benefits, just burgers), The Lincoln Project named Stephen Miller "Pee Wee German." Also, Shake Shack? Hosting the junta? Possibly a bad business strategy. KAROLINE LEAVITT - HALL OF FAME MORON: She's done it again. First she got the top Nazi's name wrong. Then she mispronounced "Trump" a bunch of times. Then "Noble Peace Prize." Now, wait'll you hear what she did to "pundit." B-Block (39:45) THE WORST PERSONS IN THE WORLD: The follow-up to the Zelensky/EU meeting at the White House on BBC News? An interview with Zelensky's Wardrobe Guy. Countdown and I have outlived MSNBC, or MSNOW. Joe Scarborough announced it. Although I understand he may change his name to Quisling. And Donald Trump wants to rehabilitate the reputation of American Slavery. C-Block (57:00) THINGS I PROMISED NOT TO TELL: Happened again. Somebody else told me they'd been told their career in media was over, so I got to recount how many times I've been told that. Last year one of the guys who told me that in the '80s died, and one of the ones who told me that in 2001 retired from a magazine. Good evening and welcome to the non-end of my career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tara Setmayer and Michelle Kinney are co-founders of the bipartisan superpac The Seneca Project, Tara's a former GOP Communications Director on Capitol Hill and most recently served as a Senior Advisor for The Lincoln Project. She's a political writer and commentator who's appeared on MSNBC and other news outlets, The View, and Real Time with Bill Maher. Her writing has been featured on CNN.com, Bloomberg, Cosmopolitan, The Daily Beast, and NBC.com. In November 2020 she left the Republican Party after Donald Trump refused to concede the election to Joe Biden. Michelle Kinney previously she served as the Creative Director at The Lincoln Project. She's also a photojournalist, previously served as Vice President of WestSide Democrats in NYC, and was publicly elected to the New York County Democratic Committee. Michelle and Tara share their thoughts on Trump first 200 +days; the awesome Newsom trolling; Texas redistricting, mail-in voting, the attack on the 19th Amendment, and the overall assault on our voting process; the "liberal media's" role in shaping the narrative; and the need for Democrats to stay positive, engaged, strong and to fight fire with fire. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Trump’s authoritarian takeover of the nation’s capital.Journalist Jean Guerrero details her book Hatemonger: Stephen Miller, Donald Trump, and the White Nationalist Agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit zeteo.comIn this segment of Mehdi Unfiltered, George Conway, former Republican and Lincoln Project co-founder, talks to Mehdi about how the media continues to normalize Trump, and the double standards on covering his mental fitness. SUBSCRIBE TO ZETEO TO SUPPORT INDEPENDENT AND UNFILTERED JOURNALISM: https://zeteo.com/subscribeWATCH ‘MEHDI UNFILTERED' ON SUBSTACK: https://zeteo.com/s/mehdi-unfilteredFIND ZETEO:Twitter: https://twitter.com/zeteo_newsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeteonewsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zeteonewsFIND MEHDI:Substack: https://substack.com/@mehdirhasanTwitter: https://twitter.com/@mehdirhasanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/@mehdirhasanTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mehdirhasan
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the idea of America giving Alaska to Russia and other political madness. Osita Nwanevu details his new book The Right of the People: Democracy and the Case for a New American Founding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the cracks in loyalty to Trump.Alvaro Bedoya, recently fired from the Federal Trade Commission by President Trump, details the implications of the commission now serving Trump’s interests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democrats long assumed they could count on voters of color to support their candidates and causes, and for many years they did. But last year's presidential election was a wake up call for Democrats as Donald Trump gained significant support from Black, Latino and Asian American voters, especially men. In studying the racially and ethnically diverse voter coalition that brought Barack Obama to power, Yale professor Daniel Martinez HoSang, has found discontent and collapsing support for Democrats. This shift comes at a critical time for the left as they scramble to make headway before the 2026 midterms. We'll talk to HoSang and Republican political strategist Mike Madrid about how the left lost these voters and whether it's too late to regain their support. Guests: Daniel Martinez HoSang, professor of American Studies, Yale University Mike Madrid, political strategist; co-founder, The Lincoln Project; author, "The Latino Century: How America's Largest Minority is Transforming Democracy" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week's show is sponsored in part by EPIC-MRA Public Opinion Research MIRS News
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Trump’s Justice Department engaging with Ghislaine Maxwell.Brendan Duke from the Center on Budget details how tariffs are affecting our economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Trump’s failure to divert attention from his Epstein ties.Author Tim Weiner details his new book The Mission: The CIA in the 21st Century.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the minute Donald Trump came down the golden escalator, the Republican establishment has hated his guts. In the 2016 primary, the brash New York billionaire was treated by mainstream GOP leaders and commentators as a joke responsible for degrading the political process. As the real estate tycoon gained momentum, establishment figures had two choices: Declare yourself "never Trump" or pretend to have seen the light. Many fled to organizations like the Bulwark or the Lincoln Project, but others stayed around waiting for their moment to recapture the Republican Party from the MAGA populists. Now that Trump has come to define the GOP, the establishment figures who loathed him from the beginning have a new strategy. If you can't beat MAGA, co-opt the movement. Follow on: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-auron-macintyre-show/id1657770114 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3S6z4LBs8Fi7COupy7YYuM?si=4d9662cb34d148af Substack: https://auronmacintyre.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuronMacintyre Gab: https://gab.com/AuronMacIntyre YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/AuronMacIntyre Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-390155 Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AuronMacIntyre:f Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auronmacintyre/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Lincoln Project's Rick Wilson joins us to discuss how Trump is facing backlash from his base over the Epstein client list cover-up. Then we'll talk to director Eva Orner about her new film Surviving Ohio State, which explores the horrors Jim Jordan oversaw during his time at the university.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on Mea Culpa, I'm joined by Lincoln Project co-founder Rick Wilson for a scathing conversation on the cruelty, chaos, and corruption driving Trump's America. Rick is a political strategist, writer, speaker, and commentator, best known for his cutting political ads and no-nonsense takes. From the devastating floods in Texas, made worse by MAGA-led budget cuts, to the GOP's obsession with Trump's “Big, Beautiful Bill,” we expose how ideology has replaced governance. We also break down the collapse of the Trump–Musk alliance, the rise of spectacle politics, and whether a third party could ever challenge America's broken two-party system. Thanks to our sponsor: L-Nutra: Just visit https://ProlonLife.com/MEACULPA to claim your 15% discount and your bonus gift. Subscribe to Michael's NEW 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
***Please subscribe to Matt's Substack at https://worthknowing.substack.com/***The Cost of Chaos: Trump's Cabinet Under Siege. Matt delves into the turmoil within Trump's Cabinet, particularly focusing on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's mismanagement and the recent backlash against Pam Bondi. Joining him is Fred Wellman, former Executive of the Lincoln Project, to explore the deeper implications of Trump's erratic leadership and its impact on military strategy and domestic policies. They debate whether MAGA's internal conflicts will lead to its downfall or if Trump's administration will continue to flounder without consequence.01:11 The Cost of Chaos: Trump's Cabinet in Turmoil07:29 Critique of Pete Hegseth's Leadership13:52 The Importance of Experienced Staff30:25 Pam Bondi and the Epstein List Controversy35:29 MAGA's Internal Conflicts40:34 The Future of MAGA45:58 Economic Realities and Political Consequences
In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes back political consultant, author, and Substack contributor Mike Madrid. A renowned expert on Latino voters and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Mike brings his profound insights on American politics, identity, and democracy. Together, Corey and Mike explore deeply personal stories, historical context, and present-day political dynamics, all while weaving in the emotional fabric that connects generations and communities. What We Discuss: The significance of personal and familial stories in shaping political perspective How Latino voters are reshaping American democracy The danger of authoritarian tendencies in U.S. governance Economic populism across ideological divides The importance of understanding and communicating with working-class communities Episode Highlights: [00:04:00] Mike Madrid shares a personal story of grief and connection through a pilgrimage to Madrid, New Mexico [00:08:00] Baseball as a bridge between generations and its deeper cultural significance [00:14:00] Inhumane immigration enforcement and its implications on American identity [00:22:00] A discussion on whether America is at a turning point for its soul and values [00:33:00] Vertical balance of power: Newsom vs. federal overreach in L.A. protests [00:45:00] Latino voters' top concerns: economy, housing, and healthcare [00:53:00] Economic populism through Ruben Gallego and Zoran Mamdani's campaigns [01:03:00] How to talk about politics and religion without killin' each other Featured Quotes: "Sometimes the stories we tell ourselves matter more than the facts we can verify." – Mike Madrid "This is our American story now. This is who we are... and if we're not speaking out, then we are individually complicit in it." – Mike Madrid "These are the moments when character is defined." – Mike Madrid "The best way to talk about politics and religion is to not talk about it through the lens of politics and religion." – Mike Madrid Resources Mentioned: Mike Madrid's Substack: The Great Transformation – greattransformation.substack.com The Latino Century (book by Mike Madrid) – www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Latino-Century/Mike-Madrid/9781668015278 Latino Vote Podcast – latinos.vote Reflections on Marines in LA by Roger Herbert – rogerherbert.substack.com/p/reflections-on-marines-in-la
Tomorrow's inauguration may spell the end for Donald Trump's disastrous presidency, but the monster he unleashed upon us January 6th will be with us for a generation. Michael discusses how the rioters were not some extraordinary group of hardened extremists, but rather, they come from our own communities; representing, as writer Hannah Arendt noted in her landmark 1963 New Yorker essay about the trial of Adolf Eichmann, "the banality of evil." The Lincoln Project's Rick Wilson joins Michael to discuss how we go about dismantling Trump's ugly legacy and hold the rioters and those who supported them accountable. For cool Mea Culpa gear, check out www.meaculpapodcast.com/merch To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices Tomorrow's inauguration may spell the end for Donald Trump's disastrous presidency, but the monster he unleashed upon us January 6th will be with us for a generation. Michael discusses how the rioters were not some extraordinary group of hardened extremists, but rather, they come from our own communities; representing, as writer Hannah Arendt noted in her landmark 1963 New Yorker essay about the trial of Adolf Eichmann, "the banality of evil." The Lincoln Project's Rick Wilson joins Michael to discuss how we go about dismantling Trump's ugly legacy and hold the rioters and those who supported them accountable. For cool Mea Culpa gear, check out www.meaculpapodcast.com/merch To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines regime change and the potential for a new world war.The Brennan Center’s Michael Waldman details efforts to protect the vote in the midterms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the No King Protest, Trump’s sad birthday fascist display, and the rise of political violence. James Kimmel details his new book The Science of Revenge: Understanding the World's Deadliest Addiction—and How to Overcome It.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After reportedly speaking to President Trump on the phone, Elon Musk took to Twitter, on Wednesday, to say he regrets “some” of his tweets about President Trump — but that doesn't mean all is forgiven. As the dust settles on last week's cross-platform showdown, the long-term consequences from the breakup of the world's richest man and its most powerful one are just beginning to emerge. So, Kara gathered a panel of four expert guests to unpack how the feud ignited, who holds the most leverage, why a ceasefire took place, if it'll last, and what it all means for the future of tech, politics and power. Henry Blodget is the co-founder and former CEO of and editor-in-chief of Business Insider. Before that, he was a tech analyst on Walls Stree. You can find him on Substack at Regenerator. Kirsten Grind is an investigative business reporter at The New York Times, the author of two books, and the winner of more than a dozen national awards. Kristen Soltis Anderson is a pollster, contributing Opinion writer for The New York Times, author, and co-founder of Echelon Insights. Rick Wilson is a former Republican political strategist and ad-make. He is a co-founder of the Lincoln Project and you can find him on Substack or listen to his podcast The Enemies List. Questions? Comments? Email us at on@voxmedia.com or find us on Instagram, TikTok, and Bluesky @onwithkaraswisher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson skewers Trump weaponizing the National Guard against protesters.David A. Graham details his new book The Project: How Project 2025 Is Reshaping America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Stuart Stevens parses Elon and Trump’s breakup and the case for nationalizing SpaceX and Starlink. The New Yorker’s John Cassidy details his book Capitalism and Its Critics: A History — From the Industrial Revolution to AI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines Elon Musk’s short-lived reign over DOGE and what his exit from D.C. means. MSNBC’s Antonia Hylton details her new NBC News Digital documentary The Children’s Pastor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The foiled plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer may be just the tip of the iceberg. Under the Trump presidency, right wing extremist groups have multiplied significantly and pose a grave domestic terror threat to the United States. In addition, through his own divisive rhetoric and coded language, the President has tolerated and encouraged the rise of violent, Pro Trump vigilante groups. Are these armed, right wing radicals, the foot soldiers for Trump's new Maga Army? Plus, a conversation with Lincoln Project's Jeff Timmer. The former Michigan GOP honcho and veteran campaign operative provides insight into how the kidnap plot is playing at a local level and discusses Trump's party takeover and how the Republican Party might repair and redeem itself. Also, make sure to check out Mea Culpa: The Election Essays for the definitive political document of 2020. Fifteen chapters of raw and honest political writings on Donald Trump from the man who knows him best. https://www.a... The foiled plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer may be just the tip of the iceberg. Under the Trump presidency, right wing extremist groups have multiplied significantly and pose a grave domestic terror threat to the United States. In addition, through his own divisive rhetoric and coded language, the President has tolerated and encouraged the rise of violent, Pro Trump vigilante groups. Are these armed, right wing radicals, the foot soldiers for Trump's new Maga Army? Plus, a conversation with Lincoln Project's Jeff Timmer. The former Michigan GOP honcho and veteran campaign operative provides insight into how the kidnap plot is playing at a local level and discusses Trump's party takeover and how the Republican Party might repair and redeem itself. Also, make sure to check out Mea Culpa: The Election Essays for the definitive political document of 2020. Fifteen chapters of raw and honest political writings on Donald Trump from the man who knows him best. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08M5VKQ6T/ For cool Mea Culpa gear, check out meaculpapodcast.com/merch To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Lincoln Project’s Rick Wilson examines the "big, beautiful bill" and its raw deal for the American people. New York City Councilman Justin Brannan details his run for NYC Comptroller and how the job can change citizens’ lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.