POPULARITY
Categories
Only six months ago, the wheels felt like they were coming off of America, and our democracy experiment. But since the Epstein case broke wide open, the wheels started to come off Trump instead. And he's not just lost his way in politics but in the broader culture too—with his despicable words about Rob Reiner, his trying to get Jimmy Kimmel fired, and his pedophile cover-up. At the same time, we are likely stuck with his family grift, which will last for generations. Over on the Democratic side, the left has the momentum but there is room for a McCain-style reform candidate. Meanwhile, JD may be too repellant to win the presidency and the expectations for Mamdani are likely unrealistic. Plus, some love for Oasis, Geese, and Cameron Winter—and some hope that people are longing for something tangible in their music again. People need a rock star. John Heilemann joins Tim Miller for the year-end pod. show notes: John's "Impolitic" podcast John's columns at Puck Tim's 2025 Music Year in Review Filmmaker Charles Curran's recut of the Melania trailer with Miss Piggy Shane Gillis on how we got Trump Tim's playlist
JVL, Sarah Longwell, and Tim Miller look ahead to what's next—and it (mostly) isn't pretty. From Trump's plans for the Fed and crypto chaos, to billionaire media consolidation, and some truly unhinged foreign policy ideas, they game out what could break, what might finally collapse Trump's support, and why things probably have to get worse before they get better. Go to https://Quince.com/thenextlevel for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.
The DOJ is releasing random Epstein documents to distract the public, while also intentionally covering the faces of men in images. It's also pulling docs that reveal Trump's name. Epstein's victims think the government's messy release is all designed to protect their not publicly-known perpetrators. Meanwhile, more victims are coming forward to Julie, THE reporter who got the Epstein matter reopened after her investigation of his 2008 deal that no other modern pedophile would ever have received. Ghislaine Maxwell is key to understanding the whole case, Republican donors may be named in the files, and Trump flew on the Epstein plane eight times. Julie K. Brown joins Tim Miller. show notes: Julie's Substack Julie's reporting at the Miami Herald "Perversion of Justice," Julie's investigation into Epstein The NYT on Epstein's wealth Robert Draper on MTG's break with Trump, referenced by Tim
After a campaign built on the promise that Trump was going to look out for his voters, he started his administration getting sidetracked by DOGE and Musk's phony ideas about saving money. After that petered out, he got distracted by his need to put his name all over the place. In the process, he's totally forgotten to help his people—or even fake trying to help them. Meanwhile, Trump is trapped in a Groundhog Day of his own making on Ukraine-Russia. Plus, his bruising has now moved to his left hand, Melania can't speak English, the DOJ is still working to find the 'real' people who made the rioters descend on the Capitol, the withholding of information in the Epstein case is worse than the redactions, and Dems need to forcefully call out the Medicaid fraud in Minnesota. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes: Monday's "Morning Shots," including what Andrew learned from his extended family The 12 Days of Christmas, Bulwark style Addison's piece on America's two Christmases Bill's "Bulwark on Sunday" with Ryan Goodman Phrase Tim and Bill referenced: “Every great cause begins as a movement, becomes a business, and eventually degenerates into a racket.” Our listeners get the Harry's Plus Trial Set for only $10 at https://www.Harrys.com/THEBULWARK #Harryspod
The year started with America's tech overlords kissing the ring at Trump's inauguration, and it's ending with the public fed up with the ostentatiously rich—and more distrustful of Silicon Valley than ever, particularly on AI. Plus, Kara's key role in the revelations about the relationship between RFK, Jr. and Olivia Nuzzi, Trump is giving away the store to China and setting back university research and innovation by a generation, the AI advances in healthcare are mind-blowing, media companies are going to accelerate their consolidation, much of the tech oligarchy has daddy issues, JD is like a Cybertruck, "Pluribus" is great, and "KPop Demon Hunters" is golden. Kara Swisher joins Tim Miller for the holiday weekend pod. show notes Kara's podcasts: "Pivot," with Scott Galloway" and "On with Kara Swisher" Tim's playlist Tim's Ultimate Christmas Mix "Pluribus" "KPop Demon Hunters"
New Epstein files have dropped, and the fallout is growing. Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and JVL discuss what's new in the latest release, why the DOJ's clumsy redactions and selective disclosures made things worse, and how the accumulating evidence and hypocrisy are starting to break through to voters. They also talk about Trump's distraction tactics, JD Vance's political viability, and why the old Trump bargain isn't holding anymore. NOTE: The Justice Department in a tweet later on Tuesday, after the episode was taped, said that the alleged letter from Jeffrey Epstein to Larry Nassar was determined by the FBI to be fake.
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.thebulwark.comNew Epstein files have dropped, and the fallout is growing. Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and JVL discuss what's new in the latest release, why the DOJ's clumsy redactions and selective disclosures made things worse, and how the accumulating evidence and hypocrisy are starting to break through to voters. They also talk about Trump's distraction tactics, JD Vance's political viability, and why the old Trump bargain isn't holding anymore.NOTE: The Justice Department in a tweet later on Tuesday, after the episode was taped, said that the alleged letter from Jeffrey Epstein to Larry Nassar was determined by the FBI to be fake.Watch, listen, and leave a comment. This ad-free video version of The Next Level is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. You can find The Next Level wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Add The Next Level to your podcast player of choice, here. And help more people find this show by leaving us a review and ⭐⭐⭐⭐ wherever you listen.
Six months ago, MAGA world was strutting around with their chests puffed out. But now, many of them are having a blue Christmas over the infighting, the economy, the DOJ's inability to deliver revenge, and Trump's cover-up of child sex traffickers—one of the key things they really cared about. All Trump can think to do is plaster his name on another large object, including most recently a new fleet of warships. Plus, the bourbon shutdown, Bari's getting burned by Canada also airing "60 Minutes," the president could move Ghislaine out of her cushy prison, and Epstein in his alleged letter to Larry Nassar really sounds like "Access Hollywood" Trump. Tom Nichols joins Tim Miller. Show Notes: Tom on Trump's new ‘golden fleet' of warships Navy Secretary John Phelan Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BULWARK at https://www.oneskin.co/BULWARK #oneskinpod
Alicia Menendez is in for Nicolle Wallace. Alicia is joined by Jennifer Freeman, the representative for Maria Farmer, the first Epstein whistleblower. Farmer contacted the FBI about Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell back in 1996 with little to no government response, according to Freeman and Farmer.Later, Rev. Al Sharpton and Tim Miller join Alicia to discuss the infighting in the MAGA movement. The MAGA coalition further fractured after JD Vance said he would "fight alongside” conspiracy theorists, extremists, and Holocaust deniers rather than exclude them from the party.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
DOJ says it will release more documents related to the Epstein investigation even as it faces backlash for partial disclosures so far. Plus, Turning Point USA's flagship event puts an unwelcome spotlight on the splits inside MAGA. And, Paramount doesn't back down from the Warner Bros. Discovery rejection as it raises the stakes with a "personal guarantee" form Larry Ellison. Susan Glasser, Peter Baker, Daniella Diaz, Tim Miller, Dan Nathan, Rohit Chopra, and Joseph Kahn join The 11th Hour this Monday night. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
On the Epstein matter, the current DOJ is not just putting its thumb on the scale for Trump. It's his defense team. Make no mistake: The top two officials at the Justice Department are executing Trump's wishes to cover-up the victims' statements and the details about Epstein's 2008 sweetheart deal. It's the president's cover-up, and the mainstream media needs to call it for what it is. And over at CBS's "60 Minutes," Bari Weiss wants Trump to know she's on the administration's side as well. Meanwhile, Vance made clear at AmericaFest that he's cool with literal Nazis in the MAGA coalition as he readies for his 2028 run. Plus, Kushner and Witkoff are still doing Putin's bidding, the governor of Louisiana is adding the (pretend) invasion of Greenland to his portfolio, and Tim reads from the Monday Mailbag. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes Bill's "Bulwark on Sunday" with Rep. Ro Khanna on the Epstein files Tim on Gavin Newsom's podcast Lauren on the DNC burying its 2024 autopsy report The LIVE 'Bulwark Take' on the Stefanik crash and burn Part of Bob Dole's '96 Republican convention speech that Tim referenced Monday Mailbag email: BulwarkPodcast@Thebulwark.com
Good afternoon, everyone! This episode features retired FBI supervisory special agent James Gagliano and former Secret Service agent Tim Miller discussing true crime investigations, including the ongoing brown university shooting case. They analyze crime scene footage and suspect social media activity related to the murders of two Brown University students and nuno loureiro, a professor from massachusetts institute of technology. This critical crime remains a focus of discussion, particularly its impact in *rhode island Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Of all the images of Trump, the only times he seemed to be authentically smiling in the presence of another person was when he was with Jeffrey Epstein. The two of them had the same interests, and other people in the 80s and 90s assumed they were best friends. Over in MAGA land, a proxy war has broken out among rightwing influencers—like Ben Shapiro, Tucker, and Candace—because the economy and the party are in trouble. Plus, SCOTUS rulings and cryptocurrency have created a public corruption free-for-all, the failed tariffs are masking the shortage of immigrant-built new housing, Trump has illegally added his name to the Kennedy Center, and despite the large military build-up off of Venezuela, the administration seems to be winging it. David Frum joins Tim Miller for the weekend pod. show notes JVL's 'Triad' on Trump's Venezuela adventure Catherine's "Receipts" on the impacts of the immigration crackdown on the construction industry NYT on the friendship between Epstein and Trump David's most recent podcast episode on crypto Tim's playlist Tim's Ultimate Christmas Mix
Trump's power of persuasion is failing him on the affordability issue. He even broke MAGA creed on live TV by calling on Americans to trust the word of foreign leaders—who supposedly claim the U.S. economy is golden—over the pain they're feeling at the supermarket and at the pump. Meanwhile, NYC's mayor-elect seems to be understand the zeitgeist: We are not living in a right v. left political moment, but an insider v. outsider one. Plus, what Dems can learn from Mamdani, why the party needs to move on from its Obama and Bernie factions, and how aid programs like PEPFAR can be resurrected in a new administration. Former Obama and Mamdani advisor Patrick Gaspard joins Tim Miller. show notes AOC's and Sen. Smith's NYT piece on social housing that Patrick referenced Tim, Andrew, and Will Saletan on Trump's White House address Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/BULWARK and use promo code BULWARK at checkout.
Our executive producer pops along with some sage reflections on the nature of sport and success in this his final show of the year
POTUS is firing or censoring the statisticians who collect data on health and climate, as well as the kind of experts who could verify his lofty claims of an A++++ economy. And while Vance says that Trump is really turning things around, job losses are rising from his destructive tariff and immigration policies. Plus, the back story on Palantir and how it's helping to facilitate the administration's authoritarian ambitions. Author Mike Steinberger and Catherine Rampell join Tim Miller. show notes Tim's 'Bulwark Take' on current China policy Catherine's newsletter, "Receipts" Mike's new book, "The Philosopher in the Valley" For a limited time only, get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/THEBULWARK.
Sarah Longwell, JVL, and Tim Miller discuss the jaw-dropping Vanity Fair interviews Susie Wiles gave to Vanity Fair and what they reveal about how Trumpworld actually operates, the Epstein and Maxwell fallout, the backlash to Trump's remarks about Rob Reiner, MAGA's internal fractures, Elon Musk's role in dismantling USAID, and why this moment feels different from past Trump controversies. Susie Wiles, JD Vance, and the “Junkyard Dogs”: The White House Chief of Staff on Trump's Second Term (Part 1 of 2) https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-susie-wiles-interview-exclusive-part-1 Susie Wiles Talks Epstein Files, Pete Hegseth's War Tactics, Retribution, and More (Part 2 of 2) https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-susie-wiles-interview-exclusive-part-2 Get 50% off your first order with Green Chef and a FREE Graza Olive Oil set at https://GreenChef.com/NEXTLEVELGRAZA. Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code THENEXTLEVEL. Remember to head to https://ZBiotics.com/NEXTLEVEL and use the code NEXTLEVEL at checkout for 15% off. To get 6 bottles of wine for $39.99, head to NakedWines.com/THENEXTLEVEL and use code THENEXTLEVEL for both the code AND PASSWORD.
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.thebulwark.comSarah Longwell, JVL, and Tim Miller discuss the jaw-dropping Vanity Fair interviews Susie Wiles gave to Vanity Fair and what they reveal about how Trumpworld actually operates, the Epstein and Maxwell fallout, the backlash to Trump's remarks about Rob Reiner, MAGA's internal fractures, Elon Musk's role in dismantling USAID, and why this moment feels different from past Trump controversies.* Susie Wiles, JD Vance, and the “Junkyard Dogs”: The White House Chief of Staff on Trump's Second Term (Part 1 of 2)* Susie Wiles Talks Epstein Files, Pete Hegseth's War Tactics, Retribution, and More (Part 2 of 2)Watch, listen, and leave a comment. This ad-free video version of The Next Level is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. You can find The Next Level wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Add The Next Level to your podcast player of choice, here. And help more people find this show by leaving us a review and ⭐⭐⭐⭐ wherever you listen.
The people running the Republican grassroots are nativist populists, and it's a space where opposition to Israel thrives, along with a heaping serving of antisemitism. Candace's wild theories about the Charlie Kirk assassination has had a big impact among the young who get their news from TikTok and Instagram. And JD—who is the top-billed speaker at this year's AmericaFest—is sending signals that he's absorbing the nativist and anti-Zionist views among right-wing influencers like Tucker. Plus, Susie Wiles dishes on Trump and other top figures, and Stephen Miller's wife is running a North Korea-style podcast with some of the biggest names in the administration—but with virtually no audience. Will Sommer joins Tim Miller. show notes Will's "False Flag" newsletter The recent Atlantic piece that Tim referenced Vanity Fair's interview with Susie Wiles Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK
From the shooting at Brown University, to the Oct. 7-style slaughter in Australia, and the shocking murder of Rob Reiner and his wife—it's been one blow after another. But leave it to Trump to seize the moment to remind Americans what a disgusting human being he is. Meanwhile, social media algorithms keep pushing people to antisemitic content, and Kash is going to have quit with the live-tweeting during FBI investigations. Plus, the MAGA crackup continues, Trump sounds like he's losing his fight fight fight spirit, DOGE cuts hit red America, Dems should invest in campaigns in Iowa and Kansas, and Tim reads from the mailbag. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes Sonny's tribute to Reiner's remarkable work as a director Monday's "Morning Shots," including a contribution from Hannah in Providence Trump defending his grotesque comment Politico on the DOGE cuts in Trump country Axios on how Kamala may run again Get $35 off your first box of wild-caught, sustainable seafood—delivered right to your door. Go to: https://www.wildalaskan.com/BULWARK. Go to https://zbiotics.com/THEBULWARK and use THEBULWARK at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.
Tim Miller is a political commentator and former GOP strategist who became one of the most outspoken “‘Never Trump”' conservatives in the country. Tim and I talk through the Republican Party's transformation, from the guardrails John McCain tried to hold in place, to the anger and conspiratorial thinking that helped fuel Donald Trump's rise. We get into what it was like to be an openly gay Republican in the 2000s, why Trump's favorability is collapsing, and the administration's bizarre new policy of blowing up alleged drug boats in the Caribbean. I also ask him about his recent interview with journalist Olivia Nuzzi and more. Bundle FOX One and FOX Nation to stream the entire FOX Nation library, plus live Sports and Entertainment at our lowest price of the year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Despite death threats and harassment, Republicans in Indiana delivered the biggest political setback to Trump since officials in Georgia wouldn't help him find 11,780 votes in 2020. Turns out, some conservatives at the state level still have enough principles to not gerrymander on demand. Meanwhile, antisemitism, white nationalism, and neo-Nazism are flourishing among the very online right, including among people who used to be showcased by Fox. And they're chewing on and mainstreaming some of the deepest, darkest conspiracies out there. But now those voices are more influential than the cable channel—even our vice president, ever mindful of 2028, won't distance himself from the crowd. Plus, MTG's come to Jesus moment, and the PR instead of reporting that is happening in the press room at the Pentagon Alyssa Farah Griffin joins Tim Miller for the weekend pod. show notes Tim's 'Bulwark Take' on Tucker and Candace Friday's "Morning Shots" Mother Jones on Posobiec's PR moves at the Pentagon ABC's "The View" Tim's playlist
Republican disunity is being obscured by affection for Trump, but just below the surface, MAGA is being pulled apart at the seams. At the same time, the administration is busy committing war crimes while conducting an illegal, nonsensical war, and the FBI is investing progressive groups for their views. The state of free speech protections may be worse than during the Red Scare. Meanwhile, SCOTUS keeps shaping the power of the presidency, Tucker and Candace's conspiracies and Israel fear-mongering are way past an act, and the Andrew Tates of the manosphere are giving cover to men who just want to be a**holes. David French joins Tim Miller. show notes David's recent piece on MAGA Ken Klippenstein on the FBI investigating progressive groups NYT on the Trump administration helping out Andrew Tate David's podcast, "Advisory Opinions"
As 2025 draws to a close, Jon is joined by Crooked Media's Jon Favreau and "The Bulwark" host Tim Miller. Together, they assess Trump's tumultuous first year back in office, discuss whether his declining popularity offers reason for optimism, and examine what lies ahead for both parties as he enters lame-duck status and the races for both the midterms and presidency begin. Plus, Jon talks about the Best & Worst of Trump, Jimmy Kimmel, and the Baby Jesus! This podcast episode is brought to you by: MINT MOBILE - Shop Mint Unlimited Plans at http://mintmobile.com/TWS AURA FRAMES - Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/TWS. Promo Code TWS. INDEED - https://www.indeed.com/WEEKLY Follow The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart on social media for more: > YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyshowpodcast > Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weeklyshowpodcast> TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@weeklyshowpodcast > X: https://x.com/weeklyshowpod > BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/theweeklyshowpodcast.com Host/Executive Producer – Jon Stewart Executive Producer – James Dixon Executive Producer – Chris McShane Executive Producer – Caity Gray Lead Producer – Lauren Walker Producer – Brittany Mehmedovic Producer – Gillian Spear Video Editor & Engineer – Rob Vitolo Audio Editor & Engineer – Nicole Boyce Music by Hansdle Hsu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Big Boss Trump, who claims the power to run the whole government via executive order and pushes all our allies around, suddenly is a man with no agency when it comes to the economy. He says the high cost of living is a Democratic hoax, or in true Christmas spirit, he's back to blaming parents for spoiling their daughters with too many dolls. And while his approval rating slips into the the 30s, voters keep rewarding Democrats at the ballot box. On the healthcare front, Republicans have been promising an alternative to Obamacare for 15 years with nothing to show for it. Plus, the corruption of Trump & Co is so pervasive, it's hard for voters to get their minds around it, and Dems have to go all-in on winning the Senate next year—which means winning independents and non-MAGA republicans in red states. Neera Tanden, at the Center for American Progress, joins Tim Miller. show notes The "Trump's Take" tracker at the Center for American Progress Tim and Andrew's 'Bulwark Take' after Trump's rally Tuesday night Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code BULWARK15 at theperfectjean.nyc/BULWARK15 #theperfectjeanpod
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.thebulwark.comSarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and JVL sort through a wild week: GOP women turning on Mike Johnson, MTG flexing her new “America First” identity, Elise Stefanik scrambling as a primary threat appears in her race for NY governor, Trump's snoozy decline, Hegseth's utter incompetence around Venezuela, and the fight over tariffs and executive power heading towards SCOTUS.Watch, listen, and leave a comment. This ad-free video version of The Next Level is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. You can find The Next Level wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Add The Next Level to your podcast player of choice, here. And help more people find this show by leaving us a review and ⭐⭐⭐⭐ wherever you listen.
Heaping scorn and disdain on Europe, Trump called its countries decaying and its leaders weak, but the U.S. likely needs Europe more than they need us. And while POTUS is whining that Zelensky won't consider his rigged deal with Putin, the corruption of Trump's negotiating team is off the charts, with Witkoff and Kushner trying to work a land deal rather than a peace treaty. Meanwhile, the boat bombings seem to be about performative politics, Hegseth is pushing out another high-ranking black officer—for voicing concerns about the strikes on alleged drug-runners in the Caribbean—and where is the video of that Sept 2 restrike that killed two survivors? Lt. Gen Mark Hertling joins Tim Miller. show notes: Hertling's piece on Trump's new National Security Strategy Hertling on the potential misuse of Special Forces in the boat strikes Remembering National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, by Hertling Email for Tim's mailbag: BulwarkPodcast@thebulwark.com Trump's Politico interview Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK
ICE and Border Patrol are kidnapping people in the suburbs near New Orleans based on racial profiling—it's like the South of 70 years ago. Mini Greg Bovino cares far more about his video team capturing him menacing and harassing people going about their lives than he does about due process and the Fourth Amendment. But despite her own pinup-style social media spreads, Trump may be readying to dump Kristi Noem from DHS. Meanwhile, the administration keeps creating new excuses for why it killed the two shipwrecked men near Venezuela, while also withholding key information. Plus, Trump is handing out more welfare checks to farmers, MTG says MAGA is not America First, the Dems get another shot this week on the affordability issue, Colin Allred may have been unwisely pushed out of the Texas Senate race, and Tim and Bill share a rare ‘you gotta hand it to Ted Cruz' moment. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes Adrian's scoop on how Trump may be moving on from Noem Tim's 'Bulwark Take' on the protests and raids in greater NOLA Bill's "Bulwark on Sunday" with Sen. Warner on the boat strikes Monday's "Morning Shots" Cruz's good tweet
Nicolle Wallace covers Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene's break from Donald Trump as well as the consequences she's faced, such as death threats and targeted Truth Social posts, because of her decision to separate from the MAGA movement.Later, Tim Miller, David Frum, and Maya Wiley join Nicolle to discuss the frequency with which Donald Trump has been falling asleep in his public appearances. Finally, Jacob Soboroff joins the program to provide an update on the story of a young woman who was deported back to Honduras. She was arrested at the airport right before boarding a flight on her way to surprise her family for Thanksgiving break. For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump is overseeing extrajudicial killings off the coast of Venezuela but nothing was going to stop him from getting a peace prize—even if it's a fake one from super highly reputable FIFA. He also helped himself to a federal agency that used to work on peace initiatives, but which Elon DOGE'd. Democrats should embrace the spirit of McCain and focus on the massive corruption in the administration around crypto, the ballroom, the pardons, and more. At the same time, the Dems have a disconnect between leaders and the base over Israel, Netanyahu, and AIPAC. Plus, Candace may be less worried about the French taking her out than she plays on her podcast, and Fox doesn't seem like it's rooting for war in Venezuela. Tommy Vietor joins Tim Miller for the weekend pod. show notes Tommy's podcast, "Pod Save the World" Hillary on TikTok influencing young people's opinions on Israel Ben Rhodes's piece on Israel in the NYT Tim's playlist Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BULWARK at https://www.oneskin.co/BULWARK #oneskinpod
Trump's use of his pardon power is downright crazy, and that's not even counting his rescue of a convicted drug kingpin. He's also sabotaging his own redistricting plans in Texas by pardoning Rep. Henry Cuellar, and wasting taxpayer money absolving a sports executive who was indicted by his own Justice Department earlier this year. Meanwhile, down in NOLA, two men with a Napoleon complex are unleashing misery of the psychic and economic kind on the city through its ICE and Border Patrol operation. Plus, someone needs to scour the immigration history of Phil Mickelson's family, and why is Tucker so obsessed with the gays? Sam Stein joins Tim Miller. Sam's 'Bulwark Take' on the DOJ attorney fired for not restoring Mel Gibson's gun rights Lauren on the Dems itching to go after AI Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK Go to https://zbiotics.com/THEBULWARK and use THEBULWARK at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.
Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and JVL get through a chaotic week in Trump's Washington: Elise Stefanik and Mike Johnson tearing each other apart, Hegseth's shifting alibis for a possible war crime, Trump nodding off while his cabinet members freelance policy, and a fresh round of immigration extremism that targets even legal residents. They also discuss population-collapse warnings, the “narco-terror” fantasy, JD Vance's pathetic theatrics, and Tim's interview with Olivia Nuzzi. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code THENEXTLEVEL at https://www.oneskin.co/THENEXTLEVEL #oneskinpod Go to https://zbiotics.com/NEXTLEVEL and use NEXTLEVEL at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Get $35 off your first box of wild-caught, sustainable seafood—delivered right to your door. Go to: https://www.wildalaskan.com/NEXTLEVEL. Get 40% off your entire order during Soul's Black Friday-Cyber Monday sale at https://GetSoul.com, promo code THENEXTLEVEL.
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.thebulwark.comSarah Longwell, Tim Miller, and JVL get through a chaotic week in Trump's Washington: Elise Stefanik and Mike Johnson tearing each other apart, Hegseth's shifting alibis for a possible war crime, Trump nodding off while his cabinet members freelance policy, and a fresh round of immigration extremism that targets even legal residents. They also discuss population-collapse warnings, the “narco-terror” fantasy, JD Vance's pathetic theatrics, and Tim's interview with Olivia Nuzzi.Watch, listen, and leave a comment. This ad-free video version of The Next Level is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. You can find The Next Level wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Add The Next Level to your podcast player of choice, here. And help more people find this show by leaving us a review and ⭐⭐⭐⭐ wherever you listen.
Trump's rallies have been his signature event, but since he returned to the White House, he has stopped doing them. And his allies are worried he's losing touch with voters, as well as his political antenna. Instead of traveling the country, he's dining with billionaires, playing golf, and going abroad in search of his elusive peace prize. Meanwhile, he can't stay awake in own Cabinet meetings. Plus, the heat is on Hegseth, the ex-Honduran president Trump pardoned bragged about stuffing drugs up the noses of Americans, and the results of the Tennessee special election are a good sign for Democrats—and a reminder for the party to go all-in on the gerrymandering war. Jonathan Lemire joins Tim Miller. show notes Jonathan's piece on Trump not doing rallies The Atlantic on Germany permanently stationing troops beyond its borders
There are no shortage of scandals plaguing Washington D.C. right now. One that has captivated much of the political and media professions involves Olivia Nuzzi, a political writer formerly of the magazine New York, and now an editor with Vanity Fair, who was involved in a relationship with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during the 2024 campaign. Nuzzi's relationship has provided incredible fodder for the press, not least because her ex-fiance, Ryan Lizza, has penned a multi-part series on the matter where he has unspooled numerous accusations against her and RFK Jr., in anticipation of the publication of Nuzzi's book, American Canto, which was released Tuesday. Those accusations are quite serious, many of which Nuzzi addresses in her book, including an admission that she secretly aided RFK Jr.'s campaign. The more important ones, however, deal with RFK Jr. himself, including the charge that he has hid drug use and was both manipulative of and threatening to Nuzzi during their relationship. Nuzzi has not discussed any of it on camera. Until now. In a sit down interview with Tim Miller, she talked about the ethical breaches that cost her her job, the conflict between her responsibilities as a reporter, the private relationship that blurred those boundaries, and the fear and isolation she experienced as the scandal unfolded. She describes withdrawing from the world, fleeing across the country, and trying to rebuild her sense of self while contending with public shaming and, what she saw as, the “weaponization” of her personal life against her. She also offers some insights and revelations regarding the now Health and Human Service secretary, who has denied the relationship. She and Tim discuss her relationship with RFK Jr. and the wreckage that followed, whether he continues to use drugs while occupying a cabinet post, what type of threats she felt, and why she didn't feel compelled to speak up as it became clear that Kennedy was ascending to remarkable heights of political power. They also discuss the broader political moment that shaped all of it: the Trump era's constant tug between reality and spectacle, the corrosion of public trust, and the ways journalists become characters in the dramas they cover. And they broach one of the more understated questions throughout this entire, sordid ordeal: why even bother writing this book to begin with? Nuzzi explains that writing was an act of survival and the clarity that came from separating herself from Washington, D.C.'s rituals and delusions. Along the way, she says, she became further entrenched in the delusions she was hoping to escape. show notes Buy American Canto by Olivia Nuzzi
As a candidate, Trump knew to steer clear of Project 2025. But as president, he embraced its deeply unpopular policy goals and it has been driving down his poll numbers. Meanwhile, what are we doing with Venezuela? No one in the administration has made a remotely convincing case for the intimidation campaign against President Maduro. And the boat bombings are putting members of our military in legal danger under the guidance of Hegseth. Plus, the threats against legislators in Indiana who aren't going along with redistricting, and the broad-based coalition standing up to ICE—including people in costumes and grannies on scooters—has been one of the most successful responses to Trump's immigration agenda. Amanda Carpenter joins Tim Miller. show notes: Protect Democracy's web site Amanda's Substack "If You Can Keep It" on Substack Take advantage of Ridge's Biggest Sale of the Year and GET UP TO 47% Off by going to https://www.Ridge.com/THEBULWARK #Ridgepod
Not only are the opportunities for personal financial gain for Trump and his White House cronies driving the administration's foreign policy decisions, his tariffs look more and more about grift. Trump also inexplicably granted clemency to a private equity exec who ripped off ordinary Americans in a Ponzi scheme, while he plans a pardon for a former Honduran president who trafficked cocaine to America—even as he orders the bombings of suspected drug smugglers in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, on the immigration front, Border Patrol is moving into NOLA, and the administration is exploiting the heinous and tragic DC Guard shooting to try to rid the country of black and brown immigrants. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes Bill's 'Bulwark on Sunday' on Trump's anti-immigrant agenda Tim's 'Bulwark Take' on Scott Jennings WSJ's piece, "Make Money Not War: Trump's Real Plan for Peace in Ukraine" NYT on David Sacks Andy McCarthy on the killing of two survivors of a missile strike in the Caribbean Makeup-less Trump at Mar-a-Lago New Bulwark merch! Go to https://www.american-giant.com and get 20% off your first order with promo code BULWARK. Thanks to American Giant for sponsoring the show!
Americans were already losing touch with basic decency before Trump came along—and he exploited that indecency, distrust, and division to win power. In his new novel, George Packer spins a story of an imaginary country that just collapses, and how ordinary people have to learn to live together again. Fiction has a way of making the real world more clear. Plus, Charlie Kirk's influence on our political climate before his death, JD's phoniness and lust for power, Trump may be flailing but he's still amassed immense power, and how AI moving us away from the written word threatens our democracy. The Atlantic's George Packer joins Tim Miller for the holiday weekend pod. show notes George's new book, “The Emergency: A Novel” Tim's playlist George's piece on Arizona and Charlie Kirk from last year “The Talented Mr. Vance” piece by George Other books by George: “The Assassins' Gate” “The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America” “Last Best Hope: America in Crisis and Renewal”
Trump needs to quit the games and his defamatory accusations about who's in the Epstein files, and just release the 300 gigabytes of data from the Epstein case—even if he has an army of elves trying to redact or whitewash any references or images of Trump himself. Meanwhile, the dismissal of charges against Comey and Tish James show how bad Team Trump is at political retribution. Plus, the commander-in-chief doesn't want members of the military hearing the truth, spies are listening in to Steve Witkoff, and is Weissmann going to sue Trump for defamation? Andrew Weissmann joins Tim Miller. show notes: Andrew's Substack Andrew and Mary McCord's podcast, "Main Justice" New Bulwark merch!
Trump's revenge crusade is collapsing in real time. Botched prosecutions, clown-car legal teams, foreign bot armies propping up MAGA influencers, and a GOP in full-blown identity crisis. JVL, Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller talk about Trump's latest humiliations, the Marjorie Taylor Greene detonation, the Mamdani Oval Office shocker, and the wild bot-farm revelations shaking the right. Oh and Trump looks like he can't walk. Just another week!
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.thebulwark.comTrump's revenge crusade is collapsing in real time. Botched prosecutions, clown-car legal teams, foreign bot armies propping up MAGA influencers, and a GOP in full-blown identity crisis. JVL, Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller talk about Trump's latest humiliations, the Marjorie Taylor Greene detonation, the Mamdani Oval Office shocker, and the wild bot-farm revelations shaking the right. Oh and Trump looks like he can't walk.Just another week!Watch, listen, and leave a comment. This ad-free video version of The Next Level is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. You can find The Next Level wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Add The Next Level to your podcast player of choice, here. And help more people find this show by leaving us a review and ⭐⭐⭐⭐ wherever you listen.
A troika of foreign policy amateurs—Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and JD Vance—are trying to impose a Russia-drafted peace plan on Ukraine. While Trump was in the loop, other senior officials in the administration were in the dark, even as Kushner was using backchannels to work with a Putin ally. Vance eagerly got on board because he's desperate to stab Ukraine in the back and declare himself MAGA's heir apparent for 2028. But rival Marco Rubio—who sees that Russia doesn't really want peace—is working on an alternative deal. Michael Weiss joins Tim Miller to break all the machinations down. Michael's Substack, "Foreign Office" Michael's reporting at "The Insider" Today's Morning Shots New Bulwark merch! Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARK. Promo Code BULWARK
Unrest has broken out in MAGA, and Mike Johnson looks like he's losing control of the House—which means that Trump could be losing control of the party. And the fear of Trump is morphing into loathing because Republicans are not winning. Meanwhile, DOGE has ended in another total Elon failure: Not only was no money saved, the program's biggest success was cutting assistance to the world's most vulnerable people. Trump has only been ‘fixing' the government to work for his grift. Plus, Mamdani showed real political skill in meeting Trump, but the left needs to cool it with its 'Trump is a populist' take. As MTG pointed out, he definitely is not. Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes 'Bulwark on Sunday' with Bill and Catherine Most recent 'Shield of the Republic' Jon on the fraud in the health care system Tim's 'Bulwark Take' on Trump turning 'fascist' into a punchline The Bulwark's new merch! Don't miss NOBL's biggest Sale of the Year! Head to NOBLTravel.com for up to 62% off your entire order! #NOBL #ad
As a man who's not used to losing, Trump is going through a bit of a rough patch since his party turned against him over the Epstein case. He's flailing, lashing out, and acting afraid. After all, he knows how many times his name comes up in the Epstein files, and Ghislaine Maxwell continues to enjoy a bevy of special perks at her cushy prison for some reason. At the same time, the economy isn't helping him, the stench of a lame duck is growing, and the threat of oversight by Dems after the midterms feels real. Plus, some skepticism about MTG's new-found clarity, Fox and Trump's war on Christmas, the crash of bitcoin, and the Kinzinger documentary. Adam Kinzinger joins Tim Miller for the weekend pod. show notes "The Last Republican," the Kinzinger documentary or watch on YouTube Kinzinger's Substack CBS News on the prediction market Kalshi Ghislaine Maxwell's special prison privileges Tim's playlist For a limited time only, get 60% off your first order, plus free shipping, when you head to Smalls.com/THEBULWARK
John welcomes Tim Miller, host of The Bulwark Podcast, back to the show to discuss the signs this week that Donald Trump's fabled base — and broader political coalition — may be starting to unravel. Tim dissects the two main stressors creating fissures within MAGA: Trump's efforts to deep six the Epstein files in the face of his coalition's concerns about pedophilia among the political and financial elite; and the normalization of anti-Semitism on the right as personified by Groyper godfather Nick Fuentes. Tim and John also wax lyrical about the band of this moment, Geese, and ponder the possibility of a previously unreported anatomical commonality between Trump and Epstein. 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
Tim Cook and the other tech titans who dined with bone saw murderer MBS—and who've given millions to Trump to knock down our history for his gilded ballroom—expect the people who use their products every day to protect American democracy, while they reap its benefits to freely act against the public's interest. Meanwhile, Trump's special envoy is acting like an agent of the Russian government, and POTUS shows yet again that he is not a tough negotiator. Plus, Stephen Miller is spreading fear by design, Trump's Epstein capitulation is still worth savoring, and Tim shares his postmortem on his Kamala interview. The New Yorker's Susan Glasser joins Tim Miller. show notes Susan and Peter Baker's book, “The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021” Tim's interview with Kamala in Nashville TAKE THE SURVEY
Before a live audience in Nashville Tuesday, the former MVP served up some stirring words about fighting back against what is happening under Trump. But Harris also threw punches— against the corrupt and callous president who's trying to gaslight Americans about Epstein, and the tech titans who are bending the knee to a tyrant. Also noteworthy: Both MTG and Mamdani come in for some praise. Plus, the power of a consumer boycott, the challenges of being No. 2 on the job, and the still stinging emotions around her 107-day campaign. Former Vice President Kamala Harris joins Tim Miller. show notes "107 Days," by former VP Kamala Harris TAKE THE SURVEY Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/BULWARK and use promo code BULWARK at checkout.
The White House leaks may be more contained in Trump 2.0, but the slavish loyalists who POTUS has surrounded himself with do nothing to keep him within the bounds of the law, ethics, or decorum. So in this round, the chaos is more consequential for the country. Meanwhile, the administration may be prepping to bury the Epstein files. Plus, the bitterness and resentment that drives Trump, the war on truth is winning, and the Bidens' animosity toward Obama. ABC's Jon Karl joins Tim Miller. show notes: Jon's new book, "Retribution: Donald Trump and the Campaign That Changed America" TAKE THE SURVEY
The longest government shutdown in American history ended last week, thanks to 8 Senate Democrats giving up the fight to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies. The infighting between Democrats hasn't stopped since. But what if Democrats' caving was actually a good thing? Tim Miller of the Bulwark joins the show to discuss how the Democrats may be in a prime strategic position as Republicans deal with scandals, skyrocketing costs of living and healthcare, and several MAGA faithful turning on Trump.And in headlines: President Trump sends federal agents to Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of his ongoing immigration crackdown, Marjorie Taylor Greene continues feuding with Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announces a new gas deal with Greece.Show Notes:Check out The Bulwark – www.thebulwark.com/Call Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Live from Crooked Con, Jon Lovett talks to Hasan Piker, Symone Sanders Townsend, Tim Miller, and Jessica Tarlov about why Democrats are the party of humorless scolds, how they let that happen, and how the Republicans crackdown on free speech presents and opening for Democrats to be the fun, welcoming party again. Then, Sen. Chris Murphy joins Dan Pfeiffer to talk about the threats we face and why it's more important than ever for leaders to communicate directly with Americans. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.