JVL and Sonny Bunch take on the bizarre saga of Washington’s algae-filled Reflecting Pool and John Cafaro the Trump-connected donor who landed the contract to fix it. Plus, an unexpected detour into wrestling history, Paul Bearer, and why this whole scandal feels more like a cartoon than real life.Looking for a Father's Day gift? Consider a membership to The Bulwark's website. Learn more at https://www.thebulwark.com/subscribe

Join Catherine Rampell and JVL live as they cover the week's economic and financial news.The Bulwark makes a fantastic Father's Day gift: Learn more at thebulwark.com/subscribe

Will Saletan takes on JD Vance's TV blitz defending the Iran nuclear deal—and checks his claims against the actual text.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller and Will Sommer take on an insane MAGA scandal in DC—fake Secret Service badges, a strip club blowup, tearful confessions about an Iran airstrike that never happened, and an arrest that finally brought the whole charade crashing down. Plus: what exactly is going on with Kari Lake's face?Read Will Sommer's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-shocking-arrest-of-a-maga-pit-bull-fake-secret-service-pal-ryan-fournier-jordan-daleyBulwark website subscriptions make a fantastic Father's Day gift! Learn more at https://www.thebulwark.com/subscribe

Sam Stein, Brendan Hartnett and Sarah Matthews are going live to cover the mess at Trump's renovated Reflecting Pool.

Tim Miller and JVL attempt to read JD Vance’s new memoir 'Communion' and discover a book full of contradictions, self-owns, political rationalizations, and some very revealing clues about the vice president’s worldview.Buy Vance's new book (or don't!): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GTQ68YZN

Journalist Michael Weiss, editor of The Insider, and retired CIA veteran Marc Polymeropoulous take over The Bulwark for the kind of conversation they have with each other every day about the intelligence world, what the hell is happening in the United States and what it means around the globe. As they started recording, Trump was wrapping his bizarre Wednesday speech at the G7 Summit defending his deal with Iran. Marc and Michael go off about the news conference and turn to a riveting conversation about what is different about the war with Iran compared to the continuing show of strength in Ukraine and how that's happening thanks to years of groundwork by the CIA. It's an alliance that is actually winning despite Trump's posture towards Ukraine and the country's president, Volodymyr Zelensky.Follow Marc on X here: https://x.com/Mpolymer...and Michael here: https://x.com/michaeldweissWatch Michael's latest conversation with Tim Miller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85RXVxg8CHIAnd you can read Michael's work on his Substack: https://macspaunday.substack.com/...and at The Insider: https://theins.press/en/authors/weiss

Sam Stein, Andrew Egger, and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.), went live to cover Trump's appearance at the G7 conference. Plus, the gang reacts to the U.S. unveiling the text in their official MOU with Iran.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are joined by Tom Nichols to discuss the week's military news.Read more from Tom Nichols: https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/2026/06/trump-g7-comments-misunderstsand-middle-east/687569/Buy Mark's book here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1966786727/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and JVL give their takes on a bombshell new report from the Washington Post showing Trump's White House ballroom project could cost more than $600 million with taxpayers footing half the bill. They break down the ballooning price tag, the demolition of the East Wing, and whether a future president should just tear the whole thing down.Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol are going live to cover the week's biggest news.Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/bulwarktakes to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Sam Stein and POLITICO’s Chris Cadelago take on reports that the Trump Justice Department is investigating Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. They discuss what's actually known about the probe, the long-running Trump-Newsom rivalry, and whether the investigation is a legitimate corruption case or the latest example of Trump targeting his political opponents.Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at https://BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Tim Miller is joined by journalist and YouTuber Caolan Robertson, reporting from Kyiv after one of Russia's most devastating attacks on Ukraine in months. Caolan witnessed the aftermath firsthand as Russian missiles and drones struck the Dormition Cathedral, a historic monastery and church complex more than 1,000 years old and one of the most significant sites in Christian history. They discuss Putin's escalating campaign against Ukrainian civilians, the hypocrisy of Russia's self-proclaimed defense of "Christian values," and what life is like in Ukraine as Russia intensifies its terror attacks despite mounting setbacks on the battlefield. Caolan also shares his reporting from Ireland, where critical materials continue flowing into Russia's war machine despite public support for Ukraine.Watch more from Caolan: https://www.youtube.com/@CaolanReportsSleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at https://BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to unpack last night's gross UFC fight at the White House, Eric Trump's alleged betting scandal, MAGA allies unhappy about a proposed Iran deal, James Fishback calling his opponent Byron Donalds a "slave," and Spencer Pratt now becoming the Joker after losing the LA mayor's race.Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch during their Annual Summer Event. For a limited time, get 20% off sitewide at BollAndBranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes. Exclusions apply.

Tim Miller and JVL give their takes on Trump's announcement that he's reached a deal with Iran. Pakistan says the deal will be signed on Friday.

Will Saletan gives his take on the Trump administration’s victory lap over a potential Iran agreement and explains why the supposed deal sounds remarkably similar to the nuclear deal Trump spent years attacking. After Pete Hegseth and Mike Waltz hit the Sunday shows to sell Trump’s foreign policy “win,” Will examines the White House's contradictions and what the administration may not be telling you.

Bill Kristol and Ryan Goodman discuss Bill Pulte, FISA, Todd Blanche, and the legality of the Iran War.

The Bulwark's Brendan Hartnett reported live from the Kennedy Center at 2:30 AM on Saturday morning, where Rep. Joyce Beatty—who sued Trump in December after being silenced during the board vote to add his name to the building—joins him to watch it finally come back down, following a federal judge's ruling that only Congress has the authority to rename the memorial.

Tim Miller and political streamer Destiny take on Bulwark Podcast clip that radicalized an anti-communist, Elon's first trillion, Trump's kakistocracy cabinet, why Democrats keep walking into far-left media ambushes, and whether the rest of us have any idea what to do about any of it.

Tim Miller recaps his appearance on Deadline: White House with Nicole Wallace, then delivers his personal thoughts about Pride.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Pete Hegseth's latest workout video was supposed to showcase strength. Instead, it was sloppy, in poor form, and seems to show Trump administration officials more determined to become fitness influencers than lead a country. Will Sommer and Joe Perticone give their takes on Hegseth's viral bench press session, RFK Jr.'s airport pull-up stunts, Kash Patel's workout videos, and the broader obsession with macho posturing in MAGA politics.

Bill Kristol, Sonny Bunch and Brendan Hartnett went live to cover the court ordered removal of Trump's name from the Kennedy Center.Watch Sonny's conversation with Kennedy Center whistleblower Josef Palermo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rEDNCdqYzgRead Sonny's piece on the dismantling of the Kennedy Center: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-day-and-a-nation-at-the-kennedy-center

Join Catherine and JVL at 12:30pm on Friday to discuss the week's economic and financial news.Read Catherine's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receiptsRead JVL's 'Triad' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/thetriad

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer are back and the FBI is coming after Will! How much time is Kash Patel's bureau spending on posting memes than fighting crime? Then, RFK Jr. sits down with a wellness guru whose résumé includes injecting stem cells into his own penis. Naturally, he's now dispensing health advice from the Health and Human Services podcast studio. And finally, the man leading the push to draft former Border Patrol official Greg Bovino for a 2028 presidential run is facing a felony meth charge after a bizarre motel incident. Plus: Candace Owens starts another right-wing influencer war about masculinity.Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESRead more from Will’s False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-dangerous-escalation-losing-war-iran-bombing-kharg-invasion-blanche-epstein

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are going live to cover President Trump's post threatening an invasion of Iran's Kharg Island.Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Sonny Bunch give their takes on the New York Times bombshell surrounding the Trump White House’s frantic effort to manage the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Behind the several meetings in the Situation Room, JD Vance looks ahead to his own 2028 prospects, Dan Bongino screamed at Pam Bondi, and Susie Wiles and Stephen Chung were left trying to contain damage that keeps multiplying. The only consistent goal was protecting Donald Trump from whatever the files might say.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

JVL, Andrew Egger and Ben Parker are going live to discuss Trump's June 10th press event where he said he "loves" inflation and claimed to reveal military secrets about oil in Iran.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are discussing the week's major military and foreign policy news.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Join Sam Stein and Bill Kristol as they cover the evening's primary elections: Maine, South Carolina, and more. Plus, the latest on Iran and Trump digging his heels in on the appointment of Bill Pulte.Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to cover Trump falling asleep after getting booed at the NBA Finals, Mike Johnson and the GOP launching back into election-fraud conspiracy theories, and an update to the Pentagon's fighting with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESRead more from Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/hegseth-loses-his-holy-war-defense-mormonism-lds-christianity-lee

Jonathan Cohn interviewed all three major Democratic candidates in Michigan’s high-stakes Senate race—Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, and Haley Stevens—to compare their views on healthcare, electric vehicles, government spending, and the future of the Democratic Party.Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat, Aspen, and Walden frames at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESRead more on the Michigan Senate race: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/issues-that-could-decide-michigan-senate-race-interviews-mcmorrow-stevens-el-sayed

Tim Miller gives his take on Donald Trump's appearance at Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where the president was met with a chorus of boos from Knicks fans. Tim breaks down the reaction inside MSG, the even harsher response from fans gathered outside to watch the game, and the attempts by Fox News to spin away what everyone could plainly hear. Why does Trump's movement always seem to need validation and why can't they just admit when the crowd turns against him?Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Sam Stein went on MS Now to give his take on the lawsuit trying to stop Donald Trump’s planned UFC event at the White House, the legal questions surrounding it, and why it’s yet another example of Trump blurring the line between public office and private interests. His longtime ally Dana White is involved, Trump holds a financial stake in UFC’s parent company, it's on federal property, and they're having it be a nationally televised by another Trump ally. Then, Sam dives into a new report on FBI Director Kash Patel’s continuing search for evidence of a supposed “deep state” conspiracy against Trump. Why are prosecutors leaving? Why do investigations keep coming up empty?Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Andrew Egger is joined by Casey Michel, author of the forthcoming book United States of Oligarchy: How America's Wealthiest Ally with Dictators, Weaken the U.S., and Destroy Democracy, to examine how Jared Kushner became a walking conflict of interest at the center of American foreign policy. From cultivating relationships with Saudi royals and Gulf autocrats while serving in the White House to launching a multibillion-dollar investment fund backed by foreign governments after leaving office, Casey walks through how Kushner went from being a laughingstock in the Middle East to a billionaire. Plus, with all these foreign interest conflicts, why is Congress allowing him to be one of Trump's key players in negotiations on Gaza, Ukraine, and Iran despite having no traditional diplomatic experience.Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Read more from Casey in Mother Jones: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/06/jared-kushner-affinity-partners-fund-saud[…]gaza-peace-deal-diplomat-steve-witkoff-donald-ivanka-trump/You can pre-order Casey's book here: https://www.amazon.com/United-States-Oligarchy-Wealthiest-Dictators/dp/1250430119/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the flurry of stories across the right-wing fever swamp. They discuss: Mike Lee blasting Pete Hegseth for snubbing Mormons, Kash Patel launching attacks against Judicial Watch, Republicans claiming fraud because Spencer Pratt is losing in the LA mayoral race, Lauren Boebert sounding off on a Fox News reporter, and whether Albania’s PM could be ousted over Jared and Ivanka’s luxury resort.Elevate your summer wardrobe. Go to https://Quince.com/bulwarktakes for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Sonny Bunch and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) review Pressure, the new film about the D-Day weather decision that nearly derailed the largest invasion in history. They discuss what Eisenhower was really up against: a catastrophic dress rehearsal, a ghost army commanded by Patton, alliance politics, and a lone British meteorologist telling him the June 5th launch date would be a disaster. Plus: Hertling on getting caught in an Iraqi sandstorm, the Coast Guard's impossible mission in The Perfect Storm, the Eagle Claw debacle in Argo, and the Benghazi chaos of 13 Hours—and what all of these have in common. Also, was Brendan Fraser the right choice to play Ike?

Tim Miller reacts to Donald Trump’s combative NBC interview, where the president lashes out at the press, revives election conspiracy theories, defends his Jan. 6 compensation fund, dismisses farmers’ economic pain, and makes fresh promises on gas prices and Iran. By the end, the interview devolves into a shouting match—and Trump storms out.

Tom Joscelyn joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday.

Sam Stein and Brendan Hartnett take on the most important research project in American political journalism: documenting every time Donald Trump has publicly lost his mind over how handsome a man is.After over 100 documented instances, it's fair to say we have a pattern on our hands. The president  cannot stop slow-panning across a room full of guys and narrating what he sees. We're not here to judge. We're here to document

Donald Trump has spent years giving his critics material. Will Saletan brings together some of his favorite Bulwark Takes videos covering Trump's most absurd interviews, bizarre conspiracy theories, embarrassing gaffes, and unforgettable Fox News trainwrecks. From anchors desperately trying to coach him through interviews, to the dumbest lies he's said about elections, to his strange relationship with Vladimir Putin, there is no shortage of moments that go from comical to infuriating.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Catherine Rampell and Jonathan Cohn give their takes on the return of the flesh-eating parasite screwworm. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has already blamed the Biden's border and immigration policies as a potential cause after saying in November that it was under control. But is that the full story? We examine whether DOGE-related staffing cuts and the broader erosion of international cooperation may have played a role in weakening surveillance and response systems. Plus, beef prices are already at record highs, and ranchers are warning of even more disruption ahead if the outbreak spreads, we explain the economic impacts this could have on farmers and consumers.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein went live to cover the week's financial and economic news.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Read Catherine Rampell's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Hunter Biden is back online and he’s not just lurking. He’s posting, replying, and diving headfirst into viral Twitter debates with users big and small. JVL, Sam Stein, and Sonny Bunch give their takes on whether Hunter’s unexpected social media renaissance is just chaos…or something more strategic. Could this be a redemption arc? A political liability? Or even the beginning of a strange new media career?Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Tim Miller takes on the Senate vote that kept Trump’s controversial $1.8 billion fund alive, exposing the Republican lawmakers who condemned it in public and then helped save it behind closed doors. Plus, the growing controversy surrounding Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, and Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump’s luxury island project in Albania as questions about corruption and self-enrichment continue to mount.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

CNN’s Donie O’Sullivan joins Sam Stein and Will Sommer to discuss his new reporting on the Groypers, the followers of white nationalist streamer Nick Fuentes. Donie spoke to two Groypers who defended Fuentes sexist and racist views. But shortly after they spoke, the two were admonished by Fuentes and faced calls by other supporters to be doxxed because of how they looked. Sam, Will and Donie break down what it actually means to be a Groyper and how online extremism, irony, and nihilism blur together.Watch more of Donie’s work: https://www.cnn.com/videos/title-2600247Read Will Sommer's 'False Flag' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

As House Democrats look to reclaim the majority in 2026, DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene joins Joe Perticone to unveil four new Democratic target districts and explains why her party believes the political map is expanding. DelBene discusses emerging pickup opportunities in New Jersey, California, Nebraska, and Florida, including the growing controversy surrounding Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from public view for months. Plus, Joe also asks Florida's newly redrawn congressional map and whether DelBene and the DCCC is supporting Debbie Wasserman Schultz in her controversial new district.Read Joe Perticone's 'Press Pass' Newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/presspass

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer are back to give their takes on Ivanka and Jared Kushner’s luxury island project in Albania that's sparking mass protests, the candidate in Colorado’s Republican gubernatorial race who claims he performs exorcisms, and the federal insider trading investigation into George Santos. Plus, Will brings the latest update from the increasingly chaotic world of right-wing influencer Elijah Schaefer.Read Will Sommer's 'False Flag' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Tim Miller takes on the growing controversy surrounding Delaney Hall, the ICE detention facility facing allegations of abusive conditions, blocked inspections, and a detainee hunger strike. He also examines the confrontation outside the facility involving protesters and Senator Andy Kim.Life inside the Delaney Hall ICE detention camp is a travestyhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jun/02/ice-detention-camp-delaney-hallS.O.S: A Second Letter From Delaney Hall: https://www.lahuelga.com/sos

Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (ret.) discuss Pete Hegseth’s controversial intervention in military promotions, rising tensions with Iran, and Ukraine’s latest strikes deep inside Russia. Then they’re joined by former Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Eric Schoomaker for a wide-ranging conversation on Ebola, pandemic preparedness, military medicine, and what America may be losing as public health infrastructure is dismantled.

Jonathan Cohn talks with oncologist and UPenn vice provost Zeke Emanuel about the breakthrough new pancreatic cancer treatment—what the science actually means, why it took so long, and what Trump's cuts to federal research funding put at risk.

Tim Miller talks with Rufus Gifford—former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark—about Jeff Landry's uninvited, chaotic trip to Greenland as Trump's made-up "special envoy." Spoiler: it did not go well for Landry.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at PocketHose.com/terms.

Sam Stein and Semafor's Max Tani go live to react to CBS firing Scott Pelley from 60 Minutes. Pelley's firing comes after he tore into Bari Weiss and 60 Minutes' new executive producer Nick Bilton, accusing Weiss of "murdering" the venerated newsmagazine.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Sarah Longwell gives her take on the state of the race in Iowa ahead of Tuesday's primary elections. With Donald Trump's approval numbers slipping, farmers feeling the effects of tariffs, and growing frustration with Republican leadership in the state, Democrats believe they have a real opportunity to compete in races that once seemed out of reach. Sarah breaks down what's driving voter anger and looks at Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand, the Democratic Senate primary between Josh Turek and Zach Wahls, and why national political observers are suddenly paying close attention to a state that has trended Republican for years. Is Iowa becoming competitive again? And could it be one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 election cycle?Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at PocketHose.com/terms.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to react to Trump’s shocking decision to install housing official Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence, despite having no intelligence background. They discuss what the appointment says about Trump’s priorities, growing concerns about the weaponization of government power, signs of Republican resistance on Capitol Hill, and whether Trump’s increasingly frustrated behavior signals deeper problems ahead for his presidency.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

JVL and Will Sommer give their takes on the explosive showdown inside CBS News after Scott Pelley confronted new 60 Minutes executive producer Nick Bilton during his first meeting with staff. According to reporting from Oliver Darcy's Status newsletter, Pelley blasted CBS leadership and declared that Bari Weiss is "murdering 60 Minutes." JVL and Will break down what happened in the meeting, why Bilton appeared unprepared for the backlash, the firing of key 60 Minutes staffers, and what the corporate overhaul could mean for the future of the iconic broadcast. They also discuss why many journalists believe the changes have little to do with digital growth and everything to do with control over the newsroom.Read more from Status: https://www.status.news/p/scott-pelley-60-minutes-nick-bilton-bari-weiss

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger give their takes on the breaking news that the Trump administration is reportedly pausing and potentially abandoning the controversial $1.8 billion slush fund for January 6 defendants and other Trump allies. Sam and Andrew walk through how the arrangement came together, why judges are now scrutinizing it, and why even Republican lawmakers are growing uneasy with the implications. But just because they said it's "paused," is it actually over?

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live on Monday at 10am to cover the outrage from Republicans about artists cancelling on America 250 and Trump making it a rally instead, the Proud Boys bringing cookies to a pro-ICE rally, Trump’s former Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino hanging with white nationalists, and James Fishback’s ex-girlfriend speaking out.Read more from Will: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Catherine Rampell and Will Sommer take on one of the strangest stories in American politics: a mystery candidate named Dan Sullivan has entered the Alaska Senate race—as a Republican—to run against the incumbent Republican senator also named Dan Sullivan. Who recruited him, why does his photo look AI-generated, and why is a Peltola-aligned strategist's name buried in the press release metadata?

Nathaniel Zelinsky, lead counsel in the Kennedy Center case against Trump, joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday to discuss the current situation with Trump and the courts.Nathaniel Zelinsky is a senior counsel and member of the Washington Litigation Group’s steering committee. He is an appellate lawyer who has handled high stakes cases involving major constitutional questions and multibillion dollar disputes, and has argued at every level of the federal judiciary, including before the Supreme Court.

Tim Miller and Pablo Torre take on the White House calling Tim an Iranian propagandist, how Trump colonized American sports culture—from SEC stadiums to the White House lawn—and why Democrats keep fumbling the ball on sports politics.

Catherine Rampell welcomes Epstein survivor Annie Farmer to discuss Pam Bondi’s closed-door congressional testimony, the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files, and the unanswered questions that continue to fuel demands for transparency. Farmer shares her firsthand perspective on the investigation, the treatment of survivors, concerns about missing documents, and why accountability remains elusive decades after the first warnings about Epstein.

Ben Parker and Sonny Bunch give their takes on the news that a federal judge's ruled that Trump's name must be removed from Kennedy Center. They examine the legal battle, the mass exodus of performers, the uncertain future of upcoming seasons, and how Trump's efforts to remake the Kennedy Center may have backfired.Read more from Sonny's piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-day-and-a-nation-at-the-kennedy-centerWatch Sonny's conversation with Josef Palermo's on the Kennedy Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rEDNCdqYzg

Catherine and JVL are going LIVE at 12:30pm  on Friday.Read Catherine Rampell's 'Receipts' newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Tim Miller reacts after the official White House account suggested he should be investigated under FARA over his commentary on the Iran war. He also breaks down the Trump administration’s escalating use of the DOJ against critics, including a criminal investigation against E. Jean Carroll, and explains why he believes the White House is lashing out as the Iran negotiations unravel.

JVL and Sam Stein give their takes on CBS News firing Sharyn Alfonsi, Cecilia Vega, and top executives at 60 Minutes. Plus, they break down why the changes at CBS News appear tied to corporate merger politics from Trumpworld and what the shakeup says about the future of independent journalism in America.

JVL and Sonny Bunch take on Trump's "Freedom 250" disaster—the washed-up acts already bailing on the Great American State Fair, the UFC cage being built on the White House lawn, and why the whole spectacle looks less like a birthday party and more like something straight out of The Boys.

Sam and Will went live at 11am ET to cover the week's biggest developments in the right wing fever swamp.Get 50% off of a new Bulwark+ subscription for the next year, that’s everything we offer on our website, by going to thebulwark.com/sanity – this is a limited time offer.

Andrew Egger and Will Saletan give their takes on Trump’s latest cabinet meeting spectacle, from his bizarre rant about the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, potentially bombing Oman, and Pete Hegseth pitching a staggering $1.5 trillion defense budget. As Trump’s poll numbers slide and Republicans brace for a brutal midterm environment, the White House still seems trapped in a reality-defying loyalty pageant.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live on Wednesday at 10:30am ET to cover the latest on the war in Iran and Pete Hegseth's graduation speech at West Point where he blamed “foolish and feckless leaders” for promoting diversity.Programming note: On June 8 at 7pm ET, Mona Charen and Mark Hertling will kick off the Bulwark Book Club with a live chat about Mark’s book, If I Don’t Return: A Father’s Wartime Journal. This livestream is for Bulwark+ subscribers on Substack and YouTube.Mark’s book consists of a series of journal entries Mark wrote to his two young sons while he was deployed in the Middle East. You can order Mark's book from Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or buy a signed copy via the publisher.Have question for Mark after reading If I Don’t Return? Drop your questions here or on this members-only post and join us live June 8. Members-only post: https://www.youtube.com/post/UgkxLdXeNJIIRiHPOGdVqOZQi2wa5KfRRniYMark's book: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1966786727/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on Donald Trump’s latest visit to Walter Reed, the White House’s growing secrecy around his health, and the bizarre effort by the White House to defend footage of the president appearing to fall asleep during meetings. They discuss Trump’s repeated medical checkups, his confusing answers about MRIs and CAT scans, comparisons to the Biden health debate, and why transparency matters when it comes to the president of the United States.

Andrew and Bill went live at 10am ET on Tuesday to cover the notable deflections over the weekend from a small group of GOP Senators about a potential deal with Iran, the worsening approval ratings for Trump and the war, and the reported potential plan by the U.S. to have Iran send its enriched uranium to Pakistan, Turkey, Russia, or China.Read more from Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trumps-iran-war-was-a-failure-deal-ceasefire-hormuz-nuclear-program-senators-wicker-graham-cruzGet 50% off of a new Bulwark+ subscription for the next year, that’s everything we offer on our website, by going to https://www.thebulwark.com/sanity – this is a limited time offer.

Jasmine poses Triad readers’ questions to JVL: How can we stop Trump's slush fund? Will AI discourse dominate the 2028 campaign? Why does Trump keep turning down Iran's proposals to end the war? What is the true definition of populism? All that and more (like whether JVL thinks his best friend, Sarah Longwell, should run for Senate in Pennsylvania) in this week’s mailbag.Paid members of the Bulwark can get the full episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube or Substack.

Van Lathan joined Tim Miller at the Los Angeles live show to break down the SCOTUS VRA ruling and what it really means for the Deep South—including a conversation with his 88-year-old grandmother who thought the civil rights battle was already won. Plus: Van's gym run-in with Theo Von, whether MAGA can be deprogrammed, and why he's not the one to do it (but Tim might be).

Ebola is back. Hantavirus is spreading. So Sonny Bunch and Jonathan Cohn revisited three pandemic "classics"—And the Band Played On, Contagion, and Outbreak—to see which one we're actually living in.

Before the DNC released its unfinished autopsy report on May 21, The Bulwark published an exclusive behind-the-scenes article with an accounting of what happened inside the Biden and Harris presidential campaigns in 2024. It was written by Rob Flaherty who served as deputy campaign manager. Flaherty had been interviewed for the autopsy and, before anything was released from the DNC, felt it was critical to pull back the curtain on his view that Democrats ran a campaign built for a world that no longer exists. From his descriptions of a political brand failure, what happened during negotiations with Joe Rogan and the breakdowns he says happened around social media, it is a more complete "autopsy" than what was ultimately released. To bring Flaherty's piece to you as quickly as possible, we've used computer-generated narration with an intro by The Bulwark's Sam Stein.

Catherine Rampell welcomes former DHS official Doug Rand to take on Trump’s purposely chaotic new green card policy, why legal immigrants and Silicon Valley are panicking, and how the administration may be using confusion and fear to push people out of the country.Listen to Doug Rand's podcast, 'The Melting Pod' — https://meltingpod.org/

Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, Sam Stein, Van Lathan, Brian Tyler Cohen, Jon Favreau, Jane Coaston and Erin Gloria Ryan appeared on stage LIVE in Los Angeles on May 21, 2026.The Bulwark hosted a live quiz pitting the two teams against each other on the most obscure—and embarrassing—chapters of recent political history. Plus: the DNC autopsy gets roasted, California goes on trial, and JD Vance receives the takedown he deserves.

Bill Kristol talks with Michael Wood about his military service and the debacle of Trump's Iran war.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein & Andrew Egger went live to cover what appears to be an imminent deal to end the war in Iran.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer descend into the strangest corners of MAGA internet culture: January 6 reparations, Hunter Biden teaming up with Candace Owens, Nick Fuentes feuding with Tucker Carlson, and the surreal “Beartaria” compound where the internet’s saddest men are trying to build a right-wing utopia. Plus: San Diego Republican drama, burglar twinks, and more deeply cursed political lore.

Join Catherine Rampell and JVL at 12:30pm ET as they go live to discuss the biggest political, financial and economic stories of the week.Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/BULWARKTAKES to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger are going live to give their takes on Tulsi Gabbard’s resignation from the Trump administration.Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://hims.com/BULWARKTAKES to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.

Catherine Rampell is joined by Thomas Florsheim Jr., whose company makes the president’s favorite shoe brand, to discuss what Trump’s tariff agenda has meant for his business. From skyrocketing import costs to supply-chain chaos to millions paid in tariffs, Thomas explains why reshoring production to the United States still doesn’t make economic sense. He describes the scramble to move manufacturing between countries, the hidden costs businesses face from constant policy uncertainty, and why his company ultimately sued the federal government over the tariffs.Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.Read more from Catherine Rampell: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receipts

Will Saletan gives his take on Todd Blanche’s embarrassing performance as Donald Trump’s acting Attorney General, and why his public defenses of the administration keep collapsing under scrutiny. From reviving debunked 2020 election claims to arguing that indictments themselves are proof of guilt, except when it comes to Trump, Blanche repeatedly finds himself trying to justify glaring double standards in real time. Will walks through Blanche’s interviews, the James Comey indictment, Trump’s public pressure on DOJ leadership, and how the Justice Department is shaped by loyalty to Trump rather than consistent legal principles.Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Join Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, and Sam Stein live on the Bulwark tour bus, as they head to Los Angeles.Get 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

Jonathan Cohn is joined by Dr. Craig Spencer to break down the growing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, why global health officials are sounding the alarm, and how Trump-era cuts to public health infrastructure could affect the response. Spencer is an emergency medicine physician and Ebola survivor. During the historic 2014 outbreak, he treated patients and then contracted Ebola himself, became one of the most visible voices during that crisis. Dr. Spencer explains why this outbreak has experts more worried than past Ebola flare-ups, how Ebola actually spreads, and why it is very different from a respiratory virus like COVID.Read more from Jonathan Cohn: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-decimated-our-global-health-network-then-ebola-hit-outbreakGet 20% off your first order, plus free shipping during the Memorial Day Sale at https://www.bollandbranch.com/bulwarktakes with code bulwarktakes.

JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump’s bizarre comments about wanting to be prime minister of Israel, his relationship with Netanyahu, and his supposed “99%” approval rating in Israel. They also break down the growing MAGA divide over Israel and Iran, Thomas Massie’s defeat, and why Trump’s political instincts may finally be slipping. Plus: the Republican backlash to Trump’s billion-dollar ballroom and what it says about a president governing like he has nothing left to lose.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Donald Trump turns 80 next month, but Democrats still seem reluctant to make his age and health a political issue. Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes on the questions about Trump’s bruised hands, dentist visits, public appearances, and why the overall transparency about Trump's health hasn't become a bigger story even after Republicans spent years relentlessly attacking Joe Biden over age and decline. Plus: Sam attempts to test Trump’s concealer explanation himself.Read more from Lauren's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/democrats-trump-aging-elderly-very-old-hands-makeupText TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live on Wednesday morning to give their takes on NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's comments about the Strait of Hormuz and the reported plan by the U.S. and Israel to install Mahmoud Ahmadinejad back to power in Iran. Plus, Ben and Mark break down why Pete Hegseth's decision to pull troops out of Poland makes no sense and dismiss Vance's ridiculous comments about Trump and Ukraine.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.

Donald Trump just endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over longtime Senator John Cornyn. Tim Miller joined Chris Jansing on MS Now to say it’s one of the most humiliating political rejections imaginable. After years of defending Trump, flattering Trump, and publicly groveling for Trump’s approval, Cornyn still got tossed aside in favor of Paxton, a scandal-plagued MAGA loyalist. Tim breaks down why Trump’s endorsement matters, what it says about the Republican Party, and why Democrats believe James Talarico could now have a real opening in Texas.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and JVL give their takes on Rep. Thomas Massie's primary loss to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Andrew Egger and Will Sommer take on the chaos erupting inside the January 6th world now that Trump's $1.776 billion "weaponization" slush fund is real — including two MAGA lawyers in an all-out war over who gets to skim 30% off the rioters' windfall, and one miraculous lung recovery that happened to coincide with the fund's announcement.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.The Trio is live in San Diego on Wednesday, May 20th—grab your tickets at https://thebulwark.com/events.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to discuss the terms of Trump’s $1.776 billion slush fund for his fans, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defending the outrageous fund to Congress, Trump’s slipping poll numbers. Plus, amid a war in Iran and surging gas prices, Trump has his eyes on one thing: the ballroom.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer are finally doing it live—and before they hit the stage in San Diego, they’re warming up with the week’s most unhinged news from MAGA World. Trump is amplifying bizarre (flattering?) information about Thomas Massie’s sex life. Hunter Biden is going on Candace Owens. And a January 6th grifter made a miraculous recovery the moment reparations money appeared.The Trio is live in San Diego on Wednesday, May 20th—grab your tickets at https://thebulwark.com/events.Make today a good day, and get yourself some Soul gummies. Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller takes on Trump's last-minute decision to stand down from a planned military strike on Iran, and why the real story isn't the diplomacy, it's who's doing the asking. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE told Trump to hold off, and he said yes.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Andrew Egger and Joe Perticone give their takes on Trump’s shocking new $1.776 billion “anti-weaponization” settlement fund, a scheme that could funnel taxpayer money to January 6 defendants and other Trump allies. They explain how the administration rushed the deal to avoid judicial scrutiny, why Congress likely won’t stop it, and how Republicans could end up politically trapped ahead of a tough midterm season defending payouts to convicted rioters.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live to cover Trump withdrawing his $10B lawsuit against the IRS, the $1.7B slush fund for MAGA allies, Trump’s bizarre Bible reading, Laura Loomer’s fight with Thomas Massie that includes accusations of swinging and cocaine, and groyper drama involving a witch that you need to hear to believe.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Tim Miller and Cameron Kasky join together in New Orleans for a weekend potpourri: the most expensive congressional primary in history (and why a Parkland survivor is rooting for the libertarian gun guy), Eric Metaxas declaring God's divine will is being spent on Trump's ballroom, and why Trump's Iran threats stopped meaning anything weeks ago. Plus: oil at $107, the parliamentarian strikes back, and Tim gets caught on Geese Reddit.

Bill Cassidy tried to survive Trump’s wrath after voting for his impeachment. It didn’t work. Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell take on Cassidy’s crushing third place finish, Lindsey Graham’s comments about “Trump’s party,” and what it means for Republicans who cross Trump.

Rob Flaherty, deputy campaign manager of Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign, joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday to discuss his massive article on the missing DNC autopsy, what really sunk the campaign, and the future of elections.

Will Saletan takes on Donald Trump’s own words on the Iran war, gas prices, inflation, and the economy — and methodically shows how Trump keeps contradicting himself on camera. From $300 oil to “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation,” this is a devastating walkthrough of Trump’s economic and political logic.

Tim Miller talked to Nicolle Wallace on MS Now to give his take on Trump’s embarrassing summit in China, where Trump praised Chinese President Xi Jinping and left with no results for ending the war in Iran. Plus, Tim gave his take on the proposed $1.7 billion fund tied to Trump allies and January 6-related figures, raising fresh concerns about corruption, political favoritism, and taxpayer money being directed toward controversial recipients.Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Tim Miller is joined by Johnny Garcia, a Democrat running in Texas’s 35th Congressional District, where a closely watched runoff on May 26 could help decide control of a key House seat. Garcia, a deputy sheriff and former hostage negotiator, outlines his background in law enforcement and his pitch to working-class voters who are struggling with rising costs and economic uncertainty. They also talk about the unusual dynamics of the race: Republicans are reportedly spending significant money to boost Garcia’s runoff opponent, a fringe candidate accused of promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories, in an apparent effort to shape a more favorable general election matchup after mid-cycle redistricting in Texas.Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Catherine Rampell and JVL went LIVE to give their takes on Trump's reported plans for a secretive $1.7 billion taxpayer-funded slush fund that could quietly reward Jan. 6 defendants and Trump political allies behind closed doors.Refresh your everyday with luxury you’ll actually use. Head to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Read Catherine Rampell's newsletter, 'Receipts' — https://www.thebulwark.com/s/receiptsRead JVL's newsletter, 'The Triad' — https://www.thebulwark.com/s/thetriad

Tim Miller takes on reports that Kash Patel is snorkeling at Pearl Harbor, rigging the most wanted list, and jetting his girlfriend around Europe on your dime. Meanwhile Trump just created a $1.7 billion slush fund for his criminal allies—no Congress required.

Joshua Doss joins Sam Stein to discuss why Black voters are abandoning the Democratic Party, how Republican redistricting may have accidentally handed organizers their most powerful message in years, and why the voters Democrats need most are the ones they've ignored the longest.

Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, and JVL are doing a bonus not-quite-TNL to take on Trump’s staggering $10 billion lawsuit scheme against the federal government, the MAGA civil war over Thomas Massie, and the surreal Capitol Hill bar confrontation involving Rand Paul’s son, antisemitic insults, and Kentucky Republican chaos. Plus, JD Vance launches an “anti-fraud” task force while Trump’s allies chase billions and pardon money.Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20.And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage.Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the report from NOTUS that Senator Rand Paul’s son  confronted Congressman Mike Lawler in a drunken late-night exchange that reportedly included anti-Semitic remarks, a rant about Thomas Massie’s Kentucky primary, and even complaints about the SALT cap. The two unpack the growing MAGA civil war surrounding Massie, the influence of figures like Tucker Carlson, and why Trumpworld appears determined to crush one of the few Republicans willing to openly defy Trump. They also dive into the bizarre allegations now hanging over Massie’s re-election campaign, including “cow money,” workplace complaints, and a last-minute political hit that could shake up the race.JOIN US! We’ll have some chatty friends joining us on stage for Bulwark Live in San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. For details or to grab your seats today head to TheBulwark.com/Events. More

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the explosive Senate hearing where Senator Chris Van Hollen pressed FBI Director Kash Patel over his reported heavy drinking, leak hunts, and polygraph tests inside the FBI. What started as a bizarre exchange about an alcohol “AUDIT test” quickly spiraled into accusations, evasions, and some very awkward denials. The two unpack Patel’s combative performance, the administration’s growing paranoia over leaks, and why Donald Trump may see Patel as too useful to lose, no matter how chaotic things get.Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20.And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage.Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Tim Miller gives his take on the troubling pattern involving several January 6 defendants who were pardoned by Donald Trump and have since been re-arrested or charged with new crimes in the last year. Recent cases include allegations ranging from assault and harassment to child sexual exploitation charges, as well as violent threats against elected officials, including Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Just announced: San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and our own MAGA culture expert, Will Sommer, will join the gang on stage at Bulwark Live: San Diego on May 20.And on May 21 at Bulwark Live: LA our friends Jane Coaston, Jon Favreau, Erin Ryan from , The Ringer’s Van Lathan and progressive commentator Brian Tyler Cohen will join Sarah, Tim and Sam on stage.Grab your seats today at: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Sam Stein is joined by Rep. Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, for his take on Trump’s war in Iran, the $29 billion estimate of the cost of the war, the $1.2 trillion cost to make a “Golden Dome” style defense, and Congressman Smith’s plan to investigate the U.S. strike on an Iranian girl’s school that killed over 100 people.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Jonathan Cohn and Andrew Egger are going live to cover the breaking news that FDA Commissioner Marty Makary has resigned.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Read Jonathan Cohn's The Breakdown Newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/the-breakdownRead Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshotsTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live at 10am ET to discuss Trump's insane overnight Truth Social posts about how “Dumacrats Love Sewage” and how Barack Obama should be prosecuted for treason. Plus, the Trump family's latest grift is their non-existent cellphone Trump Mobile, despite collecting $59 million in deposits. And, Catherine Rampell joins Andrew to break down the latest inflation numbers, the highest in nearly three years.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Read Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshotsTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein joined Katy Tur on MS Now to break down the Trump administration’s increasingly desperate messaging on the economy as prices keep climbing and voters feel the squeeze. As top Trump economic adviser Kevin Hassett pointed to soaring credit card spending as proof the economy is “strong,” Trump is now proposing a federal gas tax holiday, and is considering easing tariffs on beef imports.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.Watch Katy Tur Reports on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live at 10am ET on Monday, May 11 to discuss the golden statue of Trump just unveiled at his golf club, the Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy going on a 7-month road trip, Trump's obsession with painting the reflecting pool, and the UFC fight next month on the White House lawn.Text TAKES to 64000 for your 2 free gifts with the purchase of any Pocket Hose Ballistic hose. By Texting 64000, you agree to receive recurring automated marketing messages from Pocket Hose. Message frequency varies and data rates may apply. Text STOP at any time to opt out. Text HELP for additional Information. No purchase required. Terms apply, available at https://PocketHose.com/terms.Read Will Sommer's False Flag newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flagTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sonny Bunch and Lt. General Mark Hertling (Ret.) break down the greatest war movies ever made from "Saving Private Ryan" and "Black Hawk Down" to "Gettysburg" and "Patton." But this isn’t just a movie ranking. Hertling explains what these films reveal about leadership, combat, strategy, sacrifice, and the real human cost of war. Drawing on decades of military experience, he discusses which movies got war right, what Hollywood still misses, and why stories about combat still matter today.

In a special pre-recorded edition of Bulwark on Sunday, Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell discuss the Virginia redistricting shock, the fight for the 2026 Senate map, Trump’s falling approval numbers, and why Democrats have a much bigger opening than they realize. They also talk about inflation, tariffs, the Iran war’s effect on gas prices, Trump voter backlash, and why Democrats need to stop panicking and start campaigning like they’re trying to win power back.

Tim Miller reacts to the escalating fight over redistricting and voting rights after appearances on 'All In with Chris Hayes' and 'Katy Tur Reports,' breaking down the Louisiana and Tennessee map battles, canceled votes, and why he believes Republicans are trying to rig the midterms in plain sight. Plus, Tim discusses the Iran war, Trump’s obsession with getting a deal, and why Iran and Russia may see weakness in Trump’s “day-by-day” political styleAll In with Chris Hayes: https://www.ms.now/allKaty Tur Reports: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reportsON SALE NOW: Bulwark Live is coming to San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. Just announced! We’re adding some chatty friends to the lineups for both shows. Grab your seats now to join Sarah, Tim and Sam for an evening of politics among friends and keep an eye on https://TheBulwark.com/Events for more announcements.

JVL is joined by SiriusXM's The Catholic Channel host Katie McGrady to break down one of the strangest diplomatic moments of the year: Secretary of State Marco Rubio meeting Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican and gifting him a crystal football paperweight. They unpack the awkward exchange, why the Trump administration seems uneasy with the first American pope, and how previous presidents and diplomats handled papal gifts with a lot more thought.ON SALE NOW: Bulwark Live is coming to San Diego on May 20 and Los Angeles on May 21. Just announced! We’re adding some chatty friends to the lineups for both shows. Grab your seats now to join Sarah, Tim and Sam for an evening of politics among friends and keep an eye on https://TheBulwark.com/Events for more announcements.

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell break down the shocking Virginia Supreme Court decision overturning the state’s new redistricting maps and what it means for the battle for control of the House in 2026. Democrats believed Virginia was their biggest answer to Republican-led mid-cycle gerrymandering in states like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. Sam and Sarah explain why the decision is such a major setback for Democrats, how Republicans are redrawing districts across the South, and whether Democrats can still overcome a growing GOP structural advantage.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Catherine Rampell and JVL went live at 12:30pm ET to discuss the week's economic and financial news.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sarah Longwell and Catherine Rampell react to the absurd new YouGov poll asking whether Americans think they—or even an 8-year-old boy—could beat Donald Trump in a fight.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Jonathan Cohn is joined by epidemiologist and former CDC consultant Katelyn Jetelina to unpack the emerging hantavirus outbreak linked to a small expedition cruise ship in the South Atlantic. Katelyn breaks down what hantavirus is, how it typically spreads, why this outbreak is unusual, and what health officials actually know so far. She also explains why experts are urging calm rather than panic and how different the hantavirus is from Covid.Read more of Katelyn's work: https://yourlocalepidemiologist.substack.com/Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Tim Miller breaks down the rapidly escalating confrontation between the U.S. and Iran after Iranian forces targeted American destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. responded with new strikes on Iranian military assets. Despite active combat at sea, Donald Trump insists the ceasefire is still intact, even calling the exchange a “love tap.” Tim gives his take on the administration’s contradictory messaging, global oil markets, and America’s role in the region.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes on the first ads from Maine Senate candidates Graham Platner and Susan Collins. The two campaigns couldn’t be more different. Platner comes out aggressively, launching a hard-hitting populist message that goes straight at Collins’ record and frames the race as part of a broader fight over power, Trump, and the direction of the country. Meanwhile, Susan Collins responds with a very different strategy: a nostalgic, local-focused ad centered on a decade-old infrastructure win in Maine. Sam and Lauren dig into what these opening ads reveal about each campaign’s theory of the race, whether Collins’ long-standing strengths still hold in today’s environment, and how Platner is betting that going on offense early will define her before she can define him.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Sarah Longwell takes on growing backlash from Trump’s own voters as rising gas prices, grocery costs, and the fallout from the Iran war hammer household budgets. New focus groups reveal frustration, disappointment, and anger from people who believed Trump’s promises on the economy and “no more forever wars.”Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Bulwark Live: California tickets are on sale now! Sarah and gang return to sunny Southern California for two nights May 20 & 21. For details and tickets go to https://TheBulwark.com/Events.

Tim Miller joins Nicole Wallace on MSNBC with General Mark Hertling to discuss the Iran war chaos—Trump undercut Rubio twice in one day, the ceasefire is already wobbling, and the "deal" is one page long. Plus: Trump declared war on the Pope and is losing that one too.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-houseThe Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Tim Miller reacts to Barack Obama and Stephen Colbert joking about Trump, “Colbert 2028,” Democratic messaging failures, and the corruption Americans have somehow normalized in modern politics. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on the breaking news that the FBI raided the office of Virginia Democrat Louise Lucas, the bizarre presence of a Fox News crew already on the scene, and the FBI’s reported investigation into leaks connected to a damaging Atlantic story about FBI Director Kash Patel.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker went live to discuss the Washington Post’s reporting that Iran has hit more U.S. military assets than previously reported, the pause on Trump’s Project Freedom hours after it was announced, and whether Putin had any say about the U.S. withdrawing troops from Germany.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Read more from the Washington Post exclusive: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/2026/05/06/iran-us-bases-satellite-images/Read more from Mark's piece on Germany:https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-last-time-we-reduced-troops-in-europe-war-germany-withdrawal-russia-ukraine-nato-trump-hegsethRead more from Mark's piece on culture at the Pentagon: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/pete-hegseth-change-military-culture-firings-diversity-general-secretary-admiralThe Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Sam Stein joined Nicolle Wallace on Deadline: White House to break down Trump’s billion-dollar White House ballroom boondoggle, the GOP’s corruption problem, Democratic Senate momentum, and why the “Epstein class” attack line may be landing harder than Republicans expected. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-houseTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller and Will Sommer give their take on the Libs of TikTok’s latest campaign targeting a Louisiana doctor and the disturbing evolution of the account growing into right-wing influencer operation. As Libs of TikTok is now deploying a rotating cast of influencer-style hosts to mass-produce outrage content, Tim and Will get into why the anti-cancel culture crowd still seems obsessed with getting random people fired, and how accusations of “violence” are being stretched beyond recognition to punish dissent. Plus, the hypocrisy of the modern free speech debate and why MAGA’s culture war machine never really moved on from cancel culture after all.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Bill Kristol are going live to discuss Senate Republicans' request for $1 billion in taxpayer money for Trump's ballroom after Trump claimed it was "free of charge." Plus Pete Hegseth announces a new military campaign in Iran, while also claiming the ceasefire is still in place.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller is joined by Gas Buddy's Head of Petroleum Analysis Patrick De Haan for his take on the escalating oil crisis, surging gas prices, and why Americans could be feeling the effects for a long time. De Haan warns that every day the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted could mean weeks of recovery for global oil markets, potentially leading to a 65-week climb back to pre-crisis prices. He also predicts a July 4 “sticker shock” as rising diesel costs drive up prices on everything from gas to summer cookout staples. They break down why U.S. oil production can’t insulate Americans from global markets, how refinery problems are making things worse, and why this crisis could ripple through the entire economy.Read more from Patrick's work: https://gaspriceguy.substack.com/For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Jared Poland headed to Capitol Hill after reports that Donald Trump will put his face on U.S. passports—and finds Republicans either defending it, laughing it off, or refusing to engage. For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off Aura Frame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.

Will Saletan breaks down Tucker Carlson’s series of interviews with the New York Times and shows why his “apology tour” doesn’t hold up. From flat-out denials caught on tape to wild swings between moral outrage and shrugging off atrocities, the pattern is the story: in one moment he sounds reasonable, in the next he’s saying the exact opposite. Read Lulu Garcia-Navarro's article on Tucker Carlson in the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/02/magazine/tucker-carlson-interview-trump-iran.htmlFor a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off Aura Frame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Will Sommer and Sam Stein are going live to cover the biggest news in the right wing fever swamp.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

On ‘Meet the Press’, Todd Blanche, Trump’s Acting Attorney General, tries to defend the Justice Department’s indictment of James Comey, but the explanation doesn’t hold up particularly well under scrutiny. Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on the flimsy argument, the timeline, and why the case is drawing skepticism, not just from critics but with Republicans as well.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May

H. David Baer joins Bill Kristol for Bulwark on Sunday to discuss the lessons of Hungary.Read Baer's article in The BulwarkTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May

Tim Miller talks with Democracy Docket's Marc Elias about the mess unfolding in Louisiana, where votes are already being cast—and now the election itself could be reset. Marc explains the Supreme Court decision reshaping the Voting Rights Act, the rush to redraw maps across multiple states, and why both parties are bracing for a full-on redistricting war ahead of 2026.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer discuss a chaotic CNN panel blowup, the strange rise of Scott Jennings as cable news’ go-to defender, and the surreal world of MAGA-themed cruises—from a “Gulf of America” getaway to a gay conservative cruise that left Tim stunned. They talk about the escalating Candace Owens feud and lawsuit drama, plus one of the weirdest political clips you’ll see all week—featuring Callista Gingrich.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sarah Longwell is joined by Kyle Sweetser, a former Trump voter and lifelong Republican who is now running for Senate in Alabama as a Democrat. Sweetser explains how Trump-era tariffs impacted his business, why January 6 pushed him into political activism, and why he believes Democrats can compete in deep red states by directly challenging MAGA politics instead of avoiding the fight. They also talk about the political realities of running in Alabama, Trump’s standing with voters, immigration rhetoric, working-class frustrations, and Sweetser’s strategy for winning over disaffected Republicans in a state Trump carried by more than 30 points.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Mat frame at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego on 5/20 and LA on 5/12: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

Catherine Rampell and JVL went live to discuss the week's economic and financial news.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller talks with Navy veteran and former NASA Chief of Staff Bail Dalton, who’s running for Congress in a deep red Florida district Democrats usually ignore—but may now be in play. They dig into his opponent, Rep. Cory Mills' the mountain of scandals and lies, and why Trump-era chaos could open the door for an upset.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein talks with Jake Sherman about a week of House chaos that somehow ended in a string of wins—key bills passed, a shutdown quietly ended, and hardliners once again backed down. They break down why the threats never stick, how Mike Johnson keeps his conference in line, and why Republicans are still sticking with Trump even as his numbers slide—plus what it all means for redistricting and the coming midterms.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Jonathan Cohn are going live to cover Trump's newest Surgeon General nominee, Dr. Nicole Saphier, a Fox News contributor. After pulling Casey Means' nomination, Trump bashed GOP Senator Bill Cassidy for opposing Means.Exclusive $25-off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller was all over MS NOW, talking about Trump’s $400 million “gold ballroom” obsession as his poll numbers slide and voters feel squeezed. He breaks down why the GOP’s usual message machine—coordinated distractions, echo chamber spin, and nonstop attacks—is suddenly falling flat, with backlash over Iran, rising gas prices, and broken promises piling up.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Watch All In with Chris Hayes on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/allWatch Deadline: White House with Nicolle Wallace on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Tim Miller unloads on the wave of “false flag” theories spreading after the White House Correspondents’ Dinner incident, calling out how quickly people abandon basic facts when politics takes over.Exclusive $25-off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on Pete Hegseth’s heated appearance on Capitol Hill, where questions about the $25 billion war with Iran quickly turned into personal attacks and repeated deflections. Hegseth spent much of his time avoiding accountability, focusing instead on blaming Democrats, raising questions about how he is approaching one of the most consequential national security roles in the world.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Conor Kilgore and Rachel Janfaza discuss why Noah Kahan has become a defining voice for Gen Z—and what his music reveals about a generation shaped by COVID, social media overload, and constant comparison. They get into the mental health themes, the push to log off and reconnect with real life, and why so many young people feel nostalgic for a world they never actually lived in.Exclusive $25-off Carver Mat athttps://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

The Pentagon is under fire after the Jacqueline Smith, ombudsman for Stars and Stripes, says she was dismissed for raising concerns about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. What does this mean for press independence inside the military?Read more from Jacqueline's op-ed: https://www.stripes.com/opinion/2026-04-23/stripes-former-ombudsman-pentagon-trying-to-silence-21465037.htmlFor a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sonny Bunch and Catherine Rampell break down a wave of major FCC developments shaping the future of American media. Paramount is asking the FCC to approve up to 100% foreign ownership in a massive media deal that could impact CBS and CNN. Foreign money is flowing deeper into American news—and regulators may be on the verge of signing off. Meanwhile, the FCC is also reviewing Disney’s broadcast licenses following comments made by Jimmy Kimmel, raising new questions about free speech, media pressure, and political influence. All of this comes as critics argue the FCC under Brendan Carr is being used to target Trump’s political enemies.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Tim Miller joins the Lib & Learn podcast to discuss the WHCD incident, the media spin that followed, and why both parties keep getting the moment wrong. He explains the real problem inside the Democratic coalition, how the GOP’s viral messaging machine works, and what it would actually take for Democrats to win again.Exclusive $25-off Carver Mat athttps://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESCheck out the Lib & Learn podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@LibAndLearn/streams

Sam Stein and Ben Parker break down a Bulwark exclusive that the State Department is putting Trump's face on U.S. passports, as part of "America 250." Sam and Ben walk through what the redesign would actually include, why it’s unprecedented, and how it fits into a broader pattern of Trump branding across federal symbols and institutions. Plus, they break down how we reached out to the White House and State Department for comment and gave them time to respond. Instead, the White House sent the story to Fox News.For a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.Read Ben Parker's exclusive report on the new passport design: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/exclusive-state-dept-finalizing-planSubscribe to the Morning Shots newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshotsTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/eventsHave a tip? We have a secure website for that! https://thebulwark.com/tips

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol are going live at 10am ET to discuss the week's biggest news items.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/eventsFor a limited time, listeners can get an exclusive $25 off AuraFrame's best-selling Carver Matframe at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES with code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein welcomes Axios' Marc Caputo to discuss Florida’s new redistricting map—and the legal storm it’s about to trigger. Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled a plan that could shift Florida’s congressional delegation from 20–8 to as much as 24–4 in favor of Republicans. But there’s a major problem: Florida’s constitution explicitly bans partisan gerrymandering. So how is this happening?Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.Read more from Marc Caputo: https://www.axios.com/2026/04/27/desantis-florida-map-gerrymandering-redistricting-warTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Will Sommer are going live to discuss how Trump's allies are relentlessly using the WHCD shooting to push the new ballroom, the fascinating details of the individual reactions from Trump cabinet members to the shooting, and the absurd fight at the Substack party.Right now, Soul is offering 30% off your entire order! Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES.

Bill Kristol and Tom Joscelyn went live to discuss white supremacy in the online Right and why they're obsessed with attacking the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Bill Kristol and Sam Stein are going live to discuss the aftermath of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner Shooting.

Sam Stein reacts live to the shooting at the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and Trump's press event afterward.

Tim Miller joins David Pakman for a wide-ranging conversation on Trump’s unraveling, the “MAGA betrayal” moment among anti-war influencers, and what comes next for the right. They discuss why some of Trump’s loudest supporters feel misled, who actually drives conservative media, and how Never Trump has evolved into something broader. Plus: how to talk to voters who are starting to reconsider—and what a post-Trump GOP might look like.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and Los Angeles in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Catherine Rampell and Sarah Matthews take on the botched White House photo op that went viral. Donald Trump hosted the 2025 NCAA champion Georgia Bulldogs women’s tennis team—but puts them in the background and skips their handshake. They break down the optics, the politics, and what it reveals about the “women’s sports” talking point.Tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Jared Poland give their takes on Trump’s new acting Navy secretary, Hung Cao. From viral podcast clips to resurfaced campaign interviews, Cao leans hard into “alpha male” rhetoric, conspiracy-adjacent claims about witches, and extreme takes on immigration, NATO, and the military. It’s a wild collection of moments, including comments about “peeing standing up,” calling ICE on people, and KKK hoods. Cao’s rise to the top ranks of the Pentagon raise serious questions about judgment and leadership under Pete Hegseth.Get tickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sarah Longwell breaks down California’s chaotic governor’s race, where 61 candidates and a fractured Democratic field could open the door for Republicans. In polls, Xavier Becerra is quietly rising as the “safe” choice  with Katie Porter still facing questions about her personal baggage, and billionaire Tom Steyer took most of the heat on the debate stage. All of this as Republicans, like Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, stand to benefit from the split in a chaotic jungle primary.

Catherine Rampell and JVL are going live to cover the week's biggest developments in the world of finance and the economy.Read Catherine Rampell's 'Receipts' NewsletterTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May

Tim Miller appeared on Piers Morgan Uncensored and got into a heated on-air clash with a right-wing “pastor” while dismantling the case for Trump’s war with Iran.Watch more Piers Morgan Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/piersmorganuncensoredTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Sam Stein and Will Sommer break down a chaotic day involving Kash Patel. First, Patel snaps at a reporter when pressed about his own lawsuit, turning a simple question into a total meltdown. They also dig into the Justice Department’s indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center, explaining the allegations and why the case is already raising serious questions. Finally, they examine a troubling development: the FBI questioning a New York Times reporter after a story about Patel’s girlfriend.Read more from Will's newsletter False Flag: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flagTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

The Epstein files are back in the news and JVL and Will Sommer are here to break down the latest. Republicans are now weighing whether to recommend a pardon for convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell. At the same time, the Department of Justice’s internal watchdog is launching a review into how the Epstein files were handled, raising new questions about what was released, what was withheld, and why. Is this a routine oversight review—or the start of something much bigger?Read more from Will's newsletter False Flag: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flagTickets for our Bulwark Live shows in San Diego and LA in May: https://thebulwark.com/events

Katie Couric is joining JVL and Bill Kristol to talk about Trump's dismal approval polling, the GOP's failed attempt to gain an edge in the House via gerrymandering, and the upcoming White House Correspondents Dinner.

Sonny Bunch speaks with whistleblower Josef Palermo, who saw the collapse of the Kennedy Center from the inside. The Kennedy Center president Ric Grenell and the Trump administration said the shutdown was about renovations. But Palermo says the real story is financial collapse, political interference, and a dramatic shift away from the institution’s mission. From six-figure ticket markups to a fundraising pitch delivered during an October 7 memorial, Palermo lays out how things went wrong and how fast it happened.Read more from Josef Palermo: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/2026/04/inside-kennedy-center-shutdown-drama/686801/

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker are discussing the week's major military and foreign policy news.The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Tim Miller and Bill Kristol give their takes on a major election night development in Virginia as voters approve a redistricting referendum that reshapes the state’s congressional map and clears the way for a potential 10–1 Democratic advantage. The result marks a significant political victory for Democrats, who moved aggressively to counter Republican-led gerrymandering efforts in other states.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Sign up for the Morning Shots newsletter: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/morningshots

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer break down the explosive feud between Candace Owens and Laura Loomer, including the shocking “sexual predator” and gay husband accusations flying back and forth. The trio takes on Donald Trump’s teased MAGA media rankings and builds their own list of winners, losers, and the truly unhinged figures in Trumpworld. Plus, why a devoted Nick Fuentes supporter went on CNN to talk about his hero and then found himself in his crosshairs.Read more from Will's "False Flag" newsletter here: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol are going live at 10am ET on April 21 to cover the week's biggest news items.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Andrew Egger talks with JVL about a 2028 scenario that sounds ridiculous at first… until you actually walk through the logic. A surprise contender is polling near the top of the GOP field and could have a clearer path to the nomination than anyone wants to admit. They break down why the Republican primary may be effectively frozen for 2028, how the MAGA base shapes the field, and why some of the most obvious candidates could be boxed out before the race even begins.Read more from JVL's Triad: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-second-coming

Will Saletan takes on Trump's threats to destroy Iran’s infrastructure—and the chilling defense from top officials who say “all options” includes targets that blur into civilian life. As the language shifts from bridges to hospitals and schools, the question isn’t just strategy—it’s how far the U.S. is willing to go.Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/bulwarktakes.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer went live to discuss the week's biggest developments in the right-wing fever swamp.Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/bulwarktakes.The Bulwark is headed to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to get your tickets for our LA and San Diego live shows.

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell take on why two Democrats are breaking through, and what the rest of the party is still getting wrong. They look at standout appearances from Jon Ossoff and Pete Buttigieg, focusing on message discipline, authenticity, and why showing up in tough places matters more than chasing the latest podcast trend.

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell discuss the latest chaos in Trump’s Iran strategy, from collapsing negotiations to escalating threats that may be pushing the U.S. toward a much bigger conflict, and the growing concern that even his own team is managing around him.

NYU law professor Ryan Goodman joins Bill Kristol to discuss how surveillance powers could be used—and abused—by the Donald Trump administration. Plus, a broader look at Trump's escalating clashes with the rule of law and what, if anything, Congress can still do to push back.

Rachel Janfaza and Lauren Egan explore a striking political shift: campus protests that once followed every move of Democrats have all but vanished under Trump—even amid a growing conflict with Iran. From massive campus shutdowns to near silence, what happened to Gen Z activism? They discuss protest fatigue, fear of consequences, changing campus rules, and a deeper cultural shift among young voters who may be giving up on protests altogether.Read more from Lauren’s reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-campus-protest-culture-that-targeted-biden-goes-silent-for-trump-iran-anti-war

Tim Miller takes on fast-moving developments after Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz again and fires on commercial ships—less than a day after Donald Trump said it would "never" close again. Plus: Trump’s appearance with Joe Rogan, his response to the crisis, and his decision to shut down questions from reporters.

Tim Miller reacts to a jaw-dropping article in The Atlantic which alleges that FBI Director Kash Patel was repeatedly unreachable on the job—including an incident where security considered breaching a locked door to wake him. From a bizarre meltdown over a computer login to allegations of heavy drinking, missed briefings, and weekends in Vegas, Tim takes on this shocking report.Read Sarah Fitzpatrick’s article in The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/2026/04/kash-patel-fbi-director-drinking-absences/686839/

Tim Miller joined Katy Tur on MS Now to walk through the growing gap between what Trump is claiming and what Iran is actually saying—highlighting major sticking points like enriched uranium and the fragile status of the Strait of Hormuz. Is this a real breakthrough… or just another rushed attempt to declare victory. Plus, Tim and Jonathan Cohn dig into new signs the White House may be quietly backing away from RFK Jr. as the politics and public health consequences become harder to ignore.Watch Katy Tur Reports on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

JVL and Catherine Rampell are going live to cover Trump's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz is open, the potential $20B Iran could get from the U.S., and Catherine's latest reporting on the White House blaming corporate greed for their economic woes.Read more from Catherine's newsletter here: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/when-all-else-fails-just-blame-corporate-greed-greedflationRead more from JVL's Triad here: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/a-trump-madman-theory-of-the-stock-market

Tim Miller gives his take to Nicolle Wallace on MS Now about Donald Trump’s escalating feud with Pope Leo. Tim breaks down president's lie that the pontiff said Iran should be allowed to have a nuclear weapon, JD Vance’s public posture on Catholicism, and the White House's easily debunked talking points to justify its Iran messaging. In between his fight with the pope, Trump also spent time trying to downplay sky-high gas prices and try to claim his ballroom is a national security concern.Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!

Sarah Longwell gives her take on the state of race in the early contours of the 2026 midterm landscape. Democratic candidates are posting eye-popping Q1 fundraising numbers, dramatically outraising Republican opponents across key Senate and House contests. But the picture is more complicated than candidate fundraising alone—while Democrats are surging at the individual race level, Republicans maintain a substantial edge in party committees and aligned super PACs.Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!

JVL, Mark Hertling and Andrew Egger are going live to cover Trump's announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, Hegseth's press conference, and the continuing war of words between GOP figures and the Pope.Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!

In this Command Post edition of Bulwark Takes, Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) examine the growing gap between political messaging and military reality, focusing on how Trump’s public statements often differ from what the military actually executes. They also break down what a “blockade” of the Strait of Hormuz really involves and why it’s far more complex and risky than it sounds in political rhetoric. Finally, they turn to Ukraine’s evolving war effort, highlighting how drone warfare and battlefield innovation are reshaping modern combat.Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!Read more from Mark's piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/what-a-blockade-in-the-strait-of-hormuz-really-meansBen's book recommendation: https://www.amazon.com/Judgment-Tokyo-World-Making-Modern/dp/1101947101/?tag=bulwark08-20

Sonny Bunch and Damon Lindelof—the show runner behind Lost, The Leftovers, and Watchmen—discuss the growing backlash to the proposed Paramount–Warner Bros. merger and what it could mean for Hollywood’s future. Lindelof explains why he joined more than a thousand industry professionals in signing a public letter urging scrutiny of the deal. He describes a “chilling effect” across Hollywood, where even speaking out against consolidation can carry professional risk.Open Letter: 2,500+ Industry Leaders Oppose the Paramount–WBD Mergerhttps://blockthemerger.com/openletter

Tim is streaming again, and JD Vance keeps losing.

Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell give their takes on Trump latest fight with Jerome Powell, now floating the idea of firing Powell, while a bogus investigation continues to hang over the Federal Reserve. Meanwhile, Senator Thom Tillis is refusing to move forward on Trump’s preferred replacement, Kevin Warsh, unless that probe is dropped. Plus: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Energy Secretary Chris Wright struggle to explain rising gas prices, walking back earlier optimism as global tensions push costs higher.

Jonathan Cohn speaks with Mitt Romney as he reflects on the 20th anniversary of Massachusetts’ landmark health care law. Romney discusses the origins of the plan, its influence on the Affordable Care Act, and why that kind of bipartisan problem-solving has all but disappeared from today’s politics.

The MAGA energy isn’t what it used to be—and the signs are everywhere. Tim Miller joined Nicolle Wallace, and looked at JD Vance’s empty event, growing fractures inside Trump’s base, and what it says about where things are heading. Plus, why Hungary’s election offers a surprising playbook for pushing back against authoritarian politics.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkoutWatch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary David Pressman joins Bill Kristol to discuss the stunning defeat of Viktor Orbán and what it reveals about how strongman systems actually fall. They explore how an anti-corruption message, not culture war fights, cut through and built a real movement. The conversation also digs into what American leaders can learn as they confront the rise of Trump-style politics.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkout.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol went live to cover the week's biggest stories.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkout.

Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell break down Donald Trump’s bizarre McDonald’s DoorDash photo op at the White House, meant to highlight his “no tax on tips” policy. What starts as an economic messaging push quickly goes off the rails when Trump presses a DoorDash driver on her vote and veers into culture war territory. They also dig into what Democrats can learn from this kind of populist messaging and the risks of trying to copy it without losing the plot on good policy.For a limited time, get up to 20% off Bull Shot and FREE shipping when you text BULWARK20 to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.

JVL and Will Saletan are going live to cover Trump's bizarre posts, including an image of himself as Jesus and a long screed attacking the Pope.For a limited time, get up to 20% off Bull Shot and FREE shipping when you text BULWARK20 to 64000. Message and data rates may apply.

Trump called into FOX News for an interview to explain the Iran war—and quickly fell apart. Will Saletan methodically breaks down how Trump contradicted himself on Iran’s nuclear program, claimed total victory while admitting ongoing threats, and shrugged off rising gas prices and the economic fallout.

Bill Kristol is joined by Sarah Matthews to discuss Melania, Donald, and how crazy are things now at the White House.

Sam Stein is joined by Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) to discuss the escalating situation in Iran, warning that after 42 days and tens of billions of dollars, the U.S. is no better off and still lacks a clear strategy. Coons raises concerns about congressional authorization, potential backdoor war funding, and the risks of deeper escalation. The conversation also turns to domestic politics, including Pam Bondi and concerns about a more aggressive and loyal next attorney general under Trump. Finally, they discuss Melania Trump’s unusual press conference calling for more Epstein hearings.

Ned Brower from 'The Pitt' and Karen Tumlin of the Justice Action Center join The Bulwark's hosts Sonny Bunch and Adrian Carrasquillo to discuss the impact of the "ICE episode"—and the Trump policies that it shone a light on. They discuss the reality behind ICE showing up in hospitals, what changed in U.S. policy, and why viewers—and real doctors and nurses—responded so strongly.

Tim Miller gives his take on the heated CNBC Squawk Box exchange between Pete Buttigieg and Joe Kernen over Trump’s economy, gas prices, and the war in Iran. Kernen tries to argue with weak MAGA talking points about Biden-era inflation and partisan blame, but Buttigieg pushes back so well that Kernen's co-host literally laughs at him. Tim breaks down why Buttigieg’s approach is resonating and how bad it is for the state of pro-Trump economic defenses.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Catherine Rampell and JVL are going live to talk about the the week's financial news.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer dive into the latest MAGA meltdown: a rumored DOJ probe into conservative influencers allegedly taking foreign money. From imagined arrests to twisted punishments, MAGA figures from Benny Johnson and Catturd to Laura Loomer are eating their own, accusing each other while ignoring the real ideological splits.

Andrew Egger and Will Sommer break down Melania Trump’s bizarre and unexpected White House statement on Jeffrey Epstein. After speaking and not answering any questions, Melania forcefully denied any involvement with Epstein, while also calling past email exchanges with Ghislaine Maxwell as “casual” and “trivial.” We dig into the timing, the messaging, and what could be driving this sudden need to get ahead of the Epstein story inside Trump world.

JVL talks with Ed Condon of The Pillar about the escalating clash between the Vatican and the Trump administration after Pope Leo’s comments on the Iran war. They unpack the shocking report that a Vatican ambassador was confronted by the Pentagon, JD Vance’s awkward response, and why the American pope likely won’t be visiting the U.S. anytime soon.Read more from JVL: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-department-of-war-vs-the-popeRead more from Ed Condon: https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/when-will-leo-come-home

Tim Miller joins Nicolle Wallace on MS Now to give his take on the wave of Democratic momentum. From a massive Wisconsin Supreme Court victory to a surprising swing in Georgia, Democrats are seeing major gains even in places Republicans thought were safe. Tim explains why one number matters more than anything right now. A fourteen point shift. If that trend holds, states like Texas, Florida, Iowa, and Alaska could all be in play in the midterms. He also shares what he is hearing from Democratic organizers across the country and why there is still a disconnect between voters who want to help and campaigns that need volunteers.

Andrew Egger talks with shipping expert Sal Mercogliano about his initial reaction to the ceasefire with Iran and what it really means for global shipping with the Strait of Hormuz. Despite claims that the strait is open, most vessels remain stuck or are forced to navigate Iran’s “toll booth,” creating uncertainty for trade and commerce. Sal explains how Iran’s control could permanently reduce shipping capacity and generate massive revenue for Iran, with ripple effects that may take up to 40 weeks to fully recover. We also cover the humanitarian situation for mariners, the economic stakes for oil and global trade, and what the US and other countries are doing or not doing to respond.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Watch more of Sal’s videos here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT_yBgKSiwb3WP4ACPnF5nA

Tom Nichols join Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker to discuss the bleak reality of Trump’s Iran war—where early strikes gave way to confusion, a shaky “ceasefire,” and no clear endgame. They explain how tactical hits didn’t translate into strategic success, why the U.S. may be in a worse position now, and what this reveals about decision-making, military leadership, and the absence of a real plan.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

JVL and Andrew Egger went live reacting to Karoline Leavitt's totally divorced from reality press conference as Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer joins Tim Miller for a heated debate over the war with Iran—where even pro-war lawmakers admit they still don’t know the plan. They clash over whether weakening Iran justifies the risks, rising costs at home, and the lack of clear objectives, while digging into Trump’s leadership, Israel’s role, and the looming War Powers showdown in Congress.Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES and get 60% off your first box.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer react to Donald Trump’s shocking post suggesting that an entire Iranian civilization could be wiped out and the rare backlash now emerging from inside MAGA. From Tucker Carlson’s stunning attack on Trump’s rhetoric to reactions from figures like Alex Jones and Candace Owens, the right is showing signs of fracture over the prospect of war with Iran. Even longtime allies are calling Trump’s rhetoric dangerous.Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES and get 60% off your first box.

Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol are going live at 10 am ET to cover the morning's big news items.For a limited time, Tempo is offering my listeners 60% OFF your first box! Go to https://tempomeals.com/BULWARKTAKES

JVL, Sarah Longwell, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.), Sam Stein, and Andrew Egger go live to react to Trump's April 6 White House press event.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer are going live to discuss the significant MAGA pushback against Trump's Easter post about bombing Iran's civilian infrastructure, the Jonathan Majors filming incident with The Daily Wire, and more.

Tim Miller takes on Donald Trump’s Easter morning threats to bomb Iran’s bridges, power grid, and energy infrastructure—and his claim he could “blow everything up” if a deal isn’t reached.

Just Security's Tom Joscelyn joins Bill Kristol to discuss how Trump and his allies are reshaping the DOJ/FBI, DHS/ICE, and the Pentagon — with major implications for civil liberties, political dissent, and the 2026 elections.

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell give their takes on the Trump White House calling an early “lid” during an escalating war with Iran. As Trump claims the U.S. military is “unstoppable,"  American fighter jets were shot down and a service member is missing. Sarah also explains that swing voters are turning against Trump, feeling misled as the war drags on and prices rise. They also discuss Trump’s repeated “48-hour” threats, rising oil costs, and the growing gap between his rhetoric and reality.

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell give their takes over one of the biggest questions facing Democrats right now: what to do about Hasan Piker? Should the party engage with voices on the far left to reach angry, anti-war voters or draw a hard line against rhetoric they see as toxic and illiberal? The two debate whether Democrats are picking the wrong fight at the wrong time, how to talk to audiences outside the traditional coalition, and whether engaging controversial figures risks amplifying them.Read more from Lauren’s piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/how-big-is-the-democrats-big-tent-hasan-piker-litmus-test

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein are going live to cover economic news, including Trump's new budget proposal and the March jobs numbers.

Tim Miller went LIVE to take on a Trump world that’s starting to crack. Even voices from the Theo Von / Joe Rogan universe are turning on Donald Trump—and in some cases making more sense than the people in charge.Tim also digs into the fight over figures like Hasan Piker—arguing that Democrats are blowing a major chance to build a broader anti-Trump coalition.

Andrew Egger and Catherine Rampell look back at the first anniversary of Trump’s “Liberation Day,” the administration’s infamous tariff rollout. From tariffing penguins to gold bars from Switzerland, "Liberation Day" has proven to be a bust. The Supreme Court ruled them illegal and companies are still waiting for refunds, while the White House fiddles with new versions of the same failed policies.

Trump delivered a highly anticipated address on Iran, but instead of clarity, viewers got a confusing, low-energy speech that raised more questions than it answered. JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on why the speech felt so off, from Trump abandoning his usual rambling to awkwardly sticking to a teleprompter and recycling his own Truth Social posts. They dig into the lack of a clear strategy, the strange war messaging, how the markets reacted so poorly in real time, and why even casual viewers were left asking: what was the point of this? If this speech was supposed to reassure Americans, it may have done the opposite.Read more from JVL's Triad: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/america-lost-iran-won-trump-shat

Sam Stein, Sarah Longwell, JVL and Will Sommer react to the breaking news that Trump has fired Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Sam Stein, JVL and Mark Hertling were live to reacting to President Trump's April 1st address on the war in Iran.

Will Saletan takes on Pete Hegseth’s conduct during a wartime briefing campaign that keeps veering off course. Instead of focusing on strategy or coalition-building, he’s taking shots at past presidents, the press, and even U.S. allies.

Sam Stein, JVL, and Andrew Egger give their takes on the newly unveiled “Donald J. Trump Presidential Library” that Trump now himself admits will “most likely” be a hotel. The crew digs into the absurd renderings, including the giant gold statue, an oversized ballroom, and even the Qatari plane overhauled to become Air Force One in the lobby. They also break down how valuable land originally owned by Miami Dade College was transferred to the state and then handed over for the Trump "library."Read more from JVL on the latest Trump family grift: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/the-great-trump-library-robbery

Command Post Live! Mark Hertling and Ben Parker are going live to discuss Trump’s speech tonight, the prospect of ground troops in Iran, and Trump’s slow-motion destruction of NATO.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on a judge’s decision to halt Donald Trump’s plan to build a massive White House ballroom, Trump’s fixation on the project, how often he brings it up in public, and the bizarre moments where it overtakes everything else—even during major national and global events.

Andrew and Bill discuss the morning's news.

Tim Miller breaks down the surreal viral moment of Lindsey Graham at Disney World—and why it’s more than just a weird photo. He also joined Nicolle Wallace to talk about the government shutdown and rising global tensions, and argues it reflects something deeper about accountability and leadership.

Sam Stein talks with former top intelligence official Sue Gordon to break down the fast-moving Iran crisis—and why the U.S. may not have the intelligence it needs for what comes next. Drawing on decades at the CIA, Gordon explains the growing intel gaps, the risks of escalation, and why bombing Iran is the easy part compared to what follows. As tensions rise and off-ramps shrink, the big question remains: is the U.S. prepared for the consequences of a conflict it may not fully understand?

JVL and Sarah Longwell give their takes on the shocking new UMass poll showing Donald Trump at just 33% approval, only one point away from the “Bush line.” As the Iran war drags on, gas prices rise, and inflation worsens, they dig into what’s really driving Trump’s downfall and whether it signals real movement with voters. Plus, they react to Brendan Carr openly celebrating media firings as a political “win” for Trump and what it says about power, influence, and the future of the press.

Will Sommer and Andrew Egger are going live to cover a strange weekend at CPAC, where sparse crowds, defensive spin, and open infighting raised questions about where the MAGA movement stands right now. Plus: Clavicular went to jail...again!

Will Saletan takes on a series of moments showing how Donald Trump is pushing past basic limits of presidential power—from putting his face on coins and signature on currency to calling judges “criminals” and claiming he doesn’t need Congress for war or NATO decisions. As millions joined “No Kings” protests, the pattern becomes hard to ignore: a president who treats the rules as optional, surrounds himself with loyalists, and increasingly acts like the law doesn’t apply to him.

Tim Miller gives his take on Donald Trump’s latest Truth Social spiral and why he's boosting pro-war voices like Mark Levin, who’s floating plans that sound more like a uranium heist than a real strategy. Tim breaks down how Trump’s feed has become a window into his decision-making, why the signs point toward escalation and possible troops on the ground, and how the war is already causing global disruptions. He also reacts to the surreal Palm Sunday moment with Trump sharing a letter from Franklin Graham about Trump getting into heaven.

The Bulwark's own Jim Swift joins Bill Kristol to talk about No Kings.

Sonny Bunch and Adrian Carrasquillo take on The Pitt’s ICE episode—how a single raid transforms the ER, triggers fear across patients and staff, and mirrors real-world reporting on immigration enforcement. They discuss the show’s attempt at “balance,” the ripple effects of fear, and why dramatized storytelling can land harder than traditional coverage.They also explore the reaction online, the pressure on Hollywood to soften political edges, and why The Pitt is connecting right now as a rare show that forces viewers to see these issues up close.Read more here: Why the ICE Raid in ‘The Pitt’ Matters: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/why-the-ice-raid-in-the-pitt-matters-hbo

Join JVL, Catherine Rampell, Andrew Egger, and many, many others from The Bulwark for live "No Kings" rally coverage.

Sam Stein takes on a series of bizarre Trump appearances, ranging from crude jokes and made-up stories to comments that may have revealed something far more serious. The pattern raises a bigger question: when the president speaks, how much of it is real?

Tim Miller was on MS NOW's Deadline: White House to explain why Trump’s Iran decision may be doing lasting damage to his own coalition. From GOP infighting to failed election interference efforts and another Democratic win in Washington, MAJOR cracks are starting to show.

Sam Stein and Tim Miller give their takes on the latest fiasco for FBI Director Kash Patel after Iran-linked hackers breached his email and released a trove of personal messages and photos. From embarrassing photos during a trip to Cuba to serious counterintelligence concerns, it’s another brutal moment for a guy already struggling to prove he’s up for the job.

JVL and Catherine Rampell are going live on Trump’s economic messaging, falling consumer confidence, and rising recession fears driven by oil prices.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer give their takes on Kash Patel’s girlfriend, a country music “sensation,” over her bizarre Twitter rant about Michael Flynn, Candace Owens fights with MAGA media darling Nick Shirley, and comedian Druski mocks Erika Kirk in viral video.Text TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger watched an hour-and-a-half long Trump cabinet meeting and it was a mess. From ranting about $1,000 pens and fake gold columns to personal attacks on Gavin Newsom’s dyslexia and Jerome Powell, Trump spent more time complaining about the Kennedy Center than he did on foreign policy. We break down the top five most unhinged things that happened during Thursday's meeting.Text TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Tim Miller talks with Ezra Levin—co-founder of Indivisible— about Saturday's “No Kings” protests. They get into whether protests actually work, how movements grow beyond a single weekend, and why discipline, nonviolence, and even humor can throw off an authoritarian playbook. Plus: the rising threat of political violence, how organizers are preparing for it, and what comes next if this keeps growing.Text TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Tim Miller was on with Katy Tur to take on a surprising shift in Florida politics after Democrats flip a seat in Trump’s own backyard. Is this a one-off—or the start of something bigger? Plus: the corruption questions that still aren’t being investigated—and what it all could mean for 2026.Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free.

JVL and Andrew Egger take on a surreal White House briefing where everything is supposedly “going great”—even as TSA chaos, rising gas prices, and a widening Iran conflict tell a very different story. Plus: how JD Vance is getting boxed into a political no-win situation.Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free.

Katie Couric joins Tim Miller and JVL to dig into some of the biggest stories so far this week on a special edition of Bulwark Takes happening live on Wednesday at 6:30 PM ET. With Iran rejecting a cease-fire proposal, what will President Trump do next? And why is Iran requesting that Vice President JD Vance come to the negotiating table? Plus, reactions to new reporting from NBC that for the last few weeks, Trump has been shown by his team highlight reels of destruction in Iran. Plus, a look at whether there will be a breakthrough on Department of Homeland Security funding to finally end the growing chaos and delays at U.S. airports, a report from Status that CBS News is seeing its latest ratings of any first quarter this century and Katie has a very important reminder she hopes you and your loved ones to take seriously.Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free.

Daniel Biss joined Lauren Egan to discuss his win in a crowded Democratic primary for Illinois' 9th Congressional District. AIPAC spent more than $7 million trying to stop him. Biss, whose mother is Israeli and whose grandparents are Holocaust survivors, opens up about what it felt like to be personally targeted and why he believes those attacks backfired. He also breaks down the strategy behind his campaign, taking on outside money head-on, defining the race early, and turning a flood of spending into a liability for his opponents.Visit https://upwork.com right now and post your job for free.

Sam Stein, Joe Perticone, and Will Sommer give their takes on the bizarre rise and abrupt fall of Nick Adams, the self-styled “alpha male” known for his tweets about boobs, Hooters, and American exceptionalism. Adams saw his ambassador nomination pulled before landing in a made up new State Department role.Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial today at https://shopify.com/bulwarktakes.

Sam Stein and Lauren Egan take on a real idea circulating among Democratic operatives: run more “hot” candidates. They discuss what that actually means—youth, charisma, online presence—and whether it reflects a deeper effort to fix the party’s image and win back voters.Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial today at https://shopify.com/bulwarktakes.

Bill Kristol and Andrew Egger are going live to discuss the DHS funding fight, ICE at America's airports, and Trump's erratic flip-flops in Iran.

Tim Miller was on Deadline: White House to take on the political fallout from Trump’s Iran war, warning that the real backlash hasn’t shown up in polling yet as rising costs start to hit voters. He also looks at growing cracks inside the GOP, where even MAGA voices are struggling to defend a war with no clear objective.Plus: chaos at U.S. airports after ICE agents are deployed to “help,” a Supreme Court case that could reshape mail-in voting ahead of the midterms, and Trump’s reaction to Robert Mueller’s death.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Mark Hertling, Ben Parker, and special guest Margaret Donovan go live at 7:30 p.m. EDT for a Command Post episode on Trump’s threats of massive war crimes against Iran—and the broader ethics and legality of the conflict.For a limited time, get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES.

JVL and Andrew Egger are going live to cover the bizarre statements that Trump made at an event this morning in Memphis.For a limited time, get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer go live to talk about Dan Bongino getting heckled for not "taking on the deep state," James Fishback being banned from Mar-a-Lago, and a double dose of TPUSA controversy.For a limited time, get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals! Go to https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES

Sarah Longwell talks with Rep. Lizzie Fletcher about Texas redistricting, the GOP’s push for new seats, and why that strategy could backfire. They discuss the 2026 outlook, the Paxton–Cornyn fight, and why Democrats see a real opening in Texas.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger take on Trump’s “48-hour” threat against Iran and the risk of a wider war, with global oil markets and the global economy hanging in the balance. They also discuss the administration’s push to put ICE in security roles at airports and Sen. Mike Lee’s bizarre SAVE Act post.

Bill Kristol and Catherine Rampell are going live to talk about the economic fallout from Trump's war in Iran.

Tim Miller and Adam Kinzinger were live in Austin, talking about the escalating Iran war, why it’s already going badly, and how Trump’s “peace candidate” promise unraveled into a costly conflict. Plus: a live “cuck-off” game (it’s not quite what you’d expect).

Robert Mueller, the former FBI director and special counsel who led the Russia investigation, has died at 81. A Vietnam veteran and lifelong public servant, Mueller spent decades in service to the country across administrations of both parties earning a reputation for discipline, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Trump responded to Mueller's death with a disgusting message: “Good. I’m glad he’s dead.” Tim Miller and Bill Kristol reflect on Mueller’s legacy at the FBI and his role investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election, contrast it with the reaction from the man he was tasked with investigating. Correction: Robert Mueller died Friday evening, not today (Saturday) as stated in the episode. His family announced the news in a statement on Saturday.

Andrew Egger and maritime history and shipping expert Sal Mercogliano take on the rapidly escalating crisis in the Strait of Hormuz—and why it’s far more dangerous for the global economy than most people realize. As Iran tightens its grip on one of the world’s most critical shipping chokepoints, up to 25% of global trade is being disrupted. Tankers are stalled, crews are stranded, and energy markets are already feeling the shock.Watch more of Sal’s videos here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT_yBgKSiwb3WP4ACPnF5nAText TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein are going live to cover inflation warnings from the Fed and the worsening economic outlook as the Iran war drives oil prices higher and job growth stalls.Text TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Sam Stein and Jonathan Cohn talk with Therese Vogel about the return of measles. Therese shares the story of her sister, who contracted measles as a child and suffered permanent brain damage—shaping the rest of her life—and why that led her to join Grandparents for Vaccines.They discuss why vaccine skepticism has risen, how outbreaks are spreading again as vaccination rates fall, and why many Americans have forgotten how dangerous these diseases once were. They explore the nascent political backlash to anti-vaccine messaging—and how groups like Grandparents for Vaccines are using personal stories to reach people when facts alone aren’t enough.Learn more about Grandparents for Vaccines: https://grandparentsforvaccines.org/Text TAKES to 64000 to get a FREE pocket pivot and their 10-pattern sprayer with the purchase of ANY size Copper Head hose. Message and data rates may apply.

Will Saletan gives his take on Donald Trump’s dumb and chaotic Oval Office meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. He called the Iran war an “excursion,” bragging about demolishing Iran while gas prices doubled, and insulted Japan with a Pearl Harbor reference.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com and use promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein talks with Reuters national security reporter Erin Banco about how the U.S. ended up at war with Iran—and why the official story doesn’t hold up. Intelligence assessments didn’t show an imminent threat, but the administration moved forward anyway after months of pressure, shifting justifications, and a last-minute decision from Trump. Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com and use promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller moderated a conversation with Don Lemon at the 2026 New Orleans Book Festival. They talked about Lemon’s arrest and time in custody and the broader crackdown on Trump critics. They also discussed the war in Iran, and the failures of the mainstream media during Trump's second term.

Sam Stein and Sonny Bunch went live to give their reactions to Trump nominee Markwayne Mullin at his DHS confirmation hearing.

Sam Stein and Rachel Janfaza take on a striking shift among young voters: support for Israel has collapsed, with just 13% of Gen Z viewing it positively. Drawing on new polling and a focus group of students, they discuss how anti-Israel sentiment is spreading—and how it’s increasingly bleeding into something more troubling on campuses and online.

Tim Miller joins Nicolle Wallace to talk about the escalating Iran war, the sudden resignation of Trump official Joe Kent, and the growing split inside MAGA. As competing narratives collide, the panel looks at what’s actually driving the conflict—and why even Trump’s allies are breaking ranks.They also discuss Trump’s erratic messaging, rising concerns about leadership, and the economic fallout already starting to hit Americans—from higher gas and food prices to a broader slowdown that could get much worse by the fall.Watch Deadline: White House with Nicolle Wallace on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

In this Command Post edition of Bulwark Takes, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) and Ben Parker break down how Trump’s snub of NATO allies is shaping the Iran conflict, and how even spectacular military success against the Iranian government and military won’t necessarily lead to victory.Have questions about the Iran war? Send them to commandpost@thebulwark.com and we’ll try to answer them in the next episode!Read more from Mark's piece here: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/iran-gets-vote-in-this-war-thormuz-trump-hegseth-israel-strategyBuy Mark's book, "If I Don't Return: A Father's Wartime Journal": https://www.amazon.com/If-Dont-Return-Fathers-Wartime/dp/1966786727

Andrew and Bill are going live to discuss Joe Kent's resignation over the war in Iran and other news of the day.

Tim Miller and Sam Stein take on Trump’s latest Oval Office comments on Iran. They discuss the contradictions, the absence of a clear strategy, and what it signals about how this war is being handled. Plus, JD Vance dodges a simple question about whether he actually supports the operation, raising questions about what’s really happening behind the scenes.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Tim Miller talks with Cato’s David Bier about his viral clash with Senator John Kennedy—and what the exchange reveals about today’s immigration debate. They discuss the data on immigrants and the economy, the gap between rhetoric and actual policy, mass deportation proposals, visa bans affecting families, and how enforcement tactics are impacting both immigrants and U.S. citizens.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.

Will Sommer and Sam Stein are going live to discuss Laura Loomer’s tense event in New Delhi, Tucker Carlson’s new CIA conspiracy theory, and the ugly feud between Megyn Kelly and Mark Levin.

Robert Kagan (Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution) joins Bill to discuss the likely consequences of Trump's war in Iran.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan take on Donald Trump’s claims that Iran has been “decimated” even as his administration asks other countries to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. They discuss the contradictions in Trump’s messaging and what it reveals about the war. They also react to FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr’s warning to broadcasters over their coverage.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer take on one of the strangest scandals to hit the far-right internet: extremist agitator Jake Lang getting caught in a social-media sting run by a self-styled “predator hunter.” They also talk about the growing war inside conservative media as Megyn Kelly and Ben Shapiro clash publicly.

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein are going live to talk about the revised job numbers and other economic news.

JVL is joined by war reporter Tim Mak to discuss the rapidly escalating conflict with Iran and what it means for the United States, Ukraine, and global stability. They examine why the Iranian regime may be more durable than many assume, the strategic limits of military strikes, and how rising oil prices are shaping political decisions in Washington.Read more from Tim Mak at The Counteroffensive: https://www.counteroffensive.news/

In a special live edition of Bulwark Takes, Katie Couric joins JVL and Tim Miller to take on some of the biggest and most interesting stories of the week including the breaking news today out of Michigan where a suspect is dead after ramming a vehicle into Temple Israel synagogue, the latest on the Iran war including the first comments from the country's new supreme leader, what Kash Patel is up to at the FBI and more. Katie also digs in with the Bulwark crew on her latest TV obsession.

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell give their takes on the sudden shift in Republican messaging on gas prices after the war with Iran disrupted global oil markets. For years, Republicans blamed Joe Biden for high prices at the pump. Now, with prices rising again under Donald Trump, some GOP lawmakers are telling Americans they need to “make sacrifices” or even suggesting struggling families just need better financial literacy.Get free shipping and 365 day returns with Quince at https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Tim joined Katy Tur to talk about the backlash from the “podcast right” over a potential Iran conflict. If those newer, anti-war voters peel away—or simply stay home—it could reshape the politics around Trump’s base. They also discussed immigration, where Republicans are starting to get nervous about the real-world impact of mass deportation policies. Watch Katy Tur Reports on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Tim Miller is going live, just because he feels like hanging out. Not everything needs a special occasion.

Sam Stein, Will Sommer, and Andrew Egger give their takes on the new right-wing conspiracy that claims John Thune is secretly controlled by Punchbowl News and that’s why he won’t eliminate the filibuster to pass the SAVE Act. The theory comes from a software engineer known online as “Data Republican,” who gained prominence during the DOGE era by posting false claims about uncover government waste. Her latest claim hinges on a series of confusing flowcharts that immediately collapses under even minimal scrutiny, but it’s still gaining traction in conservative circles, including Sen. Mike Lee.Get free shipping and 365 day returns with Quince at https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and Tim Miller give their takes on Joe Rogan’s surprisingly blunt reaction to Donald Trump’s war with Iran. Rogan says many supporters feel “betrayed” after Trump campaigned on ending “stupid wars,” only to launch major strikes that have now killed U.S. troops and raised fears of wider conflict. Sam and Tim dig into Rogan’s political evolution and why this moment is so uncomfortable for the MAGA-friendly podcast world. After years of embracing Trump as the anti-war outsider, figures in the “podcast bro” ecosystem are now confronting the possibility that they misjudged him.

Bill Kristol and Andrew Egger are going live to discuss whether Trump is already close to ending his Iran war, under pressure from both markets and bad polls.

Tim Miller joined Nicolle Wallace to discuss Donald Trump’s latest comments on the Iran war and the chaos surrounding his administration’s messaging. Plus: Lindsey Graham’s reported efforts to push Trump toward escalation and Tucker Carlson’s claim that Trump is being fed fake polling about the war’s popularity.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sarah Longwell and Sam Stein give their takes on Donald Trump’s latest press conference on the war in Iran, where Trump seemed to declare victory while also suggesting the conflict is just beginning. Trump claimed the war was essentially “over” after the first two days, even as his own defense secretary says the mission is only getting started. They also break down a tense exchange with a reporter who challenged Trump on his claim that Iran bombed its own elementary school, prompting the president to suddenly say he “doesn’t know enough about it.”Pre-order Sarah's book, "How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time": https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/how-to-eat-an-elephant-9781250464170/

Sam Stein and Will Saletan give their takes on why Lindsey Graham is suddenly everywhere celebrating the escalation against Iran and why even some Republicans are alarmed by his rhetoric. As Graham cheers the bombing campaign and openly talks about taking on other regimes around the world, critics including Meghan McCain warn that his messaging is scaring voters and pushing the U.S. toward endless wars. Sam and Will trace Graham’s long obsession with regime change, how he’s learned to appeal to Donald Trump, and why this moment may represent the culmination of a decades-long foreign policy vision.Listen to Will's 2023 series on Lindsey Graham here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJNKzTkCZE9sb384PfewA7Gur01abBrcS

Will Sommer and Sam Stein went live to cover the intra-MAGA fights sparked by the war in Iran. They're also discussing Tucker Carlson's claim that Trump was being fed bad poll data on the war, Rep. Dan Crenshaw getting heckled, and more.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger take on Trump’s latest ultimatum to Congress: pass the SAVE Act or he won’t sign any other legislation. They explain what the bill does, why Trump is suddenly pressuring Republicans to blow up the filibuster, and how MAGA activist Scott Pressler ended up shaping the president’s message after a Fox & Friends appearance.

Tim Miller and JVL are going live to cover the massive increase in oil prices roiling markets right now.

Tim Miller takes on the hypocrisy behind Washington’s deficit panic. After Elon Musk and Trump allies promised massive spending cuts and warned about “debt slavery,” federal spending kept climbing—and now the Iran war is burning through billions per day.

Sarah Longwell joins Bill to talk about her new book—How to Eat an Elephant. Preorder Sarah's book now! https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-eat-an-elephant-sarah-longwell/1149619381?ean=9781250464170

Lauren Egan is joined by Ryan Busse, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Montana’s 1st District, for his take on the stunning shakeup in Montana politics. Within days, Rep. Ryan Zinke announced he won’t seek reelection and Sen. Steve Daines revealed he’s retiring, throwing the state’s political landscape into turmoil. Busse talks about why he believes the race is now wide open and how Democrats can compete in a deeply red state. A former firearms industry executive who later broke with the industry, Busse also explains his unusual political journey and why he thinks economic issues will decide the next election.

Tim Miller takes on Trump’s latest Truth Social rant about Iran—where the president calls Iran the “loser of the Middle East,” talks about the country potentially “collapsing,” and signals the war could escalate even further. He also reacts to Tucker Carlson’s claim that Trump believes the war is polling at 90% support, and what that might mean for where this conflict is headed.

Will Sommer and Joe Perticone give their takes on Rep. Tony Gonzales’ sudden retirement after he admitted to an affair with a subordinate staffer. They also discuss the emerging Republican candidate to replace him, who's based his campaign on a hardline pro-gun rhetoric and previously touted ownership of Mein Kampf.

Tim Miller talks with former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos about the rapidly escalating situation with Iran and the chaos surrounding the Trump administration’s strategy. Trump has floated the idea of choosing Iran’s next leader, while reports suggest the U.S. may be considering covert support for Kurdish groups that could amount to regime change. They also discuss the growing “brain drain” across national security agencies, including reports that FBI Director Kash Patel fired agents with Iran expertise just before the war with Iran.

JVL and Catherine Rampell are going live to discuss the disappointing new jobs report.

Tim Miller and Will Sommer give their takes on why a stolen truck full of Tucker Carlson’s nicotine pouches has led to an escalating feud with Laura Loomer, another racist group chat scandal that has rocked young Republican and Candace Owens’ increasingly bizarre conspiracy series that now includes a theory involving youth travel basketball.You MUST read Will's False Flag newsletters: https://www.thebulwark.com/s/false-flag

JVL, Tim Miller and Andrew Egger are going live to cover Trump firing Kristi Noem.

Tim Miller gives his take on The New York Times reporting that the Trump Justice Department’s failed to build a criminal case over President Biden's use of an “autopen." Biden and his aides are just the latest in a growing list of revenge investigations that have fizzled under Pam Bondi’s DOJ. From Biden to Obama to Mark Kelly and Jim Comey, the indictments never seem to materialize.

Sam Stein, JVL, and Catherine Rampell give their takes on why HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is demanding “safety data” from Dunkin' over its sugar-loaded iced coffees and why that fight could hit differently in Massachusetts. From 115 grams of sugar to 48-ounce coffee buckets, the crew taste-tests a truly unholy Dunkin order and debates whether this is public health policy or just another front for the MAHA movement in the culture wars.

Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.), Tom Nichols, and Ben Parker are LIVE to discuss the war with Iran—especially the bigger strategic question: what comes after the airstrikes. They react to Pete Hegseth’s press conference, and answer audience questions about escalation, the point of no return, and how the U.S. and Israel actually coordinate in wartime.

Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller and JVL traveled to Minneapolis to see what’s happening outside the Whipple detention center, where local volunteers and protesters say ICE activity hasn’t slowed despite official claims.

Tim Miller goes back into the lion’s den on Piers Morgan’s panel to debate Trump’s escalating war with Iran. Tim notes something surprising: even some of Trump’s biggest MAGA allies sound conflicted about the war. Watch Piers Morgan Uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/piersmorganuncensored

Sam Stein talks with Senator Tim Kaine as he forces a Senate vote to block Trump from waging war with Iran without congressional approval. Kaine says lawmakers are ducking their constitutional duty and warns the administration’s rationale echoes the run-up to Iraq. If senators want this war, he argues, they should have the guts to put their names on it.Delegate smarter and grow faster. Post your job for free at https://Upwork.com and connect with top freelance talent today.

Join Sarah Longwell, JVL, Tim Miller, Lauren Egan and more for Bulwark's LIVE coverage of the Texas primary elections. The biggest contest is the U.S. Senate primary, with Republicans John Cornyn, Ken Paxton, and Wesley Hunt, and Democrats Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico competing for their parties’ nominations.

Sam Stein, JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on the chaotic and dramatic Senate Judiciary Committee hearing with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Republican senators sharply questioned Noem over her leadership at DHS, ICE's deadly actions in Minnesota, and her department’s $220 million ad campaign featuring Noem front and center. They also debate a bigger question: Is Noem being set up as the scapegoat? With DHS funding frozen and Republicans under pressure, are some in the GOP trying to sacrifice the secretary to avoid deeper reforms to ICE and immigration enforcement?Delegate smarter and grow faster. Post your job for free at Upwork.com and connect with top freelance talent today.

Will Saletan revisits Tulsi Gabbard’s past warnings that Trump “lied” about ending wars—and compares them to her current role defending new bombings in Iran and moves in Venezuela.Delegate smarter and grow faster. Post your job for free at https://Upwork.com and connect with top freelance talent today.

Bill Kristol and Andrew Egger are going live to discuss Israel and the war in Iran, Congressional war powers, the growing split between hawks and “America First” within MAGA, and the DoD/AI question.

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell take on the early polling after Trump’s strikes on Iran—and the warning signs for his coalition. Independents are overwhelmingly opposed, soft Trump voters are wavering, and the “America First” brand is colliding with a foreign war. Is this the start of a political fracture inside MAGA?Find a doctor you’ll love. Go to https://Zocdoc.com/bulwarktakes to find and instantly book in-network care today.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer discuss MAGA’s growing anger over the war in Iran. Is this a temporary wobble, or the start of a deeper split between isolationists and hawks?

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell discuss the deafening silence from President Donald Trump and his administration after the U.S. strikes in Iran. As of Sunday evening, no one from the White House has laid out to the American public the case or any clear objectives for the major assault. Three U.S. service members have been killed with others severely wounded. Note: Shortly after this taping, The New York Times published a report about a brief telephone interview the Times conducted with Trump Sunday in which he said the assault will go on for "four to five weeks" if needed and offered no clear vision for a transfer of power in Iran.

Sam Stein and Will Saletan watched the the Sunday shows and give their takes on the spin after the U.S. strikes on Iran, zeroing in on the mixed messaging from Republican lawmakers defending the action. From Lindsey Graham insisting it’s “not our job” to shape Iran’s future, to Ted Cruz struggling to define an imminent threat, the hawkish case for war raises more questions than it answers. They unpack the interventionists’ victory inside Trump world, the rejection of “you break it, you own it,” and the vague comparisons to a so-called Venezuela model that doesn’t seem to apply.

Tim Miller and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) join Bill Kristol to discuss the latest developments in Iran.

Tim Miller takes on Trump’s Texas rally—from floating Ted Cruz for the Supreme Court to teasing a “third term” and congratulating a scandal-plagued congressman. Then he relishes a staggering Truth Social filing: $3.7 million in revenue, $712 million in losses.

Hayden Field of The Verge joins Andrew Egger to discuss the Pentagon’s fight with Anthropic and what it means for the future of AI. After Anthropic drew red lines around autonomous weapons and domestic mass surveillance, the Department of Defense responded by labeling the company a “supply chain risk” -- a designation typically reserved for foreign adversaries.Read more from Hayden Field in The Verge, "We don’t have to have unsupervised killer robots"Read more from Andrew Egger's Morning Shots, "AI Death Machines. No Human Oversight. What Could Go Wrong?"

Tim Miller, Sarah Longwell, JVL and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) go live to discuss Trump's attacks on Iran.

Tim Miller joins Nicolle Wallace to discuss a stunning new reality: Americans are leaving the country at record levels, the U.S. may be facing population decline, and Trump’s “golden age” looks more like national humiliation. From the Qatari jet embarrassment to foreign-backed media consolidation and escalating tensions with Iran, the conversation covers how corruption, chaos, and bad optics are colliding. Plus: brutal new polling that shows majorities questioning Trump’s honesty, competence, and abuse of power.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Donald Trump isn’t just attacking voter ID opponents—he’s laying the groundwork to reject the midterms if Republicans lose.Will Saletan traces the throughline from 2020 to now: the claim that Democrats can only win by cheating, the endless escalation from voter ID to reopening old elections, and the growing chorus inside the GOP repeating the same message.

Sam Stein, JVL, Catherine Rampell, and Sonny Bunch respond to Paramount taking over Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix walked away. The deal, still pending regulatory approvals, would put CNN, HBO, and CBS under one Trump-backed company.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger give their takes on the shocking and strangely stylish White House visit by Zohran Mamdani, who met with Trump to discuss housing plans. They break down Mamdani’s strategy of engaging Trump directly, the optics of the now-viral meeting photo, and whether Mamdani managed to “mog” the president or simply played to Trump’s ego. Is Mamdani’s approach political genius, dangerous flirtation with Trump’s brand, or just effective results-oriented dealmaking?

Tim Miller, Will Sommer and Sam Stein give their takes on down two of the strangest—and most troubling developments in MAGA media right now. First: Nick Shirley promotes a gross "documentary" targeting Jewish people and why anti-Semitic tropes keep surfacing in so-called investigative content. Then the trio goes deep on the premiere of Candace Owens’s “Bride of Charlie” series about Erika Kirk. Owens attempts to build a murder conspiracy out of birth certificate discrepancies, Swedish Freemasons, Marine Corps symbolism, charter schools, bees, gambling great-grandmothers, and Jewish Studies departments. Does any of it amount to evidence? Or is this what happens when engagement becomes the only goal?

In a new edition of Command Post, Retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling and Ben Parker give their takes on Trump’s military-heavy State of the Union address, including Trump’s claim that Iran’s nuclear program was “obliterated” even as he suggests military action. They break down how the speech leaned more on ceremony and applause lines than on strategy, vision, or a clear explanation of U.S. national security goals. Former General Hertling also explains why praising military service without explaining its purpose risks misunderstanding the meaning of sacrifice, and why the State of the Union is meant to be more than a performance, it’s supposed to inform Congress and the American people about the country’s direction.Have a question that you'd like us to consider for a future episode of Command Post? Send an email to commandpost@thebulwark.com. Please include your name, how to say it and where you're located.

Tim Miller is joined by reporter Roger Sollenberger to discuss Sollenberger’s reporting on Epstein-related records connected to Donald Trump. Roger breaks down the documents from a survivor who allegedly accused Trump of abuse as a minor, the interviews conducted by the FBI, and claims that portions of the investigative files were held by DOJ. They also examine document logs, slideshow materials listing prominent names associated with the Epstein investigation, and allegations that transparency obligations required by law related to the Epstein files were not met.Roger Sollenberger SubstackDOJ Deleted Record Revealing That Maxwell Holds Potential Blackmail Over TrumpDOJ Removed Record of Multiple FBI Interviews with Underage Trump Accuser, Epstein Data Shows

Sam Stein, Sonny Bunch, and Ben Parker give their takes on a Wall Street Journal story about a DC tax policy expert who made nearly $500,000 betting that Elon Musk wouldn’t actually cut federal spending, a wager that turned out to be almost free money. They break down how the bet worked, why it was such a lock, how political betting markets create openings for insider trading, and just how absurd some of these political wagers have become.Get 30% off your order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com with promo code BULWARKTAKES.

After the State of the Union, Tim Miller spoke with Pete Buttigieg for a rapid-fire breakdown of the speech. They took on affordability, immigration, corruption, AI, corporate capitulation to Trump, and what Democrats need to do differently.Get 30% off your order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com with promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Join Sam Stein, Tim Miller, Andrew Egger Joe Perticone, and more for real-time reaction and analysis as President Trump delivers his State of the Union address. One more thing: special guest Pete Buttigieg will join the panel after the address.

Will Saletan gives his take on Donald Trump’s escalating war against anyone who refuses to show total loyalty, including his own appointees. After the Supreme Court ruled against Trump on tariffs, the president lashed out at the justices, even targeting justices he nominated. But it’s not just the Supreme Court, it’s also Jerome Powell, Republican senators, governors, and lawmakers who dared to exercise independent judgment. In Trump’s eyes, if you cross him, you’re a traitor.

Bill Kristol and Andrew Egger are going live to discuss Trump’s brutal poll numbers and the political stakes of his State of the Union address.

Candace Owens just dropped a trailer for her new “Bride of Charlie” series—and it is something else. Tim Miller and Will Sommer discuss the wild claims, the "handler" plotline, the Romania detour, and the right-wing civil war it’s fueling. Plus: Tucker Carlson’s latest White House visit, his clash with Mike Huckabee over Israel and Iran, and why parts of MAGA are threatening to revolt.

Sam Stein is joined by Drew Harwell of The Washington Post to talk about his reporting on one of the most disturbing viral stories of the year. Ben Palmer, a Nashville comedian, set up a fake ICE deportation tip line and watched as Americans flooded it with calls. The callers weren’t trolls. They were neighbors, coworkers, even a kindergarten teacher, calmly trying to get families deported. What began as a prank by Palmer turned into a horrifying window into people's worst instincts.Read more from Drew's reporting: https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2026/02/20/fake-ice-tip-line-viral/

Sam Stein and Will Sommer go live to discuss the Kash Patel Olympics controversy—from the FBI jet questions to that now-viral hockey locker room moment. Plus: the blowback from Tucker Carlson’s sit-down with Mike Huckabee, and a James Fishback update after Byron Donalds labeled him a fake groyper.

Bill Kristol and Tim Miller go live on Sunday—fresh off their Minneapolis trip.Read JVL's The Triad newsletter, "What I Saw at the Battle of Minneapolis"

Sam Stein is joined by Columbia Heights Superintendent Zena Stenvik for a sobering conversation about what happened when ICE began targeting families in her school district. After multiple students were detained, including five-year-old Liam Ramos, Stenvik describes how her community mobilized, how schools shifted to online learning out of fear, and why she says “we can never normalize this.” It’s a firsthand account of how Trump's national immigration policy collides with real kids, real classrooms, and real consequences.

Catherine Rampell is joined by Obama’s former U.S. Trade Representative Mike Froman for his take on Friday’s landmark Supreme Court ruling that struck down Trump's emergency tariffs. They explore the implications of the court’s decision on executive power, the future of U.S. trade policy under Trump, and what it means for American consumers.

Tim Miller and Sonny Bunch give their takes on Trump’s bizarre temper tantrum after the Supreme Court ruled against his emergency tariffs. In weird mood lighting, Trump bashed the Supreme Court justices, announced new tariffs, and kept repeating stories about how much men want to kiss him.

Catherine Rampell and Andrew Egger take on the breaking news that the SCOTUS has blocked Trump's tariffs.

Sonny Bunch speaks with Andrew Jarecki and Charlotte Kaufman to discuss their Oscar-nominated documentary, The Alabama Solution. Currently streaming on HBO, their documentary combines interviews, investigative journalism, and footage from within the prisons themselves obtained via contraband cellphones to reveal the horrible and dangerous living conditions of those serving time in the Alabama correctional system. It’s a documentary primed to shock the conscience, and I hope everyone out there watches it—even, perhaps especially, if you do not consider yourself a prison reform advocate.Go to https://TheAlabamaSolution.com to learn more about the deaths inside Alabama’s prisons.

In this edition of Command Post,” Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on the alarming report that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is blocking military promotions because one colonel worked for General Mark Milley, a former Trump adviser turned foe. Plus, the team breaks down the "toxic leadership" behind Kristi Noem’s Coast Guard scandal and why the Trump administration’s approach to NATO at the Munich Security Conference missed the point. Europe isn't a burden, it’s America’s secret weapon.Read more from retired Lt. Gen. Hertling:https://www.thebulwark.com/p/americas-generals-shouldnt-face-political-loyalty-tests-hegseth-promotion-list-butler-milley-armyhttps://www.thebulwark.com/p/europe-is-americas-secret-weapon-giving-it-up-munich-security-conference-rubio-colby-nato-eu-germany

Andrew Egger and Jonathan Cohn give their takes on the stunning back-and-forth at the FDA over Moderna’s new mRNA flu vaccine, why the agency initially refused to even review the application, and what the sudden reversal says about political pressure inside the Trump administration’s health agencies.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the latest lawsuit against Steve Bannon. The suit alleges investors behind a pro-Trump meme coin that Bannon promoted saw $2.7 million in transaction fees meant for charity go missing. They break down how the “FJB Coin,” launched to capitalize on the “Let’s Go Brandon” movement, promised that a portion of every transaction would go to conservative-friendly charities, but now investors claim the money can’t be accounted for. Plus, they explore Bannon’s ongoing ties to Jeffrey Epstein and what it all means for his standing in Trumpworld.Read more from Will's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/steve-bannon-lawsuit-memecoin-fjb

Tim Miller and JVL give their takes on the escalating drama at CBS. The Colbert-Talarico interview controversy is less about FCC fears and more about high-stakes merger politics tied to CBS’ fight to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. They break down Bari Weiss’ role at CBS News, the internal fight over contributor Peter Attia following disgusting emails he sent to Jeffrey Epstein, and why Weiss drove Anderson Cooper to not renew his deal at 60 Minutes.

Will Sommer and Lauren Egan give their takes on the unlikely rise of Louise Lucas, the 82-year-old Virginia lawmaker whose unapologetic, meme-heavy social media presence has Democrats buzzing. As Virginia Democrats push an aggressive redistricting plan, Lucas has become a lightning rod for her online trolling of Republicans, including high-profile sparring with Ted Cruz. Meanwhile, figures like Gavin Newsom and Brian Schatz are experimenting with punchy online voices of their own. Is this the future of Democratic politics and does going viral translate into votes?Read more from Lauren’s reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/how-82-year-great-grandmother-louise-lucas-became-masterclass-democratic-shitposterTickets are now on sale for our LIVE shows in Dallas on March 18 and in Austin on March 19. Plus, we have a handful of seats still available for our second show in Minneapolis on February 18: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events

In a special edition of Bulwark Takes, “Morning Shots” authors Andrew Egger and Bill Kristol give a “Morning Chaser,” reacting to the news of CBS blocking Stephen Colbert’s interview with Democrat Texas Senate Candidate James Talarico, the passing of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, the implications of Sec. Rubio’s speech in Munich, and the latest on ICE and Minneapolis.

Will Saletan takes on Marco Rubio’s warning to Europe about Chinese “extortion”—and the uncomfortable reality that Donald Trump is using America’s economic and military leverage the same way.Get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals at https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES.

George W. Bush publishes an essay praising George Washington—and the media falls all over themselves calling it a jab at Trump. JVL and Tim Miller aren’t quite buying it.Get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals at https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES.

ICE released 31-year-old Mariela Sobrero just hours after The Bulwark published a report on her detention. Sobrero, who may have breast cancer, had been held for over a month at the Dilley facility in Texas with her three children. Sam Stein and Adrian Carrasquillo discuss what happened, why media and congressional scrutiny appears to have forced action, and what this case reveals about families and children still inside ICE detention.Get 60% off your first box with Tempo Meals at https://TempoMeals.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Will Sommer joins Bill Kristol to explain the ever-changing cast of characters that populate the MAGA movement.

On Valentine’s Day, Sarah Longwell joins Rachel Janfaza and Sarah Matthews to talk about the political dating divide shaping Gen Z. Why are so many women refusing to date Trump supporters? Are conservative men facing a numbers problem? And how did the Dobbs decision, social media, and financial anxiety turn romance into a culture war?

Tim, JVL, and Will Sommer discuss the drama inside Turning Point USA, the trad husband hypocrisy circus surrounding Elijah Schaffer, and the jaw-dropping Wall Street Journal exposé on Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski—luxury jets, fake badges, blankie tantrums and all.

Tim Miller joined Nicolle Wallace to talk about the DOJ’s failed attempt to indict six Democrats—and the stunning cowardice of Mike Johnson, who suggested his own colleagues may have committed crimes. As grand juries reject Trump’s lawfare, Democrats like Mark Kelly, Elissa Slotkin, and Jason Crow appear to be hardening their stance and meeting the moment.Plus Tim talks about the Daily Mail's brutal takedown of Rick Grenell: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15443145/richard-grenell-exile-susie-wiles-feud-kennedy-center.htmlWatch Deadline: White House on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sen. Mark Kelly joins Sam Stein to explain just how close the country came to a constitutional crisis. He discusses the grand jury’s rejection, the chilling effect on retired service members, and why he believes this fight is far from over—including what Mike Johnson and Republican leaders are (and aren’t) doing about it.

When the White House starts moving military lawyers into immigration courts, you want people who’ve actually been there to explain what that means. Ben Parker, Retired General Mark Hertling and former JAG officer, combat advisor, and federal prosecutor Margaret Donovan break down what happens when you pull legal advisers out of war rooms and drop them into political fights, and why that could have real consequences for military readiness and the rule of law.JAGs Shouldn’t Be Civilian Prosecutors

Tim and JVL go through various moments from Pam Bondi's hearing in the Congressional Oversight Committee, in which she evades, lies, and covers for Donald Trump.

The DOJ tried to criminally indict six lawmakers for reminding service members to obey the Constitution, and a grand jury refused to go along. But even after the charges failed, Speaker Mike Johnson suggested they “probably” should have been indicted. JVL and Andrew Egger discuss what the failed prosecution says about Trump’s Justice Department, the resilience of juries, and the growing willingness of Republican leadership to flirt with red lines that once seemed unthinkable.

Donald Trump claims to be a champion of faith, but his own words tell a different story. Will Salatan puts Trump to the ultimate test: The Bible. From the 10 Commandments to the Sermon on the Mount, see how Trump’s recent speeches stack up against the actual moral instructions of the scripture.

Catherine Rampell, JVL, and Paul Krugman take on the January jobs report.Follow Paul Krugman on Stubstack at https://paulkrugman.substack.com/

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer break down the bizarre, disturbing, and increasingly influential world of “looksmaxxing” and the internet personality at its center, Clavicular. The trio give their takes on how a 20-year-old influencer built a massive following by bone smashing his face, abusing steroids and meth, and livestreaming chaos all while becoming a minor celebrity in right-wing online culture. They explain the strange vocabulary (mogging, jestermaxxing, foids), the overlap with incel ideology, and why figures like Clavicular matter politically, even if you wish you’d never heard of them.Read more from Will's reporting on Clavicular: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/clavicular-looksmaxxing-streamer-influencer-moggingGo to: https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES for free shipping and 365 day returns on your order.

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell give their takes on why Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick faces zero consequences for lying about his contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The files reveal family trips, business deals, and charitable donations between Lutnick and Epstein, contradicting his claims that he cut off contact with him in 2005. They break down how other governments, including the UK, Slovakia, and Norway have forced resignations or investigations over Epstein ties, and why the Trump administration is shrugging off any accountability for Lutnick's lies.Posting a job is now easier than ever with UpWork at https://UpWork.com.

JVL, Sarah Longwell, and Adrian Carrasquillo give their takes on the record-breaking Super Bowl halftime show by Bad Bunny. The Puerto Rican superstar delivered a joyful, confident, massively popular performance and MAGA promptly lost its mind. The trio break down why Bad Bunny’s show worked, why Kid Rock’s conservative counter-programming flopped, and what it all says about Trump losing his grip on American culture.Posting a job is now easier than ever with UpWork at https://UpWork.com.

Tim Miller takes on a stunning National Review series that details the scale of Trump’s crypto corruption—dwarfing anything ever alleged about Biden—and explains how Trump’s crypto business operated as a pay-to-play system for foreign money, why Republican oversight collapsed, and why it matters that conservatives are finally starting to say it out loud.

Senior CNN political analyst Ron Brownstein joins Bill Kristol to discuss the Democrats chances of winning the Senate during the 2026 midterms.

Tim Miller, Catherine Rampell, and Will Sommer give their takes on the rise of the infomercial wing of the GOP. From ShamWow and MyPillow to the ambassador selling blood-flow vitamins and miracle sleep aids, they unpack how selling stuff became a political credential and why Trump’s brand of politics made it inevitable.

Andrew Egger and Joe Perticone give their takes on the growing wave of House Republicans announcing their exits as the midterms approach. They break down why Nevada Rep. Mark Amodei and others are heading for the door, how Trump’s iron grip over Congress has made life miserable even for Freedom Caucus hardliners, and why the prospect of being in the minority is driving GOP members to run for the hills.

Tim Miller and Adrian Carrasquillo joined Nicolle Wallace to relish the moment JD Vance was loudly booed at the Winter Olympics. They also talked about MAGA’s meltdown over Bad Bunny to growing signs of global and cultural rejection, and how Trumpworld’s behavior is turning into a real political liability.Watch Deadline: White House on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Andrew Egger react to Trump's racist video last night depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. As the White House defends the post, Republicans like Sen. Tim Scott are "praying it was fake because it’s the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House" and calling for it be removed.

Tim Miller and Catherine Rampell give their takes on the crypto crash, why Bitcoin and meme coins are plunging, and what the sell-off says about speculation, interest rates, and the broader economy. They break down why crypto hasn’t held up as an inflation hedge, how rising rates are squeezing risky assets, and why Trump-world’s deep exposure to crypto and speculative stocks suddenly looks a lot more precarious.

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer give their takes on the chaotic scandal surrounding far-right influencer Elijah Schaefer. After disappearing from his online show, Schaefer reemerged with a black eye, paranoid Rumble rants, and a series of increasingly bizarre videos, including wandering through a flooded hotel. The fallout has pulled in secret audio recordings, trad Catholic influencer drama, Milo Yiannopoulos, online feuds, and renewed scrutiny of Schaefer’s self-styled role as a “family values” enforcer on the right as he faces a sex scandal.Read more from Will's reporting: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/shocking-sex-scandal-rocks-trad-right-elijah-schaffer-sarah-stock

Tim Miller joins Katy Tur on MS NOW with his take on what the newly released Epstein documents reveal about Jeffrey Epstein, but about how few powerful adults were willing to say no, draw a line, or walk away when it mattered. Tim also responds to Steve Bannon’s threats for ICE to surround the polls ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and what Stephen Miller’s continued influence inside Trump’s orbit says about the current state of Republican politics.Watch Katy Tur Reports on MS NOW: https://www.ms.now/katy-tur-reports

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger react to Trump's latest craziness at the National Prayer Breakfast and his interview with NBC's Tom Llamas.

In this edition of Command Post, Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) joins Ben Parker to break down the surprising clash between the Department of Defense and Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts). Secretary Hegseth is threatening to cut support for Scouting America over DEI policies and integrated troops, but is this really what the Pentagon should be focusing on? Hertling explains why the Scouts’ values like honor, service, and leadership align with military priorities, and why Hegseth’s fight seems out of touch.We also also viewer questions questions about Iranian drone threats to U.S. carriers, Canadian-American military cooperation & NORAD, and maintaining global alliances despite political turbulence.Have a question that you'd like us to consider for a future episode of Command Post? Send an email to commandpost@thebulwark.com. Please include your name, how to say it and where you're located.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger give their takes on why Democrats may actually be winning the fight over DHS and ICE funding, even as critics on both the left and right accuse Democratic leadership of weakness. With a partial government shutdown looming, Democrats managed to fund the rest of the government while isolating DHS, forcing Republicans to defend some of ICE’s most unpopular and constitutionally questionable practices.

Sam Stein, JVL, and Semafor's Max Tani react to the Washington Post laying off roughly one-third of its newsroom staff, cutting entire desks, and shutting down major areas of coverage—including foreign bureaus during an active war. They break down what happened, who made the decisions, and why this collapse didn’t have to happen.

Tim Miller and Sam Stein give their takes on Donald Trump’s explosive White House press conference, where he lashed out at CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, dismissed questions about the Epstein files, and once again showed how comfortable he is attacking female reporters. They explain why Trump’s treatment of Collins was especially revealing, how it fits his long-standing pattern of defending powerful men accused of abuse, and why the press corps’ failure to step in matters more than people realize.They also break down Speaker Mike Johnson openly casting doubt on the legitimacy of U.S. elections while admitting he has no evidence of fraud. Tim and Sam explain why Johnson’s comments are not a slip or rhetorical excess, but a deliberate signal and why the real threat may come on the back end of the election, through stalling, lawsuits, and refusal to seat members.In the New Year, take ownership of your health with ZocDoc, at https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein gives his take on the good news out of Congress. After years of inexplicable delays, political dysfunction, and gut-wrenching defeats, the Give Kids a Chance Act has finally passed and is set to become law. The bipartisan bill will expand pediatric cancer research by allowing the FDA to study combination drug therapies, opening new funding streams, and cutting bureaucratic red tape that has long slowed progress for kids with cancer. Sam walks through how this widely supported legislation was repeatedly sidelined, including Elon Musk’s intervention, Senate procedural roadblocks, and last-minute objections that left families and advocates devastated.In the New Year, take ownership of your health with ZocDoc, at https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES.Read Sam's article about the pediatric cancer bill: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/pediatric-cancer-bill-elon-rand-bernie-mikaela-naylon

Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer give their takes on the latest wave of Trumpworld absurdity, as the 2020 election conspiracy crowd suddenly snaps back into focus after an FBI raid in Fulton County, Georgia. They unpack Trump promoting a conspiracy about Italian satellites, the apparent sidelining of Ed Martin, the expose on Rep. Nancy Mace that includes late-night tequila runs and Reddit vanity projects, and Florida long-shot gubernatorial candidate James Fishback deciding to join Tinder to meet “young female voters.”In the New Year, take ownership of your health with ZocDoc, at https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES.

JVL and Sonny Bunch give their takes on Trump’s sudden decision to shut down the Kennedy Center for two years after politicizing it, slapping his name on it, and driving ticket sales to historic lows. They break down how an iconic, nonpartisan arts institution ended up with pandemic-level attendance, why artists and audiences fled, and how a pathetic vanity project backfired spectacularly.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein and Jonathan Cohn give their takes on the alarming return of measles in the United States. The disease is spreading again, with major outbreaks in South Carolina and hundreds of cases appearing nationwide. They break down why falling vaccination rates are driving this preventable crisis, how government leaders are downplaying the threat, and why vaccine skepticism has become a badge of honor on the right, from RFK Jr.’s influence at HHS to Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo’s push to end vaccine mandates altogether.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Will Saletan takes on Todd Blanche’s Sunday show appearances, where Trump’s former lawyer—now running the Justice Department—defends mass deportations, self-issued warrants, foreign money flowing to Trump, and openly political prosecutions, despite promising the Senate none of this would happen.

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell discuss Epstein releases and other news.

Tim Miller and Sarah Longwell react to the “Greater Than” ad campaign, a polished rebrand of the push to roll back gay marriage. They watch the ads, break down the claims about children and families, and explain why the argument doesn’t hold up—factually, morally, or politically.

Sonny Bunch saw "Melania" so you don’t have to and it’s no surprise that it’s not good. Sonny is joined by JVL to give their takes on why the movie makes no sense as a business proposition, Donald Trump’s central role in shaping its purpose, and the decision to put the project in the hands of Brett Ratner, a director exiled from Hollywood after multiple sexual misconduct allegations, as part of his attempted comeback.

Tim Miller and Sam Stein give their takes on the explosive revelations from the recently released Epstein files. They delve into the disturbing connections of high-profile figures, including Howard Lutnick and Elon Musk, Bondi's lack of involvement in today's presser, and what the latest docs dump says about Trump’s relationship with Epstein.

Sarah Longwell and Tim Miller listen to a rare focus group of 14 law enforcement officers, Trump-voting and Harris-voting, to get honest reactions to ICE’s actions in Minneapolis. Hear more on "The Focus Group" on Saturday morning.

Sam Stein is joined by Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) for his take on the rapidly unfolding government shutdown fight and why Democrats are willing to shut down the Department of Homeland Security unless Congress passes real, binding limits on ICE and CBP. Coons explains why Democrats agreed to a short-term DHS extension, what specific statutory reforms they’re demanding, and how Trump’s governing chaos is reverberating beyond U.S. borders.

Sam Stein, Sarah Longwell and Catherine Rampell are LIVE discussing Don Lemon's arrest related to a Minneapolis church protest and Trump tapping Kevin Warsh as the new Fed chair.

Sarah Longwell joins Nicolle Wallace on Deadline: White House, explaining why the Minneapolis shootings—and the Alex Pretti video in particular—have shifted public opinion.Watch Deadline: White House on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

JVL is joined by journalist and civil liberties expert Radley Balko for his take on the why the federal response in Minneapolis fundamentally different and far more dangerous than a typical police shooting. Balko explains why this isn’t just a case of bad officers or poor judgment, but a breakdown at the institutional level, where DHS and ICE no longer even pretend to care about legitimacy and may be beyond reform.Read more from Radley Balko: https://radleybalko.substack.com/

Tim Miller and Sam Stein give their takes on Trump’s latest Cabinet meeting where he dodged questions, ignored controversial Cabinet members, and declared that housing prices should go up as he tried to tout affordability.Save the date for our 2026 live tour which we will kick off on February 19 to be with our friends in the Twin Cities. Sarah, JVL, Tim, and Sam will be there and then we will head to the Lone Star State for a one-night show in Dallas on March 18 and one in Austin on March 19. Minnesota tickets will go on sale this Friday and both Texas shows will go on sale next week.Watch your inbox and https://TheBulwark.com/events for more.

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger give their takes on the FBI’s raid of a Georgia elections office on Wednesday as Donald Trump revives “Stop the Steal” six years after losing the 2020 election.Tim and Andrew break down how it escalates Trump’s long-running election conspiracy into federal law enforcement action, why it looks like a dry run ahead of the midterms, and why Tulsi Gabbard was at the raid.Save the date for our 2026 live tour which we will kick off on February 19 to be with our friends in the Twin Cities. Sarah, JVL, and Tim will be there and then we will head to the Lone Star State for a one-night show in Dallas on March 18 and one in Austin on March 19. Minnesota tickets will go on sale this Friday and both Texas shows will go on sale next week.Watch your inbox and https://TheBulwark.com/events for more.

In this edition of Command Post, Bill Kristol and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) give their takes on the federal agents in Minneapolis following the killing of Alex Pretti, explain the dangers of militarizing U.S. cities, and what NATO allies are doing in the Arctic.Have a question that you'd like us to consider for a future episode of Command Post? Send an email to commandpost@thebulwark.com. Please include your name, how to pronounce it and where you're located.

Tim Miller joined Piers Morgan to give his take on Alex Pretti's murder by federal officers in Minneapolis and called out panelists defending state violence, while breaking down what real courage and real masculinity looks like.Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgHftUYA9rQ

Andrew Egger and Will Saletan give their takes on the attack at an Ilhan Omar town hall in Minnesota, where a man rushed the podium and sprayed her with an unknown substance before being arrested. Donald Trump’s response was to dismiss the attack and blame Omar. Andrew and Will break down the Republican reactions to the attack, including Rep. Randy Fine’s attempt to condemn the violence while justifying it, and what it says about the state of American politics.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the right wing media fallout from the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis after the White House quietly tried to distance themselves from Greg Bovino. Megyn Kelly was grossly indifferent and didn't "feel sorry" about Pretti's death while Tim Pool remains unapologetic and is pushing for the crackdowns to continue.

Adrian Carrasquillo spent several days on the ground in Minneapolis as immigration operations intensified across the city. Drawing on firsthand reporting and eyewitness testimony, the conversation documents how immigration enforcement tactics have reshaped daily life for residents, workers, and small business owners.Segundo Balboa, co-owner of Galapagos Bar & Grill: A small-business describes ICE arriving in December, families becoming afraid to leave their homes, and neighborhood commerce collapsing as fear spread. He explains the impossible choice between staying safe and continuing to work to pay bills.Carolina Ortiz, associate executive director of Communities Organizing Latine Power and Action (COPAL): A community organizer and on-the-ground responder, who provides detailed eyewitness accounts of ICE tactics across Minneapolis—agents positioned on nearly every block, unmarked vehicles, covered faces, and arrests carried out through intimidation.Daniel Hernandez, owner of Colonial Market & Restaurant: He explains sales dropping by nearly 90 percent, the loss of the holiday season, and his efforts to support families through food delivery, recovery of impounded vehicles, and coordination with city officials to keep aid inside the community.These interviews show how immigration policy is playing out in real time: fear as a tool, force as a default, and an entire community caught in the middle.Read more about Adrian's experience in Minneapolis:Portraits of the Minneapolis Resistance: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/portraits-of-the-minneapolis-resistance-dhs-cbp-ice-protests-minnesota24 Hours Alongside an ICE Protester in Minneapolis: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/24-hours-alongside-an-ice-protester-minneapolis

The Trump White House says Americans can eat healthy meals for about $3 a serving. To test that claim, Jared Poland tried living on the administration’s guidance for three days. He also speaks with Colleen Heflin, a professor at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University who studies food and nutrition policy and social welfare policy.

Tim Miller takes on the Trump administration’s effort to defuse outrage over Minneapolis with PR tweaks and cosmetic changes, arguing that softer language and shuffled personnel don’t address the abuse of power.

Tim Miller is joined by New York magazine Washington correspondent Ben Terris to talk about his reporting on Trump’s health and the increasingly surreal way the White House talks about it. From mysterious MRIs and constantly bruised hands to doctors reading from talking points and Stephen Miller insisting Trump is “superhuman,” Tim and Ben dive into what we actually know about the president’s health versus what his inner circle wants us to believe.

Sam Stein and Andrew Egger give their takes on the fallout from the White House after top officials like Stephen Miller, Kristi Noem, and Greg Bovino called Alex Pretti a “would‑be assassin” and “domestic terrorist” in the minutes after federal agents shot and killed him in Minneapolis even as video evidence and witness accounts contradicted them. As the Trump team scrambles to change the narrative, Bovino has been moved out of his Minneapolis role.

Fresh off MSNOW's The Weekend with Catherine Rampell, Sarah Longwell explains why the killing of Alex Pretti is breaking through with voters—and why government lies and Second Amendment hypocrisy aren’t holding up.Watch The Weekend on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/the-weekend

Will Saletan gives his take on why Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cannot be trusted to oversee the investigation into her own department. In just three weeks, ICE and Border Patrol agents killed two Americans. In both cases, Noem publicly described the victims as violent “domestic terrorists.” And in both cases, video evidence flatly contradicts her claims.

Sam Stein speaks with Dr. Aasma Shaukat, Alex Pretti’s former boss, about the moment she learned he’d been killed, and what kind of coworker and caregiver he was.

Sam Stein, The Bulwark's managing editor, takes on Border Patrol Commander-at-Large Greg Bovino’s Orwellian inversion of reality in the aftermath of the killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and intensive care nurse. Sam digs into Bovino’s Sunday interview with CNN’s Dana Bash, where Bovino reframes the victim as the aggressor and dismisses what videos of the killing show.

Bill Kristol, Sam Stein and Adrian Carrasquillo have a live discussion of the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

Over the past week, there’s been a surge of ICE activity in Maine and one incident in particular has captured national attention. A corrections officer recruit was detained by ICE in the middle of the street and his car was left running in the cold. Tim Miller spoke to witness Ben Bozeman, who captured the shocking footage and stepped in to help return the officer’s car.Cumberland County Sheriff Kevin Joyce, whose recruit was detained, called ICE’s actions “Bush League policing.” We reached out to the Cumberland County Sheriff's office Friday afternoon and spokesperson said that they have not been given any information about the status or whereabouts of their colleague.

Sarah Longwell is joined by Andrew Weissmann for his reaction to the second killing of a civilian in Minnesota by federal agents. Andrew is professor of practice at the NYU School of Law who served as lead prosecutor in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's office from 2017 to 2019, and was General Counsel for the FBI from 2011 to 2013. They discuss the roles of the First and Second Amendments in the case, the contradictions and falsehoods issued by the government, and why it is important for people to continue speaking out and come forward with any video evidence in cases like this.

Tim, Sarah and Andrew react live.

Tim and JVL are live reacting to the second fatal shooting in Minneapolis.

Tim Miller gives his take on one of the most morally disgraceful moments of the Trump presidency. Trump told protesters in Iran that America had their back. He encouraged them to stay in the streets and keep fighting a brutal theocratic regime. Then the Iranian government began executing them by the thousands and the United States walked away. Now, in the middle of that crackdown, the Trump administration is planning to deport Iranian asylum seekers back to Iran, including gay men who face execution simply for who they are.Please contact your senators and representatives: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

Will Saletan carefully dissects Jack Smith’s congressional testimony and shows how House Republicans used the hearing to distort the investigation and shield Donald Trump.

Tim Miller and Pod Saves America’s Jon Favreau give their takes on JD Vance’s latest performance defending ICE raids, child detentions, warrantless home entries, and racial profiling allegations. We walk through the facts JD Vance ignored, the lies he told calmly and confidently, and why this version of Trumpism that’s cooler, smoother, and more deliberate may be even more dangerous.Jon Favreau is the host of Pod Save America. Subscribe to their channel for more podcasts, videos and analysis.

Tim Miller gives his take on the latest New York Times/Siena poll and the results should worry Trump and the Republican Party. Trump's much-touted 2024 coalition is unraveling, especially among young voters and non-white voters who helped power his return to office. The MAGA realignment didn’t stick with 56% of Americans disapproving of Trump's job as president.

Lt. General Mark Hertling (Ret.) is joined by Ben Parker for a Command Post edition of Bulwark Takes, breaking down the national security fallout from Trump’s chaotic Davos remarks and growing global instability. As Russia escalates its war on Ukraine, Hertling explains why Putin’s threats keep working on Trump and why allies are alarmed about his recent Greenland rhetoric. We also examine the dangerous implications of preparing troops from Alaska and North Carolina for possible deployment to Minnesota.

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell give their takes on Trump backing off his threat to occupy Greenland after the markets flinched, calling the "concept of a deal" a victory, when it's really just the status quo being restored.

Tim Miller and Will Sommer give their takes on the disturbing viral night out that brought together the worst corners of the manosphere and the alt-right. From Andrew Tate and Nick Fuentes to Clavicular and a new crop of livestreamers, the group’s Miami club crawl featured Nazi salutes, extremist chants, and nonstop “aura farming” all broadcast straight into people’s social media feeds.

JVL, Sam Stein and Andrew Egger react live to Trump’s rambling and combative speech at Davos on January 21, 2026.

Tim Miller is joined by journalist Caolan Robertson, reporting from Davos, to explain how Russia is escalating its war by targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, why this winter is becoming a humanitarian catastrophe, and how Moscow’s economy is finally starting to crack under the cost of war.

JVL, Sam Stein, and Joe Perticone give their takes on how Trump abruptly endorsed a primary challenger to Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy. Even after Cassidy bent over backward to confirm RFK Jr., Trump still decided it was time to end him.

Tim Miller joined MSNOW’s Deadline: White House with Alicia Menendez to talk about why Republicans admitting Trump is wrong—on Greenland, tariffs, and foreign policy—means nothing when they refuse to act. Plus, why a viral Minnesota man’s firsthand account of ICE hits harder than any talking point.

Sam Stein and Tim Miller give their takes on the disturbing footage of ICE agents detaining an elderly U.S. citizen in Minneapolis with no warrant, no explanation, and no apology. The raid went wrong at every step and DHS is still defending it.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkout.

Will Saletan surgically dissects one of the most embarrassing interviews of the Trump administration: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent twisting himself into knots on Meet the Press to defend Donald Trump’s threats against Greenland and Europe.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkout.

JVL, Sam Stein, and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump’s shocking message to European leaders, in which he complains about not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize and links it to his demands for the U.S. to take over Greenland. They unpack how Trump’s message reflects his strongman worldview, drives allies into China’s hands, and draws uneasy parallels to Putin’s actions in Ukraine.Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/TAKES and use promo code TAKES at checkout.

Tim Miller is joined by Minnesota resident turned viral protester Chis Ostroushko for his take on the “insane” Minneapolis protests. Chris shares his unfiltered perspective on how ICE has turned the city into a “military zone” and why he felt compelled to speak out and protest.You can follow Chris at MNAngryMan on Instagram and BlueSky:https://www.instagram.com/mnangryman/https://bsky.app/profile/mnangryman.bsky.social

Trump’s polls are slipping, but his authoritarian project keeps accelerating. Does his unpopularity matter, and on which issues is he most vulnerable—Greenland, NATO, ICE or the economy?

Sonny Bunch sits down with writer Chuck Klosterman to talk about his new book Football—and what the sport’s dominance says about America’s shrinking monoculture.Buy "Football" by Chuck Klosterman: https://www.amazon.com/Football-Chuck-Klosterman/dp/0593490649

JVL and Will Saletan break down Donald Trump’s escalating threats against Europe as he pushes to “conquer” Greenland, claiming “World Peace is at stake!”

Can Democrats flip the Senate in 2026? Lauren Egan is joined by Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) about the states that could make it happen, the recruits who are stepping up, and how the DSCC decides when to endorse. From Texas and Florida to Alaska and Maine, Schiff lays out the plan and explains why the midterms may come down to economic pressures and Trump’s chaos.

Sam Stein takes on the breaking news that a federal judge has set limits on ICE’s violent tactics against peaceful protesters in Minnesota. Also breaking, the DOJ has reportedly launched an investigation into Gov. Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey, claiming conspiracy to impede federal officers.

Tim Miller takes on the rough stretch for Trump as leaked internal polling shows his immigration tactics backfiring, ugly ICE footage sparks public backlash, and even the White House admits the optics are hurting them.Watch Chris Jansing Reports on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/chris-jansing-reports

Trump’s immigration issue is unraveling and even his own private polls show trouble. Viral videos of ICE raids and protests are driving public backlash, leaving Trump’s team worried about optics… but not about policy. Sam Stein is joined by Marc Caputo of Axios to break down the numbers, the backlash, and what it could mean for Trump’s next moves.

Sam and Sonny give their takes on an embarrassing scene at the White House in which Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado handed Trump her Nobel Peace Prize medal and Trump accepted it.

JVL and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump repeatedly floating the idea of canceling elections and why calling it a "joke" is dangerously naive. From past attempts to overturn results to testing how far his party will follow him, they break down why this isn’t just trolling.

President Trump said he may invoke the Insurrection Act of 1807 in response to protests and ICE activity in Minneapolis. Ben Parker is joined by retired Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling to explain what the Insurrection Act actually allows, when it has been used in U.S. history, and why this situation is fundamentally different.

Mark Hertling and Bill Kristol discuss the war in Ukraine, including deliberate civilian targeting through winter blackouts, why U.S. disengagement is helping Putin more than any battlefield victory, and how infighting with NATO over Greenland is weakening the alliance from within. They also examine Europe’s response, the rise of the Nordic–Baltic security bloc, the global consequences of American strategic vacuums, the limits of military action in Iran, and risks around the Pentagon’s embrace of AI tools like Elon Musk's Grok.

Tim Miller gives his take on a wave of disturbing ICE confrontations, including Minneapolis agents threatening civilians and a California protester who was shot in the face and left blind.

Sam Stein talks with Lauren Egan about her scoop on a new Democratic memo warning lawmakers to steer clear of “Abolish ICE.” They give their takes on the latest polling on ICE, political fear from voters, and why Democrats seem unwilling to use funding leverage even as public opinion shifts. Dems Are Begging Their Own to Drop ‘Abolish ICE’https://www.thebulwark.com/p/democrats-abolish-ice-reform-searchlight-memoHalf of Americans think ICE is making American cities less safe, CNN poll findshttps://www.cnn.com/2026/01/14/politics/ice-minnesota-cnn-pollMore Americans view the ICE shooting in Minnesota as unjustified than say it is justifiedhttps://today.yougov.com/politics/articles/53878-more-americans-view-ice-shooting-minnesota-unjustified-than-justified-january-9-12-2026-economist-yougov-poll‘Disgusting’: Minnesota Senate Race Gets Hostile After ICE Shootinghttps://www.huffpost.com/entry/minnesota-ice-senate-race_n_6967c68ee4b0141cc9b1e8ac

Catherine Rampell and Sam Stein take on Trump’s Detroit Economic Club speech on Tuesday so you don’t have to. From tariffs and credit card caps to pitching Socialist-style ideas, they unpack what’s real, what’s bluster, and what it means for everyday Americans.

Tim Miller returns to "Piers Morgan Uncensored" to give his take on the killing of Renee Good in Minneapolis. While Nick Shirley and Will Chamberlain defend the officer’s actions as justified, even Joe Rogan and Tim Dillon said this one crossed a line.

Tim Miller gives his take on the disturbing wave of videos coming out of Minneapolis and who ICE and CBP are really targeting. Scene after scene shows federal agents confronting ordinary people just trying to live their lives: an Uber driver targeted over his accent, a 17-year-old U.S. citizen tackled to the ground while working at Target, and a DoorDash driver chased into a stranger’s home while armed agents surrounded the house.Get free shipping and 365 day returns with Quince at https://Quince.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller joined Nicolle Wallace on Deadline: White House to discuss why the killing of Renee Good—and the administration’s decision to release the video—may be a political turning point. What was supposed to project strength instead exposes a strategy that alienates swing voters, activates non-activists, and turns immigration from a GOP advantage into a liability.Watch Deadline: White House on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sam Stein, Catherine Rampell, and JVL provide breaking analysis after Fed chair Jerome Powell released a remarkable video message Sunday night announcing an "unprecedented" criminal investigation into him by federal prosecutors. Powell, in the video, says the probe is because the Fed has been setting interest rates "based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of” President Donald Trump.

Jack and Tim take on Jake Tapper’s on-air fact-checking of Kristi Noem, the rush to label a protester a “domestic terrorist,” and the dangerous argument that being in a car now justifies lethal force.

After the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s dictator Nicolás Maduro, Trump publicly suggested he’d be honored to “accept” the Nobel Peace Prize won by Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, as if awards work like trophies, souvenirs, or FIFA medals. Ben Parker and Mona Charen give their takes on the sheer absurdity and Trump’s warped understanding of Venezuela and immigration.

Bill and Sam discuss the Minneapolis killing and other items from a very eventful week.

Tim Miller and JVL give their takes on the shocking Minneapolis ICE killing of Renee Good, the federal government’s handling of state-sanctioned violence, and what it reveals about America’s culture of death.

Tim Miller talks with Harvard student and New York Times op-ed writer Alex Bronzini-Vender about the new campus speech crackdown and why it’s now being driven by Republicans, not the left. They dig into how anti-woke politics and federal pressure are reshaping campus life and how the right has adopted the same speech-policing tactics it once condemned.

Correction, January 9, 2025, 3:35 p.m.: The footage from the perspective of ICE agent Jonathan Ross played in this video appears to have come not from a body camera, as mentioned in the video, but from the phone Ross was holding during the incident.Tim Miller breaks down newly released footage appearing to be from the ICE officer who fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis.

Donald Trump’s approval numbers are sinking and the cracks are showing in places that once kept him afloat. Sarah Longwell and Andrew Egger giver their takes on why Trump is bleeding support among young men, struggling far beyond his MAGA base, and facing growing backlash over his unilateral intervention in Venezuela. We texted 1,000 Americans about U.S. actions in Venezuelahttps://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/interactive/2026/venezuela-maduro-poll-trump-military/Manospheres of Influencehttps://puck.news/why-young-men-are-souring-on-trump/?sharer=390630&token=53008331bc2ed20edb3afe09938aa6c0

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Andrew Egger react live to JD Vance defending the ICE officer who fatally shot Minnesota woman Renee Good.

Tim Miller gives his take on the Jan. 6 rioter pardoned by Donald Trump, who has not only avoided accountability, but is now running for Senate. This extremist attacked Capitol police, threatened Muslims and Jews, and continues to spread hate.Show notes: In the New Year, take ownership of your health with ZocDoc, at https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein sits down with Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) to break down the recent Maduro operation in Venezuela, the challenges of coordinating military and political strategy, and what the U.S. would actually gain from Greenland. Mark will break down the biggest stories involving the military in a series of chats right here, every Thursday, in a special series.In the New Year, take ownership of your health with ZocDoc, at https://ZocDoc.com/BULWARKTAKES.

The trio is back and 2026 is off to a wild start. Tim Miller, Sam Stein, and Will Sommer give their takes on the calls for Nicki Minaj to be deported, the political influencers for sale creating a reality TV show, and former FBI deputy director Dan Bongino blasting Matt Gaetz in a fiery MAGA feud.

Sam Stein and Tim Miller break down the shocking video from Minneapolis where an ICE agent fatally shot an American woman in her car. Sam and Tim give their take on the deadly escalation of federal ICE operations, and the dangerous spin already coming out from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.

Sam Stein talks with Rep. Ritchie Torres about the explosive rise of political prediction markets—and the serious corruption risks we face.

Five years after January 6, the diehards came back to the scene of the crime. Pardoned rioters, conspiracy theories, and a fierce counter-protest collided on the National Mall. Jared Poland gives his take to Sam Stein on what he found from reporting on the ground as Americans argue again over what really happened on Jan. 6.

Sarah Matthews was inside Trump’s White House on January 6. Matthews, the former deputy press secretary explains to Sarah Longwell what it was like watching the Capitol attack from the West Wing, why Trump refused to meet the moment, and how that day finally pushed her to resign. Five years later, she reflects on Republican accountability, January 6 fading from public memory, and why Trump’s return to power still shocks her.Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off.

Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) joins Sam Stein and Lauren Egan to give his take on why Trump’s Venezuela policy risks another disastrous war. A veteran of the Iraq War, Gallego says the administration is lying about its intentions, prioritizing oil interests and deportation deals over stability and democracy. He also discusses his Senate amendment to block military force against Greenland, Trump’s threats to NATO, and what the January 6 anniversary tells us about the state of American democracy.Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off.

Description: Five years after January 6, Bill Kristol sits down with Tom Joscelyn, the lead writer of the House January 6 Committee report, to assess where the country stands today. They give their takes on why January 6 was not an endpoint, but the beginning of a new political reality: one defined by a lack of accountability with sweeping pardons, the normalization of political violence, and a movement that no longer accepts elections or constitutional limits.Go to https://GetSoul.com and use the code BULWARKTAKES for 30% off.

JVL and Jonathan Cohn give their take on the shocking changes coming from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Department of Health and Human Services. The federal government is now recommending fewer vaccines for American children, including RSV and Hep B, while flu, COVID-19, and rotavirus vaccines move to “shared clinical decision-making.” What does this mean for parents, pediatricians, and public health? How could it affect vaccine access, liability, and supply? And is this just the first step in a larger anti-vaccine agenda? We break it all down.

Senator Mark Warner joins Sam Stein to give his take on the Trump administration’s dramatic actions in Venezuela, congressional oversight, and what comes next. Warner warns that extracting a foreign leader, sidelining Congress, and talking openly about “running” other countries reflects an imperial mindset that America has spent decades trying to move away from.

Sarah Longwell, Lauren Egan, and Jonathan Cohn are going live to discuss the news that Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota and former vice-presidential candidate, is leaving the governor’s race.

Will Saletan takes on Donald Trump’s post-invasion claims about Venezuela and Maduro, putting Marco Rubio into a series of awkward Sunday show cleanups on war powers, oil, and pardons that exposes just how much of Trump’s story doesn’t add up.Read Will's written piece: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/which-countries-will-trump-invade-next-after-venezuela-maduro

Bill Kristol and Sarah Longwell discuss Bill's thoughts on possible paths 2026 could take—from a democratic rebound to a far darker slide.

Sam Stein and Sonny Bunch take on new reporting on Donald Trump’s health—from repeated cognitive tests and confusing medical disclosures to visible signs of aging and a White House press operation that won’t give straight answers.Read the WSJ article: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/as-signs-of-aging-emerge-trump-responds-with-defiance-769c5dcd

Please note: The population of Venezuela was incorrectly stated during this conversation as "about 90 million." It is about 30 million. We regret the error.Sam Stein, Mark Hertling, Sarah Longwell, Ben Parker and Joe Perticone cover the breaking news about the Venezuela regime change operation and react to the Trump administration’s press event.

The Bulwark team makes their predictions for 2026—from MAGA infighting and Trump’s fading grip on power to economic fallout, media chaos, and a midterm backlash.

From the Trump–Elon Musk Twitter war that briefly melted everyone’s brain, to the election of the Bulwark Pope, and the moments of real tragedy and moral collapse, the year of 2025 delivered a nonstop barrage of chaos, absurdity, and consequence. The Bulwark team looks back at the craziest, most astonishing moments of the year to give their takes on the stories that dominated headlines and the events of the last 12 months that will matter long after the news cycle moves on.

Mark Cuban joins Jonathan Cohn to give his take on why America’s healthcare system is broken and what it would take to fix it. Cuban breaks down prescription drug pricing, the role of PBMs, and how his Cost Plus Drug Company is making medications affordable for millions. Cuban also weighs in on system reforms, transparency, and whether U.S. healthcare can ever work for everyone.

Tim Miller and Sam Stein give their takes on the Trump cabinet after a full year of chaos, incompetence, and outright danger. From “livable” appointments to the "worst of the worst" category, they rank every cabinet member and argue over who did the most damage in 2025.Note: this video was recorded on December 22, 2025. Any horrible acts committed after that have not been factored into the rankings.

DHS is using Norman Rockwell’s art to sell an anti-immigrant message and his family is furious. Catherine Rampell sits down with Daisy Rockwell, Norman Rockwell’s granddaughter and a writer and artist herself, to talk about why these images are being misused, what Rockwell actually believed, and get her take on how nostalgia and Americana are being weaponized to promote white nationalist ideas.

Bill Kristol sits down with Ryan Goodman to discuss new and upcoming Epstein document releases. They’ll cover which records to watch for next, what the disclosures do—and don’t—tell us so far, and whether the U.S. Department of Justice is dragging its feet, playing procedural games, or protecting powerful interests.

Ben Parker is joined by Derek Owen and R.M Schneiderman to discuss their deeply reported investigation into how the FBI rebuilt its counterintelligence capabilities after decades of failure—and how Trump-world politics, Kash Patel, and shifting priorities could put America at risk.Read more from Owen and Schneiderman here: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/fbi-spent-generation-relearning-catch-spies-kash-patel-counter-intelligence-espionage-tulsi-gabbard-china

Sam Stein and Jared Poland give their takes on a curious White House claim. After repeated questions about Donald Trump’s bruised hand, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said it was caused by constant handshaking and aspirin use.So we decided to test it.

A holiday classic, Bulwark-style. From foreign jets to fake honors, we rewrote The 12 Days of Christmas to keep track of Trump’s greatest hits in 2025.The 12 Days of Grift-mas, annotated:1 giant Qatari jet: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy5lp4v594o2 peace awards: FIFA Peace Prize (https://www.thebulwark.com/p/screw-it-lets-rename-the-moon-trump-institute-of-peace-kennedy-center-coin-epsitein-files) and the Nixon Foundation Architect of Peace Award (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-architect-of-peace-award-nixon-foundation/)3 Olympic medals: from the LA Olympic Committee (https://www.whitehouse.gov/videos/president-trump-has-been-awarded-a-full-set-of-1984-olympic-medals-%F0%9F%8F%85%F0%9F%87%BA%F0%9F%87%B8/)4 Four Rush-Hour films:  Recently promised by Paramount, which wants Trump to approve a merger with Warner Bros. Discovery (https://www.thebulwark.com/p/jackie-chan-sequel-rush-hour-4-says-whole-lot-trump-economy)5 golden trophies: A golden plaque from Apple (https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/08/07/tim-cook-trump-gift/85555805007/), a golden pager from Netanyahu (https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/06/middleeast/netanyahu-trump-golden-pager-intl/index.html), the FIFA Club World Cup trophy (https://people.com/trump-pockets-fifa-medal-club-world-cup-11774149), World Boxing Council BC boxing belt from Ukraine (https://www.si.com/fannation/boxing/ukraine-president-zelensky-boxing-gift-that-didnt-land-with-trump), and a golden crown from South Korea (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/29/world/asia/trump-south-korea-crown-gyeongju.html)6 golfing wins: At his own clubs, naturally (https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/2025/08/05/donald-trump-golf-tournament-championship/85516763007)7 pretty portraits: Saudi (https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-insane-gifts-saudi-arabia-gave-president-trump/), El Salvador (https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/21/world/americas/trump-painting-missing.html), 2 from Russia (https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/22/style/russian-artist-trump-portrait-putin-intl and https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/22/us/politics/trump-putin-photo.html), Australia (https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-gifted-least-3-portraits-himself-foreign-leaders-2019-1616322), Egypt (https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-gifted-least-3-portraits-himself-foreign-leaders-2019-1616322), Vietnam (https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-gifted-least-3-portraits-himself-foreign-leaders-2019-1616322?utm_source)8 foreign honors: Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Kosovo, Morocco, UAE, Egypt, Israel, South Korea (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_awards_and_honors_received_by_Donald_Trump#International)9 postage stamps: From Poland (https://oversightdemocrats.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/democrats-oversight.house.gov/files/Foreign%20Gifts%20Appendix%20I%20-%20Trump.pdf)10 Epstein years: “I was Donald’s closest friend for 10 years” - Jeffrey Epstein (https://docs.house.gov/meetings/JU/JU08/20250227/117951/HHRG-119-JU08-20250227-SD006-U6.pdf)11 Nobel noms – Argentinian President Javier Millei, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, Malta foreign minister, U.S. Rep. Darrell Issa, Pakistan, U.S. Rep Claudia Tenney, U.S. Rep. Bernie Moreno, Rwanda’s foreign minister12 diet cokes: Trump reportedly drinks about a dozen per day (https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/09/us/politics/donald-trump-president.html)Merry Christmas!

Donald Trump’s first year back in office is in the books, but how accurate were The Bulwark predictions from this past year? Sam Stein is joined by “Judge” Mona Charen to put our 2025 forecasts under the gavel. From Trump’s health and pardons to government shutdowns, MAGA infighting, and political chaos, we revisit what we got right, what we got wrong, and what only deserved half a point.

While most Americans were with family, Trump spent the night before Christmas Eve rage-posting threats at TV networks he doesn’t like. Tim Miller was on MS NOW Reports to disuss.Watch MS NOW Reports: https://www.ms.now

Sam Stein and Sarah Longwell made a mistake.They decided to take on their haters and read mean comments from the internet about each other. What followed was a mix of roasting, self-reflection, interruptions, hair discourse, Seinfeld heresy, and the comment section doing what it does best.

Tim Miller and JVL take on a Manhattan Institute focus group that exposed open praise for grotesque “strongman” politics, overt antisemitism, and casual acceptance of extremist figures like Nick Fuentes.Read JVL's Triad newsletter on the focus group: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/behold-the-focus-group-from-hell-city-journal-young-republicansRead the original article on the focus group: https://www.city-journal.org/article/manhattan-institute-focus-group-gen-z-republicansGet 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Bari Weiss just spiked a "60 Minutes" story on the CECOT scandal, sparking outrage inside CBS and across the media world. Sam Stein and JVL are joined by Semafor’s Max Tani to break down what happened, why Weiss made the call, and how Trump’s shadow looms over CBS News.Read more in Morning Shots: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/trump-and-co-cant-keep-their-lies-straight-epstein-files-bondie-doj-weiss-cecot-cbs

Sam Stein, Catherine Rampell and Sonny Bunch take on Trump’s trade wars, the bourbon bust in Kentucky, and how tariffs, retaliation, and broken alliances are hammering an iconic American industry.

Sam Stein and Jack Cocchiarella take on US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche’ struggling through his appearance on Meet the Press as he stumbles through excuses for the heavily redacted Epstein files.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) joins Bill Kristol to discuss the Trump administration’s attempts to slow the release of the Epstein files.

Tim Miller takes on the MAGA conspiracies that falsely accused a Brown University student of murder. After the Brown University shooting, right-wing influencers like Laura Loomer, Benny Johnson, and even a DOJ official spread baseless accusations targeting a student. The real killer was later identified on Thursday, a 48-year-old Portuguese national with no connection to the student. Tim breaks down how MAGA media and politicians fueled this dangerous lie.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

JVL and Catherine Rampell take on the re-naming of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to the Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, as Donald Trump continues to put his name on anything he can, congress approval or not.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sarah, JVL, and Tim Miller are going live to discuss the HUGE news day.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Ben Shapiro slammed Candace Owens at TPUSA's AmericaFest and exposed a growing civil war inside conservative media. Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the backlash, Tucker Carlson’s response, Megyn Kelly’s role, and why no one seems capable of stopping the chaos.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Tim Miller is joined by Keith Edwards to take on Trump Media’s head-scratching move into nuclear fusion, the sprawling corruption tying together crypto, energy, and media power, and why major TV networks just handed Trump free airtime with no pushback. They also discuss elite cowardice, Dr. Oz’s bizarre speech, and the freakout over a hockey TV show.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESCheck out Keith Edwards on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@keithedwards

Tim Miller takes on the viral confrontation between Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and a protester at a DC wine bar, and makes the case that public officials don’t get to cause mass suffering and still expect polite silence in public.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller, Andrew Egger and Will Saletan react to Trump's White House address. From grievance speedruns to tariff denial and whatever is going on with that garland.

Sam Stein and Will Sommer give their takes on the news that Dan Bongino is on his way out at the FBI. They discuss Bongino’s bizarre tenure, his struggle to reconcile conspiracy culture with reality, and what comes next.

Tim Miller gives his take on Kash Patel using Katie Miller’s podcast to push back on criticism about spending time with his girlfriend, and why the interview felt more like reputation management than leadership at a critical moment for the FBI.

Sam Stein joins Deadline: White House with Nicolle Wallace to discuss the stunning Vanity Fair interviews of Trump chief of staff Susie Wiles.Watch Deadline: White House on MSNOW: https://www.ms.now/deadline-white-house

Sam Stein and Catherine Rampell take on a weak jobs report and why the topline numbers may hide more serious economic trouble. They discuss into manufacturing job losses, the Fed’s warning that growth is overstated, and the White House’s shaky spin—plus how AI could soon hammer white-collar workers.

Tim Miller takes on the planned deportation of Uyghur whistleblower Heng Guan, a decision that raises deeper moral and strategic failures in America’s approach to China.Please contact your senators and representatives: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

Celebrate the life and work of Rob Reiner with The Bulwark’s Bill Kristol and Sonny Bunch, who will be joined by The Ankler’s Richard Rushfield and Semafor’s Dave Weigel tonight at 9 PM. He was one of the most versatile directors of his generation, with classics like This Is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, The Princess Bride, and A Few Good Men under his belt; come remember your favorites with us.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Tim takes on Trump’s latest disaster of a press conference, including his claim that fentanyl is a “weapon of mass destruction,” a fake pardon promise, and a doubling down of his attacks on Rob Reiner.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

JVL and Sarah Longwell give their takes on Donald Trump’s ghastly response to the murder of Rob Reiner and his wife Michele. From victim-blaming to self-obsession, Trump turns a horrific family tragedy into a fantasy about “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” exposing the moral rot and hypocrisy at the heart of his presidency.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Tim Miller and Sam Stein run through a Sunday potpourri of news and the week’s weirdest internet moments, from Trump’s awkward Army–Navy coin flip, brawls outside of a New York Republican’s Club event, Erika Kirk dominating Twitter’s algorithm, and Tekashi 6ix9ine catching strays.

Bill Kristol is joined by Managing Editor Sam Stein to discuss the latest news, and a variety of Bulwarkian developments including Andrew Egger’s scoop causing chaos with the RNC chair, Adrian Carrasquillo making The White House’s “naughty list”, and Sam updates on the efforts on the pediatric cancer funding.

Tim Miller joins Katy Tur on MSNOW to talk the complexities of the Epstein files being released as more photos of the rich and powerful become public, and Trump’s continued support among his most faithful beginning to see cracks.Watch Katy Tur Reports on MSNOW

Tim takes on a disturbing press-freedom story: after a Mother Jones reporter asked the Pentagon about a senior adviser tied to Pete Hegseth, Jack Posobiec, a Pentagon-connected figure, sent threatening emails targeting the reporter’s personal life. Read the Mother Jones story: “I Asked the Pentagon About Pete Hegseth’s Mentor. Then the Threats Started.” — https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/12/eric-geressy-goodreads-pentagon-dod-pete-hegseth-jack-posobiec-threat/

Sam and Andrew take on the GOP’s latest self-own. RNC chair Joe Gruters went on a radio tour predicting “absolute disaster” in the midterms, the RNC posts the clips, deletes the clips, and then rage-tweets at anyone who quotes the clips.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

JVL and Hannah Yoest break down the Department of State’s sudden font switch: goodbye ‘woke’ Calibri, hello Times New Roman. Why does this matter? Because apparently even fonts are political now, and Marco Rubio thinks professionalism starts with a serif.Get 30% off your entire order with Soul at https://GetSoul.com, promo code BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller gives his take on how Candace Owens and Tucker Carlson have turned the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk into a carnival of baseless conspiracy theories. From claims about the French Foreign Legion secretly being on the ground, to Egyptian planes following Kirk’s widow, underground trapdoors at Utah Valley University, and even a mysterious “communist bee cult,” Owens and Carlson are amplifying the most absurd ideas imaginable. Meanwhile, the real case is clear: a suspect with motive and confession is in custody, yet these frauds are using tragedy to sow distrust.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam, Sonny, and Politico’s Adam Wren break down how Indiana Republicans defied Trump, rejecting his push for redistricting 31-19. It comes after weeks of threats and pressure from the White House.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Jasmine Crockett just changed the entire Texas Senate primary and maybe the Democrats’ whole “find a viral candidate” strategy. Sam Stein and Lauren Egan give their takes into why moderates have struggled to find their footing online, why the party is obsessed with digital darlings like Crockett and James Talarico, and whether going viral can actually win elections.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam Stein speaks with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) for her take on the fast-moving fight in Congress over extending enhanced Obamacare subsidies, the looming spike in premiums, and why millions could lose coverage if lawmakers fail to act. Shaheen breaks down the competing proposals, the political pressure inside the Senate, and the GOP’s reliance on Donald Trump to bless any deal. They also discuss the administration’s continued escalation in the Caribbean, the unanswered questions surrounding the September 2 boat strikes and news that the U.S. seized a Venezuelan oil tanker.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Trump wants your kids to have fewer dolls and fewer pencils, but he’ll happily take a new ballroom, a Gatsby party, and a marble-soaked Lincoln bathroom. JVL, Sam Stein, and Sonny Bunch give their takes on the surreal contrast, his obsession with opulence, and why Trump should instead be hosting an HGTV show.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Will Saletan breaks down Donald Trump’s shocking pardon of Juan Orlando Hernández, the former president of Honduras convicted of trafficking hundreds of tons of cocaine into the United States. Since the pardon, Republican senators have been asked to explain it, and the results have been excruciating.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Tim Miller and Andrew Egger give their takes on Donald Trump’s rally at the Mount Airy Casino Resort, where the supposed “affordability” message was instead swallowed by recycled riffs, Somali rants, and compliments about his staffers’ lips.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKES

Sam Stein sits down with CNN’s Andrew Kaczynski to discuss Pete Hegseth’s past comments on military law and unlawful orders. Kaczynski unearthed video of Hegseth defending troops for refusing illegal orders—something he now attacks Democratic lawmakers for saying.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESRead more of Andrew’s work: https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/08/politics/hegseth-trump-warned-unlawful-orders-kfile

ProPublica’s Justin Elliott talks with Tim Miller about a fresh set of Trump-connected mortgage records that deserve a closer look.Exclusive $35 off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/BULWARKTAKES. Promo Code BULWARKTAKESJustin’s story: https://www.propublica.org/article/trump-mortgage-fraud-florida-principal-residences

JVL is joined by Catherine Rampell and Sonny Bunch to give their takes on the wild Warner Brothers takeover drama and the surprising role Jared Kushner is playing in Hollywood’s biggest bidding war. we break down how Kushner and Trump allies are shaping the bidding war and why Paramount and Netflix are fighting over Warner Bros. and CNN.Get 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library at https://Calm.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Sam Stein, Tim Miller, and Will Sommer give their takes on the wild Benny Johnson vs. Milo Yiannopoulos feud that started with with gay allegations, lawsuit threats, and MAGA chaos. Even George Santos somehow becomes the voice of reason in this mess. We dig into the political infighting, factional battles over TPUSA’s legacy, and how the right-wing influencer world weaponizes sexuality for power. Is Benny’s “traditional family man” persona under threat?Get 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library at https://Calm.com/BULWARKTAKES.

Tim Miller takes on the jaw-dropping story of GOP Rep. Corey Mills with guest Roger Sollenberger—the reporter who’s spent nearly a year digging through Mills’s financial records, sex scandals, secret religious conversion, and his bizarre “rescue mission” abroad.Get 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library at https://Calm.com/BULWARKTAKES.Read Roger’s article on Substack, “‘George Santos With a Gun’: The Untold Story of Cory Mills, A Mercenary In Congress”: https://substack.com/home/post/p-180742305

Tim Miller takes on the ICE raids unfolding in Louisiana, exposing how the operation leans on spectacle, intimidation, and political theatrics instead of real public safety.

Sam Stein talks Donald Trump’s chaotic pardons, from Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar to the Honduran ex-president, and the political mess they’ve left for Republicans to attempt to explain.

Bill Kristol is joined by Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia to discuss the boat strikes, what really happened, and the latest intelligence raising new questions.

Sam Stein highlights 16-year-old cancer patient Mikaela Naylon, who spent her final days lobbying Congress for the Give Kids a Chance Act, helping revive the long-stalled pediatric cancer research bill, with her story inspiring new momentum and raising cautious optimism it could finally pass.Sam's piece from September 2025, "Elon Musk Torpedoed a Beloved Pediatric Cancer Bill. It’s Yet to Recover.": https://www.thebulwark.com/p/elon-musk-pediatric-cancer-bill-congressional-inertia-give-kids-a-chanceSam's piece from December 2024, "Elon Killed the Budget Deal. Cancer Research for Kids Was Collateral Damage.": https://www.thebulwark.com/p/elon-musk-killed-budget-deal-children-cancer-funding-collateral-damage

Sam Stein and Will Sommer take on The Blaze’s spectacular pipe-bomb fiasco—from the bogus gait analysis to the wrongly accused Capitol Police officer and the scramble to retract the story once the real suspect was arrested. They discuss how the piece got published, why it collapsed so fast,  and whether a brutal defamation fight is about to hit The Blaze hard.