Piers Morgan: Polishing Trump's Turds

Bill Kristol: Trump Wants All-out Kleptocracy

Jul 6, 202650 minSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller is joined by editor-at-large Bill Kristol for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of American politics. The conversation centers on the concerns surrounding Donald Trump’s recent actions, which the pair characterizes as a descent into an all-out kleptocracy. They examine the ethical implications of Trump’s business entanglements, including undisclosed stock purchases and the overt blending of presidential power with personal financial gain, drawing comparisons to authoritarian regimes where the rule of law is subverted by corruption. The discussion pivots to the upcoming NATO summit, where the guests express apprehension regarding the potential for Trump to undermine international alliances. They also touch upon the geopolitical tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine and the risks of Russian provocations. Additionally, Miller offers a candid post-mortem on the Michigan Senate race, critiquing the tactical missteps of certain Democratic campaigns that prioritized internal factional fights over broader electoral strategy. Throughout the episode, Kristol and Miller emphasize the necessity of maintaining focus on constitutional norms and the long-term health of the American republic amidst these tumultuous political developments.

Clint Smith: Make America What It Set Out to Be

Jul 3, 20261h 8mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller sits down with Atlantic staff writer Clint Smith for a thoughtful exploration of the current state of American institutions and the challenges facing those committed to serving them. The conversation centers on the shifting climate within the military and the broader federal government under the current administration. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Smith’s recent reporting regarding the experiences of Black service members. They examine the growing sense of disillusionment and cognitive dissonance among military personnel who find their historical contributions and professional merit undermined by rhetoric that dismisses their achievements as mere products of affirmative action or woke ideology. The two also reflect on the symbolic importance of figures like General Chappy James, noting how the removal of his portrait from the Pentagon served as a painful sign that even historically conservative, decorated military leaders are no longer immune to current political revisionism. Beyond the military, Miller and Smith discuss the personal and professional stakes for public servants, such as Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch, who remain in their roles to safeguard institutions against political interference. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reflection on the "aspirational promise" of the American experiment and the importance of continued, fact-based reporting in maintaining the integrity of a liberal democratic republic.

Susan Glasser: Our Money-Grubbing President

Jul 2, 202651 minSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller is joined by New Yorker staff writer Susan Glasser to discuss the alarming extent of corruption and the erosion of democratic norms under the current presidential administration. The conversation centers on Donald Trump’s recent financial disclosures, which reveal a staggering influx of billions of dollars from foreign entities, including crypto deals and investment funds tied to the UAE. Glasser and Miller argue that this level of financial entanglement, combined with the acceptance of gifts like a private plane from Qatar, marks an unprecedented departure from the rule of law and transparency standards established in the post-Watergate era. Beyond financial corruption, the duo examines the administration’s transactional approach to foreign policy, questioning how personal financial gains influence critical geopolitical decisions in the Middle East. They also critique the Supreme Court for its role in dismantling campaign finance and anti-corruption guardrails. The discussion touches on the unsettling use of AI to create holograms of historical figures like Teddy Roosevelt, which the guests view as a dystopian attempt to manipulate historical legacy. Finally, the episode addresses the political rhetoric of JD Vance, particularly his use of religious language to justify divisive immigration policies, which the hosts describe as both hypocritical and a fundamental distortion of human dignity.

Maggie Haberman: A Gross and Messy White House

Jul 1, 20261h 6mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller interviews New York Times White House correspondent Maggie Haberman regarding her new book, Regime Change, co-authored with Jonathan Swann. The discussion explores the stark differences between Donald Trump’s first and second terms, emphasizing how the current administration has fundamentally transformed the presidency through an expansion of executive power and a more centralized, loyalist staffing structure. Haberman details how Trump’s belief in his own immunity—bolstered by Supreme Court rulings and a deeply supportive inner circle—has allowed him to operate with unprecedented autonomy. The conversation covers specific, unsettling examples of this approach, including the influence of figures like Elon Musk, who acted as a de facto co-president, and Marco Rubio’s controversial role in foreign policy negotiations, such as the deal involving Salvadoran prisons. The episode also touches on the administration’s attempts to politicize cultural institutions and the highly insular information flow surrounding the president, facilitated by aides like Natalie Harp. Ultimately, Haberman characterizes this iteration of the White House as a messy and aggressive departure from previous norms, driven by a small, dedicated group of individuals.

David French: The Birthright Citizenship Ruling Should've Been 9-0

Jun 30, 20261h 10mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller and guest David French engage in an in-depth analysis of recent Supreme Court rulings, focusing on the implications for American government and citizenship. The conversation opens with a discussion on the Court’s 6-3 decision to reject efforts to end birthright citizenship, a development the participants celebrate as a victory for established constitutional precedent. The hosts then shift their focus to the Court’s broader approach to the administrative state. They break down the Slaughter and Cook cases, discussing how the judiciary is simultaneously empowering the presidency while reining in the power of executive agencies. French explains the legal tension between the Court’s insistence on presidential accountability for agencies and the practical reliance interests that justify the independence of institutions like the Federal Reserve. Throughout the episode, the two discuss the concept of congressional malpractice in creating regulatory structures and the evolving, sometimes inconsistent, application of constitutional scrutiny regarding racial discrimination and government power. They conclude by touching upon campaign finance, expressing frustration with the existing, increasingly dysfunctional regulatory landscape.

John Dickerson: When the Media Helps Rewrite Reality

Jun 29, 20261h 6mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller records from the Aspen Ideas Festival and sits down with journalist John Dickerson to discuss the complexities of modern politics, foreign policy, and the shifting landscape of media. The conversation begins with a detailed analysis of the ongoing volatility surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. Dickerson emphasizes that the current crisis has created new leverage points that were previously non-existent, and he argues that the effectiveness of the administration's actions should be measured against the benchmarks of the former nuclear deal and the status quo that existed before the conflict. Beyond international affairs, the duo explores the concerning trend of "defining deviancy down," specifically regarding how some political figures are attempting to reframe the history of Watergate and normalize abuses of power. They also reflect on how the current administration’s approach to business and ethics has shifted, noting the stark contrast between original promises to protect the forgotten and the subsequent emergence of lucrative business ties within the executive branch. The discussion concludes with reflections on the broader cultural and fiscal challenges facing the nation, including the fading prominence of climate discourse and the evolving relationship between corporate leadership and the federal government.

Jane Coaston: POTUS's Racism Notches Another Win

Jun 26, 20261h 11mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller is joined by journalist Jane Coaston for a wide-ranging discussion on the current political climate, focusing on instances of systemic racism and government overreach. The conversation begins with a critical look at a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants. Coaston and Miller analyze the decision, expressing concern over the legal and humanitarian implications for those who have long resided in the U.S., while noting the performative nature of some conservative rhetoric surrounding the issue. The hosts delve into the hypocrisy of certain political commentators and the broader conservative media landscape, particularly regarding who is afforded empathy and who is targeted for harsh prosecution. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the case of protesters at a Texas ICE facility. The discussion highlights the disproportionate sentencing—ranging from 30 to 100 years—handed down to individuals charged under "material support for terrorism" laws, including instances where individuals were prosecuted despite not even being present at the protest. The episode serves as an engaging examination of how political tribalism shapes discourse on civil liberties and justice.

Tom Nichols: Trump's Trashy 250 Celebration

Jun 25, 202658 minSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller welcomes back Tom Nichols, a staff writer at The Atlantic and professor at the US Naval War College, for a deep dive into the current state of American politics and civil-military relations. The conversation centers on a critique of the recent presidential speech at the Great American State Fair, which Nichols characterizes as small-minded and fundamentally nationalistic rather than patriotic. Nichols argues that the rhetoric failed to grasp the significance of American citizenship and instead focused on divisive, self-serving narratives. The discussion pivots to the ongoing issues within the Department of Defense, specifically addressing the recent wave of purges involving senior military officials. Nichols and Miller express concern over the politicization of the military, noting that these actions undermine long-standing meritocratic norms and damage essential civil-military relations. They also highlight the irony of recent administrative decisions regarding health protocols, noting how such choices can negatively impact military readiness. Finally, the pair touches on the legislative struggles regarding war powers and the unpredictable nature of modern congressional dynamics, lamenting the decline of institutional norms in favor of partisan posturing.

Peter Hamby: How Far Can the DSA Go?

Jun 24, 20261h 1mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller is joined by veteran journalist Peter Hamby to break down the latest trends in campaign politics and the surprising outcomes from recent Democratic primaries in New York. The conversation begins with a lighthearted but insightful look at political aesthetics, drawing on new reporting about Donald Trump’s transition from office décor to his evolving public persona. The duo discusses the intersection of political optics, physical health, and the cultural fixations that continue to shape the current Republican primary landscape. The discussion then shifts to a deeper analysis of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and their recent successes in New York. While candidates like Zohran Mamdani are noted for their unique ability to govern through constituent services and charismatic, relatable messaging, the hosts express skepticism regarding other rising DSA figures. They analyze why certain candidates’ radical rhetoric on policing, foreign policy, and social issues could create significant friction for Democratic leadership on a national stage. Ultimately, the episode serves as a nuanced exploration of the tension between local primary victories and the broader appeal required to win over the median American voter.

John Ganz: Trump’s Coalition of the Aggrieved

Jun 23, 20261h 0mSummary

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller interviews author and political analyst John Ganz to explore the rise of Donald Trump and the deeper historical currents of American right-wing populism. Drawing from his book, When the Clock Broke, Ganz discusses the intellectual and cultural roots of contemporary conservatism, arguing that today’s Trumpian movement is not a sudden aberration but the culmination of a political trajectory that began in the early 1990s. Ganz provides a critical look at Trump’s governing style, characterizing it as deeply personal, mercurial, and largely devoid of coherent systematic or ideological thought. He explains how Trump’s worldview, shaped by his background in business and a personal history of crises, views politics as a series of hostile negotiations rather than governance. The conversation also touches on the emergence of figures like Pat Buchanan and David Duke, whose populist tactics prefigured the current media-defying approach of modern political outsiders. Throughout the discussion, Ganz and Miller dissect the shifting nature of the Republican party, the role of media in radicalizing voters, and the persistent sense of betrayal among Americans who feel increasingly disillusioned by traditional political elites.