The Next Level

George Conway joins Sarah Longwell in this special edition of The Next Level to give his legal expertise on how SCOTUS will approach states kicking Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot.

NYT bestselling author Josh Green joins Tim to discuss his new book, The Rebels: Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and the Struggle for a New American Politics. They go over Josh's hypothesis as to why a progressive didn't get the Democratic nomination in 2020, how the movement pushed Biden's agenda to the left, what the future holds for the party after Trump and Biden are gone, and why populism on the right has taken over the GOP in a way it hasn't for Democrats. Pre-order Josh's book here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/586025/the-rebels-by-joshua-green/

The media is killing it right now.Become a Bulwark+ member to listen to the full episode: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/its-not-that-hard-nikki

The gang is back to kick off 2024 by delving into the Iowa primary, where GOP primary voters seem poised to give aspiring dictator Donald Trump a landslide victory. Plus, the gang has differing thoughts on the president of Harvard University stepping down, as well as whether Nikki Haley has any shot of becoming Trump's VP. Buy tickets to our live show, AN EVENING WITH THE BULWARK, in San Francisco on January 18th here: https://www.commonwealthclub.org/events/2024-01-18/election-2024-evening-bulwark

On the last Secret Podcast of 2023, Sarah and Tim talk Nikki Haley failing to mention slavery when asked about the cause of the Civil War.Become a Bulwark+ member to listen to the full episode: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/its-not-that-hard-nikki

The gang break down their predictions for 2024, including how the GOP primary will end, who will be Trump's VP pick, and the craziest development that could happen between now and election day.

On this special Saturday edition of TNL Sunday, Steven Van Zandt of the E Street Band joins Tim and JVL to cover everything from politics and apartheid to the '80s, the politics of the 2020s, and his ever evolving career. Get the scoop on his music journey, genre-blending tricks, and thoughts on race in the industry. Plus, he spills the beans on acting, 'The Sopranos,' and how TV shows mix with his tunes. Don't miss the stories and laughs in this killer interview!"

Least bad options are the only options we've got.Become a Bulwark+ member to listen to the full episode: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/what-if-good-things-happen

Colorado's state Supreme Court has ruled Donald Trump cannot appear on the ballot in 2024. The gang discusses whether the ruling does more harm than good as America enters it's next presidential year. Plus, the gang talks Trump's recent comments on immigration, the Senate sex scandal, and the new poll from The New York Times that bodes better for President Biden than other recent indicators. Tim also breaks down his experience as Turning Point USA's annual conference, so it's a jam-packed show today!Go to HelloFresh.com/thenextlevelfree and use code thenextlevelfree for FREE breakfast for life! One breakfast item per box while subscription is active.

Terrell Starr joins Tim to discuss being a Black reporter in Ukraine, and how that impacts the way he views the Russian invasion of the country. He also delves into the current mentality of Ukrainian citizens towards the defense effort, as well as how they view the stalemate in the United States over additional funds its ally.Terrell's YouTube channel, Black Diplomats official, can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@BlackDiplomatsOfficial/videosSubscribe to Terrell's newsletter here: https://substack.com/@terrellstarr (First article publishes next week.If you'd like to donate to some Ukrainian organizations Terrell recommends, click on the links below:Nareshti Help Fund: https://nareshti.com. PAYPAL info: [email protected] (In the note say, "Terrell Starr sent me your way.")Yahidne Mission, which helps to rebuild homes in formerly occupied cities: https://heylink.me/Yahidne_mission/Tatyana Kagitina, who supports Ukrainian soldiers who need winter gear, can be reached by email at [email protected]. (In the note say, "Terrell Starr sent me your way.")Follow Terrell on social media with links below.Twitter: https://twitter.com/terrelljstarrIG: https://www.instagram.com/terrelljstarr?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qrThreads: [email protected]

An else-worlds episode.Become a Bulwark+ member to listen to the full episode: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/what-if-good-things-happen

The future of the GOP disgustingly hurtles towards Sen. J.D. Vance's isolationist vision, abandoning allies like Ukraine in the process. Plus, the Texas Supreme Court refuses to let a woman get an abortion, despite risks to her health. And the GOP's impeachment inquiry into President Biden can't even state the impeachable crime their investigating.Go to zbiotics.com/NEXTLEVEL to get 15% off your first order when you use NEXTLEVEL at checkout.

The New York Times bestselling author David Grann ("The Lost City of Z") joins Tim and JVL to discuss his time covering Sen. John McCain's presidential campaign, and how the choice of Gov. Sarah Palin paved the way for the GOP's embrace of Donald Trump.Plus, David discusses his latest book, "The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder," as well as "Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI," adapted to film this year by director Martin Scorsese.Buy David's books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/David-Grann/author/B001YDEZJO?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Plus: Sarah has to save America. Again.Listen to the full episode by becoming a Bulwark+ subscriber here: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/giving-permission

The gang discuss Speaker Mike Johnson blurring the faces of Jan. 6 insurrectionists to protect them from the DOJ, while Rep. James Comer makes the GOP impeachment inquiry about a truck President Joe Biden bought his son.Plus, there's a GOP debate tonight! Is there a reason to watch? And young voters are still enthused about voting, but what about Muslim Americans?This episode is sponsored by Zbiotics. Go to zbiotics.com/nextlevel to get 15% off your first order when you use NEXTLEVEL at checkout.This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/thenextlevel today to get 10% off your first month.

The New York Times best selling author Clint Smith joins Tim to discuss race and its history in the United States, including the false narratives many Americans have about it. They also discuss his book, "How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America," and what he hopes its readers take from it.

Also: DeSantis vs. Newsom.

The gang reacts to the first reveals from Liz Cheney's new book, including some embarrassing Kevin McCarthy quotes. Meanwhile, New Hampshire governor and Republican moderate, Chris Sununu, says he'll vote for Donald Trump over Joe Biden if it comes down to it. But will his endorsement of Nikki Haley mean anything? And is Mark Cuban running for president?Go to zbiotics.com/nextlevel to get 15% off your first order when you use NEXTLEVEL at checkout.Go to HelloFresh.com/thenextlevelfree and use code thenextlevelfree for FREE breakfast for life! One breakfast item per box while subscription is active.

The gang discusses former Rep. Peter Meijer, who voted to impeach Donald Trump over January 6, and his insane justification as to why he will vote for Trump over Joe Biden. Plus, DeSantis' campaign is starting to play the blame game, while Nikki Haley's shows (a little) signs of life.

Professor Scott Galloway, host of the "Pivot" podcast, joins Tim to discuss the future of artificial intelligence, ungrateful tech leaders like Elon Musk, education inequality, and his transition into a media personality.

Tim debriefs his interview with Kari Lake, who's running to be the Senate of Arizona while attempting to put some of her craziest positions behind her. Plus, a new column gives Biden advice on how to turn his campaign around, so the gang give their own unsolicited opinions. And Donald Trump's plans for his second term are chilling, but they may be key to his defeat. Sonny Bunch joins Tim and Sarah to discuss all this and more! Politico column: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/13/biden-2024-reelection-challenges-strategy-00126776Watch the gang record this episode here: https://youtu.be/eJ4hmFKgbbM

For a special Veteran's Day weekend TNL Sunday, Tim interviews CNN's Brianna Keilar, whose husband is a Green Beret. They discuss what it's like to be in a military family, the current partisan political divides within the institution, and much more.Plus, Brianna talks about what it's like to cover Donald Trump post-presidency and how she decides what stories about the aspiring authoritarian to cover.Check out Brianna's column, Home Front, here: https://www.cnn.com/politics/homefront

And the Republican debate.

The gang reacts to Democratic wins in last night's elections, like the pro-choice issue in Ohio and Dems taking over Virginia's state legislature; the latter effectively kills Republican donors' 2024 presidential hopes for Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Plus, Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa endorses Ron DeSantis to little coverage, Rep. Peter Meijer, who voted to impeach Donald Trump, says he'll vote for whoever the GOP nominee is after launching a Senate campaign, and the NYT releases a downright terrifying general election poll. And oh yeah, there's a debate tonight!Watch the gang record this episode here: https://youtu.be/Utc33WA6IIg

Tim interviews Walter Isaacson at The Bulwark's live event in New Orleans. Listen to the two discuss Walter's latest book, Elon Musk, and what it was like for the author to interact with the business magnate as he was writing the biography. This event took place on October 25, 2023.

The no-shot and the long-shot.

A new poll shows newly Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema trailing both Republican Kari Lake and Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in Arizona's 2024 Senate race. She also thinks adults celebrating Halloween is creepy?Plus, the Washington Examiner's cover art depicts a radical Democratic Party that couldn't be farther from the truth, Rep. Dean Phillips' campaign against Biden is run by a grifter, and Kentucky's Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear is a model for how to win over Trump voters.Get tickets to The Bulwark's DC show on NOVEMBER 16 at https://www.thebulwark.com/events.This episode is sponsored by Hello Fresh. Go to HelloFresh.com/50thenextlevel and use code 50thenextlevel for 50% off plus free shipping!Watch the gang record this episode on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/CYKLzwERU-4

Actor and comedian Tom Arnold joins Tim to discuss his journey from comedy into anti-Trump politics. He also delves into his background growing up in a white working class family, as well his split from Roseanne Barr and her embrace of right-wing conspiracies. Plus some good old fashioned GOP-bashing for fun!And at the top of the show, Tim gives his reaction to Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips launching a presidential primary campaign against President Joe Biden.Note: This episode was taped on October 16, 2023, prior to Rep. Mike Johnson becoming Speaker of the House.Watch Tim interview Tom on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/POmADsZYOYY

The new speaker and the new presidential candidate.

The GOP’s next speaker-designate is MAGA Rep. Mike Johnson, a major player in trying to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election; and he may just land the job!Plus, Jenna Ellis pleads guilty to felony charges, and the right tries to turn a White House faux pas on antisemitism into Biden’s “both sides” moment. A. B. Stoddard subs in for Sarah to discuss!This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/thenextlevel and get on your way to being your best self.

Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman joins Tim to talk the mayhem in the House and what liberals would be willing to negotiate with Republicans to elect a Speaker. He also details his evacuation from Israel after Hamas' terrorist attacks and gives his opinion on the left-wing of his party outspoken support for Palestinians.

Jim Jordan and Joe Biden speak to America.

The disfunction on The Hill continues with Jim Jordan the latest GOP hopeful to get rejected for the Speakership by his own party. What will finally make them work with Democrats to re-open the government?Plus, Nancy Mace's weirdness could stem from a desire to be Trump's VP, DeSantis and Haley spar over U.S. policy towards refugees (and the difference between citizens and terrorists), and JVL and Tim debate who is better: Taylor Swift or Beyonce.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/nextlevel and get on your way to being your best self.Watch the gang record this episode on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/DlPRYN-EoxM

Columnist Blake Flayton speaks with Tim from Tel Aviv, Israel amidst the aftermath of Hamas’ terrorist attacks. Listen to his perspective on the politics both in Israel and abroad, as well as his opinion on why thing are forever changed in the region.Watch Tim interview Blake on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/gUsWMImJyVI

What comes after Scalise.

The gang talk to devastating attacks on Israel by Hamas, as well as the terrible reactions by both the left and the right. Except, of course, from President Joe Biden, who perhaps gave his best speech in office yet. Plus, the race between Reps. Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan exemplifies the division and dysfunction in the the House GOP, and Sarah details her run in with Fox News host Laura Ingraham.Watch the gang record this episode here: https://youtu.be/sthzfSDjzQ8

Tim sits down with former editor-in-chief of "Salon" Joan Walsh. Previously on opposite sides of political discourse, the two political pundits discuss how politics really is a horseshoe, with the radicals at both ends of the spectrum having a lot more in common than they think. Plus, Joan talks about her new book, "Corporate Bullsh*t: Exposing the Lies and Half-Truths That Protect Profit, Power, and Wealth in America," which leads to some fun, respectful debate with Tim. Buy Joan's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Corporate-Bullsh-Exposing-Half-Truths-Protect/dp/1620977516/ref=sr_1_1?crid=194VN2D6HJJDE&keywords=joan+walsh&qid=1696618530&sprefix=joan+walsh%2Caps%2C67&sr=8-1Watch Tim interview Joan on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/nudGe94xjYU

Tim is in for Sarah and he and JVL talk about the economy, unemployment numbers, and the relationship between voter sentiment and reality.

The GOP majority in the House is on fire as Kevin McCarthy is ousted. But will a bigger threat in the form of Jim Jordan replace him? A.B. Stoddard subs in for Sarah to discuss! Plus, a judge puts a gag order on Donald Trump as he attends his trial for fraud charges, and Tim asks JVL and A.B. for parenting advice when it comes to kids in sports!Watch the gang record this podcast on The Bulwark's official YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/JfSnp88wX9w

Actor and author Henry Winkler (Happy Days, Barry) joins Tim and Sarah to talk the evolution of his Hollywood career, dealing with dyslexia, artificial intelligence, the SAG-AFTRA strike and more! Buy Henry's children's book, "Detective Duck," here: https://www.amazon.com/Detective-Duck-Case-Strange-Splash/dp/1419755137

Don't worry, folks, Glenn Youngkin is here to save the GOP!The Secret Show is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. To listen to the rest of this show and gain access to all Bulwark+ member benefits (newsletters, podcasts and more!) sign up today at TheBulwark.com/secret.

The gang dive into what the non-Trump candidates need to do in the second debate tonight ... and debate amongst themselves if it even matters. Plus, Donald Trump says Gen. Mark Milley should be put to death and Biden strikes with UAW union members, even though the Democratic party's green energy policies complicate his relationship with them.

Gretchen Carlson sits down with Tim to discuss the fight against sexual harassment, age discrimination, her courage in speaking out against Fox and Roger Ailes, and the advice she has for young girls as they enter a potentially dangerous workplace environment. Plus, Sarah joins Tim at the top to discuss Cassidy Hutchinson’s accusations against Rudy Guiliani. Learn more about Life Our Voices, Gretchen's nonprofit organization, here: https://liftourvoices.org/

On Murdoch and Milley.The Secret Show is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. To listen to the rest of this show and gain access to all Bulwark+ member benefits (newsletters, podcasts and more!) sign up today at TheBulwark.com/secret.

Rep. Lauren Boebert fooled around and found out, while Sen. John Fetterman's opinion on the Senate dress code riles DC. It's a doozy of an episode with Sarah vs. Tim on proper etiquette in a theater and the Senate. Plus, Speaker Kevin McCarthy is leading his majority straight for a government shutdown they could very well be blamed for, and Donald Trump casts aside the pro-life movement without consequence.

Fellow never-Trump Republican Brad Thor joins Tim this Sunday to talk his new thriller novel, "Dead Fall." They also discuss the decline of the GOP away from freedom and towards populism, the horror that would be a a second Trump presidency, and President Biden's handling of the crisis in Ukraine.Buy Brad's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Dead-Fall-Thriller-Scot-Harvath-ebook/dp/B0BHTNRQQQ

Sarah and JVL talk about the revelations from the upcoming Romney biography. And the weirdness of Republicans being “pro-working man” and also anti-union.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announces the House will start an impeachment inquiry without a vote and without evidence. But his right-wing critics, such as MAGA troll Matt Gaetz, still aren't satisfied. Plus, the Democratic governor of New Mexico's temporary ban on guns draws bipartisan backlash for being unconstitutional, while some Texas counties are creating legal challenges to people traveling out of state to get an abortion.

Andrew Zimmern, former host of Bizarre Foods, joins Tim to discuss how food relates to immigration and climate, his journey to sobriety, growing up with two gay dads, and the future of alternative meat. Not a foodie? Don't worry, we promise there's lots of political analysis to whet your appetite!ANNOUNCEMENT: The Next Level’s YouTube page will be folded in to the main Bulwark channel starting October 4. Subscribe to watch the gang record each episode going forward here: https://www.youtube.com/@UCG4Hp1KbGw4e02N7FpPXDgQ

Sarah and JVL drop the news that TNL is taking over CSPAN on Saturday morning. They talk about Nikki Haley’s second look. America’s SpaceX problem. And the secret history of “Gay Obama.” It’s total, nonstop action. Don’t miss Sarah, Tim, and JVL on C-SPAN on Saturday morning at 9am in the East. The Secret Show is exclusively for Bulwark+ members. To listen to the rest of this show and gain access to all Bulwark+ member benefits (newsletters, podcasts and more!) sign up today at TheBulwark.com/secret.