Bulwark Takes

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Pete Hegseth is facing impeachment, and his response is to blame the media, attack Congress, and hide behind American troops. Ben Parker and Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling (Ret.) dissect Hegseth’s combative Pentagon press conference, his defense of controversial military operations, and his refusal to take responsibility for civilian casualties and questionable orders. They also examine how Hegseth has turned the job of Secretary of Defense into a partisan political operation, why he has failed to grow into the role, and what an impeachment fight could mean for the Pentagon.

Sam Stein and Tim Miller went live to watch Trump unravel at an impromptu press conference, where he dodges questions about a Chinese spy allegedly tied to Nvidia’s CEO, walks back any suggestion of easing his immigration crackdown, and lashes out at reporters who press him on Putin and Pete Hegseth. Plus, Trump tries to recruit UFC boss Dana White as his press secretary and gets shot down in spectacularly awkward fashion.
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Will Saletan breaks down Donald Trump’s response to the Republican Party’s midterm wipeout, as the president scrambles to blame everyone but himself. Trump claims the Alaska election should be overturned, insists he would have won if he were on the ballot, and throws Republican candidates under the bus after previously endorsing them. He turns on Greg Abbott, attacks Fox News for reporting unfavorable polls, and blames Senate Republicans. After a historic defeat, Trump is pointing the finger at everyone but himself.
Give the gift of quality this holiday season with Quince. Shop premium cashmere, Italian leather, fine jewelry, and more at prices 50–80% less than similar brands. Cashmere sweaters start at just $60, with free shipping and 365-day returns. Download the Quince app for exclusive offers or visit https://www.quince.com/bulwarktakes. When asked where you heard about Quince, select The Bulwark Takes to support the show.

Will Sommer and Sam Stein look at the growing cracks in Trump’s MAGA coalition after the midterm losses. Trump is floating a possible immigration deal with Democrats, sending hardliners like Megyn Kelly and The Blaze into a frenzy. Trump, nearly a week after the election, is now pushing baseless claims that the midterms were stolen. Plus, Laura Loomer’s paid political posts are coming under scrutiny, Russell Brand’s prison sentence raises questions about MAGA’s embrace of accused predators, and a fight over corruption inside Trump’s White House is getting uglier.
Give the gift of quality this holiday season with Quince. Shop premium cashmere, Italian leather, fine jewelry, and more at prices 50–80% less than similar brands. Cashmere sweaters start at just $60, with free shipping and 365-day returns. Download the Quince app for exclusive offers or visit https://www.quince.com/bulwarktakes. When asked where you heard about Quince, select The Bulwark Takes to support the show.

Todd Blanche went on CNN to defend Trump’s threats to imprison Democrats, dismiss allegations against Susie Wiles, and promise to protect Stephen Miller from congressional scrutiny. Will Saletan and Catherine Rampell break down the interview and explain how Blanche, in trying to head off investigations, may be giving Democrats even more reasons to investigate him.