Bulwark Takes: Conor Lamb Says Fetterman Isn’t Meeting The Moment. AOC Is On His Side Release Date: March 25, 2025

In this compelling episode of Bulwark Takes, Lauren Egan engages in a candid discussion with former Pennsylvania Congressman Conor Lamb. The conversation delves into Lamb's recent criticisms of his former Senate opponent, John Fetterman, his unexpected alignment with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), and broader reflections on the Democratic Party's current trajectory.

1. Alignment with AOC and Policy Agreements

Conor Lamb opens the dialogue by addressing his alignment with AOC, emphasizing that their relationship has always been policy-driven rather than personal.

Conor Lamb [01:24]: "Sure. I mean, we actually were aligned on some policy issues, even though we disagree with others. And we never had any kind of a personal canvas. I think it was always sort of policy driven."

He underscores the importance of creating energy around town halls and ensuring that constituents feel heard and valued—a strategy he believes AOC exemplifies, contrasting it with what he perceives as a lack of engagement from other Pennsylvania senators.

2. Criticism of John Fetterman’s Performance

Lamb elaborates on his criticisms of John Fetterman, particularly regarding Fetterman’s interactions with AOC and perceived inaction on critical issues.

Conor Lamb [02:00]: "I've just been really alarmed. I mean, every single week what Trump and Musk are doing, you know, to the country, to Pennsylvania... People are being fired with no explanation."

Lamb expresses frustration over Fetterman's focus on less impactful engagements, such as attending joint events with Republican Senator Dave McCormick, rather than addressing pressing concerns like Social Security, Medicare, and the rule of law. He questions Fetterman’s priorities, highlighting a lack of tangible legislative accomplishments that directly benefit constituents.

3. Broader Democratic Party Reflections

The conversation shifts to a broader critique of the Democratic Party. Lamb contends that the party is struggling to stand up against the current administration's policies, particularly those implemented by Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Conor Lamb [03:19]: "Why the Senate wasn't standing up for itself in this last funding fight, and more importantly, why they weren't standing up for... Social Security recipients, Medicare recipients, veterans."

He advocates for senators to adopt strong, clear positions on key issues that protect vulnerable populations, suggesting that steadfastness on these matters would garner public support and demonstrate effective leadership.

4. Engaging Constituents Through Town Halls

Lamb emphasizes the critical role of town halls in fostering democratic engagement and accountability.

Conor Lamb [05:33]: "People want to see their elected officials, Democrats and Republicans, out in their communities answering questions and then also asking questions on, on their behalf."

He criticizes the current Republican approach for creating a leadership vacuum by not holding similar events, thereby leaving Democrats the opportunity to fill the gap and connect more deeply with constituents.

5. Potential Internal Challenges Within the Democratic Party

Addressing concerns about a possible Tea Party-like movement within the Democratic ranks, where members might challenge incumbents perceived as insufficiently confrontational against Trump, Lamb offers a nuanced perspective.

Conor Lamb [07:28]: "I see people who are concerned about the democracy itself, our society itself, and what Trump is doing to change it for the worse."

He believes that rather than primaries against incumbents, there is a collective desire to engage more meaningfully with democratic processes to preserve and strengthen democracy.

6. Evaluating John Fetterman’s Recent Activities

Lamb comments on Fetterman’s recent collaboration with a Republican senator at a book event, interpreting it as a misplaced prioritization amidst pressing governmental failures.

Conor Lamb [13:17]: "It's hard to see any results from the approach that he's taking... He has this preference for sort of cozying up to an administration and cozying up to a party over speaking out on issues that are clearly hurting a lot of his constituents."

He stresses that while bipartisan collaboration can be positive, it should not come at the expense of addressing urgent constituent needs and holding the administration accountable.

7. Clear Stance Against Current Administration’s Actions

When prompted about specific actions he would urge Trump to cease, Lamb articulates clear directives aimed at preserving institutional integrity and the rule of law.

Conor Lamb [15:34]: "Stop attacking judges... We don't have our Constitution anymore."

He highlights the importance of these actions in maintaining the foundational principles of American democracy, drawing parallels to historical injustices to reinforce the gravity of adhering to the rule of law.

8. Future Engagements and Democratic Participation

Looking ahead, Lamb expresses his commitment to continued engagement through town halls and public forums, aiming to inspire constituents to actively participate in democracy.

Conor Lamb [17:21]: "Every time we're able to get out there and speak our minds and be critical, but also constructive and demand answers to the people that represent us, I think we're giving life to a democracy that otherwise might look like it was on life support."

He reiterates that his focus remains on empowering citizens and ensuring that their voices are heard, rather than seeking further political office.

Conclusion

Conor Lamb’s conversation on this episode of Bulwark Takes offers a critical examination of current Democratic strategies and leadership, particularly in the face of formidable Republican opposition. His insights advocate for greater transparency, constituent engagement, and steadfast advocacy for key social programs. Lamb’s alignment with AOC and his criticisms of John Fetterman underscore a call for the Democratic Party to more effectively mobilize and address the immediate concerns of their constituents to preserve and strengthen democratic principles.

Notable Quotes:

• Conor Lamb [01:24]: "We actually were aligned on some policy issues, even though we disagree with others."
• Conor Lamb [02:00]: "People are being fired with no explanation. You know, we're setting back the country as far as scientific research..."
• Conor Lamb [05:33]: "People want to see their elected officials... answering questions on their behalf."
• Conor Lamb [15:34]: "Stop attacking judges... We don't have our Constitution anymore."
• Conor Lamb [17:21]: "We're giving life to a democracy that otherwise might look like it was on life support."

This episode serves as a pivotal exploration of internal Democratic dynamics and the imperative for responsive, accountable leadership in turbulent political times.