Bulwark Takes: Democrats Are Making August Absolute HELL for the GOP

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Hosts: Sarah Longwell and Lauren Egan

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, Sarah Longwell engages in an in-depth conversation with Lauren Egan, a seasoned journalist who specializes in Democratic strategies and GOP dynamics. The discussion centers around how Democrats are strategizing to make August a pivotal and challenging month for the Republican Party, particularly targeting former President Donald Trump.

The Significance of August in Presidential Presidencies

Sarah Longwell initiates the conversation by highlighting the historical challenges August poses for incumbent presidents. Referencing Joe Biden's drop in approval following the Delta variant surge and the Afghanistan withdrawal in August 2021, Longwell emphasizes how this month can be a turning point. She notes:

"Joe Biden went down to 10%, like minus 10 in August of 2021." ([00:00])

Lauren Egan concurs, explaining that Democrats are keenly aware of past vulnerabilities and are leveraging this knowledge to hold Republicans accountable for various issues.

Democratic Strategies to Challenge the GOP

Egan outlines the multifaceted approach Democrats are employing to intensify pressure on Republicans:

1. Focus on Epstein Scandal:

   • Democrats are capitalizing on heightened public interest in the Jeffrey Epstein case to expose GOP vulnerabilities.
   • Organizations like American Bridge are deploying trackers to attend town halls and public events, aiming to capture Republicans on issues related to Epstein.
   • Egan mentions, "Democrats have grown a bit more of a stomach for that fight, that fighting feel that voters say that they want." ([09:30])

2. Public Engagement and Media Presence:

   • Democrats are increasing their visibility through town halls in competitive districts, countering Republican retreats.
   • Emphasis on utilizing social media platforms like TikTok to reach a broader and younger audience.

3. Leveraging Health Care and Other Issues:

   • While focusing on Epstein, Democrats are intertwining discussions about health care and economic concerns to maintain a comprehensive offensive.

Impact of Trump's Actions and Public Perception

Longwell and Egan delve into Trump's recent statements and behaviors, which they argue are undermining his own support base:

• Missteps and Contradictions:

  • Trump's comments about evicting Epstein from Mar-a-Lago have backfired, portraying him as "weird and creepy."
  • Longwell highlights Trump’s flawed messaging as he struggles to control the narrative, stating:

    "Trump is fumbling left and right... he cannot shut this down." ([12:00])

• Erosion of Republican Support:

  • The erosion among independents and moderate Republicans is evident, with fewer voters defending Trump's actions unconditionally.
  • Longwell aims for Trump’s approval to sink to around 32%, a tipping point where the Republican Party must reassess its direction.

Challenges Within the Democratic Party

Despite the proactive strategies, some internal conflicts and hesitations exist:

• Initial Reluctance to Exploit Epstein:

  • Figures like Nancy Pelosi initially dismissed the Epstein scandal as a distraction, reflecting a cautious approach.
  • Over the past few months, Democrats have become more assertive in addressing the scandal, recognizing its political utility.

• Balancing Messaging:

  • Democratic strategists are navigating how to effectively incorporate Epstein-related issues without alienating voters focused on traditional concerns like health care.
  • Egan notes the importance of rejecting the term "conspiracy" to maintain credibility:

    "We need to stop using the word conspiracy related to Epstein because... there are hard facts here." ([15:52])

Redistricting and Its Political Ramifications

The discussion shifts to the looming redistricting battles, particularly in states like Texas:

• Democrats' Tactical Disadvantages:

  • Independent redistricting commissions, while well-intentioned, have inadvertently provided Republicans with opportunities to redraw districts in their favor.
  • Egan explains how Democrats’ efforts to promote nonpartisan processes have been undermined by Republican maneuvers:

    "Democrats thinking that someone's like playing ref here... have just shot themselves in the foot." ([21:11])

• Potential Legislative Countermeasures:

  • Lawmakers in New York are proposing bills to redraw congressional lines in response to Republican actions in other states, signaling a contentious and protracted battle ahead.

Concluding Insights and Future Outlook

As the conversation wraps up, Longwell and Egan reflect on the dynamic political landscape:

• Democrats' Offensive Momentum:

  • The strategic focus on Epstein and other critical issues is set to intensify, with ads and public events targeting vulnerable GOP seats.
  • Lauren Egan anticipates a significant push through social media and tailored messaging to sway undecided and moderate voters.

• Anticipated Republican Strategies:

  • Republicans appear to be retreating from public engagements in competitive districts, which Democrats view as an opportunity to gain the upper hand.

Sarah Longwell concludes by emphasizing the importance of monitoring these developments throughout August, as the effectiveness of Democratic strategies will be crucial in shaping the political tides leading into the midterms.

"We'll see if by the end of August, Trump is down, you know, in double digits underwater." ([22:31])

Key Takeaways

• Historical Challenges of August: August has historically been a difficult month for incumbent presidents, and Democrats are leveraging this trend against the GOP.
• Strategic Focus on Epstein: By spotlighting the Epstein scandal, Democrats aim to expose Republican vulnerabilities and shift public discourse.
• Redistricting Battles: Upcoming redistricting efforts, especially in battleground states, could significantly impact the political landscape.
• Erosion of Trump’s Support: Missteps by Trump are contributing to a decline in his approval, particularly among independents and moderate Republicans.
• Adaptation and Messaging: Democrats are adapting their messaging strategies to incorporate both traditional issues and emerging scandals to maximize their offensive capabilities.

Subscribe to The Bulwark: For more insightful analysis and in-depth reporting, subscribe to The Bulwark and sign up for Lauren Egan’s newsletters here.