Bulwark Takes: Is MTG Breaking Up With the GOP? Release Date: August 4, 2025

In this insightful episode of Bulwark Takes, hosts Sam Stein, Managing Editor at The Bulwark, and Will Salatin delve into the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, focusing on key figures such as Marjorie Taylor Greene (MTG) and Andrew Schultz. Released on August 4, 2025, this episode offers a comprehensive analysis of internal party tensions, the stability of Donald Trump's base, and the potential implications for upcoming elections.

1. Marjorie Taylor Greene's Strained Relationship with the GOP

The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into Marjorie Taylor Greene's recent statements and actions that suggest a growing disconnect between her and the broader Republican Party.

Sam Stein introduces the topic by referencing a Daily Mail piece where MTG expresses feelings of abandonment by Republicans:

"I think the Republican Party has turned its back on America first and the workers and just regular Americans." ([00:35])

Will Salatin responds with skepticism, suggesting that while MTG appears disgruntled, she may not be serious about leaving the party:

"I don't think she's serious about leaving, but she's, like, threatening to leave." ([02:03])

The discussion highlights MTG's criticisms of GOP policies, particularly regarding foreign aid and budget cuts. Stein points out that MTG feels promises made by the party, such as significant budget reductions and halting military operations, have not been honored:

"There were explicit promises. We're going to cut X, Doge is going to cut a trillion. We're not going to have any military operations overseas... we're reneging upon." ([04:07])

2. Internal GOP Dynamics and Mike Johnson's Role

The hosts examine the role of Mike Johnson in maintaining party cohesion amidst MTG's threats to leave. Salatin credits Johnson, alongside Donald Trump, for holding the party lines:

"Mike Johnson held together the Marjorie Taylor Greene's people who keep threatening to leave the party over their pet cause and got." ([02:21])

Stein adds that Trump's authoritative presence further ensures that maverick voices like MTG's don't dismantle the Republican foundation:

"Trump swoops in and says, you better get in line." ([02:39])

3. Andrew Schultz and Disillusionment with GOP Promises

Transitioning from MTG, Stein and Salatin shift focus to Andrew Schultz, a figure associated with the manosphere and notable for his public dissent against Trump's administration. Schultz's frustrations stem from Trump's handling of sensitive issues, particularly the Epstein files.

Salatin recounts Schultz's criticism on Instagram regarding Trump's reversal on IVF coverage promises:

"You break your word, your word breaks you." ([08:37])

Schultz's actions signify a broader disenchantment among certain GOP supporters who feel let down by broken promises. Stein underscores the cultural significance of Schultz's stance, noting how Trump's allure initially brought in such apolitical individuals who are now reconsidering their allegiance:

"He's just pissed, basically for an obvious reason. Promises were made and then they were broken." ([08:11])

4. The Stability of Trump's Base Amidst Internal Strife

A central theme of the episode revolves around whether Donald Trump's base is experiencing any significant fraying due to these internal conflicts. Both hosts lean towards the conclusion that Trump's core support remains largely intact, albeit with minor fluctuations.

Sam Stein references a UMass Amherst poll indicating strong loyalty among Trump voters:

"86% of Trump voters would say they would vote for him." ([14:15])

However, he notes a subtle undercurrent of uncertainty, with only 31% feeling very confident about their voting choices:

"Only 31% were willing to say they feel very confident they made the right choice in voting for Trump." ([14:15])

Will Salatin emphasizes the electoral significance of even minor shifts within Trump's base:

"Small percentage slides could swing those states." ([15:24])

He cautions that in tightly contested states, negligible declines in support can have outsized impacts on election outcomes, reiterating the precariousness of maintaining a unified base.

5. Conspiracy Theories and Their Impact on GOP Cohesion

The episode also touches on the influence of conspiracy theories within the GOP, particularly how they exacerbate distrust and factionalism.

Salatin highlights the detrimental effect of conspiracy-driven narratives, such as those propagated by MTG:

"She, her whole thing was like kids like grooming and all that stuff." ([13:57])

This environment fosters a lack of compromise and undermines the party's ability to present a cohesive platform to voters.

6. Conclusion: The Future of the GOP and Trump's Influence

In wrapping up, Stein and Salatin reflect on the resilience of Trump's influence amidst internal challenges. They acknowledge the potential for minor defections but remain skeptical of any major fractures within the party.

Sam Stein leaves listeners with a nuanced perspective, recognizing both the loyalty of Trump's base and the emerging signs of discomfort among certain factions:

"Maybe there's something happening here, but I need to see more. I need to see more." ([15:24])

Overall, the episode underscores the delicate balance the GOP must maintain to retain its base while addressing internal dissent and unfulfilled promises.

Notable Quotes

• Sam Stein ([04:07]): "We're going to cut X, Doge is going to cut a trillion. We're not going to have any military operations overseas... we're reneging upon."

• Will Salatin ([02:03]): "I don't think she's serious about leaving, but she's, like, threatening to leave."

• Sam Stein ([14:15]): "86% of Trump voters would say they would vote for him. Only 31% were willing to say they feel very confident they made the right choice in voting for Trump."

• Will Salatin ([15:24]): "Small percentage slides could swing those states."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Bulwark Takes provides a thorough examination of the current state of the GOP, highlighting the tensions between prominent figures and assessing the stability of Donald Trump's enduring influence. By incorporating direct quotes and timestamped insights, Stein and Salatin offer listeners a clear and engaging analysis of the Republican Party's future trajectory.