Bulwark Takes: Detailed Summary of "Obama and Bush Team Up To Shred Trump Over USAID"

Episode Information

• Title: Obama and Bush Team Up To Shred Trump Over USAID
• Host: The Bulwark (Tim Miller)
• Release Date: July 2, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Bulwark Takes, host Tim Miller delves into the significant and unprecedented collaboration between former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush as they publicly criticize the Trump administration's decision to shutter the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Released on July 2, 2025, the episode explores the implications of this political move, the bipartisan support for USAID, and the broader impact on global humanitarian efforts.

Overview of USAID Closure

Tim Miller opens the discussion by highlighting the recent and consequential decision by the Trump administration to close USAID. He underscores the magnitude of this action, emphasizing that USAID's termination is a pivotal story that demands attention amidst the ongoing political discourse surrounding the reconciliation bill in Congress.

“In the rush of everything around the reconciliation bill over in Congress, we haven't had a chance to talk about USAID being officially shuttered. And that is such a massive story...” (00:35)

Obama and Bush's Joint Criticism

A focal point of the episode is the rare joint statement from former Presidents Obama and Bush. Both leaders expressed strong disapproval of the Trump administration's decision, a move that Tim notes is significant given their previous hesitance to publicly critique opposing party members.

“When Obama and Bush team up to put together a video shitting on Trump, I mean, I do think that really tells you something...” (00:50)

Tim acknowledges the historical reluctance of former presidents to interfere in current political battles but commends Obama and Bush for stepping forward in this instance, particularly highlighting Bush's active participation despite traditionally low involvement post-presidency.

“Trump is a different animal though. And I think the moment has called for more, particularly from George W. Bush since this is his party.” (02:05)

Impact on USAID and Global Humanitarian Efforts

The episode delves into the critical role USAID has played in global health and economic initiatives. Tim references an interview with journalist Nick Kristof, who provided harrowing accounts of the consequences of USAID's closure in Africa and other regions. The cessation of USAID's operations has led to dire shortages of life-saving medicines and nutrition, exacerbating suffering among some of the world's most vulnerable populations.

“Nick is unbelievable and his reporting is unbelievable. And I've been reading even more stories since I talked to Nick just because I don't want to ignore it.” (03:00)

Tim passionately argues that the shutdown of USAID undermines the United States' commitment to humanitarian aid and global economic stability. He criticizes the administration's rationale, which cited budget control and government efficiency, as contradictory to the life-saving mission of USAID.

“They are simultaneously, as they're passing this budget busting bill, like in the name of government efficiency and cutting government budgets, they are getting rid of this program that's a minuscule part of the budget that would actually save the lives of the poorest people in the world.” (04:20)

Tim Miller’s Analysis and Insights

Tim reflects on the bipartisan nature of USAID, noting that it transcended political divides by focusing on tangible, impactful work. He laments the administration's seemingly arbitrary decision to eliminate such a crucial agency.

“It was bipartisan. And it was the type of work that people could do to feel good about themselves, to feel fulfilled and to just gut it willy nilly, to close it, shutter it willy nilly. It's just sick.” (05:10)

While former President Obama remains cautiously optimistic that future leaders will recognize the value of USAID, Tim expresses skepticism about this hope.

“He also noted that it didn't just save lives, it helped global economic growth...and that's something that we've seen significantly over the past decades.” (05:45)

Tim also highlights former President Bush's poignant remarks on the personal and global impact of USAID's work.

“Is it in our national interest that 25 million people who would have died now live? I think it is and so do you.” (06:15)

Call to Action and Conclusion

Towards the end of the episode, Tim emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the ramifications of USAID's closure. He encourages listeners to share Nick Kristof's reporting and the joint statements from Obama and Bush with friends and family, particularly targeting those who may not be deeply engaged in partisan politics but are moved by humanitarian concerns.

“Maybe that will have an impact, maybe it won't. Don't do it. Don't do it to, like, piss somebody off. Right? I'm not talking about getting in a fight... Perhaps that can resonate with them and hopefully maybe George W. Bush and Barack Obama can help it break through.” (07:30)

Tim concludes by reiterating his support for Obama and Bush's stand against the administration's policies and urges continued discourse as the situation develops.

“Subscribe to our feed. We'll be back here with more as news develops. See you soon.” (08:00)

Key Takeaways:

• The Trump administration's closure of USAID has sparked bipartisan criticism from former Presidents Obama and Bush.
• USAID's termination poses severe humanitarian and economic repercussions globally, particularly in Africa.
• Tim Miller emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and awareness to counteract the administration's policies.
• The episode underscores the importance of bipartisan support for agencies like USAID that have tangible, life-saving impacts.

Notable Quotes:

• “When Obama and Bush team up to put together a video shitting on Trump, I mean, I do think that really tells you something...” – Tim Miller (00:50)
• “Is it in our national interest that 25 million people who would have died now live? I think it is and so do you.” – Former President George W. Bush (06:15)
• “Gutting USAID is a travesty and it's a tragedy. It's some of the most important work happening anywhere in the world.” – Former President Barack Obama (05:30)

This episode of Bulwark Takes serves as a crucial examination of the political dynamics surrounding USAID's closure and highlights the significant consequences of such decisions on both national and global scales. Through insightful analysis and powerful testimonials from respected leaders, Tim Miller provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the issue and calls for proactive engagement to address the resulting humanitarian challenges.