Bulwark Takes: Ron Johnson Has Gone Full 9/11 Conspiracy Nut – Detailed Summary
Episode Release Date: April 22, 2025
In this compelling episode of Bulwark Takes, host Sam Stein engages in a robust discussion with co-hosts Sarah Longwell and Will Sommer about the alarming trend of mainstream politicians endorsing conspiracy theories. The central focus is on Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and his recent foray into 9/11 conspiracy narratives, alongside a critical examination of Sen. Mike Lee's similar trajectory. The conversation delves into the broader implications of these developments for American politics and the dissemination of truth in the digital age.
1. Ron Johnson's Embrace of 9/11 Conspiracy Theories
The episode opens with Sam Stein highlighting Senator Ron Johnson's unexpected appearance on Benny Johnson's show, where Johnson ventured into 9/11 conspiracy theories. Stein expresses surprise at the minimal backlash Johnson faced, noting, “I couldn’t believe it” [00:00].
Key Points:
- Johnson questioned whether 9/11 was an "inside job" or a government-planned event.
- The lack of significant reaction from the public and media is abnormal, considering the gravity of such claims when made by a respected senator.
Notable Quote:
“He’s one of a hundred respected members of the upper chamber just dabbling in 911 conspiracy theories... I couldn’t believe it.” — Sam Stein [00:00]
2. The Shift in Political Landscape Regarding Conspiracy Theories
Will Sommer contextualizes Johnson’s actions within the evolving political environment, especially post-Trump. He draws parallels to Marjorie Taylor Greene’s propagation of outlandish theories, attributing the normalization of conspiracy rhetoric to Trump's influence.
Key Points:
- Pre-Trump, conspiracy theories were fringe and limited to specific groups.
- Trump’s presidency legitimized and emboldened conspiracy discourse within the Republican Party.
- The era has shifted from viewing conspiracy theorists as isolated to recognizing their integration into mainstream politics.
Notable Quote:
“What it shows us is that this strain lived inside of them and they now just get to let their freak flag fly because it’s cool now.” — Will Sommer [02:16]
3. Mike Lee’s Transformation into a Conspiracy Theorist
The conversation transitions to Senator Mike Lee, once respected for his thoughtful conservatism. Sommer remarks on Lee’s drastic change, illustrating how even esteemed politicians can succumb to conspiracy thinking when provided the right platform.
Key Points:
- Mike Lee’s public persona has shifted from a serious conservative to a promoter of various conspiracy theories.
- Lee’s active online presence, including provocative tweets, exemplifies this transformation.
- The ease with which credible figures can disseminate conspiratorial ideas contributes to their spread.
Notable Quote:
“Mike Lee was a super interesting, thoughtful conservative who has now shaved his head and is going on every conspiracy theory in town.” — Will Sommer [02:35]
4. The Role of Alex Jones and "Loose Change" in Propagating Conspiracy Theories
Sarah Longwell introduces the influence of media personalities like Alex Jones and documentaries such as Loose Change in fueling 9/11 conspiracy beliefs. She underscores how these narratives gained traction and infiltrated mainstream discourse.
Key Points:
- Loose Change played a significant role in popularizing 9/11 conspiracy theories.
- Alex Jones has been instrumental in legitimizing and spreading these theories to a broader audience.
- The merging of extremist rhetoric from both the left and the right has blurred traditional political lines regarding conspiracy endorsement.
Notable Quote:
“So it’s an Alex Jones documentary about 911 being an inside job. And so that is sort of broadly like one of the main...” — Sarah Longwell [05:22]
5. The Influence of Social Media and the Internet on Conspiracy Theory Spread
Sam Stein and Will Sommer discuss the impact of algorithm-driven platforms in creating echo chambers that facilitate the growth and reinforcement of conspiracy theories among both the general populace and influential figures.
Key Points:
- The internet’s algorithmic nature perpetuates exposure to similar beliefs, deepening conspiracy adherence.
- Politicians with pre-existing leanings towards skepticism find fertile ground online to amplify their conspiratorial views.
- The accessibility of information (and misinformation) online lowers the barriers for conspiracy theories to take root in public discourse.
Notable Quote:
“A lot of the conspirasies... are their, they landmark, where truth simply cannot be known.” — Will Sommer [08:11]
6. The Psychology and Sociology Behind Conspiracy Belief
The hosts explore the underlying reasons why individuals, including those in positions of power, gravitate towards conspiracy theories. They touch upon the need for certainty, the influence of charismatic leaders, and the role of group identity in sustaining these beliefs.
Key Points:
- Conspiracy theories offer simplistic explanations for complex events, providing a semblance of control.
- The desire to belong to an informed in-group drives the adoption and spread of conspiratorial thinking.
- Authoritarian tendencies are supported by creating environments where truth is obscured, making conspiratorial narratives more appealing.
Notable Quote:
“This strain lived inside of them and they now just get to let their freak flag fly because it’s cool now.” — Will Sommer [02:16]
7. The Challenges in Countering Conspiracy Theories Within the Political Sphere
Sam Stein raises a critical question about the feasibility of reversing the influence of entrenched conspiracy theories, especially when propagated by trusted authorities like senators and even the president.
Key Points:
- Influential figures endorsing conspiracy theories significantly undermine public trust in factual information.
- Traditional methods of debunking are often ineffective against deeply ingrained conspiracy beliefs.
- The intertwining of political agendas with conspiratorial narratives complicates efforts to address misinformation.
Notable Quote:
“It's hard to pull people back from the abyss when it's the president.” — Sam Stein [12:13]
8. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In concluding the episode, the hosts acknowledge the pervasive nature of conspiracy theories in contemporary politics and the daunting task of mitigating their impact. They emphasize the importance of vigilance and continued monitoring to understand and address the evolving landscape of misinformation.
Key Points:
- The normalization of conspiracy theories within political discourse necessitates proactive strategies to uphold truth and accountability.
- Engaging with and understanding the factors that drive conspiracy belief is crucial for formulating effective countermeasures.
- The episode serves as a call to awareness about the dangers posed by mainstream political endorsement of unfounded theories.
Notable Quote:
“It's very endemic. I mean, Sam, when you were like, do you see this more in voters? ... if they're the ones who are telling you to believe this, or at least to question the world around you.” — Sam Stein [12:28]
Final Remarks: Bulwark Takes offers a nuanced and insightful examination of the troubling trend of conspiracy theories infiltrating mainstream politics. By dissecting the roles of specific politicians and the broader societal shifts that facilitate such developments, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges posed by misinformation in today's political climate.