Bulwark Takes: Sarah Longwell on Joni Ernst Handing the Dems a Huge Advantage

Release Date: June 2, 2025

In this compelling episode of Bulwark Takes, Sarah Longwell delves into the recent political turmoil surrounding Senator Joni Ernst and her controversial stance on tariffs. The discussion also explores broader Republican strategies, internal conflicts, and the impact of recent policy decisions on both the party and the American public.

Tariffs Under Scrutiny: Rand Paul’s Stand

Sarah kicks off the episode by highlighting Senator Rand Paul’s critical stance on tariffs. In his remarks, Rand Paul emphasized the widespread opposition to tariffs among various Kentucky businesses, stating:

"I talk to the Farm Bureau, which is opposed to the tariffs. I talk to the bourbon industry, which is opposed to the tariffs... Tariffs are a tax. So if you raise taxes on the private sector, that's not good for the private sector." (00:31)

Mitch Landau echoes Rand Paul's sentiments, praising him for breaking away from the MAGA bubble and uniting conservative legal minds against what they perceive as presidential overreach. Landau references a significant amicus brief authored by notable conservative legal scholars opposing Trump's tariffs, arguing that:

"The powers to tax, to regulate commerce, and to shape the nation's economic course must remain with Congress." (01:08)

This collective pushback underscores a growing faction within the Republican Party that prioritizes constitutional integrity over unilateral executive actions.

Joni Ernst’s Controversial Comments and Aftermath

The episode takes a critical turn as the conversation shifts to Senator Joni Ernst’s recent remarks. During a town hall meeting, Ernst made a statement that quickly spiraled into controversy:

"We all are going to die." (07:12)

This comment, made in defense of her support for a bill linked to Trump's tariffs, was perceived as callous and out of touch, leading to widespread mockery and backlash. Ernst’s subsequent apology attempted to mitigate the fallout:

"I apologize. And I'm really, really glad that I did not have to bring up the subject of the tooth fairy as well." (08:19)

Longwell critiques Ernst’s approach, suggesting that her remarks inadvertently highlighted the bill's most damaging aspects—potential Medicaid cuts. She observes:

"Republicans right now are out there desperately trying to convince people that that's not true... her doubling down on this and drawing more attention to the fact that it will do real harm is one of those big prisoners disasters that I think they think they're being clever on but is absolutely going to backfire." (09:28)

The Republican Coalition and Shifting Dynamics

Longwell and Landau discuss the evolving Republican coalition, noting its expansion to include Medicare beneficiaries and lower-income Americans who rely on social services. This shift necessitates a more nuanced approach to policy-making, moving away from the hardline tactics exemplified by Trump.

Longwell highlights the disconnect between Republican leadership and their constituents' realities:

"If you took it to Congress, many people in the Republican Party wouldn't be able to vote for it, not even cause on principle because it's deeply unpopular." (04:43)

This reluctance to take firm legislative action leaves the party vulnerable to internal fractures and public discontent.

Public Sentiment and the Real Impact of Policy

Addressing the public’s reaction, Longwell notes that while immediate tangible impacts of tariffs and Medicaid cuts may be delayed, the prevailing uncertainty is causing significant anxiety among small business owners and their employees. Reflecting on KFF polling data, she points out:

"When asked the question if you've personally been covered or had a family or close friend covered by Medicaid, Democrats who say yes, 62% Republicans who say yes, 62%." (11:33)

This statistic underscores the bipartisan impact of potential policy changes, challenging the GOP’s narrative and highlighting the universal stakes involved.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Republican Party

As the episode wraps up, Longwell emphasizes the critical need for the Republican Party to reassess its strategies and prioritize constitutional responsibilities over partisan gains. The failure to address these issues transparently risks alienating a broad base of voters who are directly affected by these policies.

Mitch Landau concludes the discussion by reiterating the party’s accountability:

"Sarah, this is the peril of single party rule. The Republicans are responsible for all of this." (12:05)

Key Takeaways:

• Internal Conservative Pushback: Prominent conservatives like Rand Paul are challenging the administration’s tariff policies, emphasizing constitutional boundaries and economic impacts.

• Joni Ernst’s Misstep: Ernst’s controversial remarks have inadvertently exposed the vulnerabilities within the Republican stance on tariffs and Medicaid, highlighting the potential for public backlash.

• Shifting Republican Coalition: The expanding Republican base necessitates more responsible and transparent policy-making, moving away from populist tactics.

• Public Uncertainty: The prevailing uncertainty surrounding tariffs and Medicaid cuts is causing significant concern among small businesses and the broader public, irrespective of political affiliation.

• Call for Congressional Action: Strengthening the role of Congress in trade policy is essential to maintaining democratic accountability and preventing executive overreach.

This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a critical examination of current Republican strategies, internal conflicts, and the broader implications for American democracy. Sarah Longwell provides insightful analysis, urging the party to prioritize integrity and responsiveness to its constituents' needs.