Bulwark Takes: Scott Pelley Says the Quiet Part Out Loud Release Date: May 27, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosts Sam Stein and Lauren Egan delve into Scott Pelley's impactful commencement address at Wake Forest University. They explore the broader implications of Pelley's remarks, particularly in the context of the Trump administration's actions against various institutions. The discussion also touches upon recent legal challenges faced by prominent organizations like Harvard University and NPR, highlighting a pattern of governmental pressure on entities perceived to be aligned with Democratic values.

Scott Pelley's Commencement Address

Sam Stein [00:00] begins the conversation by introducing Lauren Egan and her recent work on the Opposition newsletter. However, the focus quickly shifts to Scott Pelley's commencement speech.

Lauren Egan [00:58] reflects on Pelley's reputation as an even-handed and reliable journalist. She emphasizes the gravity of Pelley's message, noting that his alarm about attacks on institutions carries significant weight given his standing.

Key Quote:

Scott Pelley [01:55]: "But in this moment, this moment, this morning, our sacred rule of law is under attack. Journalism is under attack. Universities are under attack. Freedom of speech is under attack. And insidious fear is reaching through our schools, our businesses, our homes, and into our private thoughts. The fear to speak in America. If our government is, in Lincoln's phrase, of the people, by the people, for the people, then why are we afraid to speak."
[Timestamp: 01:55]

This poignant statement underscores the perceived erosion of foundational democratic principles, painting a dire picture of the current socio-political climate.

Context: 60 Minutes and Paramount Law Suits

Sam Stein [03:00] provides context about Scott Pelley's position at 60 Minutes, a news program owned by Paramount. He discusses the ongoing legal battle initiated by Donald Trump against 60 Minutes for allegedly editing Kamala Harris's interview transcript—a standard journalistic practice that 60 Minutes maintains was within their editorial rights.

Lauren Egan [03:44] concurs, highlighting the absurdity of the lawsuit given that such editing is commonplace across news organizations. The financial stakes are enormous, with the lawsuit seeking substantial sums, potentially in the billions.

Recent Actions by the Trump Administration

Sam Stein [05:00] shifts the discussion to more recent developments, citing two significant actions by the Trump administration:

1. Targeting Harvard University: The administration announced efforts to terminate the remaining $100 million in federal contracts with Harvard. This move follows the administration's recent restrictions on visas for foreign students at the institution.
2. NPR's Legal Battle: NPR is suing President Trump over an executive order aimed at cutting federal funding for NPR and PBS. The lawsuit alleges a violation of First Amendment rights, asserting that the President lacks constitutional authority to make such funding decisions unilaterally.

Lauren Egan [06:00] observes a shift in institutional responses, noting that entities like Harvard are now mounting swift legal resistance, contrasting with earlier instances where organizations might have sought negotiated settlements.

Institutional Pushback and Lawsuits

The hosts discuss the significance of these lawsuits as symbols of institutional resistance against governmental overreach. Sam Stein [06:56] points out the speed and determination with which institutions are pushing back, suggesting a growing recognition that compliance is no longer tenable.

Lauren Egan [07:32] elaborates on the broader pattern of attacks, emphasizing that the Trump administration's strategy extends beyond rhetoric to tangible actions aimed at undermining institutions perceived as left-leaning or supportive of Democratic causes.

Historical Context in Pelley's Speech

Sam Stein [04:50] highlights Pelley’s reference to historical classes—1861, 1941, and 1968—as moments when "history chose them." This comparison elevates the current moment to a period of significant crisis, akin to the Civil War, World War II, and the Vietnam War.

Lauren Egan [05:20] and Sam Stein [05:24] discuss the implications of this analogy, debating whether the current state warrants such a comparison. They acknowledge the severity and slow-burning nature of the current challenges, likening it to being a "frog in boiling water"—a gradual yet irreversible situation.

Comparisons to Other Commencement Speeches

The conversation briefly touches upon other commencement speeches, including those by high-profile figures like Ken Burns and Jeff Immelt. Sam Stein [09:02] reminisces about Jeff Immelt's unconventional approach, where he humorously read insults from student forums during his address, showcasing a different method of engaging with the audience.

Conclusion

Lauren Egan [08:14] and Sam Stein [09:40] wrap up the discussion by reflecting on the collective sentiment of institutional leaders who are increasingly unwilling to "play along" with governmental pressures. The episode underscores the escalating tension between established institutions and the Trump administration, framed within Pelley's urgent and evocative speech.

Closing Remarks: Sam Stein encourages listeners to subscribe to both the Opposition newsletter and The Bulwark's YouTube channel, emphasizing the importance of staying informed through these platforms.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Scott Pelley [01:55]:
  "But in this moment, this moment, this morning, our sacred rule of law is under attack. Journalism is under attack. Universities are under attack. Freedom of speech is under attack. And insidious fear is reaching through our schools, our businesses, our homes, and into our private thoughts. The fear to speak in America. If our government is, in Lincoln's phrase, of the people, by the people, for the people, then why are we afraid to speak."

• Sam Stein [04:37]:
  "And to hear him say it is remarkable."

• Lauren Egan [07:32]:
  "It's the Trump administration is doing basically everything that they can to destroy these institutions that they view as, like, working on behalf of the Democratic Party or as they seem aligned with the left."

This detailed summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened. It highlights the central themes of institutional attacks, legal battles, and the historical gravity conveyed in Scott Pelley's speech, all contextualized within the ongoing political landscape.