Bulwark Takes: Senate Democrats Give Republicans an Easy Win

Release Date: March 14, 2025
Host: Tim Miller, The Bulwark

Overview

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, Tim Miller delves into the recent political maneuvering in the U.S. Senate, where Senate Democrats have seemingly ceded ground to Republicans by voting against a potential filibuster aimed at blocking the House Republican budget. Miller provides a critical analysis of the Democratic strategy, highlighting key senators' actions and expressing disappointment in their approach.

Key Topics Discussed

Breakdown of the Senate Vote

Miller begins by announcing the significant development: Ten Democratic senators, alongside all Republicans except Rand Paul, voted to advance the Republican budget in the Senate. He emphasizes the lack of impact these Democrats will have on the budget's passage, stating:

"Once it comes to the floor, they only need a bare majority of 50 senators plus JD Vance to get this through easily without the 10 Democrats."
[00:30]

Critique of Democratic Senators

Miller expresses strong dissatisfaction with the Democratic senators who voted in favor of the Republican budget. He questions their motives and effectiveness in representing their constituents, particularly in the face of actions by the current administration. He meticulously names each senator, questioning their decisions and urging them to reconsider their positions:

• Chuck Schumer: Miller revisits his earlier criticisms, indicating ongoing frustrations.

• Dick Durbin:

  "Why is Dick Durbin still in the Senate if you're in Illinois, Start thinking about a primary right now."
  [05:15]

• Cortez Masto:

  "She won an unbelievably close race in Nevada. Maybe let her off the hook."
  [06:00]

• Brian Schatz:

  "I had higher hopes for you... What is she doing in the Senate?"
  [08:45]

• Gary Peters & Kristen Gillibrand: Mentioned as senators either retiring or not actively fighting against the Republican budget.

Miller criticizes these senators for not actively opposing what he perceives as harmful administrative actions by figures like Musk and Trump, questioning their commitment to their constituents and the nation's well-being.

Implications of the Vote

Miller outlines the potential consequences of the Democrats' decision, suggesting that this move could pave the way for more aggressive Republican agendas, including significant tax cuts and debt ceiling adjustments. He points to future budget battles, especially the 2026 budget, as critical junctures where Democrats might have another chance to assert their stance.

"There'll be the big budget fight, the Next one, the 2026 budget which will include the Trump tax cuts."
[12:30]

Reaction to Chuck Schumer's Actions

Addressing Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, Miller expresses disbelief and disappointment. He references a tweet from former President Donald Trump praising Schumer, using it to underscore his contention that Schumer's actions are counterproductive.

"If you've got DJT talking about how great you are, might be time to reflect on a few things."
[16:20]

Conclusion and Call to Action

Miller wraps up the episode by reiterating his disappointment in the Democratic senators' choices. He calls for alternative strategies to combat what he views as detrimental policies, urging senators to find different ways to resist and highlight the damage being done.

"It's just a deeply, deeply disappointing result from these Democrats."
[19:50]

He concludes by inviting dissenting senators to engage in dialogue, stating:

"If any of you want to come on this show and defend your position, I am happy to have you."
[21:10]

Finally, Miller encourages listeners to stay engaged with The Bulwark's content and expresses appreciation for their support.

Notable Quotes

• Tim Miller on Senate Democrats' Strategy:

  "I really just don't get it. I don't get it."
  [02:15]

• On Government Shutdowns:

  "You don't want a government shutdown, you don't want to cause pain in people's lives, and that eventually you had to have an exit strategy for that."
  [03:00]

• On Lawlessness of Administration:

  "Because it's a lawless administration that is going to not fund things that they think that are liberal priorities."
  [04:30]

• On Future Budget Battles:

  "We're not going to count our chickens on that. We will, we will avert any shutdown."
  [14:45]

Insights and Analysis

Tim Miller offers a critical perspective on the Democratic Party's recent actions in the Senate, highlighting what he perceives as a lack of effective opposition to Republican-led initiatives. He underscores the tension between avoiding immediate governmental paralysis and the long-term implications of capitulating to Republican demands.

Miller's analysis suggests that he views the Democratic senators' cooperation with Republicans as a strategic misstep that could have far-reaching consequences for policy-making and governance. His frustration is palpable as he navigates through the various senators' decisions, questioning their priorities and effectiveness.

Conclusion

In this episode, Tim Miller provides a fervent critique of Senate Democrats' recent decision to support the Republican budget, framing it as a significant concession that undermines Democratic values and legislative goals. Miller urges for greater resistance and strategic planning among Democrats to better counteract Republican initiatives in the future, reflecting a deep concern for the direction of U.S. governance.

Listeners who are interested in a critical analysis of current Senate dynamics and Democratic strategies will find this episode particularly insightful.