Bulwark Takes: Tim Miller on Elon Drags Trump Down; Cory Booker Lifts Us Up

Release Date: April 2, 2025
Host/Author: The Bulwark
Episode: Tim Miller: Elon Drags Trump Down; Cory Booker Lifts Us Up

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, host Tim Miller delves into the intricate dynamics of current American politics, focusing on two prominent figures: Elon Musk and Cory Booker. Joined by co-hosts John Heilman and Nicole Wallace, Miller provides a comprehensive analysis of recent events, including Cory Booker’s impactful speech and the controversial nomination of Pete Hegseth as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Cory Booker's Influential Speech

The episode opens with Tim Miller highlighting the significance of Cory Booker’s recent speech. He emphasizes the speech's potential impact, regardless of its immediate political repercussions. Miller asserts, “sometimes there are things that we are called to that are higher and greater than rank political gamesmanship” (00:00). This underscores the importance of principled leadership over mere political maneuvering.

Nicole Wallace expands on the grassroots response to political actions, contrasting organic movements with what she terms “grassroots, inorganic.” She reflects on the public’s reaction to economic policies and tariffs, noting a widespread feeling of deception among voters about the roles played by influential figures like Elon Musk. Wallace states, “People are showing up at town halls. It is anger about the economy... the pigheadedness about tariffs” (04:28). This sentiment reflects a broader disillusionment with political promises and their real-world implications.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Nomination: The Hegseth Controversy

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the nomination of Pete Hegseth. Miller criticizes Hegseth’s handling of sensitive information, particularly regarding a text message controversy known as “Signal Gate.” Referencing an opinion piece from The New York Times, Wallace highlights the nominee’s alleged lack of discretion: “Providing minutiae on an air attack to the most senior officials... is as unnecessary as it is reckless” (01:03).

Tim Miller and Nicole Wallace further dissect Hegseth’s suitability for the role. Miller quotes General Dan Kaine’s testimony, which underscores the inappropriateness of Hegseth’s actions: “no, this was totally inappropriate” (02:39). They express concerns that Hegseth’s behavior not only jeopardizes security but also reflects poorly on the administration’s judgment in military appointments.

Elon Musk’s Political Influence and the MAGA Base

Transitioning to the influence of Elon Musk, Tim Miller discusses how Musk’s actions are stirring opposition against the current administration, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump’s ability to galvanize his base. Miller observes, “Elon Musk is... motivating opposition to this administration, motivating people to turn out” (05:19). This marks a notable shift from Trump’s strategy, which historically mobilized conservative voters through direct appeals and media presence.

Nicole Wallace further elaborates on the grassroots movements, emphasizing the organic and inorganic elements shaping current political landscapes. She critiques the efficacy of tariffs as a negotiating tactic, arguing that the public perception has shifted from strategic negotiation to widespread frustration over increased consumer prices: “Tariffs as a negotiating... some of his own voters think... it would make... every product... more expensive” (04:28).

Tim Miller’s Strategic Insights and Democratic Approaches

Tim Miller shares his strategic perspectives on Democratic campaigning, particularly in the context of the first 71 days of Donald Trump’s administration. He encourages Democrats to “try stuff, show emotion” as a way to spark engagement and voter turnout, acknowledging the unpredictability of political outcomes: “We are very bad at predicting the future... you don't know what will resonate long term” (07:39). Miller advocates for passionate and authentic expressions of concern to counterbalance the administration’s perceived failures in governance.

Notable Quotes

• Tim Miller (00:00): “Sometimes there are things that we are called to that are higher and greater than rank political gamesmanship.”
• Nicole Wallace (01:03): “Providing minutiae on an air attack to the most senior officials... is as unnecessary as it is reckless.”
• Tim Miller (02:39): “No, this was totally inappropriate.”
• Nicole Wallace (04:28): “People are showing up at town halls. It is anger about the economy... the pigheadedness about tariffs.”
• Tim Miller (05:19): “Elon Musk is... motivating opposition to this administration, motivating people to turn out.”
• Tim Miller (07:39): “We are very bad at predicting the future... you don't know what will resonate long term.”

Conclusions and Insights

The episode concludes with a reflection on the evolving political landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing both Democratic strategists and the broader electorate. Tim Miller’s emphasis on emotional engagement and authentic leadership contrasts with concerns over military appointments and grassroots movements influenced by figures like Elon Musk. The discussions underscore a pivotal moment in politics, where strategic communication and genuine concern may be key to galvanizing voter support and addressing the nation’s pressing issues.

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