Bulwark Takes: Tim Miller - "They Elected a Moron, Now They’re Coping"
Release Date: April 8, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosted by Tim Miller from The Bulwark, the discussion centers around the current political and economic climate under President Trump’s administration. Titled “They Elected a Moron, Now They’re Coping”, Miller delves into the Republican Party's strategies, the impact of tariffs, and the broader implications for the American economy. Joining him is Nicole Wallace, providing additional insights and analysis.

Tariffs and Economic Policy

The Impact of Tariffs

The conversation kicks off with Nicole Wallace highlighting a recent MSNBC segment where she discussed the tariffs and the tepid Republican response as they navigate an impending Trump session.

At [00:47], Tim Miller states:

"The politics is that Republicans will lose both chambers. Why does Trump want that?"

This remark underscores the precarious position of the Republican Party within the current political landscape and hints at strategic missteps.

Trump's Unilateral Decisions

Miller critiques President Trump's approach to tariffs, particularly his unilateral decisions that have negatively impacted the stock market. He refers to these actions as "man-made" crises similar to historical events like the 9/11 attacks or the 2008 financial crash but emphasizes that this situation is a result of singular leadership decisions.

At [01:02], Miller elaborates:

"That's why we're calling it Orange Monday, not Black Monday."

He points out the lack of a coherent strategy from Trump, labeling the administration's actions as reactive rather than part of a well-thought-out plan to rebalance trade.

Republican Party Dynamics

Internal Conflicts and Inaction

Nicole Wallace and Tim Miller discuss the internal conflicts within the Republican Party, particularly the reluctance of moderate Republicans to challenge Trump’s policies. Wallace describes the current state as "cope," indicating a denial or refusal to acknowledge the detrimental effects of Trump's leadership.

At [04:54], Wallace reflects on Doug Holtz-Eakin's analysis:

"We're headed towards a recession and probably stagflation, like that's not coming from somebody you know in our camp."

This statement highlights the division within the party between those supporting Trump's aggressive tariff policies and moderates warning of economic downturns.

Lack of Legislative Action

The episode further explores why certain legislative measures, such as taking back tariff authority from the president, are stalled. Wallace notes the inaction from key Republican figures who could otherwise push forward sensible economic policies.

At [07:17], she comments:

"There are a lot of different levers they could pull. It's just they've all decided they don't want to pull them..."

This frustration underscores the paralysis within the party, preventing any constructive opposition to Trump's policies.

Economic Implications

Potential Recession and Stagflation

Doug Holtz-Eakin’s warnings about an impending recession and stagflation are a focal point of the discussion. He argues for a more structured and legislative approach to imposing tariffs, which contrasts sharply with Trump's improvisational tactics.

At [04:05], Eakin suggests:

"If this was part of the congressional process, they would have to pass it in law... It would be a sane process."

This insight emphasizes the need for accountability and deliberation in economic policymaking, which is currently absent under Trump’s administration.

Potential Solutions and Political Strategies

Leveraging Moderate Republicans

Miller and Wallace contemplate the potential for moderate Republicans to regain control by pushing back against Trump's policies. Wallace highlights the historic lack of party-switching in recent decades, suggesting that leadership among moderates could pivot the party towards more rational economic policies.

At [08:18], Wallace states:

"If things got that bad, I mean, I bet Brian Fitzpatrick could win as a Democrat in his suburban Philly district if he decided he wanted to do that anyway."

This points to the untapped potential within the party’s moderate wing to effect change.

The Call for Action

Miller urges the moderate Republicans to take decisive action, arguing that the fear of losing primary support has stifled their willingness to challenge Trump. He suggests that a strategic, bipartisan coalition could address economic issues more effectively.

At [06:20], Miller posits:

"You could get really crazy and tell Mike Johnson that they're going to do what Nat Gaetz did and try to tank his speakership over this."

This bold statement encourages the party to put principles over party loyalty to safeguard the nation's economic future.

Conclusion and Insights

The episode culminates in a somber reflection on the state of the Republican Party and the American economy. Tim Miller emphasizes the importance of courage and strategic action among Republicans to mitigate the adverse effects of Trump's policies. He underscores the necessity for a unified effort to restore economic stability and governance integrity.

At [07:22], Wallace adds:

"These frontlines, are scared."

This sentiment encapsulates the anxiety and urgency felt by both leaders and citizens regarding the current administration's trajectory.

Notable Quotes

• Tim Miller [00:47]: "The politics is that Republicans will lose both chambers. Why does Trump want that?"
• Tim Miller [01:02]: "That's why we're calling it Orange Monday, not Black Monday."
• Doug Holtz-Eakin [04:05]: "If this was part of the congressional process, they would have to pass it in law... It would be a sane process."
• Nicole Wallace [07:17]: "There are a lot of different levers they could pull. It's just they've all decided they don't want to pull them..."
• Nicole Wallace [08:18]: "If things got that bad... Brian Fitzpatrick could win as a Democrat in his suburban Philly district if he decided he wanted to do that anyway."
• Nicole Wallace [07:22]: "These frontlines, are scared."

This episode of Bulwark Takes provides a critical examination of the Republican Party's current struggles under Trump's presidency, highlighting the economic repercussions of aggressive tariff policies and the internal party conflicts that hinder effective governance. Through insightful dialogue and expert analysis, Tim Miller and Nicole Wallace call for a resurgence of moderate Republican action to address and rectify the nation's economic challenges.