Bulwark Takes: Trump Fires Nat-Sec Staff After Meeting With Conspiracy Nut
Host: Tim Miller
Guest: Will Sommer, Author of the False Flag Newsletter
Release Date: April 3, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Bulwark Takes, host Tim Miller and guest Will Sommer delve into the recent shakeup within President Trump's National Security Council (NatSec) following a controversial meeting with conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer. The discussion highlights the growing influence of MAGA-aligned figures within the White House and the implications of their actions on national security policies.
Laura Loomer's Rising Influence
Tim Miller opens the conversation by introducing Laura Loomer, describing her as a "conspiracy theorist" with a history of promoting unfounded and extremist views. Loomer's involvement in White House affairs has become a focal point, especially after her meeting with President Trump.
“She was just like, I hear there's a trans person, let's get him.” — [05:26] Tim Miller
Will Sommer elaborates on Loomer's background, noting her controversial statements, including claims that 9/11 was an "inside job." He emphasizes that having someone like Loomer influence NatSec personnel decisions is alarming.
“There was another guy who, last name Kanapathy... she's really really been focusing most of her fire on him.” — [06:49] Will Sommer
Firings Within the National Security Council
The centerpiece of their discussion revolves around the Axios report indicating multiple firings within Trump's National Security Council following Loomer's Oval Office meeting. These dismissals are not attributed to allowing Loomer near the White House but rather to perceived alignment with "neocons" or traditional Republican figures deemed unsuitable by MAGA factions.
Tim Miller expresses astonishment at Loomer's ability to effect significant personnel changes, highlighting the extent of her influence.
“Having her not just like, meeting with Trump... really speaks to what the true power base is here.” — [02:54] Tim Miller
Targeted Personnel and Motivations
The conversation shifts to specific individuals targeted by Loomer, with particular attention to Alex Wong, the Deputy National Security Director. Loomer accused Wong of being a Chinese spy and linked him to the "Signal Gate" fiasco, despite lacking concrete evidence.
Will Sommer points out the baseless nature of these accusations, suggesting they may be motivated by racial biases or political agendas rather than factual concerns.
“It's like let's get rid of this guy because he's of Chinese descent.” — [06:49] Tim Miller
Traditional Republican Views vs. MAGA Alignment
A significant theme is the contrast between traditional Republican national security staff and those aligned with the MAGA movement. Figures like Mike Waltz represent the old guard, holding "traditional, strong national security" views, which appear to be at odds with the current MAGA-driven direction.
Tim Miller reflects on his past experiences working with Alex Wong, noting Wong's traditional conservative stance and questioning the rationale behind his current targeting.
“He seemed still to be a pretty even keel kind of traditional conservative views.” — [05:13] Tim Miller
The Role of Disinformation and Conspiracy Theories
The episode underscores how disinformation and conspiracy theories are being weaponized within the White House to purge staff perceived as insufficiently MAGA-aligned. Loomer's actions are portrayed as part of a broader strategy to reshape the NatSec team according to extremist ideologies rather than sound policy.
Will Sommer speculates on the possible sources of Loomer's information, suggesting that internal rivalries or factions within the White House may be fueling these unfounded claims.
“I'm curious if she's getting this from rival factions in the White House or the National Security Council.” — [03:30] Will Sommer
Impact on National Security
The firings and the underlying motivations raise concerns about the stability and effectiveness of the National Security Council. Removing experienced personnel in favor of individuals driven by conspiracy theories could undermine the United States' national security apparatus.
Tim Miller remarks on the gravity of having key national security staff replaced based on extremist influences, questioning the future direction of NatSec policies.
“It's crazy... dictating the staffing there is being dictated by the online right.” — [09:21] Tim Miller
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Tim Miller emphasizing the unsettling nature of Laura Loomer's influence over high-level national security appointments. The discussion paints a picture of a National Security Council in flux, grappling with internal power struggles and the infiltration of extremist ideologies, posing potential risks to the nation's security infrastructure.
“All right, everybody else, subscribe to the feed. We'll be seeing you soon.” — [09:21] Tim Miller
This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a critical examination of the intersection between conspiracy theories and national security, highlighting the potential dangers of allowing extremist voices to influence key government positions.