Summary of "The Bulwark Podcast: S2 Ep1026 - Michael Steele: Your Voice Matters"

Release Date: April 22, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Tim Miller welcomes former Republican National Committee Chair Michael Steele to discuss a range of pressing political issues, Steele's personal journey, and the current state of American democracy. The conversation delves into Steele's upcoming prime-time role on MSNBC, reflections on recent papal transitions, critiques of the current administration's policies, economic challenges, and the impact of immigration policies on scientific research. The episode concludes with a candid exchange about political decorum and accountability.

1. Michael Steele’s Transition to Prime Time MSNBC

00:00 - 02:29

Tim Miller opens the episode by announcing Michael Steele's transition to co-hosting the prime-time 7 PM Eastern hour on MSNBC alongside Simone Sanders Townsend and Alicia Menendez, starting May 5th. Steele expresses enthusiasm about this new chapter and the expanded support team that comes with prime-time broadcasting.

Michael Steele (00:33): "Looking forward to it. It's a lot of fun and I'm glad to be in this conversation with you, as always."

He humorously discusses the superficial changes associated with moving to prime time, such as personal appearance adjustments, and acknowledges the robust production team backing the new show.

2. Reflections on the Pope’s Passing and Christian Values

02:48 - 07:10

The conversation shifts to the recent passing of the Pope, with Steele offering a nuanced perspective that transcends the typical conservative-liberal dichotomy. He emphasizes the universal message of love and common sense found in Christian teachings, arguing that these principles are inherently progressive.

Michael Steele (03:08): "I think what the pope was trying to do was say, look at the core of everything that we do should be love."

Steele shares his personal history, including his three years in an Augustinian monastery, highlighting how his religious background has shaped his approach to public service and politics.

3. Critique of the Current Administration’s Policies and Governance

07:59 - 26:02

Tim Miller and Michael Steele engage in a robust critique of the current administration, focusing on perceived governmental incompetence and misguided policies. Steele underscores the importance of due process and warns against the erosion of constitutional safeguards.

Michael Steele (15:56): "It's just a comedy of errors by a bunch of amateurs that are not up for it."

They discuss various administrative missteps, including mishandled immigration policies, economic mismanagement, and the potential misuse of the Constitution to undermine democratic institutions. Steele draws parallels to historical governance failures, cautioning against the rise of authoritarianism.

4. Economic Challenges and Impact on Small Businesses

26:27 - 43:45

A significant portion of the discussion addresses the deteriorating economic conditions under the current administration. Steele critiques the administration's trade policies, particularly tariffs, arguing that they disproportionately harm small businesses and consumers rather than benefiting large corporations.

Michael Steele (39:12): "It's on the mom and pop operation in your neighborhood, who has to close now, will not be hiring your kid this summer, will raise its prices."

Tim Miller highlights the stock market's poor performance, attributing it to mismanagement and lack of confidence in leadership. Steele emphasizes the importance of grassroots business advocacy and the need for small business owners to voice their concerns to protect the economy.

5. Immigration Policies and Impact on Scientific Research

46:53 - 53:33

The hosts discuss a disturbing case reported by NBC about a scientist, Ksenia Petrova, detained by ICE, which threatens critical cancer research. Steele frames this incident as indicative of a broader assault on academic freedom and scientific advancement, warning of a potential brain drain as researchers are intimidated or deported.

Michael Steele (48:30): "This is the future. If we don't stop it. This is the tip of the iceberg."

They lament the administration's approach to immigration, arguing that punitive measures against individuals contributing to vital scientific progress will have long-term detrimental effects on the nation's innovation capabilities.

6. Accountability and Conduct of Public Officials

53:37 - 57:13

The episode concludes with a fiery exchange about the conduct of public officials, specifically referencing a confrontation between Nancy Mace and Michael Steele over issues of political decorum. Steele criticizes the lack of professionalism and respect exhibited by certain lawmakers, advocating for greater accountability and integrity in public service.

Michael Steele (55:08): "You're a disgrace to the state. That's what you are."

Tim Miller reinforces the need for voters to hold their representatives accountable, emphasizing that elected officials should embody the values and respect deserving of their constituents.

Notable Quotes

• Michael Steele (00:33): "I'm looking forward to it. It's a lot of fun and I'm glad to be in this conversation with you, as always."
• Michael Steele (03:08): "I think what the pope was trying to do was say, look at the core of everything that we do should be love."
• Michael Steele (15:56): "It's just a comedy of errors by a bunch of amateurs that are not up for it."
• Michael Steele (39:12): "It's on the mom and pop operation in your neighborhood, who has to close now, will not be hiring your kid this summer, will raise its prices."
• Michael Steele (48:30): "This is the future. If we don't stop it. This is the tip of the iceberg."
• Michael Steele (55:08): "You're a disgrace to the state. That's what you are."

Conclusion

In this episode, Michael Steele provides a compelling critique of the current administration's policies, grounded in his rich personal and professional background. He emphasizes the importance of constitutional safeguards, economic stewardship, and accountability in public office. Tim Miller and Steele advocate for active civic engagement, urging listeners to use their voices to effect meaningful political change. The episode serves as a clarion call for defending liberal democracy and resisting authoritarian tendencies within the government.