We Can Do Hard Things
Episode: How to Stop the War, the Bill & the Trump Regime with Sen. Elizabeth Warren
Release Date: June 19, 2025
In this compelling episode of We Can Do Hard Things, hosts Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle engage in a profound and urgent dialogue with Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. As a leading progressive voice and advocate for consumer protection, Senator Warren brings clarity and actionable insights to some of the nation’s most pressing challenges, including the looming threat of war with Iran, the controversial “big beautiful bill,” and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This episode serves as both a wake-up call and a strategic guide for listeners to actively participate in safeguarding American democracy.
Introduction to Senator Elizabeth Warren (03:51 - 04:03)
The episode opens with a warm welcome to Senator Warren, highlighting her historic role as the first woman elected to the Senate from Massachusetts in 2012 and her pivotal work in establishing the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The hosts underscore her commitment to defending democracy and fighting against corruption.
The Threat of War with Iran (04:16 - 09:15)
Amanda Doyle raises a critical concern about President Trump’s rhetoric and actions suggesting a potential military confrontation with Iran. She questions whether Trump will involve the U.S. in Israel’s aggression against Iran and the implications of his hardline stance on the nuclear deal.
Notable Quote:
"Only Congress can declare war and Congress funds war. That is where you get the money for all of the activities." — Sen. Elizabeth Warren [06:24]
Senator Warren responds by emphasizing the constitutional checks in place that require presidential actions to go through Congress, thus preventing unilateral declarations of war. She highlights the bipartisan opposition to engaging in another Middle Eastern conflict and urges listeners to actively push back against any attempts to escalate tensions.
The “Big Beautiful Bill” and Its Implications (10:43 - 16:12)
The conversation shifts to the “big beautiful bill,” a legislative proposal that threatens to dismantle essential social programs, including healthcare, food assistance, and utilities, while funneling resources to billionaires through massive tax giveaways. Amanda Doyle expresses deep concern over the bill’s provisions that could undermine judicial authority and constitutional checks.
Notable Quote:
"Half of those babies and their mamas and then as their little toddlers, taking that away." — Sen. Elizabeth Warren [12:18]
Senator Warren passionately outlines the detrimental effects of the bill, emphasizing how it would strip healthcare from millions, increase living costs, and strain vital services like hospitals and nursing homes. She argues that the bill prioritizes the wealthy over the well-being of ordinary Americans and calls for united action to oppose it.
Military Aid to Israel and Humanitarian Aid to Gaza (26:33 - 30:36)
Listener Julie raises a poignant question about U.S. military aid to Israel and its role in the conflict against Palestinians. She voices heartbreak and concerns over the moral implications of funding what she terms a “war” or even “genocide.”
Notable Quote:
"Our best role here would be to keep pushing, pushing, pushing toward negotiations." — Sen. Elizabeth Warren [26:33]
Senator Warren responds by detailing her efforts to oppose offensive arms shipments to Israel and advocating for humanitarian aid. She emphasizes the importance of pushing both parties towards a negotiating table to achieve lasting peace and protect human rights.
Strategies and Calls to Action (29:02 - 35:33)
The hosts and Senator Warren delve into actionable strategies to combat the ongoing threats to democracy. Elizabeth Warren shares insights from past legislative battles, including the pivotal role of grassroots mobilization in saving healthcare millions rely on.
Notable Quote:
"This is the moment when you could have not only a dramatic effect on whether or not millions of people keep their health care, you could be the one to create the crack in this Republican wall." — Sen. Elizabeth Warren [16:12]
She urges listeners to make persistent phone calls, send texts, attend town halls, and hold their representatives accountable. Warren recounts the critical moments when individual actions collectively led to significant legislative victories, such as the preservation of the Affordable Care Act.
Midterm Elections and Future Strategy (31:54 - 35:33)
Addressing concerns about the effectiveness of current efforts, Senator Warren reassures listeners by outlining a two-pronged approach: immediate legislative battles and long-term electoral strategies targeting the upcoming midterm elections.
Notable Quote:
"The work starts today. That's how I would describe it." — Sen. Elizabeth Warren [35:16]
She highlights the importance of preparing for the elections by mobilizing voters, holding officials accountable, and continuing to build momentum through ongoing legislative efforts.
Calls to Action: How You Can Make a Difference (47:40 - 52:23)
In a powerful call to action, Amanda Doyle outlines three critical steps for listeners to take:
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Contact Your Representatives:
- Use Congress.gov/members to find your senators and congresspeople.
- Urge them to:
- Vote no on American involvement in the war with Iran.
- Vote no on the big beautiful bill.
- Vote no on providing additional weapons to Israel.
- Vote yes on opening humanitarian aid to Gaza.
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Use Specific Messaging:
- Amanda provides scripts for listeners to communicate effectively and assertively with their representatives, emphasizing the specific actions they expect their elected officials to take.
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Sustained Effort:
- Emphasizes the necessity of repeated and consistent outreach to ensure that representatives hear and prioritize the constituents’ demands.
Notable Quote:
"This bill will take health insurance and food assistance away from tens of millions of people, makes tax cuts for the rich, and includes clauses shielding Trump and his administration from the consequences of violating court orders. I expect you to vote no." — Amanda Doyle [55:47]
Conclusion: Building Collective Strength (45:15 - 56:44)
The episode culminates with reflections on the power of collective action and perseverance. The hosts commend Senator Warren’s unwavering commitment and encourage listeners to integrate these advocacy efforts into their daily routines, drawing inspiration from public figures like Sheryl Crow who incorporate activism into their lives.
Notable Quote:
"Let us add a moment of collective protection that will protect our wellness and safety, I might dare say, even more than the serum." — Abby Wambach [56:23]
The hosts reinforce the message that defending democracy and fighting systemic injustices require ongoing effort, solidarity, and strategic action from every individual.
Final Thoughts
This episode of We Can Do Hard Things serves as a clarion call for Americans to engage actively in the political process to prevent the erosion of democratic institutions and social safety nets. With Senator Elizabeth Warren’s expertise and the hosts’ passionate facilitation, listeners are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to confront and overcome the formidable challenges facing the nation.
Key Takeaways:
- Constitutional Checks: Understanding the importance of congressional authority in declaring war and funding military actions.
- Legislative Advocacy: The critical need to oppose legislation that undermines healthcare, social services, and judicial independence.
- Grassroots Mobilization: The power of individual actions combined to effect significant political change.
- Electoral Engagement: Preparing for midterm elections by holding officials accountable and supporting candidates who prioritize democratic integrity and social welfare.
Listeners are encouraged to take immediate action by contacting their representatives, staying informed, and participating in the collective effort to uphold the values of democracy and justice.