The Bill Press Pod

In this episode historian Doug Brinkley discusses the unprecedented ways in which Donald Trump has pushed the boundaries of presidential power. Brinkley compares Trump's actions to historic moments, such as FDR's attempts to pack the Supreme Court and Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War, but notes that Trump's use of executive orders and his ability to intimidate fellow Republicans is unparalleled. The episode covers Trump’s potential to weaponize the National Guard for political gains, his circumvention of legal authority, and the broader implications for American democracy. Brinkley expresses optimism for the future but warns of the challenges posed by emerging technologies such as AI and deep fakes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Bill Press Pod taken from of Bill’s live event, 'Talk of the Hill,' Peter Baker, Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times and Susan Glasser who writes the online column "Letter from Trump's Washington" in The New Yorker, where she is a staff writer. They discuss their experiences and insights into modern journalism, particularly during the Trump presidency. The discussion delves into how Donald Trump has reshaped the presidency and American politics, as well as his administration's impact on national and international affairs, including the situation in Venezuela and Russia. They also touch on media challenges, highlighting the intimidation tactics used by Trump against journalists and media outlets. The conversation concludes with a brief update on their upcoming book focused on Vladimir Putin and recent updates on their son's impactful journalism career. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill talks with John Fugelsang about his new book, Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds. The discussion focuses on what it really means to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and critiques the hypocrisy of the religious right. Fugelsang argues that fundamentalists have hijacked Christianity, using it to justify hateful and exclusionary policies while ignoring the core messages of Jesus about love, humility, and service to others. He also addresses hot-button issues like abortion, immigration, and LGBTQ rights, tying each back to scripture to expose the contradictions in right-wing Christian rhetoric. The conversation ends by highlighting progressive Christians and leaders who are working to reclaim Christianity from the clutches of fundamentalism. You can purchase his great book here. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Ironworkers Union. More information at Ironworkers.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill discusses the challenges faced by the media during Donald Trump's second term with Jason Dick, Editor-in-chief of CQ-Roll Call, Jeff Dufour, Editor-in-chief of The National Journal and Sudeep Reddy formerly a Managing Editor at Politico and now Washington Bureau Chief for MS-Now, the renamed MSNBC. The discussion covers the unprecedented actions taken by Trump, including pardoning January 6th participants, issuing over 200 executive orders, and waging an illegal war in the Caribbean. The editors also examine the pressures faced by the media, including the controversy surrounding CBS News under the leadership of Bari Weiss and how to handle the spread of misinformation. Additionally, they discuss the changes in local media coverage, the role of the press in maintaining democracy, and the difficulty in covering both the Trump administration and Congress. Today. Bill highlights the work of Jose Andres' World Central Kitchen and urges our listeners to consider supporting it with a donation. Check out all the places and people they are helping at WCK.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump Unraveling? Too Many Deportations? “Affordability” Sticking. Trump’s Speeches. Why Did Susie Wiles Talk? MTG’s Strategy. Congress’ Very Bad Year. Dem’s 2026 Senate Chances. With Kirk Bado, Editor, National Journal Hotline, Jennifer Bendery, Reporter for HuffPost covering Congress, Trump and authoritarianism, Jessica Taylor, Senate and Governors Editor at The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter and Sam Brodey, National Political Reporter for The Boston Globe. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UFCW.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill interviews Dr. John Gartner, a former Johns Hopkins professor and founder of Duty to Warn. In his return to the Bill Press Pod, Dr. Gartner provides an in-depth analysis of President Donald Trump’s cognitive health, asserting that Trump exhibits signs of severe cognitive decline and personality disorders such as malignant narcissism. He discusses specific instances that showcase Trump’s deteriorating mental state, including erratic behavior, memory lapses, and lack of empathy. The episode delves into the challenges and dangers posed by Trump's mental condition, its implications on his presidency, and potential future scenarios. Today Bill once again highlights the work of Chef Jose Andres’ World Central Kitchen. While the Trump administration is decimating America's soft power around the world, and our role as a provider of aid to people and countries in peril, the World Central Kitchen goes where they're needed. No matter the war zone nor the danger of a natural disaster. This is one of Carol and my favorite charities and I hope you'll support them at WCK.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump's Power fading: Indiana Fail. Trump Lame Duck? Senate Healthcare Fail. Affordability Fail. James Indictment Fail. Judicial Guardrails Holding. Boat Strike Questions. War in Venezuela? With Amanda Becker, Washington Correspondent for 19th News, Arthur Delaney, Senior Reporter for HuffPost and Evan McMorris-Santoro, Reporter and co-author of the Daily Newsletter for NOTUS. Today Bill suggests a Holiday gift: Hand-made, one-of-a-kind scarves from his weaver wife Carol. These are warm, beautiful and works of art. Check them out at CarolPressScarves.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill reconnects with Larry Sabato, Founder and Director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia. to discuss the 2026 midterm elections. Sabato shares his insights on why he believes Democrats have the edge going into the midterms, citing dissatisfaction with the current Republican control of the White House, Congress, and the Supreme Court. They delve into the implications of redistricting and special elections, recent shifts in voter behavior among Hispanic and Asian communities, and the influence of former President Donald Trump on upcoming elections. The conversation also covers competitive Senate races, the potential impact of candidates like Susan Collins, and the possible future role of J.D. Vance in the 2028 presidential race. The discussion highlights the importance of politics in shaping the future of the nation and reflects on past progress while expressing optimism for the future. Today Bill highlights the work of Jose Andres and The World Central Kitchen. On the front lines of war and natural disasters. Consider adding it to your charitable giving in this Holiday (and Tax planning) season. More information at WCK.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Drug Boats Strikes. Hegseth Doubles Down. Trump’s Wild Pardons.J6 Bomber Arrest. Affordability Messaging. Tenn Special Election. GOP Healthcare Chaos. Ballroom inflation. With Linda Feldmann, Washington Bureau Chief and White House Correspondent for the Christian Science Monitor, Kirk Bado, Editor of The National Journal Hotline and Philip Bump, former Washington Post Columnist and current MS-Now(MSNBC), Contributor. Today Bill suggests a Carol Press Scarf as a great holiday gift. Hand woven, each a work of art. Take a look at CarolPressScarves.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill speaks with Jacob Ward, a longtime technology journalist. He’s worked for NBC News, CNN and PBS. They discuss the origins and development of artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on its capabilities and limitations. Jacob explains that AI's power lies in its pattern recognition but emphasizes that it does not truly understand the data it processes. He delves into the societal implications of AI, including job displacement, lack of regulation, and potential psychological impacts. Despite these risks, Ward highlights positive uses of AI in fields like healthcare and astronomy. Finally, he discusses the pressing need for regulatory measures to mitigate the adverse effects of AI and advocates for a balanced approach to AI utilization. You can follow Jacob Ward’s Podcast and Newsletter, The Rip Current, here TheRipCurrent.com and here TheRipCurrent.substack.com. And his book, The Loop: How Technology Is Creating a World Without Choices and How to Fight Back here. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers’ International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special episode of the Bill Press Pod, Bill interviews historian and author Lynne Olson at The Hill Center in Washington DC. Olson discusses her latest book, 'The Sisterhood of Ravensbruck,' which tells the incredible story of French women in the Resistance who were imprisoned in the Nazis' only all-female concentration camp, Ravensbruck. The conversation highlights the women's bravery, resilience, and defiance under horrific conditions. Olson also shares insights about post-war recognition and controversies surrounding these women's contributions. Additionally, she touches on her book 'Empress of the Nile,' detailing the efforts of Christiane Desroches-Noblecourt to save ancient Egyptian temples. We hope you enjoy this captivating discussion that shines a light on these underrecognized heroines of history. The two books mentioned in detail are: The Sisterhood of Ravensbrück: How an Intrepid Band of Frenchwomen Resisted the Nazis in Hitler's All-Female Concentration Camp. You can buy here. Empress of the Nile: The Daredevil Archaeologist Who Saved Egypt's Ancient Temples from Destruction You can buy here. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill and National Security Analyst Joe Cirincione discuss the implications of recent U.S. foreign policy actions under Donald Trump's administration. They focus on the escalating military actions in Venezuela, the Trump administration's unauthorized and potentially illegal military strikes against alleged drug smugglers, and the broader historical context of U.S. involvement in Latin America. The conversation also touches on the controversial peace plan proposed for Ukraine, which heavily favors Russian interests, and the precarious ceasefire situation in Gaza. Additionally, they examine Saudi Arabia's influence on U.S. policy, highlighting Trump's controversial relationships with foreign leaders like Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The episode underscores the complexities and contradictions of current U.S. foreign policy and raises questions about its legality and effectiveness. Today Bill suggests a great holiday gift, the hand-woven scarves by Carol Press. Check them out at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Epstein! Epstein! Epstein! Mike Johnson Spooked. MTG vs DJT. MBS Khashoggi and Trump. The Weakening Congress. Refuse Legal Orders! Trump’s Overreaction. Dick Cheney’s Funeral Guests. Today's Panel: Jason Dick, Editor-in-chief at CQ-Roll Call, Katherine Tully-McManus, Congressional Reporter at Politico, Ledge King, Managing Editor of National Journal Daily and John Bennett, White House Correspondent for CQ-Roll Call. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UFCW.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump in the news together last week and for sure this week, we thought we'd look back at the interview Bill did with Michael Wolff, a confidant of Jeffrey Epstein and an author with several books about Donald Trump. There is a lot that Michael Wolff revealed in this interview from four months ago. Might be fun to take a listen again knowing what you know now. And if your friends haven't heard it recommend that they do. So…in this episode of the Bill Press Pod, Bill Press reconnects with veteran journalist Michael Wolff to discuss the relationship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. Wolff reveals intimate details about their close friendship from the late 80s through the early 2000s, their mutual interests in women and real estate, and their eventual fallout over a Palm Beach property deal. Wolff also discusses Trump's efforts to downplay their relationship, Epstein's later belief that Trump contributed to his legal troubles, and the reluctance of mainstream media to delve into this story. Wolff shares his personal interactions with Epstein, insights from his 100 hours of taped interviews, and untapped explosive content related to Trump. The conversation also touches on Trump's first term in office, comparing it to his current administration, and concludes with Wolff's views on Trump's current challenges and potential impact on his political future. Michael Wolff's latest book is All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America. You can see his other books here. And Michael Wolff is active on Instagram. instagram.com/michaelwolffnyc. As the holiday season is upon us, Bill suggests a Carol Press Scarf as a great gift. Hand-made, each is a work of art in Rayon Chenille or Bamboo. Take a look at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Epstein and More Epstein. Shutdown Winners. War on Venezuela? Trump’s Foreign Focus. Trump: Prices Down. Not. Filibuster Safe. With Jeff Dufour, Editor in chief at The National Journal, Mia McCarthy, Congress Reporter at Politico and Hunter Walker, Investigative Reporter for Talking Points Memo. Today Bill reminds us that a one-of-a-kind Carol Press Scarf make a great holiday gift. Check out these individual works of art at CarolPressScarves.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill interviews Ron Brownstein, senior political analyst at CNN and columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. They discuss the results of the November 4 elections in Virginia, New Jersey, New York City, and California, and the unmistakable warning signs these results hold for Republicans. Ron highlights the importance of voter attitudes toward the incumbent president, which have increasingly influenced election outcomes. Despite negative views of the Democratic Party, voters' disapproval of Trump played a decisive role in Democratic victories. The conversation also covers the impact of economic dissatisfaction on Trump's approval ratings and the challenges Republicans face in overcoming this negative sentiment. Additionally, they delve into the significance of the recent government shutdown battle and its implications for future elections. Finally, the discussion touches on the generational shift within the Democratic Party and the prospects for Democrats to regain control of the House and Senate in 2026. Today Bill highlights the work of the Democratic Governors Association. There are some great Democratic Governors who might end up as the Democratic Presidential candidate. More information at DemocraticGovernors.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Democratic Sweep. Affordability and Trump Key. GOP’s Struggles. New Blood Wanted. GOP More Blamed for Shutdown. Nancy Pelosi Retires. What’s Up With MTG? Dick Cheney’s Legacy. With Sabrina Siddiqui, National Politics Reporter at The Wall Street Journal, Linda Feldmann, White House Correspondent and DC Bureau Chief at The Christian Science Monitor and Philip Bump, former Columnist for The Washington Post and author of the How to Read This Chart Newsletter. You can follow Philip's work at HowtoReadThisCh.art Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Ironworkers Union. More information at Ironworkers.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode Bill sits down with Jonathan Karl, Chief Washington Correspondent for ABC News, to discuss Karl's latest book 'Retribution: Donald Trump, and the Campaign That Changed America.' The conversation covers Karl's unique relationship with Trump, including a personal call on the morning after the election, and a detailed discussion on Hunter Biden's significant yet tumultuous role in Joe Biden's political circle. They delve into Trump's comeback, the shocking revelations from January 6th, and the key moments leading up to Trump's re-election. The episode also examines Joe Biden and Kamala Harris' reflections on their political futures, an extraordinary account of Trump supporter Pamela Hemphill's journey, and current polling data revealing significant dissatisfaction with Trump's second term. Karl provides substantial insights through newly uncovered documents and personal anecdotes, making for a compelling discussion on current American political dynamics. You can order your copy of Jon's latest book here. Today’s Bill Press Pod is supported by The Laborers’ International Union of North America. More information at LIUNA.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shutdown Continues. Blame Game. Any Movement? Trump: Kill Filibuster. House Still Out. Trump Flattered in Asia. Nuclear Testing? NYC Mayor’s Race. VA and NJ Governor’s Race. CA Redistricting Fight. With Amanda Becker, Washington Correspondent for 19th News, Igor Bobic, Senior Politics Reporter for HuffPost and Evan McMorris-Santoro, Reporter at NOTUS. Today's Bill Press Pod is supported The United Food and Commercial Workers Union. More information at UFCW.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Bill speaks with Anat Shenker-Osorio, a political strategist and messaging expert, about the state of Democratic messaging ten months into Donald Trump's second term. Shenker-Osorio critiques Democrats' reliance on polling and failure to effectively communicate their message to voters. She contrasts this with effective messaging strategies, citing examples like Zohran Mamdani and the importance of agenda-setting. Shenker-Osorio stresses the need for Democrats to adopt a more proactive and consistent messaging approach, focusing on key issues like affordability and framing the opposition as authoritarian. She also discusses current topics like AI-generated videos and California's Prop 50, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and resistance to authoritarian tactics. You can follow the great work of Anat Shenker-Osorio on Blue Sky at @anatosaurus.bsky.social. Her podcast, Words to Win By: WordsToWinBy-pod.com Her writings on Substack: substack.com/@anatosaurus Today Bill highlights the work of The American Civil Liberties Union. More information at ACLU.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.