Rick Wilson's The Enemies List

In this explosive episode, Rick Wilson rips the lid off the DOJ’s choking, years-long effort to bury the Epstein files—those blacked-out, shredded, quietly “misplaced” documents that just happen to shield some of the most powerful men in America. We dig into the redactions, the vanishing evidence, the political pressure, and the revolving-door protectors who ensured Epstein’s network stayed insulated long after his death. From sealed names to missing logs to the institutional panic radiating through Washington, this episode exposes how the DOJ helped sanitize one of the darkest scandals in modern American history—and why the truth is still clawing its way to the surface. About The Enemies List: American democracy is being threatened, and Rick Wilson knows exactly who is responsible. In each episode, Rick calls out those who are the enemies of democracy and exposes their treachery- because sunlight is the best disinfectant. https://bit.ly/3P82A5g Subscribe to Rick's Substack: https://therickwilson.substack.com/ Donate to Resolute Square: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/res... Listen/Download the Enemies List to your favorite podcast provider: https://resolutesquare.com/shows/the-... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5TmWv14... Listen on Stitcher/Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/rick-... Rick Wilson Merch: https://resolutesquare.shop/collectio... Rick Wilson's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rick-Wi... Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Donald Trump’s Great Gatsby party at Mar-a-Lago made headlines for its gold-plated excess, millions of Americans are struggling to pay rent and buy groceries. As the nation faces rising prices, budget cuts, and shrinking safety nets, Trump’s luxury pageantry couldn’t feel more out of touch. Rick Wilson unpacks how Trump’s detachment from economic reality, his austerity policies, and his performative cruelty have deepened America’s empathy crisis. in the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump has literally torn down a piece of America to build himself a dance floor. In this week’s Rick Wilson's The Enemies List Podcast, Rick skewers the Trump East Wing demolition 2025, a $300 million White House ballroom project that turned history into dust and proved—once again—that the worst president in history can’t resist wrecking anything he touches. From bulldozing the People’s House to funding a gilded shrine to his own ego, Trump’s final renovation stunt shows how power, greed, and vanity have replaced leadership, integrity, and the rule of law. Rick pulls no punches as he dissects the symbolism of the White House controversy, the rot of MAGA corruption, and why Trump’s legacy will be remembered not in marble, but in rubble. Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Rick Wilson dives into one of the ugliest political scandals in years — the Young Republican National Federation group chat that revealed a cesspool of hate, racism, and wannabe authoritarian cosplay. In thousands of leaked messages obtained by Politico, state-level GOP leaders joked about gas chambers, Hitler, slavery, and rape -- and revealed the moral rot at the core of a generation raised on grievance politics and Fox News. These aren’t fringe trolls — these are elected aides, campaign managers, and state chairs, the so-called “future” of the Republican Party. Rick unpacks how figures like Peter Giunta, Bobby Walker, Samuel Douglass, Brianna Douglass, Joe Maligno, Alex Dwyer, Annie Kaykaty, Luke Mosiman, William Hendrix, and others went from “rising stars” to radioactive cautionary tales faster than you can say “delete your chat.”  Rick was told that this chat is the tip of the iceberg and that there's a "Legislative Staff Chat" in the House that's 100x worse. It's out there somewhere, so if anyone wants to leak it, you can contact rickwilsonsenemieslist@gmail.com. Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump shut down the government, then tried to hand Democrats the bill like a drunk guy bailing on dinner. Spoiler: nobody’s buying it. Meanwhile, Pete Hegseth waddled into Quantico expecting a standing ovation and got the sound of crickets filing a noise complaint. Two disasters, one week — and Rick’s got the receipts. About The Enemies List: American democracy is being threatened, and Rick Wilson knows exactly who is responsible. In each episode, Rick calls out those who are the enemies of democracy and exposes their treachery- because sunlight is the best disinfectant. Subscribe to Rick's Substack: https://therickwilson.substack.com/ Donate to Resolute Square: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/res... Listen/Download the Enemies List to your favorite podcast provider: https://resolutesquare.com/shows/the-... Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5TmWv14... Listen on Stitcher/Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/rick-... Rick Wilson Merch: https://resolutesquare.shop/collectio... Rick Wilson's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rick-Wi... Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s bombshell: the DOJ, under Trump’s direction, indicted James Comey—a former FBI director long critical of Trump—for allegedly lying to Congress and obstructing oversight. To get it done, Trump purged the existing U.S. Attorney in Virginia and elevated Lindsey Halligan, a political operative turned prosecutor overnight. Within minutes of the indictment, Comey’s son-in-law—then serving as a national security prosecutor in the same office—resigned, citing his oath to the Constitution. Trump publicly celebrated the move, said “justice in America” is being served, and warned that Comey may not be the last enemy prosecuted. In this episode, Rick examines how this unprecedented case exposes the DOJ's transformation into a political weapon, the Hill backlash, and the chilling implications for the rule of law. Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: ⁠https://lincolnsquare.media⁠ ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube: ⁠   / @lincolnsquaremedia  ⁠ ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: ⁠https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y...⁠ --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: ⁠https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin...⁠ ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram: ⁠  / lincolnsquarehq  ⁠ Facebook: ⁠  / lincolnsquarehq  ⁠ TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: ⁠https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1...⁠ BlueSky: ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar...⁠ YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: ⁠https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ⁠ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick Wilson dives into the chaos of 2025 with an explosive episode covering Kash Patel’s congressional meltdown over the Epstein files and Trump’s installation of FCC Chair Brendan Carr. Patel screamed at Republicans and Democrats alike, exposing the dysfunction of congressional hearings, while Carr begins reshaping America’s media landscape, threatening free speech and expanding state-run media influence. Join Wilson as he dissects Trump’s FCC takeover, Patel’s public breakdown, and what it all means for censorship, executive overreach, and democracy. Join the Lincoln Square community on Substack today for unparalleled insights, expert commentary, and news from your favorite pro-democracy voices. Subscribe for free at: https://lincolnsquare.media ---Subscribe to Lincoln Square on YouTube:    / @lincolnsquaremedia   ---Buy official pro-democracy merch and protest gear at the Lincoln Square shop. Use code YOUTUBE for 15% off. Shop here: https://lincolnsquare.shop/discount/Y... --Support independent media and help inform disengaged Americans. Every $10 reaches 1,000 voters with the facts: Donate here via Act Blue: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lin... ---Stay connected by following Lincoln Square on your (or tolerated) social media platforms: Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: @ResoluteSquare Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ Substack: lincolnsquare.media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RFK Jr., the brain-wormed anti-vaxxer inexplicably running America’s Department of Health and Human Services, is proof that irony is alive and well. Charged with protecting public health, he’s busy undoing lifesaving mRNA vaccine programs and replacing science with YouTube-level quackery. It’s like hiring a flat-earther to run NASA—except this time the stakes are your health, your kids, and the future of medicine. Follow Lincoln Square on X at @lincolnsquareHQ, Bluesky at @lincolnsquare.media‬, and Substack at @lincolnquare. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Substack: https://www.lincolnsquare.media/ Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: ‪@lincolnsquaremedia‬ Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ About The Enemies List: American democracy is being threatened, and Rick Wilson knows exactly who is responsible. In each episode, Rick calls out those who are the enemies of democracy and exposes their treachery- because sunlight is the best disinfectant. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Smithsonian is under siege. Trump’s latest order demands that our nation’s museums sanitize slavery, sugarcoat oppression, and serve up propaganda in place of truth. This episode exposes the real stakes: democracy itself, and whether America tells its story honestly—or lets Trump rewrite it. Follow Lincoln Square on X at @lincolnsquareHQ, Bluesky at @lincolnsquare.media‬, and Substack at @lincolnquare. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Substack: https://www.lincolnsquare.media/ Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: ‪@ResoluteSquare‬ Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ About The Enemies List: American democracy is being threatened, and Rick Wilson knows exactly who is responsible. In each episode, Rick calls out those who are the enemies of democracy and exposes their treachery- because sunlight is the best disinfectant. #RickWilson #EnemiesList #Putin #VladimirPutin #SteveWitkoff #Trump #RFKJr #UkraineWar #NATO #EasternEurope #USSecurity #PoliticalAnalysis #TrumpControversy #LincolnSquare #Politics2025 #DiplomaticDisaster #TrumpAllies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick Wilson delivers a double-barreled blast at two dangerous actors inside Trump’s orbit. First up: Steve Witkoff, Trump’s real “acting” Secretary of State, who bumbled his way into a private summit with Vladimir Putin and handed the Russian dictator a propaganda victory. From legitimizing a war criminal to floating a “peace deal” that rewards Russia’s invasion by carving up Ukraine, Witkoff’s incompetence is a masterclass in diplomatic disaster. Rick breaks down how Trump’s obsession with a Nobel Peace Prize, combined with his unshakable loyalty to Putin, is putting NATO, Eastern Europe, and America’s security at risk. Follow Lincoln Square on X at @lincolnsquareHQ, Bluesky at @lincolnsquare.media‬, and Substack at @lincolnquare. Follow Rick Wilson on X @therickwilson, Bluesky at @therickwilson.bsky.social, and Substack @therickwilson. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Substack: https://www.lincolnsquare.media/ Instagram:   / lincolnsquarehq   Facebook:   / lincolnsquarehq   TikTok: tiktok.com/@resolutesquare Sez Us: https://sez.us/user/lincolnsquarehq?1... BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lincolnsquar... YouTube: ‪@ResoluteSquare‬ Xitter: https://x.com/LincolnSquareHQ About The Enemies List: American democracy is being threatened, and Rick Wilson knows exactly who is responsible. In each episode, Rick calls out those who are the enemies of democracy and exposes their treachery- because sunlight is the best disinfectant. #lincolnsquare #trump #democracy #rickwilson #enemieslist #gregabott #enemieslist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick Wilson zeroes in on Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s latest authoritarian stunt: a blatantly corrupt redistricting power grab that aims to rig the 2026 election before a single vote is cast. As Texas Democrats flee the state to block quorum, Abbott threatens arrests and removals—desperate moves from a party that knows it can’t win fairly. Rick pulls no punches, calling out the apartheid-style gerrymandering, the legal thuggery, and the spineless MAGA loyalty behind this brazen scheme. This isn’t policy—it’s political warfare. And Abbott is trying to be Trump’s loyal soldier in the redistricting coup. Rick lays out what’s at stake: if Democrats don’t fight fire with fire in states like California, New York, and Illinois, Republicans will steamroll their way to an illegitimate majority in 2026—and possibly end free elections as we know them. From election cheating and voter suppression to redistricting corruption, authoritarian power grabs, and Trump’s dangerous orbit, this episode is a blistering call to arms. The fight starts in Texas, but it ends with the survival of American democracy. Subscribe, share, and stay vigilant. . . . Follow Lincoln Square on X at @lincolnsquareHQ, Bluesky at @lincolnsquare.media‬, and Substack at @lincolnquare. Follow Rick Wilson on X @therickwilson, Bluesky at @therickwilson.bsky.social, and Substack @therickwilson.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PART I The guy who is eternally on the Enemies List, the 45th and 47th president -- aka Vladdy's Boy, aka Don the Con, aka F*ckboi Von Clownface -- is getting an extra special mention this week. Every week, there are a million reasons to nominate Trump the Chump, but this week, Trump revealed his pathetic nature for all of MAGA to bear witness. First, let us tee this up. Virginia Guiffre -- who was a survivor of Epstein, Maxwell, Prince Andrew, and others -- was critical to getting justice for the hundreds of victims. In a clip that went viral on Tuesday, Trump told reporters that he *knew* who Virginia Guiffre was, that she'd worked as a spa attendant at Mar-a-Lago, and that Epstein had "stolen" her from him. What Trump is really saying is that Guiffre was property, he was aware that she was being trafficked, and groomed/raped by sexual predators. He didn't care about Guiffre, only his ego, and that Epstein had gotten one over on him.  Trump is no stranger to who or what Epstein was -- he joked that Epstein "liked girls on the younger side" and that, in Trump's 50th birthday card to Epstein, they shared a "wonderful secret." Distractions are still being volleyed against the wall -- but Trump knows he's hiding who he is and, this time, he can't outrun it.   PART II Emil Bove -- who looks like a part-time crypt-keeper -- was confirmed to the federal bench this week, and it's plain as day that Trump will put Bove onto the Supreme Court bench. The Senate was aware that Bove had lied to them and was involved in several DOJ cover-ups, and yet they ran his nomination up the chain. The fact that one president will have seated four of the Supreme Court justices should raise the question: Is this really what's best for America? Bove is a particular corrupt flavor -- there's a MOB lawyer vibe to this guy. (Shut up, John Thune, no one wants to hear you wimper your phony "hope" for what you *think* he will do.) There's nothing the Senate won't do for Trump now. . Follow Lincoln Square on X at @lincolnsquareHQ, Bluesky at @lincolnsquare.media‬, and Substack at @lincolnquare. . Follow Rick Wilson on X @therickwilson, Bluesky at @therickwilson.bsky.social, and Substack ⁠@therickwilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The idea should be very clear: Trump is going after the media to suppress coverage of the cover-up." The media is becoming complicit in the greatest cover-up in the history of American politics. The Epstein story isn't going away, no matter how hard Trump tries to make it disappear. But now that effort by Trump is pushing our media into a dark place that it may never return from. If American media outlets don't stand up – and make no mistake, so far they aren't – the loss to our Democracy could be immeasurable. Rick explains why in this episode of The Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick's back to take your questions. You won't be surprised to learn that we got a ton of questions about the Epstein files. In fact, this story is becoming so primary, so massive, that even if a question isn't about the Epstein files, it's still about the Epstein files. Example? William asks about the Supreme Court's shift toward authoritarianism. That might not sound like a question regarding Trump's involvement with Epstein, but let's say he's on that list (he is). Who is going to hold him accountable? Not SCOTUS. Listen for all that and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elon Musk jumping into the third-party game? Buckle up. Building a party from scratch is a brutal, Kafkaesque nightmare, and the duopoly hates it. Yeah, he’s got money—big money—but money alone won’t save him from the legal jungle and political vultures circling. If Musk does this right, it could seriously screw up the GOP and maybe mess with the Dems too. If he does it wrong? Well, he’ll just flush a fortune down the drain with a bunch of clowns running around. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voters don’t vote on policy — they vote on emotion. Republicans run on pure id, the constant, persistent craving for lizard-brain emotions that keep them engaged and enraged enough to act. And Democrats? Well...they lecture. One side is a fireworks display, and the other...a PowerPoint presentation. In this week's Enemies List Q&A, Rick answers your questions, sorts out what's broken in the Democratic party, & hammers out how to fix it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s Enemies List, Rick Wilson takes no prisoners as he tears into Kristi Noem—MAGA’s “Ice Barbie” and Trump’s loyal mouthpiece. From her shameful 72-hour delay in sending FEMA aid during the Texas floods to her relentless lies defending ICE’s brutal immigration raids, Noem embodies the cruelty and corruption at the heart of this administration. Rick exposes how she’s transformed from a conservative politician into a shameless propagandist willing to say and do anything to stay in Trump’s good graces—even if it means lying about the deaths of hundreds and ignoring real disaster relief.Noem’s obsession with deporting immigrants, creating militarized detention centers, and spinning false narratives about “criminals” is part of a broader, deadly agenda that prioritizes political theater over people’s lives. Rick also highlights how the media continues to fall for her scripted performances, failing to hold her accountable for the damage she causes. After tearing into Noem, Rick shines a light on Eldridge Colby, a shadowy Pentagon figure with dangerous pro-Russian leanings who’s been sabotaging U.S. defense efforts and embarrassing the administration. Colby represents the corrupt, unaccountable “derp state” actors undermining American values from within.Join Rick & take a look at the lies, cruelty, and chaos driving the Trump administration’s worst policies—and why it’s vital to call out the people behind them. All that and more on this week's Enemies List... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick Wilson discusses the ongoing Jeffrey Epstein cover-up linked to the Trump administration. He talks about Trump’s long association with Epstein, the involvement of key MAGA figures in keeping case files hidden, and the conspiracy theories surrounding the scandal, shedding light on the complex and troubling realities behind one of the most disturbing stories in recent American politics. All that and more on this week's Enemies List... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's Enemies List we cover how Trump-era cuts under DOGE slashed nearly 600 National Weather Service jobs, leaving Texas forecasting offices understaffed ahead of this weekend’s deadly floods, which claimed dozens of lives. Rick breaks down the political fallout and what this weekend reveals about the risks of cutting vital public safety resources. All that and more on this week's Enemies List... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It would take us a thousand years to get through all of your questions. Thank you for bringing the heat! This week, there were a few themes, though. Lots of you were curious about Rick's take on Mamdani (it's not what you might imagine). Even more of you pledged your hatred of the MAGA Murder Budget Bill and wondered if there was still time to fight back. And we got more than a few questions asking Rick to look into his crystal ball, which he was more than happy to do. All that and more on this week's Enemies List... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Pete Hegseth argued that the real danger to our military lies in criticism from the press or skepticism about military campaigns. He’s wrong. The real danger to our military is leadership that rewards dishonesty, punishes accountability, and erodes the chain of trust that holds the armed forces together. Pete Hegseth is unqualified. Pete Hegseth is a liar. Pete Hegseth is a national security risk. And he’s found a forever-home on the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"This is the new free press—without corporate masters, without super PACs." Rick takes your questions on this episode of the Enemies List, and you had some doozies. Many of you wondered whether or not democracy's guardrails were holding, and what the current state of the protest movement tells us about the generational divide. Rick talks about all that and how outlets like Lincoln Square are the face of the new media. And then...he gives a bit of parenting advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The B-2 strike on Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility was a show of unmatched precision and power—but the rush to celebrate masks a dangerous truth. Triumphalism, especially from Trump’s political base, treats the attack as an end rather than a beginning. But Iran has built its legacy on asymmetric warfare, and tonight’s strike may have opened a long, uncertain chapter rather than closed one. This isn’t just about a bomb dropped—it’s about what comes next. Iran doesn’t need nukes to retaliate; it needs patience and proxies. The enemy gets a vote, and Tehran is likely already planning its next move. Triumphalism isn’t victory—it’s the prelude to tragedy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes your questions on everything from the economic outlook going into the midterms to the definition of neocon. A lot of you were curious about the possibility of a Musk redemption story arc, and about the right way to protest. Rick answers all and delivers this instant classic: It's too late to work inside the system, but too soon to start shooting motherf****. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Political violence doesn’t emerge in a vacuum — MAGA has built a system of terror out of manufactured rage and conspiracy. The assassinations and attempted assassinations in Minnesota over the weekend are the logical result of this effort. Fox News, Facebook, and Twitter are the hypodermic needles injecting the MAGA base with vile hatred, allowing them to see anyone who disagrees with them not as adversaries, but as existential threats—pedophiles, communists, invaders, subhumans. These stories aren't just fringe; they’re algorithmically amplified, monetized, and echoed by politicians and law enforcement alike. When this kind of rhetoric becomes normalized, stochastic terrorism becomes inevitable. The country is reaching a flashpoint — not because individuals snap, but because entire platforms profit from pushing them to the edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump's invasion of Los Angeles isn’t about immigration—it’s about power, manipulation, and preparing you for a crackdown. WE are the real targets. The Trumps, the Millers, the Bondis, the Patels, they are praying for violence to legitimize a massive military escalation. Fox News, Twitter, and Facebook are deeply complicit. They may be pulling immigrants off the streets for the cameras, but they're really coming for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephen Miller is a familiar face on the Enemies List, but over the weekend, the stakes ramped up to a million. He isn’t just a policy advisor—he’s the mastermind behind the deliberately cruel strategy to provoke unrest and justify state violence. This incursion into the streets of Los Angeles with the ICE raids isn't LIKE a Nazi tacting. It IS on: provoke resistance, claim victimhood, then strike harder. It’s not about law enforcement—it’s about staging a spectacle of repression that delights the authoritarian base and erodes democratic norms. If that's not scary enough, the suspension of ABC’s Terry Moran under political pressure is proof that our media is buckling under this pressure. When cruelty becomes policy and dissent becomes criminalized, the danger isn’t just to immigrants—it’s to everyone. In other words...you're next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes your questions this week, and there were plenty to choose from. You sent in hundreds. Sadly, we can't get to all of them, but it was clear that there were some trends. Ricks covers ground from Trump's recent pardons to his craven desire to stoke chaos in order to crush dissent with violence. And one of you, at least, wondered if Trump was actually a spy. Please, keep the questions coming! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This may get some blowback, but it has to be said: This week's entry to the Enemies List are those Democratic consultants who spend millions of dollars talking at men. The crisis facing the Democratic Party isn’t just about policy—it’s about perception, narrative, and emotional connection. MAGA gives disaffected men a sense of belonging, identity, and power. Democrats give them slide decks. The party's elite consultants are disastrously out of step with the people they absolutely must reach if they ever hope to regain power and save Democracy. This is a five-alarm fire. The Democrats' performative branding in place of raw, honest storytelling grounded in shared pain and promised purpose will lose an entire generation to cynicism and extremism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"These people thought Epstein was the Rosetta Stone for the globalist elite cannibal pedophile ring—but the truth hits too close to home." Pam Bondi, Dan Bongino, and Kash Patel are the Three Stooges of the Pizza-Gate-Qanon-Apocalypse. They've been pretty constant figures in and around the Enemies List. But, recently, they've become pariahs not just among those of us on the pro-Democracy side, but within MAGA ranks as well—largely because of their involvement in obscuring the contents of the Jeffrey Epstein files. Once the loudest human blowhorns spreading conspiracy theories about elite pedophile rings, they now appear to be actively protecting the very circles they once claimed to expose. Their sudden pivot, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s deep and well-documented ties to Epstein, has fueled backlash from the same extremist audiences they once courted. You won't believe it, but they are, in fact, hypocrites. But that hypocrisy is grim, as it's meant to protect Trump from being implicated in one of the darkest scandals of the last twenty years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Johnson’s push to gut Medicare and Medicaid isn’t just a budgetary decision—it’s a declaration of priorities. You, my friend, are not on the priority list. Stripping health care from tens of millions to fund tax breaks for a shrinking circle of billionaires lays bare a political ideology rooted in cruelty and indifference. It’s a familiar trade: short-term power for long-term damage, justified by performative piety and cloaked in procedural gamesmanship. Mike Johnson is the reigning Enemy on the Enemies List because his ploy is so cynical, so callous, and so catastrophic to our way of life that it can only be described as evil. This episode is a double-decker! Rick takes your questions in the back half on everything from Elon Musk’s public implosion and Trump’s ongoing submission to Putin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Speaker Mike Johnson is looking to blow a $4 trillion hole in the deficit, cut back on Medicare and Medicaid, and dole out billions in tax breaks to a handful of ultra-rich Americans. He’s an easy target, but that doesn’t mean we should let him off the hook. The chaos within the ranks belies a bitter truth: this budget, if enacted, would be a moral and economic calamity. It would reshape our society in ways that are hard to imagine. And Mike Johnson is the kind of guy who probably knows, but doesn’t care. He might be a mumbly little nerd, but he’s earned his spot on the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"All bets are off if they start snatching judges." Judges are being threatened, civic institutions are under assault, and authoritarian tactics are becoming normalized. The right’s strategy is relentless: show up, take over, and silence dissent. Meanwhile, apathy and disengagement from the left have created a vacuum that fascists are more than willing to fill. Fighting back won’t come from Washington—it starts with showing up at the most local levels and refusing to cede ground. The time is now, people. You are the heroes of this story...if you show up. Rick takes your questions on everything from Little Marco, the new Pope, the backslide of American Democracy, and the non-doctor, non-expert Trump wants for Surgeon General. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Normies—the wealthy, connected conservatives who always knew better—saw exactly what Trump was and supported him anyway. Obsessed with tax cuts and terrified of Kamala Harris, they cloaked their fears in talk of markets and freedom while enabling chaos, cruelty, and economic sabotage. Their silence wasn’t ignorance—it was complicity. While Trump’s base waved flags and spread conspiracies, the Normies offered respectability to a movement they knew was dangerous. Now, with recession looming, civil norms unraveling, and the moral cost mounting, the truth is unavoidable: they made this happen. They gambled with democracy to protect their comfort, and the bill is coming due. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes audience questions, and you sent some doozies. Rick answers questions about Elon, Hegseth, George Santos - MAGA's best and brightest. But you were also wondering if these tariffs might actually be working (spoiler: no), about the legality of arresting judges, where Rick might flee to in a pinch, and...well...how Rick's doing. This is a rebroadcast - keep sending in your questions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steven Miller is a well-known weirdo, anti-immigration ideologue, and is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous men to walk the Earth. For years, he's lurked in the shadows, hovering over Trump, stoking his worst impulses. But he's having a bit of a coming-out-party, as he's poised to become the National Security Advisor. He's in line for this position not because he's qualified, mind you - he's dramatically unqualified - but because of his preternatural, deep-seated feelings of hatred for non-white, non-male Americans. This 2nd term is already catastrophic. But Steven Miller will bring us into a darkness Americans aren't prepared for. Buckle up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pam Bondi fits a certain MAGA mold. She's blonde. She's attractive. She's blindly obedient to Trump. And she's, well, not smart. Instead of making her someone to disregard as just another make-up-slathered clown, it makes her one of the most dangerous figures on the Enemies List. This is a rebroadcast. Make sure to catch up on all the episodes you missed. The Enemies List isn't getting any shorter, folks... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick takes audience questions, and you sent some doozies. Rick answers questions about Elon, Hegseth, George Santos - MAGA's best and brightest. But you were also wondering if these tariffs might actually be working (spoiler: no), about the legality of arresting judges, where Rick might flee to in a pinch, and...well...how Rick's doing. You're the best audience in the business, and curious, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pete Hegseth went from being a tatted-up, Fox News weekend host with a frat-boy persona to being Secretary of Defense. It's going as well as any rational person might have expected. That is to say, according to insiders, reporting, and our own eyes and ears, it’s a disaster. His time at the Pentagon has been marked by leaked classified information, paranoia-driven purges of senior staff, and an obsession with dismantling diversity programs, even if it means erasing sacred military history. Hegseth, who has a history of alleged abuse and heavy drinking, threatens to lead the greatest military the world has ever seen over a cliff. Even MAGA allies and Republican officials can see the edge quickly approaching and are now scrambling to distance themselves from the fallout. But here's the thing: Trump is stuck with him. Find out why in this episode of the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pam Bondi fits a certain MAGA mold. She's blonde. She's attractive. She's blindly obedient to Trump. And she's, well, not smart. Instead of making her someone to disregard as just another make-up-slathered clown, it makes her one of the most dangerous figures on the Enemies List. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't let them decouple Donald Trump from the economy we're about to have. In this episode, Rick goes back to #1 on the Enemies List: Donald Trump. He's giving you everything we need to defeat him...but it's up to us - and Democrats - to use it. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Instagram Facebook TikTok Sez Us BlueSky YouTube Xitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rick boards the F-bomb train to lead us into the unsettling world of Howard Lutnick, the billionaire CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and Donald Trump's Secretary of Commerce - and the most hated man on Wall Street (and that's a high bar). Lutnick's MAGA superpower is his willingness to destroy the global economy and ensure abject financial misery for most Americans in exchange for kudos from his favorite special guy. Kidding aside, there is almost no cleaner parallel to the fealty authoritarian regimes require than Howard Lutnick. The damage his loyalty-over-competence approach threatens the global order, American power, and our democratic institutions. That means it also threatens your job, your financial well-being, and the future security of your family. As Rick says, Lutnick is building a temple of stupid on top of a mountain of burning tires. Be sure to subscribe to Lincoln Square Media on Substack and follow us on all your favorite (or tolerated) social media platforms. Instagram Facebook TikTok Sez Us BlueSky YouTube Xitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Rick does something a little different - a solo deep dive into someone who is actively destroying American institutions and harming citizens. Today, he breaks down the dangerous conduct of Karoline Leavitt, a key figure in the Trump administration, exposing her deceitful actions and the toxic political culture she embodies. Rick draws parallels between Leavitt's behavior and the influence of figures like Roy Cohn on Donald Trump's political strategy. The episode emphasizes the importance of holding these bad actors accountable and stresses the need for a free and inquisitive press during these turbulent times. 00:00 Introduction and New Format Announcement 02:04 Highlighting the Enemies: Carolyn Levitt 03:41 The Influence of Roy Cohn and Roger Stone 05:53 Carolyn Levitt's Media Tactics 11:40 The Hypocrisy of the Trump Administration 14:10 Conclusion: Carolyn Levitt on the Enemies List Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For all of the head scratching by Trump supporters over his literal, real-life, actual love of tariffs, it’s worth noting that for everyone who thought he’d never be crazy enough to go through with them, there were those who knew the whole time that this outcome was at best likely - and worst inevitable. One of those sounding the alarm was Rick Wilson. In this rebroadcast episode from the lead up to the election, Rick sat down with Edward Goldberg, an adjunct professor at NYU’s Center for Global Affairs and expert on political economy and trade. Together, they predict the dangers of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs and the broader risks of economic isolationism - the risks we’re now facing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Enemies List, Rick is joined by the head of the ACLU in DC, Monica Hopkins. In its 105-year history, the ACLU has never faced a president like Trump, and that's all the more reason to fight back. Rick and Monica discuss Trump's defiance of court orders, utter disrespect for the law, his desire to reshape DC in his own grotesque image, and the overall state-of-play of the rule of law in America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to win back voters in red districts and break through the noise? On today's episode Rick sits down with Congressman Ro Khanna to discuss his work engaging communities where Democrats have struggled, emphasizing the importance of showing up and fighting for working-class Americans. They also explore the rising influence of Bitcoin among young voters, the dangers of anti-tech sentiment, and how Democrats can rebuild trust with a clear, action-oriented plan. Timestamps: (00:01:25) Voters in Bakersfield (00:07:30) What do non-democrats want? (00:14:08) What are democratic voters looking for? (00:16:49) Where do democrats need to go on bitcoin? (00:24:21) Giving America a set of principles Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three top intelligence officials sat before Congress and lied through their teeth. In another classic Rick rant, our host unpacks a jaw-dropping hearing featuring Tulsi Gabbard, Kash Patel, and John Ratcliffe, the classified Signal chat scandal, and the dangerous implications for U.S. national security. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to go from Googling “how to run for office” to becoming one of the most compelling voices in American politics? In this episode Rick speaks with Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow to discuss her new book Hate Won’t Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You Found It. They dive into her unexpected path into politics, what drives her to fight back against extremism, and how everyday people can reclaim their power in a chaotic political landscape. Mallory also hints at a possible run for U.S. Senate and shares her thoughts on trade, tariffs, and the importance of staying engaged. Mallory's book, Hate Won’t Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You Found It, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:48) Hate Won't Win (00:11:54) What should people do? (00:16:08) Michigan's response to the trade war Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick kicks off this episode with a blistering rant on Trump and his blatant, idiotic buffoonery. He couldn't wait so we put it at the top of the show. Then he speaks with authors Sarah Vowell and Casey Cep about their contributions to the new Michael Lewis anthology Who is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service. They discuss the often-overlooked dedication of public servants, from archivists preserving the nation's history to veterans ensuring the dignity of military burials. Through their compelling profiles, Vowell and Cep highlight the essential yet under appreciated roles these individuals play in upholding democracy. Who is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service, available now. Timestamps: (00:11:50) Who is Government? (00:14:57) The Sentinal (00:27:52) Keepers of the Tradition Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Politics is a battlefield, and right now, Democrats are struggling to break free from the traps set by Republicans. In this episode Rick Wilson sits with Democratic strategist Joel Payne to discuss the current political landscape and the challenges facing the Democratic Party. They break down the Republican Party’s attempts to box Democrats in on spending bills, the broader cultural and messaging battles, and how Democrats can better connect with voters by focusing on real-world concerns rather than policy jargon. Payne offers insight on the evolving political spectrum, the need for Democrats to fight smarter, and how Trump’s chaos-driven approach presents both challenges and opportunities. Timestamps: (00:01:36) Should they be helping Mike Johnson? (00:09:04) Speaking American (00:14:53) An agenda that doesn't rely on Trump (00:18:27) Susie Wiles and Elon Musk Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What really fueled Donald Trump’s 2024 comeback? In this episode Rick sits with journalist and author Alex Isenstadt to discuss his new book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power. They dive into Trump's campaign strategy, his ability to harness cultural resentment, and the political maneuvers that secured his victory. From his outreach to young male voters through podcasts to the decisive role of figures like JD Vance and Elon Musk, Isenstadt provides an insider's perspective on how Trump reshaped his movement. They also explore the psychological impact of the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania and how it further galvanized his supporters. Alex's book, Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump's Return to Power, available here. Timestamps: (00:01:30) What people missed in the Trump Campaign (00:02:50) How Trump used the culture war (00:14:53) Revenge (00:24:13) Susie Wiles and Elon Musk Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The fight for civil rights wasn’t just waged in the streets, it was built in classrooms led by unsung heroes. In this episode Rick speaks with author Elaine Weiss about her new book, Spell Freedom: The Underground Schools That Built the Civil Rights Movement. They discuss the little-known history of citizenship schools—grassroots educational programs in the 1950s and 60s that empowered Black Americans to pass literacy tests, register to vote, and fight systemic oppression. Weiss sheds light on the broader civil rights movement, the institutional barriers activists faced, and the enduring importance of civic education in today’s political landscape. Elaine's book, Spell Freedom: The Underground Schools That Built the Civil Rights Movement, available now. Timestamps: (00:02:00) The history of the citizenship schools (00:07:32) The institutional opposition (00:16:15) The post war era ripple effect Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The balance of power in American democracy is being tested like never before. In this episode Rick is joined by legal expert and author Tristan Snell to discuss the latest legal battles surrounding Trump, the Supreme Court’s role in shaping executive power, and the broader implications for American democracy. They break down key cases, including the limits of presidential immunity, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the growing constitutional crisis if Trump defies court rulings. Visit Tristan's Substack at tristansnell.com. Timestamps: (00:01:26) Watching the legal battles unfold (00:10:59) What happens when Trump denies a court order? (00:20:24) The protection of executive action Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America’s political landscape is shifting in dangerous ways. On today's episode Rick is joined by journalist and author Garrett Graff to dissect the current crisis in U.S. democracy, where unchecked power, disruptive media narratives, and the staggering influence of figures like Elon Musk are redrawing the rules of governance. Graff introduces his incisive newsletter, Doomsday Scenario, which reimagines American news as if it were unfolding overseas—casting a stark light on the nation's mounting instability and the erosion of federal institutions. Subscribe to Garrett's newsletter at doomsdayscenario.co. Timestamps: (00:01:44) Doomsday Scenario (00:13:08) The machine moves with the president (00:22:53) Dismantling the federal government Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gen Z is at a political crossroads, and the battle for their votes is intensifying. In this episode Rick speaks with Gen Z political commentator Dash Dobrofsky to discuss the shifting political landscape among young voters. Dash shares his journey into political activism, the impact of social media on shaping narratives, and the growing influence of right-wing messaging on Gen Z—particularly young men. They dive into economic frustrations, media strategies, and the urgent need for Democrats to improve their branding and messaging. With insights on the future of digital political engagement and the 2028 election, this conversation sheds light on the evolving battle for young voters' attention and trust. Timestamps: (00:01:15) The Gen Z voice (00:04:39) How Gen Z is processing today's politics (00:11:39) Who can reach Gen Z? (00:22:06) The 2028 election Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have entered a whirlwind of chaos and controversy as the new order attempts to reshape the American political landscape. In this episode Rick sits with Andrew Egger, chief White House correspondent for The Bulwark, to dissect the early months of Trump's second first term in the White House. They explore how a disruptive, Doge-fueled approach is reshaping federal agencies, from hasty cuts in key national security institutions to internal power struggles, and debate the evolution of conservative politics. And of course, Rick adds to the Enemies List. Timestamps: (00:01:08) Covering the second Trump white house (00:05:52) What the public doesn't know about DOGE (00:16:29) Trumpism is not inevitable (00:23:01) Trump's fear mongering Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The chaos isn’t slowing down, it’s accelerating. In this episode Rick is joined by Will Saletan from The Bulwark to dissect the unfolding turmoil in D.C. and beyond. They discuss Elon Musk's growing influence, Trump's erratic decision-making, the GOP’s shift toward isolationism, and the potential global and domestic fallout from these radical changes. From economic instability and foreign policy upheaval to the looming dangers of reckless governance, the two break down the woodchipper-like destruction of key institutions and its long-term consequences. Timestamps: (00:01:17) Where does the DOGE arc end? (00:07:13) Trump's attitude toward Europeans (00:14:00) MAGA and expanding the American empire (00:18:31) "Burn it all down, we'll figure it out later" Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is America’s economic power a weapon, or a ticking time bomb? In this episode Rick is joined by Edward Fishman, author of Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare. They dive into the rise of economic warfare as the primary battleground for global powers, exploring how tariffs, sanctions, and export controls have reshaped international relations. Fishman discusses the risks of Trump's aggressive trade policies, the potential fallout of economic isolationism, and the unintended consequences of a fractured global economy. Edward's book, Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare, available for pre-order now. Timestamps: (00:01:43) Anticipating Harris or Trump (00:05:25) The first month of Trump (00:14:45) How will the rest of the world react to Trump? Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Democrats win back rural and working-class voters before it’s too late? In this episode Rick Wilson sits down with Adam Frisch, former congressional candidate from Colorado, to discuss the state of the Democratic Party and its challenges in connecting with rural and working-class voters. Frisch shares insights from his campaign against Lauren Boebert, emphasizing the importance of dignity, economic messaging, and breaking through the Democratic Party’s institutional mindset. He also critiques the party’s communication strategies and highlights the need for candidate-led campaigns. Together, they explore the impact of Trump’s policies, the role of soft power, and the looming economic consequences that could shift voter sentiment in the coming months. Timestamps: (00:01:26) How the democratic party is responding to Trump (00:14:02) Rural America and Trump (00:24:21) How to draw back the soft republicans Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

USAID being dismantled before our eyes is just the beginning. In this episode Rick is joined by Josh Rogin, Lead Global Security Analyst for Washington Post Intelligence, to discuss the shocking dismantlement of USAID by Elon Musk and Donald Trump. They explore the broader implications of this decision, including the erosion of America’s global influence, the potential humanitarian crisis, and how adversaries like China and Russia stand to benefit. The conversation also delves into Trump’s complicated relationship with Xi Jinping, the future of Taiwan, and the geopolitical risks of a second Trump presidency—particularly regarding Ukraine, where Vladimir Putin is poised to take advantage. Timestamps: (00:02:08) Filling the gap after USAID (00:10:29) Giving up Taiwan (00:19:32) If Trump tries to "buy" Gaza Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we tackle a new age of politics and propaganda as Rick is joined by philosopher and author Jason Stanley. The two discuss the manipulation of language, propaganda, and the rise of authoritarianism in modern politics. They examine how global far-right movements are using nationalism, immigration fears, and media control to consolidate power, drawing parallels to historical fascist strategies. The conversation delves into the role of education, corporate-state alliances, and the erosion of democratic norms, highlighting the dangerous shift toward kleptocratic authoritarianism. Stanley also discusses his latest book, Erasing History, and the ongoing battle for truth in an age of disinformation. Jason's book, Erasing History, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:40) The use and abuse of language (00:13:18) The new reality (00:17:07) Classic and diet authoritarianism Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the world on the brink of permanent instability? In this episode Rick Wilson sits down with renowned author and geopolitical analyst Robert D. Kaplan to discuss his latest book, Wasteland: A World in Permanent Crisis. Together, they explore the challenges of our increasingly interconnected and unstable world, from the decline of great powers and the erosion of democracy to the disruptive forces of AI and automation. Kaplan offers a sobering comparison to the Weimar Republic and stresses the urgent need to rediscover the principles of historic liberalism in the face of rising global disorder. Timestamps: (00:01:42) The current geopolitical order (00:06:48) The overt desire for chaos (00:11:55) The currency of freedom (00:15:25) Facing AI Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when traditional media faces off against a generation raised on TikTok and influencers? In this episode Rick chats with political scientist and journalist Jason Johnson for a discussion on the evolving landscape of media, politics, and culture. They explore how generational shifts and platforms like TikTok are reshaping news consumption, the deeper racial and gender dynamics fueling Trumpism, and the media's struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing audience. From the rollback of DEI policies to the future of journalism, this conversation dives into the critical challenges facing the press and its role in holding power accountable in the Trump era and beyond. Timestamps: (00:01:42) Our definitions of the press (00:11:39) The economic disconnect in media (00:26:28) The responsibility of the press Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens introduces the topic of today's episode, Trump's disastrous first week and the incoming deportation calamity likely to take place. The story that leads off Chapter 6 of Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal, Mass Deportation Disaster captures the struggles of 12-year-old Alvaro and his mother in a fictional detention center in West Texas. Alvaro expresses his hunger to his mother, who is too weak to properly care for herself. As they navigate the deteriorating conditions of the camp—overcrowded with diminishing food supplies, hostile guards, and a sense of fear from both authorities and fellow detainees—Alvaro reflects on lost friendships and longing for better times. His mother’s health declines as she sacrifices for him, giving him her piece of bread despite needing it more herself. This highlights Alvaro’s growing awareness of their desperate situation. He learns from a friend, Manuel, about possible escape routes and decides to plan his own escape to ensure both his and his mother’s safety. In the second half of Chapter 6, in a parallel narrative, soldier Jake Caldwell describes the chaos of the detention center from his perspective. As he witnesses the overwhelming influx of women and children, he feels the systemic failures of the camp. The environment strips away humanity, leading children to escape in search of freedom. As both narratives unfold, Alvaro attempts to escape the camp, filled with hope for a future where he can see his mother smile again even as Jake grapples with the moral dilemmas of his role in the oppressive system. Their stories intertwine themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the harsh realities faced by both detainees and guards in the unjust conditions of the camp. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Mark Ruffalo and Andrea Guidry who read the chapters and others who contributed character voices.   Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump’s Project 2025:Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens starts by detailing the potential horrors to come from Trump's cabinet. From Kash Patel, Pam Bondi and the rest, this is a group specifically designed to carry out the President's unchecked retribution against his political enemies. In Chapter 5, Part one, the fictional characters Congresswoman Louise Getty and Senator Wade Stiller, former rivals, meet at the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. They reflect on their pasts and express concern over a hostile political climate under Trump’s second term, feeling fear and paranoia about being surveilled and targeted by the government. Their conversation reveals a sense of vulnerability as they confront the reality that many of their colleagues have abandoned principles out of fear. Louise recalls the intense political maneuvering and betrayals leading up to and following the January 6 insurrection. In Part Two, Woody Nuxhall, the newly appointed head of the Treason and Political Crime Section of the DOJ, oversees his zealous young team of prosecutors, eager to pursue investigations and vendettas against political enemies. The group discusses tactics to surveil and undermine former colleagues and opposition figures, planning a strategy fueled by partisan loyalty and vengeance, while embracing a radical transformation of the DOJ's role in politics. The narrative emphasizes the deeply entrenched fear and moral compromise within Washington's political landscape, contrasting the idealistic memories of past sacrifices with the present-day weaponization of governmental power. Overall, the story highlights the erosion of democratic norms, and the personal toll this environment takes on the individuals involved.  While these stories are fictional, they are based on Trump's own words and Project 2025. In fact, the New York Times, just last week reported just how Trump would use the Justice Department to go after his enemies. We’d like to thank the artists who contributed their time to make this episode: Richard Schiff and Morgan Fairchild read the chapters and others who contributed character voices. Sound Design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump’s Project 2025:Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Special guest host Stuart Stevens kicks off the episode reminding us of the true danger of RFK Jr. and Trump's willingness to put the nation's health at risk with his confirmation. So what could happen if RFK is confirmed? Today's story helps illustrate that potential reality. This episode tells the fictional story of a middle school that opens its doors to unvaccinated students after a possible second -term President Trump eliminates Federal funding for schools with vaccine mandates. The story follows the school nurse, Stephanie Morris, as she navigates the influx of unvaccinated students and the resulting disease outbreaks that spread rapidly through the school and community. The narrative illustrates the real-world implications of the president's policy, with outbreaks of diseases like measles, whooping cough, and the flu causing hospitalizations and even deaths among vulnerable students and staff. The story highlights the challenges faced by the school nurse in trying to protect the health of all students, including her own daughter who has an autoimmune condition, without the backing of mandatory vaccination policies. Overall, the episode demonstrates how Donald Trump’s promise to defund schools with vaccine mandates could have devastating consequences for children's health and safety. Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: Laurie Burke, Leigh McGowan who read the chapters & Audrey Hakes, Joe Walsh, & others who contributed character voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jonathan Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. To start, special guest host Stuart Stevens weighs in on day one of the confirmation hearings and the abomination that is the slate of nominees Trump has put forward for some of the most important positions in the Executive Branch. In Chapter 3, the fact-based fictional story of Dr. Yvette Hardman and JJ Newsom depicts the dismantling of expertise and science-based decision making in the federal government under a possible second Trump administration guided by Project 2025. Dr. Hardman, an experienced infectious disease expert, is removed from her position at the CDC and replaced by JJ Newsom, an unqualified political loyalist with no relevant experience. This reflects Project 2025's plan to fill government positions with partisan appointees rather than nonpartisan experts. The new administration rejects science-based pandemic response recommendations from Dr. Hardman instead prioritizing political and economic considerations over public health. This aligns with Project 2025's directives to limit the CDC's ability to make public health recommendations. The story highlights the Trump administration's hostility towards science and the displacement of experienced civil servants, which Project 2025 seeks to accelerate through measures like the "Schedule F" executive order to reclassify and fire federal employees. Overall, the narrative illustrates how a second Trump term guided by Project 2025 would undermine the role of expertise and independent scientific advice in government, with potentially disastrous consequences for public health and safety. Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd also like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode: CCH Pounder, Richard Schiff and Jason Kravits who read the chapters and Omid Abtahi, Tom Nichols, Laurie Burke and Joanne Carducci who did the voices. Sound design by Marilys Ernst and Jon Moser. Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal was written by David Pepper and produced by Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman and is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and The Bill Press Pod. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So you think you've heard it all about JFK? Think again. In this episode Rick is joined by bestselling author Brad Meltzer to discuss his new book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy and Why It Failed. Brad uncovers the little-known story of a 1960 assassination attempt on JFK's life by disgruntled postal worker Richard Pavlik and explores its historical implications. Together, Rick and Brad dive into the parallels between the political climate of the 1960s and today, JFK's transformation of American politics, and the pivotal role of Jackie Kennedy in shaping the Kennedy legacy. Timestamps: (00:01:29) The JFK Conspiracy (00:04:56) The recipe for authoritarianism Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Chapter Two of Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal depicts the personal story of Eve, a nurse struggling with infertility, whose treatment is threatened by the new president's executive order banning certain fertility treatments. The episode explores how the president's policies would impact everyday Americans, particularly women and families, by interfering with reproductive freedom and the right to self-determination. The author of the serialized novel “2025,” upon which this podcast series is based, David Pepper, highlights how the fictional story is directly based on the policies outlined in the Trump’s Project 2025 and the president's own words, underscoring the very real and devastating consequences a second Trump term and the implementation of Project 2025 could have. You can read Chapter Two of David Pepper’s “2025: A Novel” at davidpepper.substack.com/p/2025-a-novel-chapter-2 Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is available on all the podcast apps and at 2025pod.com. We'd also like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode. Heather Thomas, J. Smith Cameron, Omid Abtahi, Kirk Acevedo and Bayo Akinfemi. Audio finishing by Marilyn Ernst. This series is produced by David Pepper, Melissa Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman. Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our first episode of 2025, Rick takes a hard look back at January 6th, 2021—a day he calls a stain on American democracy. He reflects on the failures of leadership, the lack of accountability, and the enduring dangers posed by Trump and his movement. With unflinching honesty, Rick explores the authoritarian vision of MAGA, the moral compromises of its enablers, and the need to remember and confront the truth of that infamous day. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are entering a new chapter where the children are taking the wheel. In this episode Rick speaks with journalist and author David Corn to discuss the chaotic implications of a Trump administration return, the rise of figures like Elon Musk and RFK Jr., and the dangerous erosion of government institutions. They dive into concerns about unqualified leadership, the dismantling of public health systems, and the weaponization of agencies like the FBI under Trump loyalists. Timestamps: (00:01:10) American Psychosis (00:08:13) How long can Trump and Elon Musk co-exist? (00:18:04) DOJ and Kash Patel Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special series is a joint production by David Pepper and Resolute Square. The book, “Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close And Personal” by David Pepper, is available for purchase at https://a.co/d/adWcJ4S. Chapter One of Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal depicts how the lives of everyday Americans would be impacted by the policies outlined in Trumps’s Project 2025 and the return of Donald Trump to power. The fictional story follows Ammon Maher, a college student and immigrant, as he is detained and deported without due process due to his involvement in past campus protests. This narrative directly reflects Trump's campaign promises to crack down on student protesters and his administration's policies that target undocumented immigrants, including so-called "dreamers." The author of the serialized “2025: A Novel” upon which this podcast series is based, David Pepper, highlights how these policies, if implemented, would violate civil liberties and human rights in an alarming and unjust manner. The podcast series aims to raise awareness of the very real dangers posed by Trump's extremist agenda and the disturbing implications of "Project 2025" for the American people. You can read  Chapter One of David Pepper’s “2025: A Novel” at davidpepper.substack.com/p/2025-a-novel Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the post election dust begins to settle, we look to the future. On today's episode Rick is joined by political strategist and author David Pepper to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the post-Trump landscape. They delve into the importance of state-level elections, the lessons from past midterms, and the critical need for focused messaging to counteract chaos. David also introduces his compelling Project 2025 series, which uses storytelling to highlight the real-world impacts of Trump’s proposed policies. Together, they explore how to prepare for the battles ahead and inspire proactive action to defend democracy. Timestamps: (00:01:39) The resistance to Trump (00:10:53) Winning state elections (00:15:13) The Wisconsin Supreme Court race (00:24:45) Project 2025 Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Rick details the chilling effect of ABC's capitulation in a lawsuit brought by Trump, examining its dangerous implications for press freedom and journalism in America. He warns that this decision sets a precedent, emboldening Trump and others to intimidate media outlets into silence through lawsuits, threats, and governmental pressure. He explores how corporate interests, fear of retaliation, and the erosion of trust in the media are undermining the free press—a cornerstone of democracy. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the bizarro world that is Trump's America, Michael Flynn sued Rick. In today's special episode, Rick details the case and how, at long last, he prevailed. A victory for common sense and free speech. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is democracy in decline? Clearly. In this episode Rick sits down with Emily Amick, co-author of Democracy in Retrograde, to discuss the challenges facing American democracy and how to reclaim civic engagement in the age of polarization and outrage. They explore the rise of minority rule, the impact of social media on public discourse, and the erosion of community ties. Emily shares actionable insights from her book, including how individuals can create sustainable civic action plans and rebuild connections to strengthen democracy. Emily's book, Democracy in Retrograde, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:20) Democracy in Retrograde (00:09:17) The outrage politics cycle (00:12:01) Building community (00:16:42) Why Americans are polarized and exhausted Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is America heading toward a tyrannical, authoritarian system? Taking for granted our basic pursuit of freedom? In today's episode Rick is joined by historian and Yale professor Timothy Snyder to discuss his latest book, On Freedom. Building on the themes of his influential work On Tyranny, Snyder explores the deeper meaning of freedom, its vulnerabilities in modern America, and how to preserve it against rising authoritarian tendencies. The conversation digs into the dangers of "sado-populism," the distortion of free speech, and the seductive appeal of authoritarianism. Snyder offers a powerful case for the value of freedom as a cornerstone of human dignity and creativity. Timothy's book, On Freedom, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:42) On Freedom (00:03:00) Do Americans realize what's at stake? (00:07:17) The elements of freedom that are at risk  (00:14:19) Turning away from individual liberty (00:22:33) The future of freedom Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode, Rick answers your burning questions submitted from across the interweb. We plan to do more Q&A episodes in 2025 so please send in your questions to info@therickwilson.com. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We begin this episode with a quick note of appreciation from Rick, to you and everyone who has supported in this fight. From there Rick sits down with New York Times bestselling author Michael Tackett to discuss his new book, The Price of Power: How Mitch McConnell Mastered the Senate, Changed America, and Lost His Party. Tackett unpacks McConnell's transformation from a pragmatic politician to a key architect of modern conservatism, his mastery of Senate rules, and his role in reshaping the judiciary. The conversation explores McConnell's relationship with Trump, his controversial post-January 6 decisions, and the enduring impact of his leadership. Michael's book, The Price of Power: How Mitch McConnell Mastered the Senate, Changed America, and Lost His Party, available now. Timestamps: (00:06:19) The Price of Power (00:12:32) Doing more with the minority than some can do with the majority (00:14:18) Curating his own caucus (00:17:03) Controlling Trump (00:27:13) The Senate post McConnell Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And so begins the inevitable ball-fumbling that is a Trump Presidency. In our first episode back from a short break, Rick rants on the Matt Gaetz debacle and how we should see in the context of Trump and his incoming administration. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In these final days before the election, Trump has doubled down on his authoritarian, fascist rhetoric. To help us make sense of the chaos leading up to the big day, Rick welcomes historian and political analyst Heather Cox Richardson for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of American democracy. Together, they delve into the stark contrasts between democracy and authoritarianism, the Republican Party’s transformation under Trump, and the growing influence of tech billionaires pushing anti-democratic agendas. As the 2024 election upon us, they examine the stakes, the shifts in voter sentiment, and the potential for new political coalitions to reshape our reality. Timestamps: (00:01:21) Closing out the race (00:06:30) Corruption of the American system (00:17:29) The new generation Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the home stretch, and something we haven't touched on enough is Trump's love affair with Tariffs. In this episode Rick sits down with Edward Goldberg, an adjunct professor at NYU’s Center for Global Affairs and expert on political economy and trade. Together, they explore the dangers of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs and the broader risks of economic isolationism. Goldberg draws historical parallels, such as China’s decision to burn its fleet in 1433 and the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1929, to demonstrate the economic consequences of shutting down global trade. They also discuss the misconceptions around globalization, its connection to job loss, and the vital role of immigration and open trade in driving American innovation and prosperity. And to cap things off, Rick rants about the horror show at Madison Square Garden. Timestamps: (00:01:33) The stakes for the global economy (00:06:38) What happens if we shut the doors (00:13:06) The age of human knowledge Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The deeper we look into the ideological motivation of the Christian right in America, the darker it gets. In this episode Rick talks with author Talia Lavin about her new book, Wild Faith: How the Christian Right is Taking Over America. They dive into the powerful alliance between the evangelical movement and Donald Trump, exploring how religious rationalizations have cemented Trump’s support among evangelicals. Lavin discusses the rise of authoritarian and theocratic ideologies within the Christian right, their success in pushing anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ policies, and their long-term goals for transforming American society. The episode sheds light on how these movements perceive their political battle as spiritual warfare and what this means for the future of American democracy. Talia's book, Wild Faith: How the Christian Right is Taking Over America, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:41) Wild Faith (00:03:30) Trump's effect on the Evangelical right (00:23:21) The threats this movement poses Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In case you didn't know, Rick is a history buff, especially when it comes to American presidents. In this episode Rick sits down with acclaimed historian and biographer Nigel Hamilton to discuss his upcoming book, Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents. Together, they explore the contrasting leadership styles of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis during the American Civil War, examining how each president’s psychology, military background, and decisions shaped the course of the conflict. Hamilton dives into Lincoln's struggles with his generals, the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation, and Davis’s strategic mindset. The conversation offers a deeper understanding of two pivotal figures in American history. Nigel's book, Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents, available for pre-order now. Timestamps: (00:01:36) Lincoln vs. Davis (00:14:59) The psychology from chess moves to battles (00:32:51) The Battle of Gettysburg Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we fact check in an ocean of lies? In this episode Rick is joined by Bill Adair, the founder of PolitiFact and a professor at Duke University, to discuss the growing epidemic of political lying, especially within the Republican Party. They explore the history of political dishonesty, the role of conservative media in amplifying misinformation, and the challenges of fact-checking in an era dominated by figures like Donald Trump. The conversation highlights the danger that widespread deception poses to democracy and addresses the role of new technologies, like deepfakes, in further distorting truth in political discourse. Bill's book, Beyond the Big Lie: The Epidemic of Political Lying, Why Republicans Do It More, and How It Could Burn Down Our Democracy, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:34) The Big Lie (00:06:21) The red blue divide (00:19:00) The danger to the right Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we keep it simple. Trump is actually a fascist, Rick explains why he is an enemy to us all. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump and the much of the far right have perverted traditional Christian values. In this episode Rick is joined by Jim Wallis, theologian and author of The False White Gospel, to discuss the rise of Christian nationalism in the U.S. Wallis explores how this movement has distorted Christianity for political power, particularly under Donald Trump, and the dangers it poses to American democracy. They discuss the history of white Christian nationalism, its contrast with the inclusive teachings of Jesus, and the importance of reclaiming faith from political agendas to refound democracy on true spiritual values. Jim's book, The False White Gospel, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:39) The False White Gospel (00:03:50) The Christian nationalist movement (00:12:20) Faith without politics Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump loves dictators. For today's episode, Rick discusses Bob Woodward's new book War, which highlights Donald Trump's admiration for dictators, particularly Vladimir Putin. He argues that Trump's transactional nature and attraction to power make him susceptible to autocratic influences. He warns that if re-elected, Trump would likely cut U.S. support for Ukraine, leading to a Russian victory and weakening NATO. Trump's worldview aligns more with authoritarianism than democracy, posing a serious threat to global stability and American values. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a classic Rick rant, he breaks down the politicization of Hurricane Helene, criticizing the usual suspects (Trump, Elon Musk, etc) for spreading misinformation about FEMA's response. He highlights the coordinated, bipartisan efforts of federal and state governments in addressing the disaster and condemns the use of tragedies for political gain. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It can feel at times like there's nothing we don't know about Trump. However, there are still a few select people who seem to be able to uncover more and more, giving us critical insight into the former President. In this episode, Rick interviews Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner about their new book, Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success. They delve into Trump’s long-standing strategy of creating an illusion of wealth, his reliance on tax loopholes, and how he used his father's empire to prop up his failing ventures. The conversation also touches on Trump's role in the USFL's downfall, his relationship with banks, and the lasting impact of The Apprentice on his public image. Susanne and Russ' book, Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:30) Lucky Loser (00:08:31) Trump's properties (00:13:29) The real Trump (00:21:38) The Trump brand Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can big tech and a healthy democracy coexist? In this episode Rick is joined by Marietje Schaake, author of The Tech Coup: How to Save Democracy from Silicon Valley. Together, they delve into the growing influence of big tech companies on global democracy, the dangers posed by unchecked data collection, and the rise of tools like Pegasus spyware. Schaake highlights the need for greater transparency, regulation, and accountability in the tech sector, while addressing the potential threats to privacy and democratic freedoms. They also discuss the weaponization of data by companies like Palantir and Cambridge Analytica, as well as potential solutions to safeguard democratic systems in the face of advancing technology. Marietje's book, The Tech Coup: How to Save Democracy from Silicon Valley, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:26) The Tech Coup (00:05:37) Government against large corporations (00:09:56) Which country's are doing it right? (00:15:05) Palantir Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chapter Two of Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal depicts the personal story of Eve, a nurse struggling with infertility, whose treatment is threatened by the new president's executive order banning certain fertility treatments. The episode explores how the president's policies would impact everyday Americans, particularly women and families, by interfering with reproductive freedom and the right to self-determination. The author of the serialized novel “2025,” upon which this podcast series is based, David Pepper, highlights how the fictional story is directly based on the policies outlined in the Trump’s Project 2025 and the president's own words, underscoring the very real and devastating consequences a second Trump term and the implementation of Project 2025 could have. You can read Chapter Two of David Pepper’s “2025: A Novel” at davidpepper.substack.com/p/2025-a-novel-chapter-2 Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is produced by David Pepper and available on all the podcast apps and at 2025 pod.com. We'd also like to thank all the artists who volunteered their time to make this episode. J. Smith Cameron read the chapter and audio finishing by Marilys Ernst. This series is produced by David Pepper, Melissa, Jo Peltier and Jay Feldman. Trump’s Project 2025: Up Close and Personal is a production of Ovington Avenue Productions and the Bill Press Pod. SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7or5... APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... STITCHER: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-tr... Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're proud to present Chapter One of "Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal" which is a brilliant undertaking by David Pepper and his talented projection team. The podcast starts in January 2025, with Donald Trump as president begins his second term, and the havoc he is already wreaking on America. As much as Donald Trump wants to distance himself from Project 2025. He can’t. Trump and his people are tied closely to the Project and the Heritage Foundation, which quarterbacked Project 2025. In fact, it’s already underway. Project 2025 is busily recruiting thousands of MAGA loyalists and partisans to fill positions once held by skilled civil servants. It's unlikely that most people will look over all Trump’s speeches, or Agenda47 or the RNC Platform, or read the 920 pages of crazy in Project 2025. So pro-democracy activist David Pepper of Ohio has written a novel to engage everyday Americans with the reality of how a Trump victory would turn everyday American lives upside down. These are fictional stories about the future, of course, but the suffering, pain and personal dilemmas people face in them is 100% based on the facts and commitments being spelled out in Project 2025 and Trump’s own words and promises. This podcast series is a close adaptation of the book, I hope you take a listen. It’s powerful stuff, and gives far a better sense than factoids and bullet points about how the worst of these promises would play out in real lives. You can also listen to the series on all of your favorite podcast platforms - and please subscribe and give it four stars to support David's brilliant, important work. SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7or5... APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... STITCHER: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-tr... Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

History is our greatest teacher. In this episode Rick speaks with historian David Brown, author of A Hell of a Storm: The Battle for Kansas, the End of Compromise, and the Coming of the Civil War. They explore the significance of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, a pivotal moment that led to the collapse of the Whig Party and fueled tensions that made the Civil War inevitable. Together, they discuss the cultural and political shifts of the time, drawing connections to today's political divisions and the rapid pace of change in American politics. David's book, A Hell of a Storm: The Battle for Kansas, the End of Compromise, and the Coming of the Civil War, available now. Timestamps: (00:02:06) A Hell of a Storm (00:07:51) The signals of a party collapsing (00:10:37) The culture of the civil war Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The framers envisioned a judiciary whose role was to check the power of the executive and legislative branches and ensure constitutional integrity. But what happens if corruption creeps its way into the most powerful court in the land? On today's episode Rick interviews David Brock, a veteran in the political and media landscape, about his new book Stench: The Making of the Thomas Court and the Unmaking of America. They dive into how Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has influenced major rulings like the Dobbs decision and presidential immunity, and explore the broader ethical concerns surrounding the court. Brock discusses the decades-long conservative efforts to reshape the judiciary, Thomas’s entanglement with wealthy donors, and the urgent need for judicial reform to address the court’s corruption and accountability issues. David's book, Stench: The Making of the Thomas Court and the Unmaking of America, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:50) Stench (00:04:04) A vast right wing conspiracy (00:08:53) Clarence Thomas (00:17:18) Corruption beyond Thomas Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democracy is under siege, and state-sanctioned vigilantes are leading the charge. In this episode Rick speaks with Jon Michaels and David Noll, authors of the upcoming book Vigilante Nation: How State-Sponsored Terror Threatens Our Democracy. They discuss the alarming rise of state-backed vigilante activities, particularly through laws like Texas SB8, and how these efforts are aimed at achieving authoritarian political control. The conversation explores the MAGA movement's tactics, the threats to democratic institutions, and the potential dangers surrounding future U.S. elections. It's a chilling analysis of how private actors, with state approval, are shaping America’s political landscape. Jon and David's book, Vigilante Nation: How State-Sponsored Terror Threatens Our Democracy, available for pre-order now. Timestamps: (00:01:45) Vigilante Nation (00:14:56) If we keep on pushing (00:19:07) The spectrum of violent organizations Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Democratic party is changing. In this episode of The Enemies List, Rick speaks with historian Timothy Shenk about his new book, Left Adrift: What Happened to Liberal Politics? They explore the evolution of the Democratic Party, shifting from a working-class base to a more affluent, educated coalition, and the challenges that come with this transformation. Shenk delves into the party's struggle to reconnect with working-class voters and the rise of technocratic approaches in politics, while offering insights on how the party can adapt moving forward. Timothy's book,  Left Adrift: What Happened to Liberal Politics?, available now. Timestamps: (00:01:27) Left to Drift (00:04:54) Divorce from the working class (00:16:07) The democratic party over the last few decades Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick gives a blistering solo reaction to a blockbuster presidential debate. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live from TribFest, Rick interviews Harris-Walz Campaign Co-Chair Mitch Landrieu, who was a Senior Advisor to President Biden and also served as the Mayor of New Orleans. They discuss the important role of character in political leadership, the impact of Biden’s infrastructure bill, and the importance of finding common ground in a sharply divided country. Follow Mitch Landrieu on X @MitchLandrieu and learn more about TribFest at http://festival.texastribune.org/. Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices