Rick Wilson's The Enemies List

The Republican party has changed. On this episode Ricks sits with Isaac Arnsdorf, a Washington Post reporter and author to discuss the profound transformation within the Republican Party instigated by the MAGA movement. Arnsdorf shares insights from his book, revealing how grassroots activism, led by figures like Steve Bannon, has reshaped the party from the bottom up. The episode explores the strategic takeovers of local party positions by MAGA supporters, the creation of a new political narrative surrounding the 2020 election, and the broader implications of this shift on American politics. Timestamps: [00:02:06] Who's running the new revolution? [00:05:54] Karizona [00:10:10] A foundational conspiracy [00:16:34] No enemies to my right Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conservatives in America are not typically known as lovers of environmental advocacy. Well, our guest bucks that trend. Benji Backer, an environmental advocate and author of "The Conservative Environmentalist" joins Rick to discuss the urgent need for practical and innovative solutions to environmental challenges, critiquing both extreme denial and radical approaches currently dividing the political landscape. Backer emphasizes a historical bipartisan approach to environmental issues and proposes a balanced pathway that leverages American ingenuity and respects local knowledge. Timestamps: [00:01:54] Green new deal vs. denial [00:19:09] Becoming a conservative environmentalist Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It feels like all anyone wants to talk about these days is how AI is taking over. Well, we thought it time to have an expert on to break it all down. In this episode Rick speaks with AI expert Daniel Faggella in a comprehensive discussion on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. They speak to the implications of AI on the workforce, economy, and society, examining both the current state and future possibilities. Faggella brings insights from his experience in market research, discussing how AI is reshaping industries from legal to entertainment. They explore the concept of artificial general intelligence (AGI), its accelerated timeline, and potential societal impacts. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in politics, the concept of a political singularity, and the ethical considerations of AI development. Timestamps: [00:01:18] What we're missing with AI [00:10:48] How AI will impact politics [00:21:04] AI exceeding expectations Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The participation of talented young people is a critical element in a functioning democracy. On this episode, Rick sits down with Gevin Reynolds, a rising figure in Democratic politics with experience in the Biden White House. They dive into the 2024 campaign landscape, focusing on Biden's presidency and the strategic positioning of the Democratic party. Reynolds shares insights on the administration's handling of crises like COVID-19, economic challenges, and racial justice issues. The discussion also touches on Vice President Harris's role and public perception, the impact of recent State of the Union addresses, and the evolving political dynamics among young and minority voters. Timestamps: [00:01:40] Perspective on the race [00:07:03] An underpriced political stock [00:16:02] The case of young voters [00:20:00] Mitigating the drift towards Trump Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From polls and pundits to dramatic headlines, sorting through the chaos of the presidential election is no easy task. To help parse madness, Rick had a conversation with Elaine Kamarck, political expert and senior fellow at the Brookings Institute. The two give their view of the current state of American politics and the presidential election. They discuss the dynamics of the primary elections, voter demographics, and the strategic approaches of both political parties. The discussion also touches on the influence of third-party candidates, the role of money in political campaigns, and the changing landscape of voter behavior. Timestamps: [00:02:00] Surveillance capitalism [00:14:22] Where does RFK play into the election? Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big tech collects our data, this much we know. But to what extent? To explore this question Rick speaks with Byron Tau, a former Wall Street Journal reporter and author of "Means of Control." Together, they unravel the complex alliance between technology companies and government agencies, exposing how this partnership has birthed a new American surveillance state. They explore the evolution of data brokers, the commercialization of personal data, and the implications for individual privacy and public freedom. Tau shares insights from his book and his reporting journey, offering a chilling yet fascinating glimpse into the invisible world of surveillance capitalism. Byron's book, "Means of Control: How the Hidden Alliance of Tech and Government Is Creating a New American Surveillance State," available now. Timestamps: [00:01:52] Surveillance capitalism [00:06:13] How is government using this data? [00:09:58] Total Information Awareness [00:17:57] How much of this information is being used? [00:23:00] Notable bad actors Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America is no stranger to extremist political groups, a phenomenon further highlighted on January 6th. However, one thing we don't understand clearly enough is the overlap with our veteran community. On this episode Rick speaks with Ken Harbaugh, veteran and co-producer of "Against All Enemies," a documentary exploring why veterans are drawn into extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. Harbaugh discusses the search for belonging post-military service, the political endorsement of these groups, and the threat they pose to democracy. The conversation highlights the importance of personal outreach, the role of misinformation, and the need for alternatives that provide veterans with a sense of purpose. Harbaugh calls for awareness and action to prevent the exploitation of veterans by organizations aiming to undermine democratic foundations. Timestamps: [00:01:25] Against All Enemies [00:11:08] What are their objectives? [00:12:48] A feeling of betrayal [00:20:22] The one who missed the war Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many Americans are asking the question "what's going on with Trump's legal battles?" Today on the show Rick speaks with author and legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin to dissect the intricate legal battles Trump faces in Georgia, Florida, and D.C., scrutinizing their procedural complexities and wider implications. Their discussion extends to the repercussions of Trump's actions on American democracy, examining themes of executive power and the rule of law. They discuss the societal impact of Trump's rhetoric and the polarized media landscape. Timestamps: [00:01:52] The Fani Willis case [00:10:16] John Robert's position [00:13:12] The worst case scenario Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barbara Comstock is a former Republican Congresswoman and longtime RNC veteran. We were excited to have her on the show to discuss the dramatic shifts within the Republican Party and the repercussions of its current trajectory. Together, the two discuss the challenges posed by aligning the party too closely with Trump, the impact on election integrity, and the future of the party. Comstock shares insights from her work on bipartisan efforts to combat election denialism, underscoring the conversation with reflections on the importance of democracy and the need for an inclusive political environment. Timestamps: [00:01:23] The past week at the RNC [00:05:42] Virginia post Trump [00:14:55] Working on election integrity Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a time when it can be difficult to find common ground in American politics one thing feels widely agreed upon, our collective dread for the upcoming presidential election. This week on the show we discuss just that with Time Magazine's Charlotte Alter, dissecting the current political landscape and the looming "Dread Election." Rick and Charlotte examine the widespread political fatigue among activists, the crucial role of young voters, and the influence of cancel culture on political discourse. Charlotte also highlights emerging young leaders and the quest for a message that resonates beyond the politically initiated. Timestamps: [00:01:41] The Dread Election [00:06:46] Young voters on this election cycle [00:12:10] Future candidates Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s difficult to tell where white Evangelicalism ends and Trumpism begins, so we’re excited Rick is joined by Sarah McCammon, NPR's national political correspondent and co-host of the NPR Politics podcast, about her book "The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church." McCammon shares her personal narrative of growing up within the evangelical movement in the Midwest, her gradual estrangement from its teachings, and her eventual departure. The two discuss the complexities of evangelicalism's intertwined relationship with American politics, particularly in the context of the Trump presidency. They also explore the contradictions within evangelical Christianity, the generational shifts, and the evolving identity of evangelicalism in the political sphere. Sarah's book, "The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church" available now. Timestamps: [00:01:41] Motivation behind the book [00:06:46] Leading into the Evangelical movement [00:12:10] Justifying the contradiction of Trump [00:23:51] Business Christianity Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by former Governor of Arkansas Asa Hutchinson. As a Republican who ran in the primary against Donald Trump, Hutchinson shares his unique perspective on the state of the Republican Party, emphasizing the importance of returning to its traditional values of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and integrity. The discussion explores the challenges and strategies for reviving these core principles in today's insane political climate. The two also discuss the implications of Trump's potential re-election on the party's future, the importance of standing with allies, and the critical need for a Republican Party that actually solves problems. Timestamps: [00:01:49] The 2024 field [00:07:54] Talking to the other side of the aisle [00:09:59] Playing in the hands of a dictator [00:15:08] A consistant conservative [00:21:33] Looking forward Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by Michael Cohen, former attorney and fixer for Donald Trump, to dive into the complex web of legal and financial troubles surrounding the former president. With Cohen's insider knowledge, the conversation illuminates the recent legal developments, including Alan Weisselberg's guilty plea and its limited impact on Trump. Cohen provides a candid look at Trump's precarious financial situation, debunking myths of his wealth and detailing the challenges of covering substantial legal debts without sufficient liquid assets. Cohen offers an intimate exploration of Trump's transactional approach to relationships, his struggle to navigate a maze of legal battles, and the potential consequences for his future. Timestamps: [00:01:10] Allen Weisselberg's guilty plea [00:02:58] Trump's current finances [00:13:39] Trump's testimony [00:20:42] Did he think he would get caught? Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by Jonathan Martin, Senior political columnist at Politico, for a pointed conversation on the state of American politics. They dive into the legacy of Mitch McConnell and the future of Senate leadership, analyzing potential successors and the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party. They cover the impact of Donald Trump on the party, examining his influence over potential leaders and the direction of the GOP. Furthermore, they discuss the presidential race, highlighting the role of third-party candidates like Bobby Kennedy and their potential to sway the outcome. Timestamps: [00:01:26] Mitch McConnell's tenure and departure [00:03:26] Who has the vote if Trump loses? [00:07:51] How well is Mike Johnson sleeping lately? [00:09:57] The end of the beginning [00:17:15] Processing Trump's charges [00:20:26] What should people be paying attention to? Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick rants on the Michigan republican primary and its implications for the GOP, spotlighting Trump's failure to solidify the Republican base and the notable dissatisfaction among Republican voters. He calls out CPAC for embracing extremist elements (including neo-Nazis), arguing it has lost significance and has become part of the extreme MAGA ecosystem. He dissects Trump's CPAC speech, casting it as a harbinger of divisive and revenge-driven politics. The episode raises concerns about threats to democracy, the rule of law, and the influence of nationalistic rhetoric. Timestamps: [00:07:45] A week in Trump world [00:08:27] Crying about immunity [00:10:28] Who can run for office Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by author political commentator Tara Dublin for a cheeky, candid discussion on the challenges and absurdities of the current political climate. They touch on their experiences with online trolling, the inefficacy of the GOP, and the impact of Donald Trump's legal troubles. Despite the serious subject matter, their conversation is laced with wit and humor, offering insightful commentary on American politics with a satirical edge. For more information on Tara, her Substack and book, find her on Twitter/X. Timestamps: [00:01:36] A week in Trump world [00:05:20] Crying about immunity [00:13:18] Who can run for office [00:19:35] When Trump came down the escalator Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by former Maryland Lieutenant Governor and RNC Chairman, Michael Steele. Together, they discuss what they describe as a tumultuous week for the Republican Party. Both former Republicans who have been vocal critics of the party's direction in recent years, they dissect the various political missteps and internal conflicts within the GOP. They touch on the leadership challenges faced by Mike Johnson, the party's stance on immigration, the GOP's approach to Ukraine, and the resignation of Ronna McDaniel as party chair. They also discuss the GOP's strategy (or lack thereof) on key issues like the border crisis, impeachment threats, and foreign policy. Timestamps: [00:02:53] Mike Johnson's life expectancy [00:08:42] Impeachment as a weapon [00:11:14] Blocking aid to Ukraine [00:15:52] National security [00:17:26] The complete takeover of the GOP Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by journalists Michael Isikoff and Daniel Klaidman, authors of the new book "Find Me the Votes," to explore the Georgia investigation led by Fani Willis into efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. The conversation highlights the case's breadth and complexity, from pressure campaigns on state officials, intimidation tactics against election workers, and the strategic use of RICO charges. The episode also details the challenges facing Willis, Trump's reactions, and the case's implications for future elections and American democracy. Michael and Daniel's new book, "Find Me the Votes" available now. Timestamps: [00:01:44] The pressure campaign [00:05:25] How the criminality came together [00:11:59] Fani Willis [00:18:11] Brian Kemp's position [00:20:40] Flipping the witnesses Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by writer and former speechwriter for the administrations of three Republican U.S. presidents, Peter Wehner. Together they engage in a deep discussion about the significant ideological and moral shifts within the Republican Party, particularly under Trump's influence. They contrast the party's past values of compassionate conservatism and dignified leadership with its current populist nationalism, marked by malice and division. Timestamps: [00:01:23] Defined by cruelty [00:04:06] What does the Republican party reflect now? [00:10:05] Immigration and the American brand [00:13:30] Surviving without optimism [00:19:59] Biden's communication style Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Enemies List, Rick is joined by former United States Ambassador to the United Nations, John Bolton. Together, they dive into the transformation of the Republican Party, particularly highlighting its shift towards pro-Putin and authoritarian tendencies. Ambassador Bolton offers insights into the future of US foreign policy, expressing concerns about Ukraine's security and the potential consequences of a second Trump term. The discussion touches on the importance of upholding NATO, the emergence of a new world order, and the need for mature discourse on foreign and defense policy issues. Timestamps: [00:07:01] The future of the Republican party [00:08:36] The fight against Putin [00:11:32] What happens to NATO if Trump comes back [00:13:33] An emerging world order [00:16:16] If there's a second Trump term Follow Resolute Square: Instagram Twitter TikTok Find out more at Resolute Square Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices