Trump’s visit to Capitol Hill was supposed to rally Republicans but instead, it exposed a total mess. Tim and Sam break down the chaos, the SALT Caucus embarrassment, and yes, they briefly address your comment section grievances.
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I love me some Sam, just as I do all of you when you’re on!! 👍
You are all awesome at The Bulwark. Thank you for providing information and clarity that helps me soft through the insanity of the Trump 'Administration'.
Did you guys watch the video? The interrupting was excessive. I thought maybe there was a lag in communication because Sam really did cut him off and it did seem rude. I never thought Sam was rude before so wondered if it was a technical issue.
Sam is a nice boy for sure - don't worry Sam, keep up the good work and keep heart and mind open...
Sam's intelligence, wit and quick thinking makes his podcasts interesting and fun to listen to! This episode just lost all the energy and fell flat, as Sam was not allowed to be himself. Be yourself Sam! Are the same people who are telling Sam to listen more, telling Conway to let Sarah speak? I miss the unruly Sam, he is much more fun ❤️
I’m working and volunteering and doing hood rat shit with my friends. People need to get a life of their own and stop worrying so much about what complete strangers are doing.
Sam is an excellent addition to the Bulwark. People literally need to go outside and touch grass. Love y’all. Eat the rich!
Sam - I don’t think you interrupt too much - I think it was more that a few of your recent guests didn’t hear you insert questions so kept talking while you were asking other questions (because maybe you were slightly over caffeinated??) but you’re not anywhere close to the level of George Conway, who cannot stop talking ever! I’m on his side about most things, but can’t listen to his show cause Sarah can’t get a word in edgewise and it’s totally annoying! Keep doing your thing - I appreciate you, and your sense of humor!!
I too notice Sam interrupting people, especially when they're a bit slow to respond.
I know; when my wife catches me interrupting her I get "The Stare" and meekly say "Sorry, you were saying?".
This was another great podcast by our dynamic duo. Now it's time to get back to the the snark against Trump and his "usual gang of idiots".
Hahahahaha
Can someone explain to me how all the non budget related nonsense in this bill can be passed via reconciliation?
Well yes it does, it happens on Zoom every day at work meetings. People constantly start to talk over because they hear the pause. Crosstalk happens on Zoom or Webex extremely easily, without malicious intent, or ill will. This is Sam, come on, he is a nice boy.
It was that one episode. Never saw him act that way before.
Dearest Sam, it wasn't that you interrupt, at least for me. It's that I couldn't hear the answers and kept saying, "What?" I honestly missed about 3 answers from yesterday and 2 on another date. I just couldn't hear. Just give them a little time to finish their sentence, THEN steer to another point.
OMG. Sam is great. FFS people get a grip. Sam you are funny and I like that you keep guests on point. Please do not stop!!!
Ok two things:
I don't think Sam's interrupting is a problem. Let the man cook.
On the SALT tax, Tim implied it was of little impact unless you were a couple in NY making 450k+. Not so. It includes property taxes and school taxes which are both very high in NYS. Post-COVID the housing market has shifted dramatically. I live in a 1600 sqft house that was purchased for 165k in 2018. Because of the boost in prices the last 5 years it's now assessed at 400k. And the tax rate is still the same 3.7%. So right out of the gate you can be unemployed and still owe almost 15k a year. Then another 6% of state income tax. The SALT cap is a lot of money people end up getting double taxed on.
not a math major but with a 20k salt deduction you would be covered. They wanted to push it up to 40k
Ah I thought they wanted to leave it at 10k, apologies!
Apparently missed sams mispeformance and the storm of comment controversy. Just delighted that he is being taken to task for his many, uh, sins. Just can not top laughing. As if to prove some of our brethren need to get a life.
My issue with anyone interrupting is that it makes the discussion hard to follow.
Yeah it's both continuing to speak and I can't understand what either is saying that gets to me.
And it's a bit maddening that they take commenters to task and make jokes about the comments. Maybe they could just learn and try to improve their oral skills? That's just me, though. And listen: I firmly believe that The Bulwark is indispensable -- WHICH MAKES IT EVEN MORE MADDENING THAT I CAN'T UNDERSTAND THEM BECAUSE THEY TALK SO RAPIDLY, INTERRUPT EACH OTHER, AND DON'T ENUNCIATE!!!!!
Exactly. It isn't personal to the podcast participants. I don't think X podcaster is a bad person because they interrupt. I just want to hear what everyone says as well as following the back-and-forth. I spend a lot of time trying to figure out what X says and meanwhile Y has spoken and X has interrupted again and I finally click out of it because I cannot follow them due to the constant interrupting and talking over each other. And the maddening part is, I'm always fairly sure that I would learn something or that their discussion would resonate with me but I can't follow what they say because they interrupt and talk rapidly and don't enunciate. I often conclude that they do not care if the listeners can follow them because if they did, wouldn't they orchestrate the conversation more deftly? It's frustrating. The first-worldiest of problems, I know, but still, there it is.
It is amazing to me that Sam and Tim are making fun of the commentary but nobody mentions Adrian and whether or not he was offended. Did Sam even ask him? Sam and Tim went straight to snarky dismissal.
I do not at all consider myself sensitive to stuff. I interrupt people all the time. But Sam with Adrian was different and it felt like Sam didn’t respect him.
Both my husband & I read Sam's "interruptions" way differently. First of all, we have never looked at them as rude or as actual interruptions - rather, that he's an awesome editor and is using his skills to redirect the in-person conversations to either keep things on topic or narrow it down to the important parts during the interviews since time with the guests is limited. Sam, we love your style, you are one of our absolute favorites & you should keep being you!
Probably Bots...
Nah, it was real.
The only time I’ve heard Sam be rude is when he talked sh¡t about Philadelphia sports fans. Hopefully, that’ll be the only time this happens.
Don’t make me 86 you, Sam.
Love Sam’s enthusiasm - I have zero issues with him jumping in. Let Sam be Sam.
I love Sam. He's smart, witty and with Tim,you are dynamite duo!
Love Sam! Did notice the interrupting, but we all get excited sometimes. Please keep making me laugh (love Sam’s laugh), as these days its laughing or crying and I’ll take some much-needed laughter
The most striking thing in this take was that Steve Bannon appears to be clean-shaven and wearing only one shirt (not counting undershirt). Was this an audition for some position of responsibility?
Sam is literally just being Jewish 🤣
https://forward.com/culture/552380/conversational-overlapping-interrupting-deborah-tannen-bintel-brief/
Love Sam
I was shocked by the harshness of the comments tbh - people are unbelievable and I see the same with people criticising George for interrupting or humming (lovely tunes) with Sarah… considering the serious and alarming subject matters discussed, perhaps it’s time to chill about the spicy back and forth? Let’s not become twitter (rip)….
I don't read a lot of comments because I don't have time. I have commented on quite a few podcasters' shows that they should speak more slowly, not interrupt each other, and enunciate. Not one has ever acknowledged my comments. I've emailed the Bulwark about it. No reply. I messaged Sam about it. No reply. I emailed Bill Kristol about it. No reply. I am respectful and not personal. I merely say, Lots of us cannot follow you because you interrupt, talk rapidly, and do not enunciate. Not one acknowledgment and not one sign of change. But each of my comments has been about those phenomena, not the people. I never said, "Sam is terrible for interrupting". Rather, I said, "I cannot follow the discussion when you constantly interrupt." Etc.
Dear Representative Raul Ruiz,
I am writing to you as a deeply concerned constituent and proud American who values our Constitution, our democratic institutions, and our hard-won freedoms.
I am outraged by the recent bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 18, 2025, which, among other provisions, limits federal courts’ ability to hold government officials—including former President Donald Trump—in contempt for defying court orders, and blocks courts from issuing national injunctions to prevent potentially unlawful actions by the executive branch.
These provisions are not just radical—they are dangerous. They fundamentally upend the balance of power that has kept tyranny in check since our founding. Courts must retain their power to enforce the law and defend citizens from abuse. Removing this check is an invitation to authoritarianism.
Even more chilling are the echoes of history that this bill conjures. In the 1930s, Adolf Hitler used similar tactics to dismantle Germany’s democracy. By neutering the courts and arresting critics, he created a regime that silenced dissent and targeted anyone who dared speak out. If we allow our courts to be stripped of their authority and critics of the administration to be vulnerable to retaliation, we are walking a similarly dangerous path.
Freedom of speech and judicial independence are the cornerstones of a free society. No president—past, present, or future—should be above the law or able to rule unchecked. These provisions must not stand.
I urge you to take a stand, speak out, and work to repeal these authoritarian measures and protect the democratic institutions that safeguard our liberty. History is watching—and so are your constituents.
Respectfully,
Clarissa Bartolini Toro, American Grandma
Voter and Defender of American Democracy
Clarifying below - Here to learn how many of you went from quite conservative to various shades of the political rainbow that you are today.
More Cam includes more of his wild list of guests.
Love Sam. Lots of new and/or young talent at The Bulwark. Be mindful you are their boss (I think) and they won’t feel comfortable bantering back the way Tim does. You are there to help them develop into the best they can be in this format of trying to cope with the end of the free world as we knew it. However at the same time - you be you.
This is why nobody other than democrats like democrats and most of them dislike each other. Here we are being polite-ish, providing feedback and acting like interrupting is an offense against humanity. I hate myself for wanting civility, kindness and empathy because this may not be the moment for that.
Also, let more of the center-right flag fly. Recently conservative views about porn, families with lots of children, gender roles, etc have been expressed. Don’t make The Bulwark employees feel uncomfortable about discussing them. I disagree with a lot of it but you don’t always have to cater to the comments - though I get we help pay the bills. I am here trying to understand how most of you went from hard core conservative to slightly more center with closer to center not being that close.
Also, more Cam🙂
Love Sam!
Love Tim!
It’s all good!
Hilarious, LOVE Sam. I watch you guys a lot and can't say that I've ever noticed you interrupt anyone without cause. Wanting to provide explanation before your guest goes on and on works for me. LOL
I so agree. Last week after watching several podcasts, I was just about to the point of deciding not to watch Sam any longer. I think you are smart, but interrupting the people you've brought to interview and being dismissive of them just seemed rude. Thanks for hearing the feedback.
I only ever noticed Sam interrupting in that recent interview with Adrian Carrasquillo, and I just figured Sam was really upset about the topic, and probably good friends with Adrian. In general, Sam is one of my fav interviewers. But...since we are in constructive or unconstructive criticism land: Sarah interrupts herself. Michael Steele talks more than his guests. George and Sarah interrupting each other is delightful. I never watch John Avlon. (Which maybe is because I don't want to fix things?) Eric and Elliot, Tim, JVL, Mona, & Will Saletan are absolutely perfect. I'm kind of unfamiliar with everyone else, but nobody has bothered me. I'm deliberately leaving out Cam.
I also miss that Sam used to slur his beginning so that it sounded like "Me Sam Stein." I wonder if someone told him and he stopped. Whoever did that: Bad call.
I love all of you & you are keeping me sane.
Gotta love how there are more comments about Sam than about the Republican/Trump fiasco.
I am convinced you both knew this would result in an influx of sympathy comments. I hope you are feeling better seeing all these people step up to defend your honor, Sam. Well played.
Bannon and his sidekick use the phrase "Unheard of." Are they referring to The Don's performance or MAGA in general?
Some of those comments seemed massively out of proportion to the offense. The interruptions were mildly annoying. They were not a crime.
As a lifelong interrupter I have heard the same feedback and I’m not going to pretend it didn’t make me feel bad about myself. I don’t interrupt because I’m disinterested in what the other person is saying, I do it because I’m TOO interested in what they are saying and I want to reply RIGHT AWAY because they’re setting off so many thoughts as I hear them talking and I can’t keep track of them all. If I’m quiet and not interrupting you, I probably find you boring. It’s basically the inverse of how most people perceive it. Nevertheless, realizing how much I hate it when other people interrupt me made me aware that my intentions don’t make it any less annoying. Still working on it and some days I am worse than others, but a robust dose of Concerta and a good night’s sleep help a lot. Be gentle and patient, people. I didn’t ask to have ADHD. Sam didn’t ask to be the middle child. We’re doing the best we can.
(Ironically I find myself virtually interrupting you guys constantly by pausing the video to comment, like I’m doing now).
"If I’m quiet and not interrupting you, I probably find you boring."
I love that.
I only noticed the interrupting with Adrian yesterday, not sure why, but the banter between Sam and Tim is always mutual.
I've never noticed Sam interrupting maybe not paying enough attention lol.
We love you sam
I stand with Sam
Sam-don't listen to the AI Bots trash talking you. I think your interview style is "on point". You keep the conversation moving. You "herd the cats" keeping us (the listener) engaged.
It wasn't bots. I know I got irked when Adrian was answering a question and Sam jumped on the end and I couldn't hear what Adrian was saying. Happened at least 3 times in that one interview. I love Sam, but I also love hearing the answers to his good questions.
I see/hear Sam doing that all the time with Ryan Goodman ("Just Security"). Ryan at times can't get two or three sentences out before Sam interrupts. It's extremely irritating, esp considering how knowledgeable and articulate Ryan is.
And I'm almost at the point where I won't watch/listen to any more pods with Sam and Lauren. He treats her like she's his kid sister and constantly interrupts her, often to make silly asides or jokes. A little of that is fine but Sam goes overboard. Just irritating as a viewer to sit through.
Middle child here as well. I tend to repeat myself because I don’t think anyone heard or was listening - so I’ve found myself guilty of interrupting too. This may explain why I have never noticed Sam interrupting anyone.
Thanks for owning it Sam. Well played. You and Tim made me laugh. Sorry some people got too personal.
What?!? Sam is great! Look at that beating he took from Tim so gracefully. I must have missed the interview in which he was accused of excessive interrupting.
That’s so funny people noticed that as well. My middle child personality was assuming I was being too sensitive! Honestly the Adrian video was the only time I’ve noticed interrupting! Really enjoy these videos!
Chuckling to myself that the conversation continues on Sam's interview style. Sam, I love your style, your laugh, and how you engage with your colleagues. You're a great editor...I think perhaps your editor's mind is informing your interview style 😊
Here's a tip: rewatch your interview with Adrian (from yesterday). Carefully listen and watch Adrian's face, especially when you interrupt. He's such a good sport! My bet is that, if you're the middle child, Adrian is the youngest child.
Never change your style!! We love you. Just some tweaks, and as Tim suggest, active listening.
Sam is wonderful - so well-informed. I learn a lot from him. He is definitely up there with the top three Bulwark presenters!
Sam, this episode was sufficient to pass for a self-criticism session worthy of the North Vietnamese Communist Party back in the day, so I think you can consider yourself fully absolved of all previous incidents where you talked over anyone. <heart emoji stand-in since one isn’t available>.
🩷
Copy and paste from elsewhere if it really matters to you.
No need to go elsewhere:
💗💓💙💚💛💜🧡🖤❤
We love you, Sam...
Have noticed Sam interrupting others, sometimes a little bothered by it, but also thought his thoughts are racing ahead of the colleagues/guests and they usually catch up. Also, I'm a middle child and completely identify now.
It wasn't anger.
Sam is the best!
It's OK about the manners but the visuals matter too. Tim, the pinto bean poster could do a walk, like Captain Oates. It looks like Egon Schiele on Sam's wall which gives a broader licence
Love Sam (and Tim). Can’t wait for Sam’s next hosted chat!
Thought the same thing a couple times this week. Glad it wasn’t a bathroom issue! You. Were. Rushing.
I love that you brought up the comments about Sam interrupting and faced it head on. Such honesty, humility and transparency is so refreshing and rare in our current climate. Thank you for listening to what your “constituents” have to say.
What is interesting is that viewers are more concerned about Sam interrupting guests than Trump and the Republicans destroying America.
Priorities, people.
I don't think that's the case. I wanted to hear what Adrian had to say. It was an important story about GOP destroying America!
Sam. I prefaced my comment about your interrupting of Adrian with a statement of my love for you. Please don’t think I’m a hater.
Haters gonna hate! The he’ll with them!
Super happy that Sam is aware of the issue. It's a flaw that can easily be overcome just by being aware of it. Personally I didn't even notice how much he interrupted until I saw a complaint in the comments a while ago, but then I noticed it constantly.
Hurray! First noted Sam's irrepressible habit of interjecting/over-talking/performative inter-position with whatever HIS OWN questions elicited from pod partners when Laura joined the cohort... Thanks, sympathetically, for the candor... "middle child"; "hard to get a word in edge-wise". Also. not your precedent milieu... this is podcast - not print [POLITICO] journalistic tit-for-tat. ...It's instead, wait your turn.
So, empathetically - assume it's adjustment to the shift in medium. It ain't your POV or insights/wisdom/reaction that's a problem... it's the Emcee predilections. Be an editor. Not an editorialist.
Sam--ness is good, but so is Adrian--ness. I want both since I learn from both. That should be possible.
Oh, thanks for addressing the issue.
We all need to knock this hyper emotional snowflake behavior off ... Sam - you do you Brother!
Do I need even to watch this episode to predict the outcome of the Congressional Republicans who have "concerns"? Have we not seen this tired one act play before?
Act 1.1: Some Congressional Republicans appear to make a stand on some principle.
Act 1.2: Trump makes a visit to the Hill or invites the reluctant lawmakers to the White House or one of his properties.
Act 1.3: The virtual and possibly real lynch mob goes to work.
Act 1.4: These same Congressional Republicans now claim that their concerns have been addressed and that no legislation is perfect.
Is there something I'm missing here?
The interruptions work when it is Tim being interrupted. It is banter. It does not work with a guest who does not banter back. I realized watching this video that the other one was irritating because Adrian (?) couldn't respond in kind.
Agreed. Banter is different. Interviewing isn't banter.
Look I like Sam a lot. He's funny. He's cute. He's got insightful opinions, and I like his sarcasm. And usually when he interrupts people it's because he's asking for clarification on details the interviewee glossed over.
But he also steamrolls the people he interviews. It doesn't make us bad people to ask him to stop talking over the people he's interviewing. He can ask for clarification when they're done.
If a huge section of your audience has the same criticism and you decide to ignore it... well... okay that's an editorial choice. And right now that just means I don't listen to segments with Sam, and that makes me sad.
We love you Sam!
SALT taxes were a HUGE problem for me. Ohio has massive state, local and property taxes and after 2017 my tax burden went way up when I couldn’t itemize. I’m a single mom and made a decent salary but losing over $20k a year in cash to the government really hurt.
Sam is great! Leave him alone.
OMG! white guy could pay attention and listen more is feedback from subscribers and your response is -They are all wrong!
Agreed! Free Sam! You’re perfect the way you are.
If Republicans were serious about fraud, they’d provide more resources to go after doctors, hospitals and insurance companies.
Just stop interrupting your guests.
And deflate your ego just a tad.
Every time I hear SALT, I immediately think “Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty” - and then I feel VERY old…
And everyone: lay off Sam! I’m also a middle child who was used to using all my powers to be heard. Sam is a delight
I’m glad Sam has been made aware he interrupts too much. It is annoying. I do think he is smart and has great insight. And he needs to learn how to be an active listener.
I love Sam and I think his style is very much conversational and he shouldn't change a thing.
Sam is great as he is and funny as well.
I enjoy Sam-led segments. I think you sound curious and interested about what the conversation is about.
I agree with Tim so much, it's makes me think I might be more conservative than I thought? Maybe it's generational? We millennial give less fucks, maybe? Idfk
Funny, I always kind of thought of Sam as the most mellow and polite of the main hosts. (Not that the others are bad at all (!), but they tend to get more passionate and rant at times.) You don’t need to change anything, Sam!
As a middle child, it totally get it Sam!
But I don’t pay you $10 a month to learn from the guest experts on your show.
Whoa...I love Sam. You guy's realize there's a pause when you Zoom right?
Pause doesn't stop someone from talking over someone else.
Bulwark Takes with Sam are my favorite! As a fast thinker who sometimes interrupts, I can understand why people might interpret it as rude, but it keeps things entertaining.
Sam is great and really funny. Don't listen to the haters.
Kudos to Sam. He's the best most-recent addition to the Bulwark!
Love Sam, but the last interview was hard to follow sometimes, wanting to hear the guest comments, sorry. You are passionate and that's why we keep listening to you . Love that Tim has your back too.
Sam is great! He interviews people in the conversational mode in which we all interrupt each other to keep a natural flow of ideas and responses.
I saw all those negative comments and wanted to push back, but decided not to amplify them. I figure Sam can handle the nonsense... sorry that he has to.
It's the latest Adrian interview that caused the stir. Adrian was trying to answer Sam's questions but Sam would ask the next question before he could finish and I honestly couldn't hear what Adrian was saying. They're good questions.... let the expert answer. It doesn't happen with Tim, because Tim can snap back, but Adrian and Joe just get quiet and it stops the interview.
good point
Sam's an awesome host and he's hilarious. People need to get a grip.
Hahaha good grief, Sam is just fine at hosting.
Interrupt the way, Sam this old grandma loves it.
Sam and Tim short takes are like sports radio but much better, nothing but interruptions and hot takes. Bring on The Bulwark sports show, Sam/Tim/Jvl fight for the mic and hottest takes. Sam needs his own show, host is never interrupting too much! Is Juan Soto playing with no joy? Can't buy joy…
Stand with Sam, but also you guys are the best duo 😂🤝
Those who complain about Sam can feel free to unsubscribe.
You guys are awesome!!! I love that you were willing to address the feedback. I personally like the dynamics with the Bulwark crew just as it is❤️
I never noticed anything untoward about Sam. He’s insightful and delightful. Internet critics can be really annoying.
Can I just add… Bulwark is so awesome. Responding to feedback. Still doing it in a fun way. Ribbing Sam a little, but acknowledging a thread in the comments, and ultimately acknowledging all the good that Sam brings. And then reading through the comments here, so much support for Sam. I love this community!
I have been a big Sam fan for a long time. I really like his perspectives. That said… oh yeah… he interrupts a LOT. And also, it’s often right when a guest (with lots of deep knowledge on a topic) is making a point that Sam jumps in with 2¢. As someone who interrupts a lot as well myself (not proud), I empathize. Just something to work on, Sam. Or… as a longtime writer and editor, maybe switch your format to be similar to Tim’s breaking news format: jump on, share the news, share your thoughts. You don’t need a guest, you’re Sam Stein! I’d watch!
Sigh...another monumental waste of my time. Nothing meaningful said or accomplished. I wasted $100 to experience your monumental bullsh*t. Get real...get serious...you are a worthless excuse political commentary. Pathetic!!
When Sam's talking with the other senior members of the team, his conversational style is just fine. There's a back-and-forth, give-and-take, they're comfortable with each other and they know they're on even footing.
It's when he's talking with the newer reporters that it feels overbearing. They're not in a position to push back yet, and there's a certain "I know better" attitude that comes across. Sometimes it's actually good editing, just, it would be better done privately.
Yep, in the end Republicans are going to pass this mutton pie, because its the only thing they can manage.
Lol. I almost wrote in the comments about Sam interrupting. I think it jumped out at me because normally he is so good. Don't worry; Still love ya!
Sam is steering the conversations, trying to keep it tight, it is only noticeable with the more laid back, thoughtful guests. Good job overall.
Its SO weird to me that someone would complain about Sam.
Then again, I recently made a rare foray into the NYT comment section recently and those people. Geez! We live in VERY different realities.
I suspect there is a Venn overlap with the nyt complainers and the Sam whiners...
You do you, Sam!
I am a grandma from Kansas, where people talk really slow. I think Sam does a fantastic job and I've never seen him be rude in any way. The whole Bulwark crew is fantastic. There is enough negativity going around, so if you don't like it, keep scrolling, bite your tongues, mind your beeswax, etc. Don't dump that unnecessary shit on on the good guys!
Please excuse the profanity. I am 67, recently started swearing, and do so if warranted. Except around my grandkids. ❤️
I am 61 and am now letting my f bomb fly.
So liberating.
Sam is great. His pointed but fun approach is appreciated. (Most fun was the bit about RFK's bear drop. Have never laughed so much.)
Well, sure, sometimes Sam interrupts, but we all interrupt, don't we? I find Sam to be very human and authentic overall. Also, I know he gets feedback about his laughter at 'inappropriate' times. I guess I can relate to that as well because I often laugh at times when I don't know what else to do and sometimes, looking back, it was inappropriate, but again, it's pretty human to do that.
I think you're great, Sam! Don't change!
I think Sam is fine, you are both fine! thank you for all your hard work helping to keep us all informed!!!
Interrupting cow who?
I have never found Sam rude. I enjoy his contributions.
You guys need to talk to substack about a comment interrupting feature: so that while you are typing a comment, other comments are interrupting you!
;)
Sam is the best. He is the kindest and I don't think he interrupts at all. Sam is one of my favorite interviewers. Now he did seem to interrupt Adrian earlier today.
Sam, I thought you are a great host. The best. You have such good rapport with your guests that your interruptions come across as helpful —filling in a whole or clarifying something. (Once in a while you laugh too much.)
Mike Lawler suffers from the delusion that New York wants him for their governor. He goes on TV regularly to introduce himself to voters, where he comes off like a pompous, angry, unpleasant ass. Somehow, his future looks less assured to me than to him. And God bless Trump for putting Lawler in the losers' lane where he rightfully belongs. One good thing the Tariff King did today.
I think you're a good interviewer.
What the trump regime is REALLY SAYING is…
We need to get rid of PEOPLE!
I actually appreciate and enjoy Sam's interview style, it feels more like an actual dialogue and he asks really insightful questions.
Don't let the haters get you down Sam!
I occasionally read the comments and almost never write one, but would like to add a voice of appreciation for Sam and all the hosts who produce podcasts and other content, day after day. I wouldn't make it a week, talking rationally in front of a camera about the onslaught from this administration. Every host brings a different personality and energy, and I love the variety, from FY Pod to Shield of the Republic. There is no other place quite like The Bulwark. Thank you for your special touch, Sam. As for myself, I like you just the way you are.
Sam is not the rudest of them all. I am, damn you!!!!
No, me!
Sam is the best. He can do no wrong.
Sam is my favorite addition, especially on the youtube content. I never saw his commentary as interrupting, but moving the content along since he’s usually doing short pieces. Big fan of his style. :)
All right you two, we get the jab back. Sam does interrupt too much, laughs too much and turns his head kind of like a Tourette's way several times a minute for no discernible reason. All true, and so what. I think a lot folks were just mad, mad, mad at the pod with Andrew about Biden's cancer diagnosis. They were mad! And beat on Sam a lot. Sam, I don't need to ask you not to take too much of this personally, cause I know you don't intend to. Fine by me. Folks around Trump say they just have to "let Trump be Trump." So I say let Sam be Sam, FFS. 🫠
Sometimes people read others' comments and then pile on. And in discussions that aren't face to face, it's harder to read the situation.
There is not much fraud in Medicaid. To the extent that it exists it is usually perpetrated by politicians, usually Republican. Rick Scott was running for governor in Florida when the company he was in charge of, Columbia HCA, was accused of false billing and other offenses. The company was fined 1.7 billion dollars in fines. This was the largest fine ever imposed for Medicaid fraud at the time. The current governor, Ron DeSantis , is being investigated for diverting federal money, meant to pay for the fed's portion of Medicaid funding, to a oppose a citizens initiative to legalize marijuana. It lost. There are more but I don't want to write an overly long comment.
We are a tough crowd, aren't we Sam. ;)
Sam does a great job--he's well informed, has the ability to see an issue from different perspectives, personable ,gracious and a good sense of humor. Sometimes, Sam shows passion and outrage--it's the Trump administration --of course there's passion and outrage. Keep up the good work, Sam.
I feel a bit bad now as one of the commenters frustrated with Sam's interrupting. Tim's projection theory is right on. Like Sam, I get so enthusiastic about politics that I'm always running over people I talk to. It's actually a sign of engagement in the convo, not dismissing the other person, but it's hard for the other person to know that. Anyway, we love ya, Sam! And boo to the people who accused you of drug use - c'mon, people, be nicer!
I like Sam very much, he has added so much to The Bulwark. In light of this, I have not made a comment about his habit of interrupting... It feels to me that Sam is very passionate and perhaps his mind is jumping a bit ahead of his guest (because he is so smart). However, the rate of interruption is difficult to listen to at times. But, I am mostly just so happy Sam is here; Sam just be yourself.
Sam, we love you. I was one of the commenter about interruptions. I never noticed it before - it was different that time because Adrian was deep into making his point when you were doing it. Interrupting Tim during your usual friendly banter is different. Love you both, guys!
I think in Sam's recent talk with Adrian Carrasquillo, Adrian might have had an audio delay on his end. I don't think it was Sam interrupting him as much as just that when Sam would stop him to ask a question, Adrian took a minute to hear him so he'd keep talking past the normal point where you'd stop to hear what the other person was asking. It made it a bit awkward, but I think it was a technology issue, not Sam. Sam did great.
I just watched it. Nope. He cut him off mid sentence every.single.time. It was absolutely astonishing. Never saw anything like it.
I know he was interrupting him to clarify his questions and stuff, but I really got an audio delay vibe since Adrian kept talking over Sam (which didn't seem to be intentional by any means).
My taxes went through the roof under Trump and the SALT debacle, but honestly this doesn't even make the list of issues about which I am concerned (concerned being a nice way of putting fucking ripshit). So shut up Mike Lawler and do your fucking job of standing up for democracy and the rule of law, the right of people to protest peacefully without being targeted, for random Venezuelans and other immigrants not to be disappeared to foreign gulags, and an endless list of other atrocities. (I'm not holding my breath). Yes, I like to keep my money as much as the next person. But if I'm living in America's version of Hungary, my personal finances are the least of my concerns. Other than using them to figure out a way to get the hell outta here.
Standing and clapping! The fact you (via parents?) moved from UK to Alabama sounds like child abuse to me, but you turned out just fine. Hope you have dual citizenship, I wish I did.
Lmao -- well they were academics leaving the UK during the 'brain drain' (kinda like what's now happening here). But somehow I made it through without having to call CPS! :). And yeah I do have dual citizenship and am renewing that old UK passport stat.
I'm so happy for you! I'll be stuck in the red south forever looks like. But I still have all my favorite Brit shows. WILTY, QI, even Richard Herring helps me escape for a while.
Don’t change a thing Sam!!
This is fucking 😂 😃
There there Sam. You’re doing great!
I love Sam. Tim, JVL, Sarah. Andrew is good. Lauren, Michael, Will, Cameron. Some of the older hosts are too boring or too conservative for me. One of the podcasts the other day was very weak, but the guy seems like he’s 20 or something. But the Bulwark is doing great work and the rest of us should shut our fucking mouths and stop armchair quarterbacking the presentation of it. Sam is a MIDDLE CHILD for chrissakes! Give him a break. Also, which pod because I want to go look at the comments for my own entertainment.
Not upset, however, it did register with me in the last couple interviews with folks from outside. At least one was from DOJ. Sam was asking the questions that were pertinent but way ahead of the guest. I took it as Sam was so geeked out on the topic that he just couldn’t wait. I do think that you guys get comfortable with stepping on each other in a natural way and it doesn’t always translate with someone from outside of your fold.
If Trump slouches any farther he's gonna trip on that long tie he favors.
I didn’t respond yesterday, I just left the conversation, which I have never done before. I took it as unconscious racism.
So glad you guys addressed it though I feel bad if Sam takes it personally. He’s doing a great job, & I always enjoy & find all his hosting interesting & informative. It’s just a little constructive criticism😊. My husband, whom I love dearly, does the v same thing - even the kids notice - it’s just a quirk, we point it out when it happens, he knows it’s kindly meant, tempers himself, everyone’s happy.
I am one of the people who commented on this. It wasn't a personal attack as much as a call for you to reflect on it.
I suffer from severe ADHD. So I do the same and it's a conscious exercise for me to stop and listen and not interrupt. It took a lot to cultivate the habit especially when I was teaching I had to be very mindful of it.
So there is nothing harmful in people reminding you this and you being mindful not to do that especially to poor Andrew.
Tim, instead of telling people to chill about this maybe monitor the comments on the Substack better. This has been mentioned gently for months now. It took an angry reddit thread for you guys to see it.
The SALT representatives are going to cave because they are more afraid of their MAGA constituents than they are of anyone else in their district, especially in a potential primary race.
Lawler took that Democratic seat in 2022 by a little over a thousand votes. In 2024 he did better but that election was tainted by the top of the ticket. If Lawler caves on SALT, the voters in those affluent New York City suburbs are going to send him packing and flip the seat back to the Dems.
I'm pretty sure my rep will cave. I live in NY CD2, the seat is safe for a Republican so my rep will worry about a primary more than the general election. I don't know much about Lawler's district but my district has a lot of MAGA voters. They won't squawk about the bill until they start to lose their own healthcare access with the Medicaid cuts and cuts to the ACA due to cutting back on Medicaid expansion, or their family members get kicked out of skilled nursing facilities because of the Medicaid cuts. Unfortunately there are a number of people here who don't know that the ACA and "Obamacare" are the same thing which is a sad commentary on the knowledge of voters. For example, when Trump was first elected, one parent of someone with whom my daughter played softball was celebrating what he hoped would be the end of the Obamacare, as he put it. When I pointed out that it was the only way my son still had coverage because he was working as a substitute teacher at the time and had no health insurance but since he was under the age of 26 he was still covered. His response was that his daughter was covered by his insurance because of the ACA, with absolutely no idea that the ACA and Obamacare are the same thing. And his daughter had cancer as a child, so if the ACA is ever repealed she is essentially uninsurable. The ignorance of many Trump voters is astonishing.
I’ve definitely noticed the interrupting and it’s not a problem (Zoom calls on news media have made it really common), but it was a lot worse last night with Adrian Carrasquillo; I just thought that Sam was extra disturbed by the false charges against a sitting Congress member.
Sam, I thought you were just worked up about the issue. You don't normally interrupt, in my mind. :-)
I’ve never noticed him interrupting on MSNBC. But different format, I guess.
Tim and Sam, on the front lines...I truly do not care about the interrupting.
Sam you are all good, keep up the good work! You have never offended me. I have the same 'enthusiasm' and I interrupt all the time. It's a fast brain working in overdrive. Geez you are working so hard to get us content. Appreciate you. Chin up!
P.S. I drive my husband crazy, he just pays me back by mansplaining. :) It's all good!
Let Sam be Sam. Love you guys!
I agree that Sam seems rude and interrupts speakers too much.
Trump in a recent cabinet meeting said straight-out "We're not going to touch [Medicaid]."
Trump's not touching it. He's bashing it with baseball bats and axe handles. They're cutting a trillion dollars from Medicaid to give more money to Musk, and to make it happen, millions and millions of Americans will have no healthcare.
By the way, Love "me Sam Stein". Keep interrupting.
I love Sam! Whoever these people are saying you're rude are NUTS! If you are interrupting, it's probably because you're eager and have a lot to say - Jesus, we all do! My anger and shock make me interrupt, scream and banter so Sam is alright with me! You go Sam!!!!
Sam always has something to say, let him talk
I stand with Sam. #freesam
Love you both!
Yes, he does interrupt, but more often than not it's worth it. Sam's not rude, he's eager!
Grew up in the NY NJ metro area. My parents stressed manners however a lot of this is so called “interrupting “ is regional and how a lot of people from there converse imho. To me it indicates enthusiasm and it did not dawn on me he was being offensive . We had lively debate and conversation growing up that carries through today. I welcome the same on the Bulwark. Geez losing host duties , thats an overreaction.
Ok. That make sense. I simply didn’t perceive him as interrupting . You did and had a helpful solution . That’s great.
Yes, I grew up in NYC too. On top of that I have ADHD. So it's a conscious and mindful decision to let others finish their thoughts before jumping in every time. Nothing wrong with reminding Sam to be more mindful. It's not an overreaction. It's an observation and request for some self reflection. It's good for personal growth.
I love both of you!
I enjoy the different styles of the various commentators and contributors...even Sam.
Thanks guys for being so open to feedback 🤣
To pile on, I used to be recommended Morning Joe a lot in the first Trump term, and for some reason I didn't warm up to Sam on there - since I’ve been watching The Bulwark I’ve found him to be a straight-shooter, funny, sometimes getting a few digs in (mostly with Andrew Egger), really funny with JVL (but I really like JVL), and kind of really good at being a good host. It could be exposure therapy.
As a member of the "creative interruption" caucus (which is to say, I am Jewish), I not only welcome Sam's interjections, but frankly, I'd feel a bit adrift without them.
Leave Sam alone, you malcontents.
I love Sam! I understand interrupting. I do this all the time with my 4 brothers because I was the only sister. I had to make my voice heard otherwise I would be drowned out. They did not understand my POV.
It took years for them to understand but they (3 of 4) finally got it.
SALT Bros.
🫶👊🏼go Sam! Do you think that the members said we have to save face and there just performing ?
Love you guys and The Bulwark team!
Let me say for the record, I am a Sam fan. He’s conversational, not rude. Free Sam!
Love Sam!
We still love you Sam!!!
It's true, Sam, but i didn't want to be rude and point it out. Manners, man, manners! Plus reading the comments about it is pretty entertaining.
Sam, I am one of the people who criticized you and I want you to know that I say that because I looked back on my conversations and found I do the same thing. I found that I did it more with women than men, so I have made a conscious effort to do better, hard though it is sometimes, and am getting better. I do like your takes on the subjects under discussion and will continue to listen. I am the oldest of three boys so I may have started my iniquities with my middle brother and apologize to you both. Keep up the good work!
I am an interrupter too. Mine is ADHD related. Its hard to change that, especially among friends when I relax.
Mine too. It took a lot to become a better listener especially because I was teaching!
I grew up in NY and NJ and don't find the interruptions to be rude. At times it may be difficult to hear 2 voices at once, but it doesn't make me mad, it makes me feel at home. Also, it a Spanish-speaking household this was normal. I've been criticized for doing this by English speakers and don't understand how conversations happen without people interrupting each other. I don't think Sam should lose his hosting role over this - I see it as a sign of enthusiasm and having interest in the topic. Go Sam!
Nobody is saying he should lose his hosting role over this. It's just a call to be more mindful. Nothing wrong with that. I grew up in NYC too and I am used to it as well. It was still annoying.
What??!!! People are criticizing Sam?? I am aghast, and will defend Sam's honor and right to interrupt whenever he sees fit. The 'Tim & Sam duo takes' are one of the most entertaining things on the entire internet. I know we're going through traumatic times but get a grip, people.
Yes, whenever I see a Tim x Sam video pop up I can't get to it fast enough!
My fav has to be their Zapruder-esque breakdown of RFK jr’s ‘tale of the dead baby bear’ as narrated to Roseanne. I was laughing out loud.
I became a Bulwark member in part because of that post ;)
One of their greatest hits!
OMG! It's been such a wild few months, I can't believe I'd forgotten about that. Yes, I was literally crying, I couldn't take it 😂
I figured he’s a reporter and has had to compete with other reporters and cut in to get his questions out.
Yes — lots of clarifications so we get the really story. I can’t get enough of Bulwark Takes.
Poor Sam.
I think the interrupting is just too high of frequency for the format itself: it’s really only noticeable on the shorter length posts.
Also, I just read that studies show that there is a group of people that interrupt frequently, but it’s because they process information at a faster rate, and so their responsiveness ends up looking like rude interruptions when it’s not intended to be.
I can relate, Sam. I'm the youngest of six kids and then we finished raising an aunt and uncle after my grandpa died. With 10 people around the dinner table, it wasn't easy getting a word in. My mom told me to just jump right in or else I'd NEVER get to talk. I still interrupt all these years later and I'm working on it, but it's especially hard when conversations are interesting. I love Sam and his laugh. When Sam and Tim show up in my feed, I know I'm in for a great discussion and probably a good laugh. Keep up the good work, you two. Love to everyone at The Bulwark.
Impact matters more than intention. I come from a very similar background to Sam, and I get it! I also had training in “active listening” that Tim talked (joked?) about. I noticed the interruptions on two pods or so. With guests. I don’t care if the Bulwarkers interrupt each other! I just felt bad for the guests. If I remember correctly, there was a lot of what listeners called inappropriate laughter. Nobody’s perfect. Sam seems like a lovely person. I hope he can tell the difference between nut job commenters and fans with gentle feedback.
Laughter helps me cope. My sisters and I are inappropriate laughers, especially about hard life situations. For example, the aging process reveals lots of "interesting" changes. I'd rather laugh than cry!
Oh and one little story. My future husband was in the car with me, my sis, mom, grandmom. He whistled, which stopped conversation. He said, “do you realize there are 4 different conversations going on at once?” Ridiculous, we said. Then he named them all. He was right. It hadn’t bothered us a bit. He was a midwestern catholic dude.
Didn’t say anything when listened, but actually quit the podcast because Sam’s interrupting was so obnoxious. Glad others said something. Just stop interrupting and all will be well.
Sam is fantastic! Keep interrupting when you need too. Interuptmore please!
WOW so we're not doing freedom of speech now? INTERESTING. #freesam #MBGA
I’ve never noticed the interruptions 🤣
You’ve got to watch the short interview with Adrian C.
Sam, don't ever change. My 88- year-old mother thought you were the ideal Nice Jewish Boy!
It wasn't Sam. The two guests that I think this relates to were struggling and I felt like poor Sam was prompting them just to keep things moving. I saw it more as helpful.
Has Bannon ever read any of Jesus's books?
We love you both 💙
What kind of society cuts Medicaid and gives Billionaires tax cuts ??
Cutting Medicaid will kill people , is that part of the “trickle down theory “ ?
But it will trickle down. It’s not like we have decades of charts showing a widening wealth gap. /s
I think all the ambiguity on Trump’s end is so he can claim victory no matter what happens. He’ll blame congress.
I love you Sam, you do interrupt a lot, I think it comes from your enthusiasm at giving us information, not too hard a fault to work on.
I’ve never seen any clips of the War Room in full screen before, dear god, how can you listen to what he’s saying with all the chyrons popping up and down, I have a hard time when the closed captioning pops up on YouTube
I agree it’s a shit show !!
Speaking as someone who occasionally comments, but usually reads the comments, I can't help but feel sometimes that comment sections were a mistake.
... Worse on YouTube, mind you. 🤷
Brilliant that Sam and Tim addressed the complaints about Sam's earlier podcast with humor and humility. I noticed, but will enthusiastically continue to admire and listen!
You guys need to learn from Sarah, who completely ignores our comments on The Focus Group podcast, and that show probably gets the angriest comments of any show on The Bulwark.
sarah built different
Coming from ny I didn't notice any interruptions.
😂😂😂I stand with Sam
I was shouting at Sam last night: “let him talk!!!”
I love you Sam, but the comments are not off base! Please don’t take it personally, I hope it was constructive criticism coming from them!
Salt Caucus Sucks !
FREE SAM! As someone who gets animated in conversations and accidentally jumps in early, I stand with Sam ✊
I too am a member of a family that’s constantly interrupting each other to be heard lol
We love you Sam!
It’s not being rude, it’s cooperative overlapping!
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/25/opinion/interrupting-cooperative-overlapping.html
My husband interrupts too, and yeah, it's because he gets too involved and excited. Love you Sam 😂
we all (i hope) love Sam's analysis and insights but he should have let Adrian finish his thoughts before moving the discussion on or commenting... we need the ANNEALED and TEMPERED SAM!!!!
I would only be annoyed if he jumped in without listening. He jumps in to add to a point.
There’s nothing wrong with either of you !! Good Lord !!
WTF ??