The Bulwark Daily The Bulwark Daily

Bill Kristol and Margaret Donovan: Hegseth Should Be Impeached

Jul 30, 2026 · 48m

Summary

Bill Kristol interviews Margaret Donovan about the politicization of the Pentagon under Pete Hegseth, citing the meritless firing of senior officers like Admiral Franchetti. They discuss how political loyalty is replacing professional standards, undermining military justice and accountability. The conversation also covers the Iran war’s logistical failures and the lack of transparency regarding the Manab school strike, which Donovan criticizes as a severe leadership failure.

Topics discussed

Intro and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 ad Guest intro: Margaret Coker's military and legal background Admiral Caudill's appointment and politicization of promotions Quince clothing advertisement Hegseth's firings, merit vs. politics, and military discipline Samsung and ChatGPT ads Minop school strike and lack of DOD accountability Logistics, depleted stockpiles, and war preparation failures Constitutional war powers and supporting the troops Samsung and ChatGPT ads Historical accountability and conclusion Outro and Walmart/ChatGPT ads
Listen ad-free on Castria