1072: Did JD Vance Tell the Pope to Shut Up?

1072: Did JD Vance Tell the Pope to Shut Up?

From The Next Level by The Bulwark

April 15, 2026 · 1h 16m · Episode 1072

About this episode

The episode discusses Trump's recent challenges, the implications of Orbán's defeat, and the downfall of Eric Swalwell.

Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller and JVL cover a rough week for Trump, from failed talks with Iran that turned into a naval blockade, to strong signs of real cracks inside his coalition as allies and right-wing media begin to push back against his idiocy. They also talk about what Orbán’s defeat in Hungary means for Trump-style politics, and discuss the lightning-fast downfall of Eric Swalwell. Go to https://Leesa.com for 20% off select mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code THENEXTLEVEL, exclusive for TNL fans. For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering $30 off your first box—PLUS free Croissants for life—when you go to https://Wildgrain.com/THENEXTLEVEL and start your subscription. Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/thenextlevel for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too!

People in this episode

Hosts: Sarah Longwell, Tim Miller, JVL

Topics covered

  • Trump
  • politics
  • media
  • Hungary
  • coalition
  • downfall

Keywords

  • Trump
  • Iran
  • Orbán
  • Eric Swalwell
  • politics
  • media
  • coalition
  • downfall

Sponsors

Leesa, Wildgrain, Quince

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Iran, Orbán

Products: mattresses, Croissants

More episodes of The Next Level

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Next Level podcast page.