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Passing Judgment

327 episodes - English - Latest episode: 14 days ago - ★★★★★ - 200 ratings

Is the constitution in crisis? This podcast is for people who are curious about politics and the law and how the biggest political and legal issues of the moment affect you. Pull up a chair and join host Jessica Levinson, a professor at LMU’s Loyola Law School, and a rotating cast of experts. Jessica will be joined by journalists, politicians, political scientists, lawyers, and many others.

Listen to Jessica and her guests for a wry, and sometimes irreverent take on the most pressing issues of our time. What are the laws of our democracy? How are they changing? And what does that mean for your daily life?

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Episodes

January 6th Insight: Sarah Wire on Covering Insurrection and National Security

April 09, 2024 05:00 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MB

In this riveting episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson delves into the intricate legal battles surrounding former President Trump and the classified documents dispute. Our esteemed guest, Sarah Wire of the Los Angeles Times, unveils the complexities of Trump's assertion of ownership over crucial documents, a stance that's been thwarted by Judge Keenan's recent decision. Throughout the episode, we unravel the strategic delays in the courtroom, weigh the public's right to pre-elec...

Unpacking Carter and Biden's Presidencies with Jonathan Alter

April 02, 2024 04:44 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, esteemed author and political analyst Jonathan Alter delves into the complexities of Jimmy Carter's presidency, exploring how external factors such as inflation and unemployment marred its perception. Alter highlights similarities between Carter's challenges and those facing current President Joe Biden, drawing attention to historical influences on today's politics. The episode also examines the New York Hush Money case against Donald Trump, emphasizing i...

How Trump Compares to Carter and FDR with Jonathan Alter

April 02, 2024 04:44 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, esteemed author and political analyst Jonathan Alter delves into the complexities of Jimmy Carter's presidency, exploring how external factors such as inflation and unemployment marred its perception. Alter highlights similarities between Carter's challenges and those facing current President Joe Biden, drawing attention to historical influences on today's politics. The episode also examines the New York Hush Money case against Donald Trump, emphasizing i...

Breaking Down Trump's Legal Battles with Ankush Khardori

March 26, 2024 05:00 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson and guest Ankush Khardori delve into the tangled web of legal challenges surrounding former President Trump. We dissects a series of cases poised to reshape our understanding of presidential immunity and the limits of executive power. Tune in for an episode rich in legal insight, where the implications of these judicial battles are laid bare, revealing a complex mosaic of potential outcomes that could alter the political and legal l...

Trump on Trial: Analyzing Federal Cases Against a Former President with Kyle Cheney

March 18, 2024 14:01 - 29 minutes - 27.2 MB

The latest episode of Passing Judgment dives into critical legal discussions surrounding charges against a former president, touching on both state and federal levels. Host Jessica Levinson, with guest Kyle Cheney from Politico, delve into the recent developments within the Georgia election interference case. Join us as we pass judgment on the rule of law, dissect the possible chaos this could sow in Congress, and interpret the maze of legal arguments presented in these monumental cases. H...

TikTok Ban: Assessing the First Amendment and National Security Concerns

March 13, 2024 14:27 - 8 minutes - 8.1 MB

In this episode, we dive into the complex intersection of TikTok and the First Amendment. Jessica Levinson breaks down the ongoing debate surrounding a proposed bill that could impact the popular social media app. Join us as we explore the constitutional implications, the distinction between speech and conduct, and the fascinating first amendment questions that arise from this contentious issue. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ National Security vs. Free Speech: The...

Breaking News: Supreme Court Ruling on Trump's Eligibility Explained

March 05, 2024 06:00 - 7 minutes - 6.99 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the latest legal bombshell dropped by the Supreme Court. With an unanimous ruling, the Court determined that states do not have the power to enforce section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which deals with the eligibility of federal candidates. Join us as Jessica dissects the details and disagreements within the Court's opinion and explores its potential impact on future elections and congressional power. Here are three key takeaways you don't want t...

The Implications of Supreme Court Cases on Social Media Content Moderation and State Laws

March 04, 2024 06:00 - 13 minutes - 12 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the recent oral arguments in two cases concerning social media, state laws, and the First Amendment. We walk through the complexities of the justices' struggle to establish a legal framework for addressing content moderation by social media platforms, highlighting the unprecedented nature of these issues in the context of constitutional law. Tune in for an informative discussion on the ever-changing landscape of law and the profound impact it h...

The E. Jean Carroll Trials: Verdicts, Witnesses, and Courtroom Dynamics

February 23, 2024 14:33 - 25 minutes - 23.4 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we dive into the high-profile defamation cases filed by journalist E. Jean Carroll against former President Donald Trump. Our guest for today is Erica Orden, a reporter for Politico, who was at the forefront of the courtroom proceedings. Join us as we explore the legal intricacies of the case, the jury's decision, the behavior of the involved parties, and the impact of Trump's presence during the trial. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to mis...

Presidential Immunity: Unpacking the Implications with Lawrence Hurley

February 16, 2024 13:44 - 29 minutes - 27 MB

In this week's gripping episode of "Passing Judgment," host Jessica Levinson and esteemed guest, Lawrence Hurley of NBC News, unpack the complexities of Trump's request for immunity and the potential consequences for our legal system. Join them as they dive into the mechanics of our judicial system, and the razor's edge upon which current events balance. ⚖️ Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ Supreme Court Decisions: How upcoming Supreme Court rulings could reshape t...

Colorado Supreme Court's Ruling: Trump's Ballot Eligibility

February 12, 2024 13:41 - 10 minutes - 9.69 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we're delving into the Colorado Supreme Court's recent ruling on whether former president and potential 2024 candidate, Donald Trump, can appear on the state's primary election ballot. We'll break down the legal arguments, the potential implications, and why this decision may land in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court. Join us as we analyze the constitutional issues at play and examine the political dynamics surrounding this case. Here are three key t...

Defying Democracy: Money, Media, and the Call for Electoral Overhaul

February 02, 2024 15:06 - 36 minutes - 33.4 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, Jessica Levinson dives into a thought-provoking discussion with guest, novelist and essayist, Stephen Marche. Together, they dissect the corrosive impact of money in American politics, the flaws in the electoral college system, and the urgent need for profound electoral reforms. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Money in Politics: The conversation delves into the damaging effects of unlimited corporate spending in elections, the influence o...

Decoding Presidential Politics: Insights from Professor Michael Genovese

January 26, 2024 14:15 - 28 minutes - 26.4 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we discuss the upcoming presidential election with Professor Michael Genovese, President of the Global Policy Institute at Loyola Marymount University. Join us as we delve into the complexities of presidential politics, and examine the impact of media sensationalism, the challenges of giving up power, and the qualities critical for a great president. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ The Impact of Political Spectacle: The politic...

Dobbs Decision Fallout: Supreme Court Faces Abortion Rights Crossroads

January 19, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 1 MB

In this week's episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson delves into the aftermath of the recent Supreme Court decision in the Dobbs case, and the upcoming landmark abortion rights case in April. Join us as we discuss the current state of abortion rights, the legal landscape, and the upcoming significant Supreme Court cases that are poised to shape the future of reproductive healthcare in the United States. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ The fallout from...

The Battle for Economic Justice: Dean Baker's Vision for Change

January 05, 2024 12:00 - 33 minutes - 1 MB

In this week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, host Jessica Levinson engages in a compelling discussion with guest Dean Baker, co-founder of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, on the state of the economy and associated governance challenges. Join us as we cover a range of crucial economic issues, shedding light on several key takeaways for you listeners. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ Economic Perception vs. Reality: Despite public perception of...

Exploring Presidential Immunity: Trump's Stand against Criminal Prosecution

December 29, 2023 12:00 - 11 minutes - 1 MB

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the legal question of whether former President Trump is immune from criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office. With two federal cases pending against Trump, one involving election interference, the stakes are high! Tune in as we navigate the legal landscape surrounding this case and explore the implications of presidential immunity on criminal prosecution. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ Presidential immu...

Trump's Eligibility for 2024 Ballot: The Colorado Supreme Court Decision and Potential Reversal

December 22, 2023 12:00 - 10 minutes - 1 MB

In our latest episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson breaks down the recent decision by the Colorado Supreme Court regarding the eligibility of former President Donald Trump to appear on the state's 2024 primary election ballot. She delves into the reasons behind her belief that the verdict might be overturned and discusses why she thinks the case will ultimately end up at the US Supreme Court. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ Colorado Supreme Court's De...

Dr. Norm Ornstein on the Transformation of the Republican Party and Future Political Scenarios

December 15, 2023 12:00 - 31 minutes - 1 MB

Join us in a thought provoking conversation about the Republican Party's transformation and the potential impacts of court decisions on elections and politics. We're joined by Dr. Norm Ornstein; senior fellow emeritus at the American Enterprise Institute, as he provides eye-opening insights offering a perspective on the potential emergence of a figure with Trump-like views in the party's future. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ The Republican Party's journey from ...

The Intersection of AI, Law, and National Security: Insights from Congressman Ted Lieu

December 08, 2023 12:00 - 17 minutes - 1 MB

Want to know more about the intersection of AI and the law? Check out this week's episode of Passing Judgment podcast with Congressman Ted Lieu. He shares his expertise on the benefits and potential detriments of AI and discusses its implications for healthcare, national security, and the upcoming election season. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Protecting ourselves from deepfake technology: Congressman Lieu highlights the proliferation of deepfake videos and audios. He emph...

Juliette Kayyem's Strategies for Personal Preparedness in an Age of Disasters

December 01, 2023 12:00 - 21 minutes - 1 MB

In our latest episode of Passing Judgment, we had the pleasure of hosting Juliette Kayyem, a prominent figure in the fields of homeland security and crisis management. With an extensive background, Juliette brought a wealth of insights about current world events with a focus on the situation in Israel and the implications for disaster management and preparedness. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Family Unification: In a crisis, prioritize locating your loved ones and ensurin...

The Role of Classified Information and Delayed Deadlines in Trump's Legal Battles

November 22, 2023 12:00 - 33 minutes - 1 MB

This week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast we have a riveting discussion with special guest Hugo Lowell, a prominent political investigations reporter for The Guardian. As he joins our host, Jessica Levinson, together they tackle the intriguing and complex case surrounding former President Donald Trump 🤔. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Judge Eileen Cannon's relationship with prosecutors and deference to the Trump team has raised eyebrows. Her insistence on classifi...

Supreme Court Adopts Code of Conduct: A Toothless Gesture or Step towards Reform?

November 17, 2023 12:00 - 9 minutes - 1 MB

This week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, host Jessica Levinson, breaks down the significance of the Supreme Court's code of ethics. While it may come as a surprise to some, this is actually the first time in our nation's history that such a code has been implemented for Supreme Court justices. And while the introduction of the code is a step in the right direction, it is important to note that it lacks an enforcement mechanism🧑‍⚖️. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1️...

Gun Control: How the Supreme Court's Decision Could Shape Future Laws

November 10, 2023 12:00 - 11 minutes - 1 MB

In the latest episode of the Passing Judgment podcast our host, Jessica Levinson delves into a significant Supreme Court case involving gun control. The case, US versus Rahimi, has sparked discussions about the court's position on gun control measures and their constitutionality. Tune in to gain insights into the legal intricacies of this case and the potential implications for future gun control regulations. Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ The Supreme Court is reevaluat...

The Ongoing Civil Case: Fraud Allegations, Bias, and Witness Testimonies Against the Former President

November 03, 2023 11:00 - 43 minutes - 1 MB

In today's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we explore the intricacies of the legal realm and examine the most recent developments in the ongoing civil case against the former president. Our guest is Elie Honig, a CNN senior analyst and the bestselling author of 'Hatchet Man.' Together, we delve into the allegations of fraud, witness tampering, and their potential implications for our justice system. From analyzing the judge's ruling to questioning the validity of guilty pleas, this ...

The Legal Battle: States vs. Meta - Social Media's Impact on Kids' Mental Health

October 27, 2023 15:18 - 11 minutes - 1 MB

In today's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, host Jessica Levinson discusses the recent lawsuits filed by over 3 dozen states against Meta for allegedly promoting addictive behavior and pushing harmful content to minors. Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Congress's inaction has led to a dangerous vacuum when it comes to protecting children and teens on social media. The absence of federal legislation has prompted states to sue Meta, seeking to hold them accountable...

Women's Engagement in the Law: From Sally Yates to Stacey Abrams, A Journey of Progress

October 20, 2023 09:00 - 41 minutes - 1 MB

Today, we have an exciting new episode of the Passing Judgment podcast where we're joined by Dahlia Lithwick, senior legal correspondent at Slate and author of the book "Lady Justice". In this episode, we explore a range of intriguing topics, from the court's centrist decisions and its challenges to regulatory agencies, to the crucial cases that will shape the future of the First Amendment and technology. And don't miss out on our exploration of Georgia legends Sally Yates and Stacey Abrams,...

The Tensions Within the Supreme Court: Gun Rights, Restrictions, and Domestic Violence

October 13, 2023 11:00 - 29 minutes - 1 MB

In the latest episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we delve into a variety of legal cases and hot topics currently on the Supreme Court's docket. We're rejoined by David Savage, one of the nation's experts as we unravel the intricacies of these captivating legal matters. Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1️⃣ Diverse Perspectives on the Supreme Court: Contrary to popular belief, not all conservative justices on the Supreme Court think the same way. While they may have made ...

Understanding the State of Abortion Rights: A Year After the Fall of Roe v Wade

October 06, 2023 09:00 - 27 minutes - 1 MB

In this episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we're joined by Laura Kusisto, national legal affairs reporter for The Wall Street Journal, to discuss the state of abortion rights in America one year after the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs. They explore the shifts in legislation and litigation surrounding abortion, emphasizing the political and legal hurdles faced by the anti-abortion movement. Overall, the episode delves into the complex landscape of abortion rights in post-Roe America...

Ethics and Influence: Exploring Allegations Surrounding Supreme Court Justices

September 29, 2023 09:00 - 30 minutes - 1 MB

On the newest episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we focus on the ethical dilemmas surrounding Supreme Court justices and their affiliations. Joined by Supreme Court correspondent for USA Today, John Fritze, we delve into Justice Thomas' alleged luxurious trips to Justice Alito's controversies, and examine a web of potential influences on court decisions. Fritze shares his expertise on how the lack of clear authority to enforce ethical rules raises questions about self-policing and pote...

Protecting Democracy: Colorado Lawsuit Seeks to Disqualify Trump from Public Office

September 22, 2023 09:00 - 23 minutes - 1 MB

This week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we are joined by the president of CREW (Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington), Noah Bookbinder. We delve into the recent lawsuit filed by CREW in Colorado. The suit claims that former President Trump is disqualified from holding public office due to his alleged violation of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. This provision prohibits individuals who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States from holdi...

Breaking Down the Hunter Biden Indictment: Gun Charges, Plea Deal Fallout, and Political Backdrop

September 15, 2023 15:51 - 9 minutes - 1 MB

In this episode, we dive into the highly publicized indictment of Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden. From the charges laid against him to the collapse of his previous plea agreement, we unravel the legal complexities surrounding his case. Join us as we analyze the potential defenses, including a surprising Second Amendment argument, and examine the political backdrop against which this indictment unfolds. Stay tuned as we shed light on what this indictment means for Hunter Biden's fut...

Inside the Trump Trials: Examining RICO, Election Fraud, and High-Stakes Legal Maneuvers with Rebecca Beitsch

September 08, 2023 11:00 - 33 minutes - 1 MB

Let's dive into the intriguing world of legal cases involving former President Donald Trump. With a multitude of indictments, federal trials, and state investigations, it can be challenging to keep track of all the allegations and their implications. Our host is joined by special guest Rebecca Beitsch as they unpack the latest developments in these cases, including the controversy surrounding RICO conspiracy charges and the federal case relating to the 2020 election. They discuss the uni...

Mifepristone - What Do You Need To Know About The Abortion Pill Litigation?

April 15, 2023 02:21 - 1 minute - 1 MB

In a nation of complicated legal machinations, the mifepristone situation is especially complicated. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk last week suspended a number of laws regulating the popular and widely-used abortion drug mifepristone. Kacsmaryk’s ruling affected both the Food and Drug Administration's original 2000 approval of mifepristone as well as subsequent updates to laws regulating the drug from 2016 and 2019. Multiple appeals to Kacsmaryk’s ruling followed, and late this week ...

How Strong Is DA Alvin Bragg's Case Against Trump?

April 08, 2023 21:51 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Depending on what you've heard, Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg's case against former President Trump is somewhere between frivolous or airtight. And it is likely that one's position depends on the beholder's opinion about Donald Trump himself. In today's episode, Jessica strips away the partisan perspectives and assesses the real world legal nuts and bolts of exactly what the charges are, as well as the obstacles that Bragg faces in proving his case.

What is it like to cover the Supreme Court? (Guest - David Savage)

April 08, 2023 21:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Los Angeles Times Supreme Court reporter David Savage joins Jessica on this special episode of Passing Judgment. Savage has been covering the Supreme Court for more than 30 years, a time period that has seen substantial changes in both the composition of the Court as well as the way the Court addresses issues. Jessica recorded this conversation, in part, for her Constitutional Law students at Loyola Law School. We also think it will be fun for you, our Passing Judgment audience, to hear Davi...

Everything You Need to Know About the $1.6 billion Dominion v Fox Case

April 05, 2023 21:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

The biggest defamation case we've seen in decades is about to go to trial. Dominion Voting Systems, a manufacturer of electronic voting machines and associated software, has sued Fox News and Fox Corporation for defamation, based on false claims that Dominion helped rig the 2020 presidential election for President Biden. Jessica talks through exactly what Dominion will have to prove to succeed in its case.

Everything You Need to Know About Trump's Indictment

March 31, 2023 21:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Former President Trump will be criminally indicted. This is a historic first. But what does it mean legally and politically? Jessica walks through what we're likely to see in the indictment, what an arraignment will look like, and what the next steps will be.

Why I'm Worried the New York District Attorney Will Indict Trump

March 19, 2023 09:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

It looks likely that former President Donald Trump will soon be indicted by New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg for his role in the 2016 hush money payment to adult film performer Stormy Daniels stemming from an alleged affair with then-candidate Trump. Setting aside the time when president Ulysses Grant was arrested for speeding in a horse and buggy in Washington D.C. in 1876, a Trump arrest would make him the only sitting or former president to be arrested for suspected criminal activity...

Will the Supreme Court invalidate Pres. Biden’s student loan program? (Guest - Adam Liptak)

March 04, 2023 13:01 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Will the Supreme Court conclude that President Biden overstepped his authority when he created a $400 billion student loan forgiveness program? Adam Liptak, the Supreme Court reporter for The New York Times, joins Jessica to discuss how we got here and the likely fate of Biden’s program.

Will the Supreme Court Upend Legal Protections for Tech Companies? (Guest - Michael Macagnone)

February 25, 2023 13:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

This week the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case that could change the Internet as we know it. Two cases, one case was brought against YouTube by the family of an individual was killed in an ISIS attack in Paris in 2015, and another was filed against Twitter by the family of an individual killed by an ISIS attack in Istanbul in 2017, will ask the high court to interpret the extent that technology companies could face legal liability for content posted on their sites. Jessica discus...

Spy Balloons and UFOs (Guest: Mariana Alfaro)

February 19, 2023 01:59 - 1 minute - 1 MB

On January 28th of 2023, what appears to be a Chinese surveillance balloon entered U.S. airspace north of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska. President Biden ordered the balloon to be shot down. In subsequent weeks, three more unidentified flying objects were shot down by the U.S. military over Alaska, Canada, and Lake Huron. What is going on? How concerning is this string of aerial incidents? Are they related? Mariana Alfaro, The Washington Post's co-anchor of Post Politics Now, The Washing...

Getting to the Bottom of the SCOTUS Leak. Or Not. (Guest: Steven Mazie)

February 10, 2023 23:38 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Something rare happened in the Supreme Court last year: News that the decision in the Dobbs case would scuttle nearly half-century-old abortion protections of Roe v Wade leaked before the Court announced it, sending shockwaves through American society. Other branches of our government may leak, intentional or otherwise, but the Supreme Court traditionally ran a tighter ship. The Court just did not leak. And then it did. An investigation held by the Marshal of the Court to determine the source...

Alec Baldwin Is Charged With Involuntary Manslaughter After the Fatal 2021 Rust Shooting (Guest: Joey Dillon)

February 05, 2023 01:01 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Actor Alec Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were recently charged with involuntary manslaughter stemming from a fatal on-set incident that took place on October 21st of 2021 while the movie Rust was filming in New Mexico. An extensive investigation by New Mexico officials established some facts regarding the tragedy: which are that Baldwin was rehearsing a scene inside a church set with a prop gun given to him by assistant director David Halls. During the rehearsal, the gun discharge...

Will the Death of Tyre Nichols Change Policing In America?

January 28, 2023 21:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Jessica and Joe discuss the death of a young man named Tyre Nichols, who died three days after a violent incident at the hands of Memphis police on January 7th, 2023. After a traffic stop, a pair of "confrontations" occurred with video evidence of the incident showing that Nichols was savagely beaten by five or more officers of Memphis' SCORPION street crime unit. Nichols wound up in critical condition and he died in a hospital three days later. Seven police officers were relieved of duty in...

Time to talk about the debt ceiling, classified docs, and Jan 6 (Guest: Philip Bump)

January 21, 2023 00:52 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Philip Bump from The Washington Post joins Jessica to explain the politics behind the debt ceiling debacle, and the discovery of classified documents at Biden’s house, and how Jan 6 could have been avoided.

Is the American Public Capable of Being Persuaded? (Guest - Anand Giridharadas)

January 12, 2023 18:00 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Author, columnist, and analyst Anand Giridharadas, stops by Passing Judgment to discuss his latest book -- The Persuaders: At the Front Lines of the Fight for Hearts, Minds, and Democracy. What are the best ways to persuade people? Are Republicans better than Democrats at persuasion? What is the best way to combat disinformation? What is deep canvasing? Anand and Jessica discuss all of these questions.

How Have Baby Boomers Effected Power and Politics in America? (Guest - Philip Bump)

January 03, 2023 03:02 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Journalist Philip Bump's day job is as a journalist and correspondent for The Washington Post, where he writes the weekly newsletter, How to Read This Chart - in which he analyses trends in economics, pop culture, politics, and more using the data behind the news. His new book, The Aftermath: The Last Days of the Baby Boom and the Future of Power in America, examines the ways that America's largest generation has had an effect on manifold aspects of our culture. Who are the Boomers, beyond j...

Is Trump Constitutionally Disqualified From Holding Office Again?

December 24, 2022 06:03 - 1 minute - 1 MB

The short answer -- It's complicated. Jessica explains why members of the House Select Committee on January 6th and others have claimed that Trump is legally barred from holding federal office again, and why it is not so straightforward.

A breaking news edition - The House Select Committee on January 6 Supports Four Criminal Referrals Against Trump

December 20, 2022 01:54 - 1 minute - 1 MB

The House Select Committee on January 6, 2021 just met for the last time. As expected, they referred former President Trump to the DOJ for four criminal charges. Jessica breaks down those four charges, what they mean, and why this matters.

How did Warnock beat Walker? Analysis of the Georgia Runoff (Guest: Greg Bluestein)

December 10, 2022 01:09 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Democrats padded their midterm elections win tally this week with another victory in Georgia's runoff election to fill the state's second Senate seat. When neither incumbent Raphael Warnock nor challenger Herschel Walker garnered 50% of the vote in November, that set Georgia's voters on an accelerated runoff schedule. One of the strangest races in this year's senatorial elections got even stranger with former football star Walker making comments about werewolves and vampires and dodging addi...

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