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After breaking down Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's numerous controversies, such as the boat strikes in the Caribbean and Signalgate, Nicolle asks “Who are we?” The answer may lie in new reporting from Bloomberg, which reveals that the FBI is pressuring the bureau's domestic terrorism agents to open a seditious conspiracy investigation into six Democratic lawmakers who advised military service members to defy unlawful orders.Later, Carol Leonnig and Andrew Weissmann join Nicolle to discuss the snag the Trump DOJ ran into in an effort to re-indict New York Attorney General Letitia James. In late November, Letitia James and James Comey had their criminal indictments dismissed by a judge, citing Prosecutor Lindsay Halligan's “unlawful appointment.” Finally, Jacob Soboroff breaks down his interview with a college student who was taken into ICE custody and deported back to Honduras. She was detained at the airport while she was on her way to surprise her family for Thanksgiving.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
“What was said, when was it said, and who was observing the operation as it was ongoing?” These questions are top of mind this week for Todd Huntley, Director of Georgetown's National Security Law Program and a former active-duty Judge Advocate for the Navy. He joins Mary and Andrew to lend his unique expertise to what the Washington Post reported as a “kill them all” order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This order reportedly led to a second strike, killing two remaining survivors and, in Huntley's view, violating the laws of naval warfare and international law, which “give a protected status to shipwrecked personnel.” Mary and Andrew then take a moment to reflect on the tragic shooting of two National Guard members last week and an appellate court ruling affirming a lower court finding that Alina Habba's appointment as acting US Attorney in New Jersey was unlawful.Further reading: Todd Huntley's interview in The New Yorker: The Legal Consequences of Pete Hegseth's “Kill Them All” Order. A former military judge on the Trump Administration's contradictory—and likely unlawful—justifications for its Caribbean bombing campaign.Here is the original reporting on the 2nd strike by the Washington Post: Hegseth order on first Caribbean boat strike, officials say: Kill them all. Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nicolle Wallace covers Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's order to the military to leave no survivors on a strike against boats in the Caribbean. Reporting in The Washington Post suggests that current and former members of the military are unsure if all the people on the targeted boat were guilty of drug trafficking —Hegseth's primary justification for the strikes. While the Defense Department carries out boat strikes in the name of fighting drug trafficking, Nicolle, Andrew Weissmann, and Former Senator Claire McCaskill discuss Trump's pardon of former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez. Hernandez was found guilty of shipping “more than 500 tons of cocaine into the United States,” according to The New York Times.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MS NOW podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. For more from Nicolle, follow and download her podcast, “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace,” wherever you get your podcasts.To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
November 26, 2025; 6pm: Two members of the West Virginia National Guard are in critical condition after being shot near the White House. MS NOW's Michele Norris reports on the latest developments. Plus, Norris reports on the FBI's investigation into Democratic lawmakers in Congress. Former Mueller probe prosecutor Andrew Weissmann joins. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump needs to quit the games and his defamatory accusations about who's in the Epstein files, and just release the 300 gigabytes of data from the Epstein case—even if he has an army of elves trying to redact or whitewash any references or images of Trump himself. Meanwhile, the dismissal of charges against Comey and Tish James show how bad Team Trump is at political retribution. Plus, the commander-in-chief doesn't want members of the military hearing the truth, spies are listening in to Steve Witkoff, and is Weissmann going to sue Trump for defamation? Andrew Weissmann joins Tim Miller. show notes: Andrew's Substack Andrew and Mary McCord's podcast, "Main Justice" New Bulwark merch!
Amid an abundance of legal issues Mary and Andrew are keeping tabs on, this episode begins with the dismissal of the cases against both James Comey and Letitia James over the unlawful appointment of interim U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan. The co-hosts work through the judge's decision before reviewing some of the procedural missteps made by Halligan in the Comey case. Next comes the news that the Pentagon is investigating Senator Mark Kelly over a video he and other lawmakers made assuring military personnel they are not obligated to follow illegal orders. As Andrew notes, “Isn't that the law? And isn't that what a president and the head of the Department of Defense want?” And last up, Andrew and Mary touch on a double standard over redistricting efforts, as the Justice Department sues California under a pretense of racial gerrymandering, while notably refraining from leveling similar challenges to Texas' redistricting plans. Further reading/watching:Here is the Washington Post piece Mary and Andrew referred to: White House blew past legal concerns in deadly strikes on drug boats.WATCH: Here is the video from Sen. Kelly and others: We want to speak directly to members of the Military and the Intelligence Community... Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: The Justice Department has 29 days to release the Epstein files. Also, the U.S. unemployment rate rises to 4.4%. And Congress has a December 31 deadline to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits. Andrew Weissmann, Rep. Brendan Boyle, and Sen. Tammy Baldwin join Lawrence O'Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
November 19, 2025; 6pm: MS NOW's Ari Melber hosts The Beat and reports on Congress passing legislation to force the DOJ to release its Epstein files. The legislation now awaits Trump's signature. Plus, new reporting on ties between former Trump advisor Steve Bannon and Epstein. Michelle Goldberg, Michael Hirschorn, and Andrew Weissmann join. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This past weekend — after months of deflection from the Trump administration — came a sudden tone shift from President Trump himself, who urged House Republicans to support a measure compelling the Justice Department to release the Epstein files. Mary and Andrew begin here, noting that Trump could just as easily release the files himself without a vote. Next, they review an order to release all grand jury material in James Comey's case, after the judge blasted the Justice Department for potential misconduct. And before wrapping up, Mary and Andrew head to the latest in the JGG case and Judge Boasberg's contempt proceeding, after a district court ruled to allow the case before him to proceed. Sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts to listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads. You'll also get exclusive bonus content from this and other shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jon Herold kicks off a packed episode reacting in real time to President Trump's historic White House meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, including Saudi Arabia's announcement that its U.S. investments will surge from $600 billion to $1 trillion. Jon breaks down the geopolitical significance, Trump's banter with MBS, and why Ghost is probably passed out from excitement. From there he dives into the Cloudflare outage that briefly broke half the internet, the Bitcoin dip, and Trump's comments on firing Jerome Powell, paired with Jon's sharp concerns about who is actually holding Trump back. The Epstein files take center stage as Trump unloads on ABC, naming names like Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, Andrew Weissmann, and calling the whole thing a “Democrat hoax” designed to bury his $21 trillion economic announcement. Jon tracks Speaker Johnson's excuses, House floor drama, and why the media keeps redirecting public attention away from real issues like housing, private equity, and the collapse of the American dream. With humor, blackmail jokes, existential dread, and a chiropractic outro, Jon guides listeners through a day of narrative warfare, congressional chaos, and economic reality checks.
Tonight on The Last Word: New Jeffrey Epstein emails spark a push to release the Epstein files. Also, Rep. Jamie Raskin calls on Todd Blanche to testify over Ghislaine Maxwell reports. And Epstein emails claim Donald Trump “knew about the girls.” Andrew Weissmann, Rep. Jamie Raskin, and Julie K. Brown join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: Donald Trump is repeatedly mentioned in newly public Epstein emails. Plus, House Speaker Mike Johnson plans a vote on Epstein next week, as the Trump White House fails to contain the crisis. Rep. Ro Khanna, Andrew Weissmann, and Barry Levine join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
“Leave aside the cruelty of not giving these funds out,” Andrew says, reflecting on the SNAP benefits case now before the Supreme Court. “What does it say that we're not prioritizing hunger as an issue?” Then, Mary brings listeners up to speed on the dizzying chain of events since Friday and where the SNAP case stands, even as the Senate and House appear to be moving towards reopening the government. And in honoring Veterans Day, Mary and Andrew dig into several issues affecting service members, including the latest filing in Trump v Illinois, and how to think about the term "regular forces", plus Judge Immergut's final order prohibiting the National Guard deployment in Portland. And finally, Just Security's co-editor in chief, Tess Bridgeman, joins to analyze what the law says— and doesn't say-- about blowing up boats in international waters without a clear justification or congressional authorization.Further reading: Judge Wolf's piece in The Atlantic: Why I Am Resigning. A federal judge explains his reasoning for leaving the bench.Just Security's collection of information around the boat strikes: Collection: U.S. Lethal Strikes on Suspected Drug TraffickersWant to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Donald Trump has told Fox News he has an "obligation" to sue the BBC - claiming the broadcaster "defrauded the public" in the way a Panorama episode misleadingly edited a clip of his January 6th speech.The dispute has made it on to Joe Rogan's podcast, and the BBC is being hauled into the 'fake news' category by MAGA commentators.How serious is President Trump in his threats? And could he bankrupt the BBC?Jon and Emily speak to Andrew Weissmann, law professor and former FBI general counsel.The News Agents USA is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee
The Supreme Court's landmark decision granting presidential immunity for official acts has reverberated in unprecedented ways since its issuance. One consequence, as Mary and Andrew note in their recent New York Times essay, is that rather than “preventing the weaponization of prosecutions, the court has unleashed it.” The co-hosts begin here, offering insights into the ongoing prosecutions of James Comey, Letitia James and the suspension of two assistant U.S. attorneys in DC. Next, they move to some updates on the National Guard domestic deployments, as several cases wind their way through the courts. And rounding out this episode, Mary and Andrew turn to the litigation around SNAP benefits and preview Wednesday's tariff argument before the Supreme Court.Further Reading:Here is Mary and Andrews' New York Times Essay: How the Supreme Court Paved the Way for Revenge ProsecutionsAnd as Mary and Andrew discussed, note the difference between the government's first Sentencing Memorandum in the Taylor Franklin Taranto case compared with the second Sentencing Memo.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
House Oversight Chairman James Comer is ramping up pressure on Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging her to take decisive action to invalidate Joe Biden's pardons and executive orders that were signed by autopen rather than the president himself during his final days in office, without his knowledge and consent. President Trump has called for an immediate investigation into former FBI agent Walter Giardina, Jack Smith, and other corrupt lawyers such as Andrew Weissmann and Norm Eisen. And the United States is on track to deport 600,000 people by the end of the year, according to President Trump's border czar Tom Homan.Sponsor:My PillowWww.MyPillow.com/johnSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The bulldozing of the East Wing of the White House late last week was shocking to much of the nation, Mary and Andrew included. They begin there with concerns, not only about preserving its rich history, but the ethical and legal questions that arise from the president using private donations to fund this ballroom build, and how the Anti-Deficiency Act might apply. Next, an update on National Guard deployments in the California case and the 9th Circuit's issue of a temporary stay in Portland as they consider an en banc review. And last up, the boat strikes keep coming in the Caribbean -- and now in the Pacific, as the president continues to escalate tensions. Mary and Andrew address the thorny legal issues at play when the U.S. military kills suspected traffickers in international waters.A note to listeners: Since this episode was recorded, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced another set of boat strikes in the Pacific ocean that killed 14 people. Further reading: Here is the Letter from several Democratic Senators raising concerns about donations to the ballroom that Mary and Andrew spoke about. Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Being an American right now is a wild ride. Every day brings a new controversy, with breathless media narratives and the same loud voices rushing in to score political points. Then another Truth Social post drops and the circus moves on. But all that noise is drowning out the actual story. On Crooked Media's new podcast Runaway Country, veteran journalist Alex Wagner talks to the voices at the center of the headlines: from the fringes of the resistance, to the marrow of MAGA, to the many people who've found themselves smack-dab in the crosshairs of a fight they never asked for. Because if you want to understand our unreal times, you've got to talk to the very real people who are experiencing it all first-hand. Join Alex as she brings together the stories of everyday Americans trapped in our national car with no brakes, alongside conversations with some of the smartest thinkers in politics. Buckle up, this road could lead anywhere.New episodes every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts, and @RunawayCountryWithAlexWagner on YouTube. Make sure to subscribe, so you don't miss an episode. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jen Psaki observes that as Donald Trump gets more comfortable with his autocrat persona, the traits that made him a societal laughing stock all his life are coming to define his leadership style. And the mockery he has become has so diminished him that his opponents are emboldened to get in the way of his demolition of the United States.Donald Trump's lackeys in Congress are trying to support his effort to exact revenge on the public servants who tried to hold him to account. Former special counsel Jack Smith is a prominent name on Trump's enemies list, so it's not surprising that Congressional Republicans would try to discredit him with their investigating-the-investigators hearings. Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann talks with Jen Psaki about why Jack Smith is smart to agree to participate in the hearings on the condition that they be public. Jen Psaki addresses questions posed at the White House press briefing, giving more honest and direct answers than the White House is willing to offer on questions ranging from Donald Trump's desecration of the White House to Trump's pardoning of a crypto-criminal business associate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Alex digs into the destruction of due process and rule of law under the Trump administration. First, she hears from Judge Anam Petit, a recently fired immigration judge who explains how the legal system is being quietly dismantled to prioritize deportations. Then, Alex speaks to Andrew Weissmann, former lead prosecutor in Robert Mueller's Special Counsel's Office, about whether our system is forever changed, and what it's like to be in President Trump's crosshairs. Subscribe to Runaway Country on Youtube, and if you have a story to share, send us an email or 1-minute voice note at runawaycountry@crooked.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
October 22, 2025; 6pm: President Trump is demanding that his own DOJ pay him $230 million, citing his own conduct that led to past federal investigations, according to The New York Times. Plus, MSNBC's Ari Melber reports on the White House's plan to demolish the East Wing. Andrew Weissmann joins. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mary and Andrew begin this week with the latest in the Trump administration's attempt to send National Guard troops into American cities. From the 9th Circuit comes a 2-1 decision lifting a lower court's temporary block on deployments into Portland, Oregon. Plus: the government has asked the Supreme Court to weigh in on the use of National Guard troops in Chicago. Mary and Andrew analyze the legal repercussions of both, then move to reporting on a Trump administration promise to betray U.S. informants in order to secure a prison deal with El Salvador. And while a week feels like a year these days, the co-hosts review both John Bolton's indictment last Thursday and James Comey's recent motion to dismiss his case based on vindictive and selective prosecution. Before wrapping up this week, Mary and Andrew take a beat on last week's oral arguments before the Supreme Court in Louisiana v Calláis that dealt directly with the Voting Rights Act and whether redrawing districts can be used to remedy disenfranchising voters in Louisiana.Further Listening/Reading: Here is Andrew's conversation with former Special Counsel Jack Smith at an event at UCL in London: The State of the United States: A Conversation with Jack SmithHere is the reporting from The Washington Post Mary and Andrew spoke about: Rubio promised to betray U.S. informants to get Trump's El Salvador prison deal.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
When a group of Young Republicans' racist private messages—which included praise for Hitler and slavery and jokes about gas chambers—get leaked to POLITICO, JD Vance says "that's what kids do" and that we all need to move on. President Trump names new targets for prosecution, including Sen. Adam Schiff, Andrew Weissmann, and Jack Smith, even as Trump's DOJ indicts his old nemesis, John Bolton. Jon and Dan react to Vance and Trump's comments, discuss the Trump administration's plan to weaponize the IRS, and debate whether the administration is seriously considering starting a war with Venezuela. They then turn to the latest developments in the government shutdown, the growing debate over the DSCC's influence in 2026 senate primaries, including those in Maine and Michigan, and a pending ruling at the Supreme Court that could further weaken the Voting Rights Act. Then, Sen. Brian Schatz talks with Tommy about whether the end of the shutdown is in sight, the administration's designation of Antifa as a terrorist organization, and the upcoming No Kings protests.For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast. Get tickets to CROOKED CON November 6-7 in Washington, D.C at http://crookedcon.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Former Trump National Security Advisor John Bolton indicted on 18 counts for allegedly transmitting and unlawfully retaining classified defense information. Longtime State Department adviser Ashley Tellis arrested for hoarding over a thousand classified documents and meeting with Chinese officials in a suspected espionage case. Democrat Jay Jones grilled in Virginia's attorney general debate over violent text messages as Republican Jason Miyares makes his opponent's judgment the night's central issue. Former Special Counsel Jack Smith defends his Trump prosecutions as apolitical in a rare interview with Andrew Weissmann. Father of missing baby Emmanuel Haro pleads guilty to second-degree murder while the child's mother faces new charges, as investigators continue searching for the infant's body. Pique: Unlock your healthiest glow and feel the difference. Get up to 20% off for life Visit https://Piquelife.com/MEGYN.Cowboy Colostrum: Get 25% Off Cowboy Colostrum with code MK at https://www.cowboycolostrum.com/MK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Wednesday, October 15th, 2025Today, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes threatens legal action against Mike Johnson for refusing to swear in Adelita Grijalva; Jack Smith speaks out about his investigations into Donald Trump with former Mueller prosecutor Andrew Weissmann; Stephen Miller has murdered another five people in a Caribbean boat strike; major airports are refusing to play Kristi Noem's propaganda video wrongly blaming Democrats for the shutdown; Maine Governor Janet Mills enters the Senate race against Susan Collins; the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals shoots down a Republican request for a re-hearing of a Pennsylvania voter suppression case; the Supreme Court rejects Alex Jones' bid to appeal his $1.5B defamation loss to Sandy Hook families; Jim Jordan demands testimony from Jack Smith in front of the House Judiciary Committee; a federal judge rules Trump defied a court order over FEMA funding; President Obama endorses yes on Prop 50 in California; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Thank You, Helix Sleep20% Off Sitewide, when you go to HelixSleep.com/dailybeansGuest: Proof that Letitia James is Innocent - by Allison GillStoriesArizona attorney general threatens legal action against Mike Johnson for failing to seat Adelita Grijalva | POLITICOU.S. Military Kills 6 People in Boat Attack Near Venezuela, Trump Says | The New York TimesUS court rules Trump violated order by placing conditions on FEMA grants | Donald Trump News | Al JazeeraMultiple airports refuse to play DHS video blaming Democrats for government shutdown | CBS NewsHatch Act Overview | U.S. Office of Special CounselGood TroubleCall Your Airport. Ask if they are playing the misleading, Hatch-Act violating message.Keep calling Mike Johnson's office to have Adelita Grajava sworn in. She is the 218th signature. And right now the people of Arizona 7th are being re-taxed without representation because he won't swear her in. His number is 202-225-2000 or 202-225-2777 - Especially if you're in Arizona's 7th district.**California! YOU have your prop 50 ballots. Fill them out and return them ASAP.Yes On Prop 50 | CA Special Election Phone Banks - mobilize.us**October 20 Deadline -Petition of America First Legal Foundation for Rulemaking**October 18 - NoKings.org **Vote Yes 836 - Oklahoma**How to Organize a Bearing Witness Standout**Fire Kilmeade - foxfeedback@foxnews.com, Requests - Fox News**Indiana teacher snitch portal - Eyes on Education**Find Your Representative | house.gov, Contacting U.S. SenatorsFrom The Good NewsThanks for watching AG on MeidasTouch YouTube!World Naked Bike RideCritical Mass (cycling) - WikipediaLeaf sheep: The adorable solar-powered sea slug that looks like Shaun the Sheep - LiveScience.comDogs For Better LivesOffice of Special Education Programs (OSEP)NDSCCenter Action Center2025 Buddy Walks | National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)Women Veterans Conference Any woman veteran in Michigan available on October 18th can attend:Women's Veterans Unite at Parkside Farm in Byron Center MI from 11 to 2 American Legion Roger B Chaffee Post 154 from 3-8 pm. Capyfriends Cafe - GA(Mark your calendar for November 14th, 2025 - Chicago, Illinois - Dana)Our Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - DonateMSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlueWhistleblowerAid.org/beansFederal workers - email AG at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen. Find Upcoming Actions 50501 Movement, No Kings.org, Indivisible.orgDr. Allison Gill - Substack, BlueSky , TikTok, IG, TwitterDana Goldberg - BlueSky, Twitter, IG, facebook, danagoldberg.comMore from MSW Media - Shows - MSW Media, Cleanup On Aisle 45 pod, The Breakdown | SubstackReminder - you can see the pod pics if you become a Patron. The good news pics are at the bottom of the show notes of each Patreon episode! 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Find Upcoming Actions 50501 Movement, No Kings.org, Indivisible.orgDr. Allison Gill - Substack, BlueSky , TikTok, IG, TwitterDana Goldberg - BlueSky, Twitter, IG, facebook, danagoldberg.comCheck out more from MSW Media - Shows - MSW Media, Cleanup On Aisle 45 pod, The Breakdown | SubstackShare your Good News or Good TroubleMSW Good News and Good TroubleHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?The Daily Beans | SupercastThe Daily Beans & Mueller, She Wrote | PatreonThe Daily Beans | Apple Podcasts Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
October 14, 2025; 6pm: MSNBC's Ari Melber reports on former DOJ Special Counsel Jack Smith, the prosecutor who brought two criminal indictments against Donald Trump. Smith made a rare public appearance alongside former FBI general counsel Andrew Weissmann, who joins to discuss. Plus, financial journalist and best-selling author Andrew Ross Sorkin joins to discuss latest stock market fears. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Last Thursday, New York Attorney General Letitia James was indicted by a grand jury on two counts. This, on the heels of former FBI Director James Comey's arraignment, where pre-trial motions were granted around vindictive and selective prosecution. Mary and Andrew use these two examples to explain why targeting individuals instead of crimes violates some of the Justice Department's most sacred norms. Next, they walk through the latest court battles around federalized National Guard troops in Oregon and Illinois, with a 7th Circuit ruling in Chicago and oral arguments in the 9th circuit over the Portland deployment. Last comes a notable article from Professor Caleb Nelson, one of the nation's foremost originalist legal scholars, who questions granting increasing executive authority to the presidency. Further reading:Here is Professor Nelson's article written for NYU Law's Democracy Project: Special Feature: Must Administrative Officers Serve at the President's Pleasure?Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: James Comey appears in federal court for his arraignment. Also, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse calls out Attorney General Pam Bondi's “nonsense.” And Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene calls on Speaker Mike Johnson to bring Republicans back to Washington, D.C. Andrew Weissmann, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and Rep. Mark Pocan join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
James Comey, former director of the FBI and Trump's enemy number 1, has appeared in court this week to plead not guilty of lying to Congress. Trump has desperately sought his prosecution and said so out loud on numerous occasions. The President has struggled to find prosecutors who were even prepared to seek Comey's arrest. We talk to the FBIs former General Council, Andrew Weissmann, about the case for “vindictive prosecution“ and whether the justice system can survive Trumps overt politicisation. Later, who is JB Pritzker and why is he issuing a direct challenge to Trump?Visit our new website for more analysis and interviews from the team: https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/ The News Agents USA is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee
Military action is a stark theme this week, as Oregon and Illinois sue the Trump administration over its attempts to federalize National Guard troops for deployment into both states. Mary and Andrew break down not one, but two temporary restraining orders that block deployments to Oregon, as Trump appointed Judge Karin Immergut cites Trump's own words to show the facts don't support what he alleges about “war ravaged” cities. Then, they dig into the administration's fourth deadly boat strike on alleged drug traffickers near Venezuela, highlighting how the lack of apparent legal authority might play out, as Attorney General Pam Bondi answered questions from the Senate Judiciary committee Tuesday. Last up, Andrew and Mary turn to two consequential decisions that don't bode well for the Trump administration: one decision out of Boston, barring efforts to deport non-citizen activists; and a second finding of a “likelihood of vindictive prosecution” from a Nashville judge as it relates to the seeming retaliatory charges against Kilmar Abrego-Garcia.Further reading: MSNBC's Carol Leonnig and Ken Dilanian report: Top prosecutor is rejecting Trump pressure to charge New York AGMary And Tess Bridgeman's piece for Just Security: What the Senate Judiciary Committee Should Ask A.G. Bondi on Drug Cartel StrikesJudge Karin Immergut's two decisions in Oregon:Immergut's First TRO blocking federalization of the Oregon National Guard. Immergut's Second TRO blocking deployment of any “federalized members of the National Guard” to the state.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In Mary and Andrew's estimation, there is no effort from the Trump administration to say things softly, the quiet part is very much out loud. They begin with the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey by Trump's newly installed U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Lindsey Halligan, noting how much these targeted charges upend the tradition of a separation between the White House and the Justice Department. The next stop is Portland Oregon, where the president announced his intent to deploy troops to the city in a Saturday Truth Social post, calling it “war ravaged”. Oregon immediately sued to stop the national guard deployment, so Mary and Andrew catch listeners up on where this stands and what to expect. And last, they turn to Trump's domestic terror memorandum, announcing his intent to investigate left-leaning groups he suggests may be funding political violence. Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Donald Trump's DOJ just indicted James Comey—but is the case already falling apart? Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann (filling in for George Conway) get into why this prosecution is weak, dangerous, and could blow up in Trump's face.
September 26, 2025; 6pm: Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted by a federal grand jury, just days after President Trump publicly called for it. MSNBC's Ari Melber breaks down the legal implications with expert guests, including former Mueller prosecutor Andrew Weissmann and Leslie Caldwell, former head of the DOJ's Criminal Division. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: Former FBI director James Comey responds to his Trump DOJ indictment: “I'm innocent. So let's have a trial.” Andrew Weissmann, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Daniel Goldman, Barbara McQuade, and Ken Dilanian join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann talks with Jen Psaki about the legal issues inherent in the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, and the procedural steps that have been skipped in Donald Trump's rush to have his political enemies prosecuted. Weissmann points out that having a trial that gives Comey a platform to mount a defense may be a move Donald Trump comes to regret.Senator Tim Kaine talks with Jen Psaki about the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, and what seems like glaring weaknesses in the apparently politically motivated case. Senator Kaine notes that Attorney General Pam Bondi says they are still following the facts, suggesting that means they don't already have the facts for a conviction. Who's next in Donald Trump's revenge tour? Jen talks with White House correspondent Vaughn Hillyard. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
President Trump's pressure campaign to take action against perceived adversaries is unrelenting. Mary and Andrew start this week by breaking down a public push for Attorney General Pam Bondi to prosecute Trump's political foes, just as Virginia's U.S. Attorney was ousted for failing to bring charges against Letitia James and Jim Comey. The focus then turns to the government's attempt to control critics and silence opposition after last week's abrupt suspension of Jimmy Kimmel, backed by FCC Chair Brendan Carr, as well as what the president designating ANTIFA as a “terrorist organization” actually means. On the flip side comes the effort to dismiss investigations into those aligned with Trump's cause. See MSNBC's reporting on the FBI bribery investigation into “Border Czar” Tom Homan that was shut down after Trump returned to office. And last up: Mary shares the reasoning behind a court's decision to block the removal of dozens of Guatemalan children, citing that the governments explanation "crumbled like a house of cards.” And a reminder: There are still tickets available for MSNBC Live – our second live community event featuring more than a dozen MSNBC hosts. The day-long event will be held on October 11th at Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan. To buy tickets visit msnbc.com/live25.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: The House Oversight Committee interrogates FBI Director Kash Patel on Jeffrey Epstein. Also, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche says it's “impossible” to say if Ghislaine Maxwell is credible. Plus, Treasury Secy. Scott Bessent reportedly made the very same mortgage loan pledges the Trump admin. has accused Fed Gov. Lisa Cook of making. And RFK Jr.'s competency as the HHS secretary is called into question. Rep. Eric Swalwell, Andrew Weissmann, and Sen. Ed Markey join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
September 17, 2025; 6pm: ABC announced it will be pulling “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” off air "indefinitely" over comments made by its host about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. MSNBC's Ari Melber reports on the latest. Plus, the Trump administration is on defense over its attacks on free speech. Former Mueller probe prosecutor Andrew Weissmann and Columbia University's Katie Fallow join to discuss. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: An investigation by The New York Times finds connections between the Trump family's cryptocurrency firm and an agreement granting United Arab Emirates access to A.I. chips. Also, Kash Patel testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Plus, the House Oversight Committee release more Epstein documents. And Donald Trump files a defamation lawsuit against The New York Times. Eric Lipton, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and Andrew Weissmann join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Last week's fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk was deeply disturbing, and as Andrew establishes at the start, “murder is murder” and those responsible must be held to account. So Mary and Andrew begin with where the investigation stands and how the FBI has handled the case, as well as the lawsuit filed against FBI Director Kash Patel over alleged politically motivated firings at the Bureau. Then, co-editor-in-chief of Just Security, Ryan Goodman stops in to share his research around the end of “the presumption of regularity” in the Trump era, amid growing frustration from many lower courts. And lastly, Andrew and Mary dig into the latest twists and turns in the President's attempt to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook.A note to listeners: After today's recording, Tyler Robinson was charged with felony aggravated murder, among other charges.Further reading: Here is Ryan Goodman's research in Just Security: The “Presumption of Regularity” in Trump Administration LitigationAnd a reminder: There are still tickets available for MSNBC Live – our second live community event featuring more than a dozen MSNBC hosts. The day-long event will be held on October 11th at Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan. To buy tickets visit msnbc.com/live25.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: New emails reveal the extent of the Jeffrey Epstein-Ghislaine Maxwell partnership. Also, a federal appeals court rules against Donald Trump in his effort to oust Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook ahead of its meeting this week. Plus, the CBO finds unemployment and inflation will be worse this year than projected. And a Los Angeles honor student talks to MSNBC after being deported to Guatemala with her mother. Jason Leopold, Andrew Weissmann, Sen. Jacky Rosen, and Jacob Soboroff join Lawrence O'Donnell. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tonight on The Last Word: Utah officials and the FBI take no questions from the media. And a 9/11 survivor leaves finance to become a nurse. Ken Dilanian, Andrew Weissmann, Jim Cavanaugh, Jay Gray, and Jocelyn Brooks join Lawrence O'Donnell.
Tonight on The Last Word: Charlie Kirk is shot and killed at an event he was hosting at Utah Valley University. Ken Dilanian, Andrew Weissmann, Brigham Tomco, Ryan Reilly, Jim Cavanaugh, and Marc Santia join Lawrence O'Donnell.
This episode begins with Mary and Andrew digesting the 2-1 decision from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals halting the Trump administration's ability to use the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan nationals accused of being members of Tren de Aragua. Andrew calls the administration's recent arguments “outlandish” before moving to the questionable legality of the U.S. military's deadly boat strike last week – an unprecedented action which left eleven dead. Next, they move to Monday's Supreme Court decision undoing limits set by a lower court on how ICE conducts immigration raids. Plus, a federal judge issues a win for Harvard University on the topic of frozen and terminated funds. Further reading: The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling on Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act to deport VenezuelansAnd a reminder: tickets are on sale now for MSNBC Live – our second live community event featuring more than a dozen MSNBC hosts. The day-long event will be held on October 11th at Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan. To buy tickets visit msnbc.com/live25.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
Tonight on The Last Word: House Democrats release Donald Trump's alleged birthday card for Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Robert Garcia, Rep. Ro Khanna, Andrew Weissmann, and Lisa Rubin join Lawrence O'Donnell.
Tonight on The Last Word: Epstein survivors plan to speak on Capitol Hill Wednesday. Anouska De Georgiou, Brad Edwards, and Andrew Weissmann join Lawrence O'Donnell.
After a Labor Day weekend that saw a judge halt the Trump administration's attempt to deport dozens of Guatemalan children already loaded onto airplanes, Andrew and Mary had planned to start their conversation there. But just this morning, Judge Charles Breyer ruled the administration cannot deploy U.S. military to carry out law enforcement operations, as this violates the Posse Comitatus Act. Andrew and Mary provide historical context for the act and walk us through the rationale of this latest ruling. Then, they take a beat on moves to oust two more Trump appointed U.S. Attorneys in California and Nevada who have yet to be congressionally approved. And last up, they review several big cases on tariffs, Lisa Cook, and cuts to foreign aid.Further reading: Here is Judge Thomas T. Cullen's opinion dismissing Trump's lawsuit against Maryland federal judges.And here is Judge Charles Breyer's ruling on the Posse Comitatus Act: Opinion granting injunctive reliefAnd a reminder: tickets are on sale now for MSNBC Live – our second live community event featuring more than a dozen MSNBC hosts. The day-long event will be held on October 11th at Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan. To buy tickets visit msnbc.com/live25.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
September 2, 2025; 6pm: President Trump suffers a major setback in his autocratic agenda after a federal judge rules his deployment of the National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles illegal. Meanwhile, voters at town halls lash out at GOP lawmakers over Trump's tariffs. Plus, as Congress returns, they confront the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files. MSNBC's Ari Melber reports with analysis from former Mueller probe prosecutor Andrew Weissmann and former SDNY civil prosecutor Maya Wiley.
Tonight on The Last Word: Sen. Angela Alsobrooks calls on RFK Jr. to resign. Also, former CDC Director Susan Monarez is fired after refusing to sign off on vaccine changes. Plus, Federal Reserve Gov. Lisa Cook sues Donald Trump over his effort to fire her. And a whistleblower complaint alleges DOGE copied Social Security data to an unsecured server. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, Dr. Nirav Shah, Andrew Weissmann, Gene Sperling, and Martin O'Malley join Ali Velshi.
On Monday, after Kilmar Abrego Garcia was taken into ICE custody, Judge Paula Xinis temporarily barred the Trump administration from deporting him to Uganda. Mary and Andrew begin here, reminding listeners that the origin of his case stems from a mistake made by our government. Next, they detail the questionable nature of the FBI raid on former National Security Advisor John Bolton's home and office before diving into some 30+ letters sent by Attorney General Pam Bondi to blue-leaning jurisdictions, with the aim of ending their sanctuary policies. Last up, Mary and Andrew drill down on Trump's latest executive order related to a rapidly deployable National Guard unit, as he sharpens threats to send troops into more cities.Further reading: Trump's Executive Order: ADDITIONAL MEASURES TO ADDRESS THE CRIME EMERGENCY IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIAGarrett Graff's piece Mary referred to: America Tips Into FascismAnd a reminder: tickets are on sale now for MSNBC Live – our second live community event featuring more than a dozen MSNBC hosts. The day-long event will be held on October 11th at Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan. To buy tickets visit msnbc.com/live25.Want to listen to this show without ads? Sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.