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Aaron McIntire sits down with Kyle Shideler, Director for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism at the Center for Security Policy, to discuss the rising threat of Antifa. Shideler outlines a whole-of-government approach to tackle decentralized far-left extremist networks, including legal statutes, financial tracking, and educational reform. Antifa, far-left extremism, Kyle Shideler, Aaron McIntire, AM Update, Center for Security Policy, terrorism, Charlie Kirk, Department of Justice, fiscal sponsorship, education reform, Trump administration
In this episode of Passing Judgment, we cover the arraignment of former FBI Director James Comey. Host Jessica Levinson explains the charges against Comey and outlines his defense strategies, including claims of vindictive prosecution and challenges to the validity of the prosecutor's appointment. Tune in as Jessica breaks down the legal complexities and what this high-profile case means for the broader landscape of justice.Here are three key takeaways from the episode:Challenge to Validity of Appointment: Comey's defense intends to argue that the U.S. attorney who brought the indictment, Lindsey Halligan, may not have been validly appointed. If successful, the charges can't simply be refiled due to the expiration of the statute of limitations.Selective and Vindictive Prosecution Motions: The defense plans to file motions asserting that the prosecution was brought with political animus and lacked objective justification—raising important questions about equal protection and due process under the law.High Bar for Prosecution: To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove that Comey knowingly made false statements and intentionally obstructed Congress—standards that can be difficult to meet, especially with the complex context and timing of the indictment.Follow Our Host: @LevinsonJessica
The foundation of our democracy is the Constitution, a system of checks and balances and the rule of law. But today, those cornerstones are being blatantly disrespected by a presidential administration attempting to consolidate power at all costs..In this episode, host Simone Leeper is joined by Campaign Legal Center litigators Anna Baldwin and Brent Ferguson. They examine the most pressing examples of the erosion of the rule of law, from the politicization of the Department of Justice to the stifling of free speech. Along the way, they highlight how Congress and the courts have failed as effective checks — leaving civil society and citizens to defend constitutional principles — and explore the reforms that could restore accountability, protect the rule of law and strengthen democracy against threats. Timestamps:(00:05) — Why is free speech under attack in the U.S.?(03:50) — How is political opposition being falsely linked to political violence?(05:38) — Why is deploying federal troops in U.S. cities a threat to democracy?(09:50) — How are Congress and the courts failing to check presidential abuses of power?(15:09) — How has the DOJ been transformed into a political tool?(20:17) — Why is the Voting Rights Act no longer being enforced?(21:17) — What's at stake with the DOJ's demand for voter data?(27:27) — How is CLC challenging unlawful executive orders?(32:30) — What reforms are needed to restore checks and balances?Host and Guests:Simone Leeper litigates a wide range of redistricting-related cases at Campaign Legal Center, challenging gerrymanders and advocating for election systems that guarantee all voters an equal opportunity to influence our democracy. Prior to arriving at CLC, Simone was a law clerk in the office of Senator Ed Markey and at the Library of Congress, Office of General Counsel. She received her J.D. cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center in 2019 and a bachelor's degree in political science from Columbia University in 2016.Anna Baldwin is a member of Campaign Legal Center's voting rights team working to protect the freedom to vote, litigating cases in state and federal courts, from filing through appeal to the Supreme Court. Prior to joining CLC, Anna spent 14 years in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. In North Carolina State Conference of the NAACP v. McCrory, Anna led briefing and appellate argument for the United States to overturn a North Carolina law that purposefully restricted voting and registration opportunities for Black voters in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Anna was also a member of the trial team that successfully challenged Texas's racially discriminatory voter ID law. Anna has argued eighteen cases before the federal courts of appeal, including four en banc cases. Previously, Anna was an associate in the Washington D.C. office of Jenner & Block LLP, and clerked for Judge James Robertson on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, and for Judge M. Blane Michael on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.Brent Ferguson leads Campaign Legal Center's strategic litigation team, focusing on anti-authoritarianism and litigating in all areas of election law. Brent has worked on protecting and improving our democracy for most of his career. At CLC, he has led litigation teams challenging state and federal laws and policies that seek to unlawfully purge voters, limit voter registration activity and otherwise prevent Americans from exercising their constitutionally protected rights. He has authored academic articles on election law and other constitutional issues in the Washington Law Review, the Cornell Journal of Law & Public Policy, the Emory Law Journal Online and elsewhere. Before coming to CLC, Brent was senior counsel at the National Redistricting Foundation, where he helped develop strategy for federal and state redistricting litigation. For four years, he served as counsel at the Brennan Center for Justice, focusing on campaign finance reform and working on a broad range of other democracy issues. He was also an assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney's office, where he litigated appeals of public corruption convictions. He clerked for Judge Michael Chagares of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and Judge Jeffrey Miller of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.Links:Taking Action Against Presidential Abuses of Power | Campaign Legal CenterAbout CLC:Democracy Decoded is a production of Campaign Legal Center, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to solving the wide range of challenges facing American democracy. Campaign Legal Center fights for every American's freedom to vote and participate meaningfully in the democratic process. Learn more about us.Democracy Decoded is part of The Democracy Group, a network of podcasts that examines what's broken in our democracy and how we can work together to fix it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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.
October 6th, 2025, 5pm: New MSNBC reporting that another top federal prosecutor is standing up to political pressure and refusing to charge New York Attorney General Letitia James. Nicolle Wallace discusses the latest from Carol Leonnig – then speaks to the Attorney General of Oregon about his legal fight against the administration's attempt to send troops to Portland.For more, follow us on Instagram @deadlinewhTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
October 5, 2025; 7am: Last night, President Trump authorized the deployment of 300 National Guard members in Chicago against the governor's wishes. This move comes amid clashes between immigration officials and protestors over the ICE raids around the city. Meanwhile, a federal judge in Oregon temporarily blocked his call up of 200 National Guard troops to Portland. The Trump administration has already appealed the decision. Sam Stein and Ankush Khardori join “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
October 5, 2025; 8am: President Trump's new attempt to exert control over higher education is being called a “code-red” by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. The University of Southern California is just one of the nine institutions that the Trump administration is pushing to commit to the president's political agenda. Erwin Chemerinsky joins The Weekend to discuss how it is impacting college campuses across the nation and why it's "extortion."For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
October 4, 2025; 7am: 750,000 federal workers are furloughed as the shutdown continues on with no end in sight. As of Friday, dueling short-term spending bills failed in the Senate. Plus, the House will stay out of session until October 14th. Emily Davies and Mychael Schnell join “The Weekend” to discuss the latest. For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
October 4, 2025; 8am: ICE and other federal agents have taken to the streets of Chicago, donning tactical gear, carrying military grade weapons, and driving armored cars, while protesters gathered outside a detention center. The escalation comes days after an early morning raid on an apartment building that involved 300 federal agents, including those rappelling down from a black hawk helicopter. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joins The Weekend to discuss the Trump Administrations federal crackdown that has besieged his city.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
Aaron McIntire breaks down the Department of Justice's aggressive moves against left-wing radicals, with Attorney General Pam Bondi targeting Antifa and ICE facility attackers. In Iowa, the Des Moines school superintendent, an illegal alien from Guyana, faces deportation after a dramatic arrest. Across the pond, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces mandatory digital IDs to combat illegal immigration, raising concerns about privacy and control. Plus, new revelations about FBI agents at January 6 and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's push to clean up driver's licenses. Department of Justice, Pam Bondi, Antifa, ICE, illegal immigration, Des Moines, Ian Roberts, digital ID, Keir Starmer, January 6, FBI, Sean Duffy, voter rolls, James Comey
September 28, 2025; 7am: President Trump continues to attack those who are perceived to be his enemies. In his latest attack, the president has accused Christopher Wray, the former FBI Director, who he appointed to replace James Comey, of lying. In the last few days, he has called on Microsoft to fire executive Lisa Monaco, who previously served as President Biden's deputy attorney general and has been a regular target of Trump's rants. His Department of Justice has also gone on to fire prosecutors who refuse to take cases up against James Comey and Letitia James. Miles Taylor and Ankush Khardori join The Weekend to discuss the president's retribution campaign.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 28, 2025; 8am: President Trump slammed Democrats for blocking the Republican-supported short-term funding bill. Rep. Maxine Waters of California and Rep. Debbie Dingell of Michigan join “The Weekend” to break down the consequences for everyday Americans if Congress fails to reach a deal by October 1st.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 28, 2025; 9am: Yesterday on Truth Social, President Trump announced he is ordering Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon. Trump revealed he would authorize “Full Force, if necessary” and insisted the troops would “protect War ravaged Portland.” Representative Janelle Bynum of Oregon, whose district includes parts of Portland, joins “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 27, 2025; 7am: After the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, President Trump has warned that there will be other indictments. Attorney General Pam Bondi says everything is on the table. Paul Butler and Glenn Thrush join The Weekend to discuss the DOJ's willingness to go after President Trump's perceived enemies.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 27, 2025; 8am: As the country barrels towards a government shutdown, the White House is threatening mass layoffs of federal workers if Democrats don't pass the Republican-supported continuing resolution to fund the government. Member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania joins “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 27, 2025; 9am: President Trump has promised more indictments are coming after indicting former FBI director James Comey this week. The Comey indictment comes after President Trump removed Erik Siebert, his own nominated acting U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and replaced him with one of his personal defense attorneys – Lindsey Halligan – who has no prosecutorial experience. Former CIA Director John Brennan, who is under investigation by the Trump administration, joins “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
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.
Former Special Counsel in the Trump investigations, Jack Smith, speaks at length about the weaponization of the department of justice at an event at George Mason University.Trump Administration officials push to fire the US Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia over his refusal to indict NYAG Tish James and former FBI Director Jim Comey.A trial jury finds a Los Angeles protestor not guilty of assaulting a Border Patrol Agent; and another assault case is dismissed in the District of Columbia.The Department of Justice quietly deletes a study on the politics of domestic violence amid calls from Todd Blanche to investigate Trump protestors. Plus listener questions…Do you have questions for the pod? Follow AG Substack|MuellershewroteBlueSky|@muellershewroteAndrew McCabe isn't on social media, but you can buy his book The ThreatThe Threat: How the FBI Protects America in the Age of Terror and TrumpWe would like to know more about our listeners. Please participate in this brief surveyListener Survey and CommentsThis Show is Available Ad-Free And Early For Patreon and Supercast Supporters at the Justice Enforcers level and above:https://dailybeans.supercast.techOrhttps://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr when you subscribe on Apple Podcastshttps://apple.co/3YNpW3P Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
September 21, 2025; 7am: Donald Trump is not trying to mask his intentions anymore after urging Attorney General Pam Bondi to bring criminal charges against his perceived political enemies. He specifically named Senator Adam Schiff, former FBI Director James Comey, and New York Attorney General Letitia James, stating “we can't delay any longer.” NBC News Digital Justice Reporter Ryan Reilly, and Catherine Christian, former Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan and an MSNBC legal analyst, joins “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 21, 2025; 8am: ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show under pressure from the head of the FCC raised new fears about even more plans to silence critics. In response, Democrats announced new legislation to bolster free speech protections for people targeted by the President. Senator Alex Padilla, one of the senators who introduced this bill, joins “The Weekend” to discuss.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 21, 2025; 9am: This week Mamdani has received support from top democrats across New York, including Rep. Yvette Clarke, Gov. Kathy Hochul, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, and New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. There are still some key holdouts who have yet to offer their endorsements, including Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and Sen. Chuck Schumer. Mamdani joins The Weekend to discuss his campaign for Mayor of New York City.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
September 20, 2025; 9am:the U.S. Attorney for Eastern District of Virginia Erik Siebert resigned under pressure, after Trump said he wanted him "out" over his refusal to bring criminal charges related to alleged mortgage fraud against New York Attorney General Letitia James. It comes as the administration is also planning to take action against left-wing groups the president and his allies claim have contributed to political unrest and violence. Stacey Abrams joins The Weekend to discuss how the administration is conducting its retribution campaign and what it could mean for the president's political adversaries.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts 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.
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.
September 14, 2025; 8am: Additionally, revised numbers show that the U.S. added almost a million fewer jobs than previously reported over the 12-month period ending in March.It should be pointed out that most of that period was during the Biden administration. Courtenay Brown joins The Weekend to discuss how this impacts the U.S. economy. For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers are expressing concerns for their own safety and taking greater security precautions. Tom Manager and Eugene Robinson join The Weekend to discuss how the assassination of Charlie Kirk is prompting calls for changes in security protocol on Capitol Hill.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
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.
In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to examine how the Department of Justice spends its massive $67 billion budget. From maintaining dozens of little-used SWAT teams across obscure federal agencies to handing out 11,000 grants worth nearly $5 billion a year—many with little accountability—Jeremiah explains how DOJ has grown far beyond its original mission of enforcing federal law. He also reveals how overlapping programs and unclear reporting allow waste and duplication to thrive. The conversation then shifts to one of DOJ's most controversial practices: civil asset forfeiture. Jeremiah outlines how this process allows the government to seize cash, cars, and property from people never even charged with a crime, fueling a slush fund that DOJ frequently raids for discretionary spending. By redirecting this money back to taxpayers and consolidating duplicative programs, Jeremiah and David show how reforms could cut billions without harming public safety. This milestone episode celebrates their Big Ideas for Smaller Government series officially identifying more than $2 trillion in potential federal savings.
September 7, 2025; 7am: The protests come as as ICE began new immigration enforcement operations in Massachusetts, setting up a fight between the Trump administration and Boston. President Trump has also renewed his threats on social media to deploy the National Guard to Chicago. former Rep. Conor Lamb and former Federal Prosecutor Kristy Greenberg join The Weekend to discuss For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
September 7, 2025; 8am: Federal judges are fed up with the Supreme Court for siding with Trump after lower courts have blocked parts of his sweeping agenda. SCOTUS has come to Trump's aid on a number of cases, and now the president is asking them to overturn a ruling that found his sweeping tariffs to be illegal. MSNBC legal analyst Melissa Murray joins “The Weekend” to discuss how the Trump administration is using shadow dockets to fast-track cases.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
September 6, 2025; 7am: In a sign that the Trump administration is planning a repeat of what happened in Los Angeles in June, fencing was put up around a federal courthouse in downtown Chicago in preparation for protests. The Pentagon has officially greenlit using a Naval base north of the city as a staging ground to launch operations. Former House Rep. Max Rose and Maya Wiley join The Weekend to discuss President Trump's plans in Chicago and DC.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
While most MAGA goons only do as their leader tells them, Marjorie Taylor Greene has joined forces with prominent Democrats to get to the bottom of the Epstein scandal. Steve Schmidt breaks down the recent congressional hearings on Epstein and shows how deep Trump's corruption runs. Subscribe for more and follow me here: Substack: https://steveschmidt.substack.com/subscribe Store: https://thewarningwithsteveschmidt.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thewarningses.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteveSchmidtSES/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewarningses Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewarningses/ X: https://x.com/SteveSchmidtSES
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.
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
August 31, 2025; 9am: The Epstein estate plans to hand over the convicted sex offender's 'Birthday Book' and other documents to Congress on September 8th. The book is reportedly filled with well wishes from friends and associates, including an explicit message and drawing by President Trump, which he denies. Epstein survivors Jess Michaels and Teresa Helm, join The Weekend to discuss, as well as Ameshia Cross, and Eugene Craig.For more, follow us on social media:Bluesky: @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.socialInstagram: @theweekendmsnbcTikTok: @theweekendmsnbcTo listen to this show and other MSNBC podcasts without ads, sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts.
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has had his appeal to overturn his 2019 life sentence rejected by a U.S. court. Guzman was convicted on charges including drug trafficking, operating a criminal enterprise, and firearms violations. His legal team argued that his trial was unfair due to jury misconduct and the harsh conditions of his solitary confinement, which they claimed impacted his ability to mount a defense.Despite these arguments, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original verdict, praising the trial judge's management of the high-profile case and rejecting the claims of juror misconduct. The court also dismissed the argument regarding Guzman's solitary confinement, stating it did not infringe on his right to a fair trial.In this episode, we take a look at the DOJ's El Chapo Brief.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Chapo-ca2-us-brief.pdf (courthousenews.com)
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.
It's been another wild week, after the D.C. Attorney General sued the government for attempting to install the head of the D.E.A. as D.C.'s emergency police commissioner. Following an emergency hearing, US Attorney General Pam Bondi backed down and re-wrote the directive. But Andrew and Mary highlight why that's just the start: it's no longer just the D.C. National Guard being deployed in the nation's capital, National Guard units from five other red states are being sent to the city, making a complicated stew of who's in charge and who has jurisdiction. Next, they weave this thread into last week's trial over whether California's National Guard performed law enforcement operations in Los Angeles, a potential violation of The Posse Comitatus Act. And with Russia and Ukraine so much in the news, Andrew offers some reflections from the 2019 Special Counsel's report that exposes Russia's long-held goal of taking over the Donbas region. And last up, Andrew and Mary fill listeners in on two DC Circuit cases that have their attention: a decision allowing the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to be dismantled and another that allows Trump to withhold billions in foreign aid.And 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.