American lawyer
POPULARITY
Senator Cory Booker sits down with Marc Elias to discuss the real and growing threats to American democracy. Booker explains why economic insecurity, extreme inequality, and normalized corruption are not just policy failures but existential dangers to democratic stability. He warns that rising costs, collapsing trust in institutions, authoritarian abuses of power, and the politics of cruelty are driving cynicism and disengagement—and creating fertile ground for democratic backsliding. Rather than focusing only on stopping Donald Trump, Booker argues that democracy can only be saved by restoring trust, redeeming the American promise, and offering a bold, forward-looking moral vision that gives people something worth fighting for, not just something to fight against. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker joins Marc Elias for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about governing through constant crisis and confronting the growing threat to American democracy. Pritzker reflects on balancing Illinois' budget, leading through COVID, responding to the migrant crisis, and pushing back against what he describes as Donald Trump's authoritarian tactics—from ICE and CBP raids in Chicago to attacks on civil liberties and democratic norms. Drawing on Holocaust history and his own life experience, he explains how democracies erode and why the danger is real. Looking ahead to 2026, Pritzker argues that while democracy is the foundational issue of our time, elections are won on kitchen-table concerns like wages, rent, healthcare, and affordability, sharply criticizing Trump's tariffs as hidden taxes on working families. The interview offers a clear-eyed look at leadership, values, and what it will take to defend democracy and win going forward. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocke
A surprising legal principle from conservative Supreme Court gun cases could help restore the right to vote as a first-class constitutional right. Drawing on his experience arguing his fifth case before the SCOTUS, Marc Elias shows how voting has been wrongly treated as a second-class right—subject to balancing tests and state convenience—while other rights receive strict protection, and argues that the Constitution, history, and modern technology all support stronger, uniform safeguards for free and fair elections. Watch for deep insight into the US legal system, legal principles, and how we can strengthen the democratic process. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocke
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse joins Marc Elias for a sweeping conversation on the state of American democracy—from the tragedy at Brown University to the urgent fight against Supreme Court capture, dark money, and fossil fuel influence. Whitehouse breaks down how billionaire interests engineered a “captured court,” why voting rights and environmental regulation are under attack, and what real Supreme Court reform must look like.Support independent journalism:https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtubeStay informed with the latest news and political analysis:https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtubeFollow Democracy Docket:Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocketFacebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocketX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocketTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocketThreads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Angel Studios https://Angel.com/HermanJoin the Angel Guild today where you can stream Thank You, Dr. Fauci and be part of the conversation demanding truth and accountability. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/Todd Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Alan's Soaps https://www.AlansArtisanSoaps.comUse coupon code TODD to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/ToddThe new GOLDEN AGE is here! Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubePresident Trump Decided To Lose To Rob Reiner's Ghost. // If These Are Our Betters, Who Are They Following? // The Holy Spirit Won't Let Me Care About RaceEpisode Links:CBS just had Hunter Kozak appear at the Erika Kirk townhall and ask her to condemn Trump's rhetoric. This is the leftist who asked Charlie his last question in Utah. He never even said sorry for your lossI disagreed with nearly everything Rob Reiner believed politically, but I won't celebrate his death. His thoughts on Charlie Kirk were heartfelt and caring. Justice Thomas grills Russia collusion hoaxer Marc Elias about his rambling campaign finance arguments. “I still don't understand what you're saying.”@RepThomasMassie calls out @SpeakerJohnson for flip-flopping on FISA reform, stating that the SCIF meeting that allegedly changed his mind — which Massie also attended — had nothing of substanceDigital ID - I made my thoughts abundantly clear in Parliament. We must resist it. Because once it's in, we are never turning back. I plan on resisting. I will not download a Digital ID. I will not comply.
Harvard Law Professor Nicholas Bowie joins Marc Elias to unpack how the Supreme Court's conservative majority is dismantling decades of voting rights, campaign finance law, and congressional authority. From the Voting Rights Act to campaign finance reform, from Reconstruction to modern-day “history and tradition” tests, this conversation explores why SCOTUS is no longer exercising judicial restraint—but judicial supremacy. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Marc Elias explains the Voter Suppression Iceberg — a breakdown of the tactics, laws, and strategies that Republicans are using to restrict voting access in the United States. Marc breaks down everything from surface-level policies most voters recognize, down to the lesser-known, deep-cut mechanisms that influence elections behind the scenes. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
This Day in Legal History: SCOTUS Intervenes in 2000 Presidential ElectionOn this day in legal history, December 9, 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court intervened in the presidential election with a pivotal order in Bush v. Gore. The Court issued a 5-4 decision to halt the manual recount of ballots in Florida, which had been ordered by the Florida Supreme Court due to the razor-thin margin between George W. Bush and Al Gore. The justices cited potential violations of the Equal Protection Clause, expressing concern that differing standards across counties for evaluating ballots could lead to unequal treatment of voters.The per curiam order did not decide the case outright but signaled deep skepticism about the recount process, effectively pausing it while the Court considered broader constitutional questions. This stay was the first significant sign that the nation's highest court might ultimately decide the outcome of the 2000 election. Three days later, the Court would issue its final ruling, effectively awarding Florida's 25 electoral votes to Bush and securing his presidency.The December 9 order was controversial not only for its impact on the election but for its constitutional implications. Critics argued the Court had overstepped by interfering in a state-managed election process, while supporters claimed it was necessary to ensure legal consistency and fairness. The episode raised enduring questions about the judiciary's role in democratic governance and electoral integrity.The Court's use of the Equal Protection Clause in this context was novel and has rarely been invoked in similar cases since. The justices themselves noted that the ruling was limited to the specific circumstances of the 2000 election. Nevertheless, the decision left a lasting mark on American law and politics, serving as a stark example of how constitutional interpretation can intersect with high-stakes political conflict.The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a major challenge to federal campaign finance limits in a case involving Vice President JD Vance and two Republican political committees. The case targets restrictions on how much political parties can spend in coordination with candidates they support, with plaintiffs arguing that these limits violate the First Amendment's free speech protections. The legal challenge stems from a 2022 lawsuit filed while Vance was running for Senate in Ohio.At issue are “coordinated party expenditure limits” under the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, which differentiates between independent spending (unlimited) and coordinated spending (restricted). The challengers argue that the current rules unconstitutionally restrict political speech by capping how much support a party can directly offer its candidates. In contrast, Roman Martinez, appointed by the Court to defend the law after the Trump-aligned FEC declined to do so, argues that without these limits, parties could act as loopholes for donors to evade individual contribution caps—raising corruption risks.A lower court upheld the law, citing a 2001 Supreme Court precedent, but the challengers now argue that subsequent changes in campaign finance law—especially since Citizens United—warrant a reassessment. Three Democratic campaign committees have joined the case to defend the law, represented by attorney Marc Elias. The outcome could significantly reshape the balance between campaign finance regulation and political speech, especially in high-stakes federal elections.US Supreme Court weighs challenge to campaign spending curbs in JD Vance case | ReutersMassachusetts is taking legal action to block Kalshi, a prediction-market platform, from allowing residents to bet on sports outcomes, arguing the company is operating as an unlicensed gambling business. Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell is seeking a preliminary injunction in state court to stop Kalshi's operations in Massachusetts, marking the first time a U.S. state has pursued a court order against the platform. At least nine other states have issued cease-and-desist letters to Kalshi, but none have yet gone this far.Kalshi offers users the ability to buy “event contracts” on the outcomes of various occurrences—including sporting events—through a platform regulated by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The company maintains that its activities are legal under federal law, claiming its contracts are financial derivatives (swaps), not wagers, and thus fall outside the scope of state gambling laws.Massachusetts disagrees, alleging that Kalshi is effectively offering sports betting to users, including individuals as young as 18—below the state's legal betting age of 21. The case highlights a growing tension between federal financial regulation and state-level gambling laws. Kalshi's position has already faced judicial setbacks: federal judges in Nevada and Maryland have ruled that state gambling laws apply to Kalshi's operations, though those decisions are under appeal. Meanwhile, the company has pending legal challenges against other states, including New York and Connecticut.Massachusetts seeks to block Kalshi from operating sports-prediction market | ReutersThe U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the Loudoun County School Board in Virginia, challenging its policy that allows transgender students to use locker rooms aligned with their gender identity. The DOJ claims the policy violates the constitutional rights of religious students who object to “gender ideology,” framing the case as a denial of equal protection rooted in religious freedom concerns. This lawsuit is part of a broader push by the Trump administration to roll back transgender-inclusive policies in schools, sports, and the military.The Loudoun County school board has maintained its gender policy despite federal pressure, citing prior court rulings supporting the rights of transgender students to use facilities aligned with their identity. Critics, including state officials, claim the school has retaliated against students and parents who objected to the policy, particularly in cases involving locker room complaints.The case represents a new front in an escalating legal and political campaign to police gender expression and access, using constitutional arguments around religion and sex-based rights to challenge trans inclusion in public spaces. This comes amid a broader moral panic over gender identity, echoing the structure and rhetoric of the 1980s satanic panic—but with even more tangible consequences, especially for already marginalized transgender youth. While the panic of that earlier era was rooted in fabricated threats, today's version is targeting real people, shaping policies that affect their education, safety, and public presence.US Justice Department sues Virginia school board over transgender use of locker rooms | ReutersIn my latest column for Bloomberg Tax, I argue that Texas' new sales tax sourcing rules expose the shaky logic behind decades of municipal incentives for fulfillment centers—and offer a timely reason to abandon the practice altogether. The recent revision to Rule 3.334 by the Texas Comptroller clarifies that a location must actively receive customer orders—not merely fulfill them—to count as a “place of business” for local tax purposes. That change has triggered a lawsuit from the City of Coppell and other Texas municipalities, who now stand to lose out on lucrative sales tax revenue tied to online commerce routed through local warehouses.But regardless of the lawsuit's outcome, I believe the real issue is the flawed economic development model these cities have been relying on. For years, under Chapter 380 agreements, municipalities handed out infrastructure upgrades and tax rebates to lure backend logistics operations with promises of rising sales tax revenue. Yet these facilities, often low-wage, temporary, and increasingly automated, were never a strong foundation for community growth. Their value was always tied to creative interpretations of tax code language—not meaningful employment or local investment.Now that the tax arbitrage game is falling apart, municipalities should see this as an opportunity to rethink their approach. I argue for redirecting public resources toward workforce development, technical training, and support for regionally rooted industries—investments that actually build capacity, not just capture transactional flows. If a city's financial health depends on how an e-commerce order is defined in the tax code, that's not economic development—it's dependence.Texas Sales Tax Sourcing Fight Is More Reason to Drop Incentives This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
Marc Elias sits down with Faiz Shakir, founder of More Perfect Union and former campaign manager for Bernie Sanders, for a deep dive into the future of Democratic messaging, media, and grassroots organizing. Faiz breaks down three core elements of constructive, pro-worker populism, how political organizing is empowering Americans to advocate for workplace justice, and how independent media is stepping into the vacuum left by legacy outlets. More Perfect Union: https://www.youtube.com/moreperfectunion Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Harvard professor and global expert on democratic breakdown Steven Levitsky joins Marc Elias to assess where the United States stands in 2025—and whether we've crossed the line into authoritarianism. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Democracy in America is facing a defining test — and Eddie Glaude breaks down the one threat we must confront if we want the country to endure. In this powerful conversation with Marc Elias, Eddie explains how political polarization, racial injustice, and concentrated power have created a crisis point in the history of America — and what ordinary people can do to reclaim democratic institutions and legal equality before it's too late. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
In this video, voting rights attorney Marc Elias breaks down 7 urgent reforms every blue state must pass before 2026 (plus a bonus). These are real, actionable policies that protect the right to vote, stop ballot rejection, and make democracy actually work for every voter. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Fear is mounting about the integrity of next year's elections and all the tricks MAGA World might be able to pull. How valid are those concerns? What are the reasons for confidence? Jane Coaston convenes a discussion with some of the elected officials and experts who know best: Democracy Docket founder Marc Elias, North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs, and Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar. This episode was recorded at Crooked Con on November 7th. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
November 25, 2025; 8pm: Tonight, the newest White House intimidation campaign and exclusive reporting that the FBI Director may be on his way out. Then, Congressman Jamie Raskin on the spectacular collapse of the Trump case against Comey and Tish James. Plus, Marc Elias on the latest turn in Trump's attempt to stay in power. And the president's latest push to remake American culture—with a "Rush Hour" sequel. Want more of Chris? Download and follow his podcast, “Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes podcast” 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.
Sen. Ruben Gallego joins Marc Elias for an in-depth conversation on the future of American democracy, Latino political power, and why Democrats win when they focus on the economy and authenticity—not manufactured political personas. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Never-Trumper and former Republican George Conway joins Marc Elias to unpack why Donald Trump is both an “addled old man” and a dangerous threat to democracy. They also break down Democratic momentum in key elections — and Conway reveals whether he's considering running for Congress. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Texas Republicans just suffered a major legal defeat — and now they're panicking. After their gerrymandered redistricting scheme collapsed in court, a dissenting judge went off the rails, name-dropping Marc Elias and pushing conspiracy-style attacks instead of legal arguments. In this video, Marc explains why the GOP lost, what made their map unconstitutional, and how these wild attacks on voting rights lawyers expose the weakness of their case. When extremists can't win on the law, they go after the people defending democracy. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
The bill to release the Epstein files passes by unanimous consent in the Senate. Nicolle Wallace discusses that victory, but also speaks with Marc Elias about his victory in court over Texas Republicans' gerrymandered map after a federal panel of judges moves to block the map. Later, Nicolle discusses Trump's meeting with Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman and the disparaging comments he made about Jamal Khashoggi.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. 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.
Brian Tyler Cohen joins Marc Elias to highlight the Democrats in who are fighting back against Trump's attacks on democracy, from the battle in Congress over the Epstein files to the frontline legal and political fights of Trump's second term. This conversation breaks down the leaders, strategies, and momentum driving Democrats forward in 2026 and beyond. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Rep. Robert Garcia joins Marc Elias to unpack the latest revelations from the Epstein Files: emails linking Donald Trump to victims in the Jeffrey Epstein case; the bipartisan discharge petition in Congress that could force full public release of the files; and how Democrats outmaneuvered the GOP to keep the investigation on track. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Donald Trump has repeatedly tried to keep the Epstein files out of the spotlight — but could his fear of their release be influencing far more than we realize? In this episode, Marc Elias breaks down the strange behavior of Rep. Mike Johnson and Congress, what the recently released emails bring to light, and how the political gridlock may have all been a distraction from the Epstein Files. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Janai Nelson, Civil Rights Attorney & President of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, joins Marc Elias to expose how America's democracy is still shaped by race and power. From the gutting of the Voting Rights Act to the fight over representation in states like Louisiana, Nelson explains how the Supreme Court and partisan lawmakers are rolling back hard-won rights — and what it will take to build a truly multiracial democracy. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Legal Defense Fund: https://www.naacpldf.org/ Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett joins Marc Elias to break down the GOP's chaos in the House, the fight over redistricting in Texas, and what these battles reveal about the road to 2026. From Republican infighting to the next wave of voting rights fights, Crockett shares her unfiltered view of where American democracy is headed. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Despite major pro-democracy wins in 2025, the fight is far from over. This video exposes the next phase of Trump and the Republicans' playbook — and what voters, lawyers, and journalists must do now to defend democracy before it's too late. Marc Elias of Democracy Docket gives his expert take on politics, news, and current events. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket 07:46 Claiming “Fraud” 12:20 Banning Voting Methods 15:30 Weaponizing Federal Power 18:04 Seizing Control of Ballots 22:24 Extreme Republican Gerrymandering 27:56 Abusing the Courts 34:31 Political Retaliation & Prosecutions 38:23 Undermining the Media
Rep. Dan Goldman joins Marc Elias and Democracy Docket to expose how Donald Trump is weaponizing the DOJ, threatening Republicans, and covering up the Epstein files. They discuss the dangers of mid-decade redistricting, election denial, and what Democrats are doing to defend democracy and protect the rule of law. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
Tuesday, November 1, 2022In the Hot Notes; the DoJ has charged the assailant who attempted to assassinate the Speaker of the House; Officer Harry Dunn and others testify in the Oath Keepers trial; Fascism loses in Brazil as Lula beats Bolsonaro; Senator Chris Murphy wants to investigate Saudi Arabia's role in Musk's Twitter takeover; Trump appeals to block his tax returns from being handed over to the House Ways and Means Committee; the DoJ has filed a statement of interest in the Marc Elias lawsuit against Arizona ballot drop box intimidation; plus Allison and Dana bring you your good news.More from our guest David Rothkopfhttps://twitter.com/djrothkopfAmerican Resistancehttps://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/titles/david-rothkopf/american-resistance/9781541700659/Deep State Radiohttps://thedsrnetwork.com/ Our Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - DonateMSW Media, Blue Wave California Victory Fund | ActBlueWhistleblowerAid.org/beansFederal workers - feel free to 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.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.
Donald Trump and the Republican Party are leading a coordinated redistricting and gerrymandering campaign to rig upcoming elections and weaken democracy. Marc Elias exposes how these maps threaten fair representation, expand voter suppression, and test the limits of election law. Through bold litigation, public activism, and sustained political engagement, Democrats and voters can still fight back for fair maps and transparent election processes. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket
October 29th, 2025, 5pm: The Atlantic's David Graham delivers a startling look into the future efforts to subvert elections in the U.S. in a new piece that he joins Nicolle Wallace and Democracy Docket's Marc Elias to unpack. And later in the hour, military experts join Nicolle to lay out how Donald Trump is using troops to hurdle the country towards autocracy.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.
Former Obama speechwriter Jon Favreau joins Marc Elias to discuss how Democrats can counter Donald Trump's authoritarian actions and fix their messaging ahead of the 2026 midterms. They break down the Democratic Party's internal divide, the challenge of connecting policy to democracy, and what it will take to win voters in a divided America. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
Trump insider Steve Bannon says "there's a plan" for Donald Trump to serve a third term, and Trump says he'd "love to do it." Jon, Lovett, and Tommy speculate what that plan may look like and what it means for this year's elections and the 2026 midterms. Then, they discuss the latest from the ongoing government shutdown, Trump's new tariffs on Canada in response to a TV ad he didn't like, and Republicans' attempts to make Zohran Mamdani the face of the Democratic Party. Then, election attorney Marc Elias, founder of Democracy Docket, joins Lovett to talk more about Trump's 2028 plan and why he's taking the third-term threat seriously.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.
Rachel Maddow explains that while much of Donald Trump's abuse of power is typical of authoritarians, Trump has a new tool that no authoritarian before him has had: extremely advanced spyware. Trump is already deploying this new weapon through ICE, which intends to use this surveillance technology against immigrants but also against Americans who protest against ICE, and anyone they might snare with an extremely loose definition of "anti-fascist."Rachel Maddow considers reasons why protesting against authoritarians is important, from feeling empowered to ensuring that important rights don't atrophy or get taken away when they're not in use. But another important use for protest is to send a message to the people and entities that would capitulate and become accomplices in the authoritarian's abuses.Marc Elias, attorney and founder of Democracy Docket, talks with Rachel Maddow about the fight he expects Donald Trump to put up as Trump's unpopularity makes a clean election victory less likely. Even as Trump will abuse the power and credibility of the Justice Department to serve his ends, his past bad faith in making bogus election fraud accusations gives his legal opponents an advantage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Congressman Ro Khanna joins Marc Elias to discuss the government shutdown, Trump's influence over GOP policy, and how economic inequality threatens the economy and democracy itself. He also reacts to new revelations on Republican efforts to undermine voting rights. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
Donald Trump has corrupted the Department of Justice into a weapon against his political opponents — and too many legal experts are falling into a dangerous trap by pretending it's still a normal institution. In this video, Marc Elias from Democracy Docket breaks down how authoritarians use “rule by law” to punish enemies, why the DOJ can no longer be trusted under Trump, and how doctrines like the “presumption of regularity” enable abuse of power. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
Donald Trump is laying the groundwork to undermine the 2026 elections — filling his administration with election deniers, weaponizing the Justice Department, and attacking the rule of law. From Kurt Olson to Stephen Miller and Kash Patel, Trump's allies are preparing to control every part of the election process — from voting rights to ballot counting. Watch this video from Marc Elias and Democracy Docket to learn how we can defend free elections, improve government accountability, and stop Trump's plan to rig 2026. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
Donald Trump wants to be king... and Rep. Eric Swalwell is leading the opposition. In this conversation with Marc Elias, Swalwell sounds the alarm on Trump's growing attempts to weaponize government power — from deploying the military in U.S. cities to shutting down Congress and blocking the release of Epstein files — all as part of a strategy to protect himself and undermine American democracy ahead of the 2026 election. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
Congressman Jake Auchincloss calls out Donald Trump and the Republicans for using U.S. Marines as political props, warning it's a dangerous step toward authoritarianism. He tells Marc Elias why Congress must act to restore checks and balances and stop Trump from turning the military into a campaign weapon. Support independent journalism: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay informed with the latest news and political analysis: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/youtube Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com
It's Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, late morning, and for those following Donald Trump's latest legal battles, the pace has barely slowed. If you've been glued to the news these past few days, courtrooms from California all the way to Washington, D.C. have seen Trump's lawyers and prosecutors trading volleys over his actions as president and well into his post-presidency.The big headline out west came from California, where a federal judge issued a strongly worded ruling against Donald Trump after his attempt to deploy the California National Guard into Oregon. According to the governor's office, the judge—ironically appointed by Trump himself—rebuked the idea that a president could override state authority this way, reminding all parties that the “historical tradition boils down to a simple proposition: this is a nation of Constitutional law, not martial law.” In her order, she found the Trump administration's arguments “simply untethered to the facts” and declared that statements justifying the deployments “were not conceived in good faith.” That resulted in a direct rebuke to Trump's approach and another layer of judicial reinforcement of state rights.Meanwhile, on the federal front, the Supreme Court's October term is shaping up to be a blockbuster for Trump-related litigation. SCOTUSblog reported on Monday that the justices added five new cases to their docket for the 2025-26 term. While the full list hasn't dropped yet, legal analysts expect at least one to touch directly on former President Trump's use and possible abuse of executive powers—Marc Elias and Neal Katyal have both appeared on cable news speculating about how these cases could clarify ambiguous boundaries around presidential immunity and what's meant by “high crimes and misdemeanors.”Lawfare's Litigation Tracker, which has become almost a reference Bible for the ‘Trump trial industrial complex,' continues to log new lawsuits and appeals nearly every week. National security-related executive actions, especially around border policy and federal troop deployment, remain hotly contested in district and appellate courts. Just yesterday, reporters in D.C. spotted Trump's legal team in the courthouse, trying to negotiate further delays by arguing that the core issues have ‘never before been tested by the courts.' That's turned the federal judiciary into an arena not just for Trump's legal future but also for the broader definition of presidential power in America.If you think the story's about to wind down, think again. With upcoming hearings and new filings announced daily, this remains the most scrutinized courtroom saga in modern history.Thanks for tuning in today. Make sure to come back next week for more updates—this has been a Quiet Please production, and for more, check out Quiet Please Dot A I.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://www.quietplease.aiThis content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
“The Constitution gives the states the power to set the time, place, and manner of elections,” the election lawyer Marc Elias points out. “It gives the President no [such] power.” Yet, almost one year before the midterms, Donald Trump has called for a nationwide prohibition on mail-in voting, an option favored by Democrats, as well as restrictions on voting machines. The Justice Department has demanded sensitive voter information from at least thirty-four states so far, with little explanation as to how the information will be used. Will we have free and fair congressional elections in 2026? “I am very worried that we could have elections that do not reflect the desires and the voting preferences of everyone who wishes they could vote and have their vote tabulated accurately,” Elias tells David Remnick. “That may sound very lawyerly and very technical, but I think it would be a historic rollback.” Elias's firm fought and ultimately won almost every case that Trump and Republican allies brought against the 2020 election, and Elias continues to fight the latest round of incursions in court. And while he rues what he calls “re-gerrymandering” in Texas—designed to squeeze Texas's Democratic representatives out of Congress—Elias thinks states run by Democrats have no choice but to copy the tactic. “Before Gavin Newsom announced what he was doing, I came out publicly and said Democrats should gerrymander nine seats out of California, which would mean there'd be no Republicans left in the delegation. . . . At the end of the day, if there's no disincentive structure for Republicans to jump off this path, [then] it just continues.” Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
“The Constitution gives the states the power to set the time, place, and manner of elections,” the election lawyer Marc Elias points out. “It gives the President no [such] power.” Yet, almost one year before the midterms, Donald Trump has called for a nationwide prohibition on mail-in voting, an option favored by Democrats, as well as restrictions on voting machines. The Justice Department has demanded sensitive voter information from at least thirty-four states so far, with little explanation as to how the information will be used. Will we have free and fair congressional elections in 2026? “I am very worried that we could have elections that do not reflect the desires and the voting preferences of everyone who wishes they could vote and have their vote tabulated accurately,” Elias tells David Remnick. “That may sound very lawyerly and very technical, but I think it would be a historic rollback.” Elias's firm fought and ultimately won almost every case that Trump and Republican allies brought against the 2020 election, and Elias continues to fight the latest round of incursions in court. And while he rues what he calls “re-gerrymandering” in Texas—designed to squeeze Texas's Democratic representatives out of Congress—Elias thinks states run by Democrats have no choice but to copy the tactic. “Before Gavin Newsom announced what he was doing, I came out publicly and said Democrats should gerrymander nine seats out of California, which would mean there'd be no Republicans left in the delegation. . . . At the end of the day, if there's no disincentive structure for Republicans to jump off this path, [then] it just continues.”
Marc Elias explains why Donald Trump is escalating his authoritarian crackdown on thought, dissent, media and organizations. Support independent journalism by becoming a Democracy Docket premium member: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay up to date on the fight for democracy with our free newsletter: https://hubs.ly/Q03jcbrc0 Antifragile By Nassim Nicholas Taleb: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/176227/antifragile-by-nassim-nicholas-taleb/ Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com #MarcElias #politics #democracy #news
The Republican Party has been co-opted by the far-right to enact their radical agenda. Nicolle Wallace joins Marc Elias to discuss the devolution of the GOP, Trump's weaknesses, and the media‘s role in preventing a fascist takeover. Support independent journalism by becoming a Democracy Docket premium member: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay up to date on the fight for democracy with our free newsletter: https://hubs.ly/Q03jcbrc0 Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com #MarcElias #politics #democracy #news
Trump is throwing the Constitution out the window and Rep. Jamie Raskin is calling him out. He joined Marc Elias to discuss restoring American democracy, the administration's overreach into elections, and Trump's desire to be a dictator. Support independent journalism by becoming a Democracy Docket premium member: https://newsletters.democracydocket.com/member-youtube Stay up to date on the fight for democracy with our free newsletter: https://hubs.ly/Q03jcbrc0 Follow Democracy Docket: Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/democracydocket.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/democracydocket Facebook: https://facebook.com/democracydocket X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemocracyDocket TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@democracydocket Threads: https://www.threads.net/@democracydocket Shop Democracy Docket merch: https://store.democracydocket.com #MarcElias #politics #democracy #news
The Jim Acosta Show’s Jim Acosta examines Trump’s escalating authoritarian actions. Democracy Docket’s Marc Elias details how they are pushing back legally against Trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
August 20, 2025, 5pm: While Republicans struggle with the Epstein scandal, a judge rejects Team Trump's request to unseal grand jury material, undercutting their bid to appear transparent. Legal experts Marc Elias and Mary McCord and MSNBC Senior Contributing Editor Michele Norris join Nicolle to discuss. Plus, newly unredacted filings reveal Fox News hosts prioritized ratings over verified reporting during the 2020 election.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.
President Trump triggers a deep state meltdown by announcing an executive order to outlaw mail in voting. Voting rights "expert" Marc Elias loses his mind over the media's refusal to go after Trump for taking away the democrats' last gasp at election victory: Cheating by mail. Crime in DC plummets as the head of the police union explains how Metro police leaders broke the law by instructing officers to downgrade violent crime in their reports.
August 12th, 2025, 5pm: Another GOP congressman faces heat from constituents and Nicolle Wallace discusses how Democrats can capitalize on that with her panel. And it's Democracy Tuesday with Marc Elias and Melissa Murray as Texas gerrymandering threatens to disenfranchise voters. 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.
Harry talks with top election law expert Marc Elias about the efforts by Trump and Republicans across the country to stack the deck in their favor for the 2026 midterms. They delve into the effort in Texas to gerrymander five new seats for Republicans. They then turn to the Department of Justice's extraordinary effort to acquire information from state and local officials, and the specific dangers it poses. They close with some thoughts about what all of us can do to fight back. It's always timely to check in with Marc Elias, but particularly now with the first signs of danger for the midterms. Marc's articles at Democracy Docket: https://www.democracydocket.com/author/marc_elias/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Texas Republicans are busy gerrymandering their already gerrymandered congressional map, and other red states are looking to do the same—all aimed at blocking the Dems from winning back the House and shielding Donald Trump at all costs. Meanwhile, the DOJ is trying to get state voter rolls and is laying the groundwork for interfering in the midterms. Democrats need to fight fire with fire in blue states. Plus, the cowardice of Big Law, the power politics behind the Emil Bove confirmation, and the pathetic deference Republicans are showing to convicted sex crimes monster Ghislaine Maxwell. Marc Elias joins Tim Miller. show notes Elias's Democracy Docket F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code BULWARK15 at theperfectjean.nyc/BULWARK15
Nicolle Wallace on the multiplying questions around Donald Trump's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, Trump criticizing Jerome Powell during a bill signing, and the Senate confirmation of Emil Bove for a lifelong seat on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. Joined by: Julie K. Brown, Angelo Carusone, Ankush Khardori, Steve Liesman, Maria Aspan, Marc Elias, Mitch Landrieu, Kristy Greenberg and Associate Justice Allison Riggs.
Joined by: David Gilbert, Charlie Sykes, Alex Wagner, Michele Norris, Sen. Cory Booker, Marc Elias, Angelo Carusone and Sarah Longwell.