Podcast appearances and mentions of washington crew

This Day in Legal History:  Schecter Poultry Corp DecidedOn May 27, 1935, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark decision in A.L.A. Schechter Poultry Corp. v. United States, delivering a major blow to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. In a unanimous ruling, the Court struck down the National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA), a cornerstone of Roosevelt's economic recovery plan during the Great Depression. The case centered on the Schechter brothers, who ran a poultry business in Brooklyn and were charged with violating fair competition codes established under NIRA. The Court held that the NIRA unlawfully delegated legislative power to the executive branch without clear standards, violating the nondelegation doctrine.The justices also found that the federal government had overreached its authority by regulating purely intrastate commerce. The Schechters' business operated entirely within New York, and the Court concluded it had only an indirect effect on interstate commerce—placing it beyond Congress's regulatory power under the Commerce Clause. Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes, writing for the Court, emphasized the need for separation of powers and warned against unchecked executive authority.This ruling sharply curtailed New Deal programs that relied on broad executive discretion and forced the Roosevelt administration to reconsider its legislative strategies. It also marked one of the last major uses of the nondelegation doctrine to invalidate federal legislation. While the doctrine has since faded in use, the decision remains a potent symbol of judicial limits on federal power. The Schechter case underscored the constitutional requirement that Congress, not the president, must make the laws, and that those laws must respect the boundaries of federalism.The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a lower court's order that would have required the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), created by President Trump and closely associated with Elon Musk, to turn over records and allow a top official, Amy Gleason, to testify. Chief Justice John Roberts granted the administrative stay without comment, giving the Court time to consider whether a longer pause is warranted. The case, brought by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), hinges on whether DOGE qualifies as a federal agency under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which would subject it to transparency requirements.The Trump administration argues DOGE is not covered by FOIA and has pushed back against efforts to obtain discovery—evidence and testimony—from the office. A federal judge had previously authorized limited discovery to help determine DOGE's legal status, which led to the administration's emergency appeal to the Supreme Court. The Justice Department claims this process threatens the separation of powers by exposing a presidential advisory body to scrutiny.CREW contends the administration is trying to bypass judicial review and shield the office from public accountability. Though Elon Musk is seen as the public face of DOGE, the administration denies he holds any formal role. The Court's intervention pauses imminent deadlines for DOGE to release records and participate in depositions, but a full ruling on the core legal question remains pending.Supreme Court Pauses Order for DOGE Records and Testimony - BloombergA federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to help a gay Guatemalan man, identified as O.C.G., return to the United States after he was wrongfully deported to Mexico. The man had fled Guatemala due to threats linked to his sexuality and was granted protection by an immigration judge. However, just two days after that ruling, U.S. officials mistakenly deported him to Mexico, where he had previously been raped and kidnapped.U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy, based in Boston, issued the order after the Justice Department admitted it had no evidence that O.C.G. was ever asked about fears of being sent to Mexico, contradicting earlier claims. The judge called the situation a "horror" and emphasized that the man had been denied his constitutional right to due process. The case is part of a broader class action challenging the administration's deportation practices, particularly efforts to send individuals to third countries without assessing safety concerns.Murphy had already ruled that deportations under such conditions violated due process protections. The ruling also follows similar failures by the administration, including the wrongful deportation of another protected individual to El Salvador. O.C.G.'s legal team, now working on a return plan, said he chose to return to Guatemala and went into hiding after facing long asylum wait times in Mexico.US judge orders Trump administration to facilitate return of Guatemalan deportee | ReutersMy column for Bloomberg this week dives into a deceptively boring topic that's quietly poised to become a compliance headache: killing the penny. On the surface, it's a monetary housekeeping item. But as I argue, the downstream effects—particularly for state sales tax systems—are anything but trivial.The central problem isn't emotional attachment to small coins. It's rounding—specifically, how states choose to round transactions in a penny-free world. If states start rounding tax amounts instead of total amounts, or worse, do it differently depending on whether someone pays in cash or by card, they're walking straight into a legal buzzsaw. The Internet Tax Freedom Act (ITFA) bars discriminatory treatment of electronic commerce. And no, that doesn't only apply to online transactions—if digital payments consistently produce higher tax totals than cash ones, that's arguably “discrimination,” and litigation will follow.The fix? Simple enough: keep tax calculations exact to the penny, round only the total cash transaction due to the nearest nickel, and let the retailer absorb the difference. It's not pain-free—retailers lose a few cents here, gain a few there—but it keeps digital systems intact and legal risk low. Rounding the tax itself may feel “efficient,” but it's a compliance trap that opens states to lawsuits and chaos in point-of-sale systems designed for one-cent precision.And that's before we even get to the technical debt. E-commerce platforms, credit card processors, and small business systems have no concept of nickel rounding. Forcing them to adapt would mean software rewrites no one asked for—and in many cases, from vendors who no longer exist.The upside here is policy gold: rounding only at the total level nudges more transactions toward cards and mobile payments, where amounts are exact and sales tax compliance is tighter. Fewer paper trails, fewer “zappers,” and fewer discrepancies in audit.So yes, the penny is obsolete. But if states mishandle the transition, they'll find out just how expensive abolishing it can be. 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

This Day in Legal History: Abraham Lincoln, InventorOn May 22, 1849, Abraham Lincoln was awarded U.S. Patent No. 6,469 for an invention designed to lift boats over shoals and other obstacles in shallow waterways. The device involved a system of bellows attached to the hull of a boat, which could be inflated to lift the vessel over obstructions. Lincoln conceived the idea after witnessing firsthand how flatboats became stranded on sandbars during his travels on the Mississippi River. Though the invention was never manufactured, Lincoln's patent represents a rare intersection of legal, political, and technological history.Lincoln's detailed model, which he carved himself, is now preserved at the Smithsonian Institution. His application demonstrated a firm grasp of both mechanics and the legal requirements of patent law, including the novelty and utility standards necessary for approval. Lincoln's interest in patents was not merely personal—he viewed the patent system as a key driver of American innovation and economic growth. In an 1858 lecture, he praised the patent system as adding "the fuel of interest to the fire of genius."This episode in Lincoln's life underscores the connection between law and invention in the 19th century. The U.S. patent system, formalized under the Patent Act of 1790 and modified several times by Lincoln's era, provided crucial protections to inventors during a time of rapid industrial development. Lincoln's engagement with the system as both an inventor and a lawyer reflects the broader legal culture of self-improvement and technological optimism in antebellum America.Matthew Lane, a 19-year-old student at Assumption University in Massachusetts, has agreed to plead guilty to charges stemming from a significant data breach at PowerSchool, a cloud-based education software company. Federal prosecutors allege Lane accessed PowerSchool's network in September 2024 using stolen contractor credentials, obtaining sensitive data on more than 60 million students and 10 million teachers. This data, including Social Security numbers and addresses, was later used in a $2.85 million bitcoin ransom demand.Lane transferred the stolen data to a server in Ukraine before the extortion attempt, which caused alarm among parents and school districts. The breach, which PowerSchool disclosed in January 2025, was reportedly linked to earlier extortion efforts targeting a telecommunications company, from which Lane and others attempted to extract a $200,000 ransom. The case marks the first public identification of a suspect in the PowerSchool breach, which has impacted numerous school districts.PowerSchool admitted to paying a ransom to prevent public exposure of the data. Lane faces charges including cyber extortion, aggravated identity theft, and unauthorized access to protected computers. If convicted, he will serve at least two years in prison. His attorney has not commented.Massachusetts college student to plead guilty to PowerSchool data breach | ReutersA federal judge in Philadelphia has rejected Vanguard Group's proposed $40 million settlement with investors who claimed they were hit with unexpected tax bills from its target-date mutual funds. U.S. District Judge John Murphy ruled that the deal provided "no value" to investors because it duplicated benefits already secured through a $135 million settlement Vanguard reached with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) earlier this year.In that SEC settlement, investors were promised compensation without having to pay legal fees or waive future claims. By contrast, the proposed class action settlement would have reduced investor payouts due to more than $13 million in attorneys' fees. Judge Murphy sided with an objecting class member who argued the SEC accord already gave investors the same benefits, making the class settlement redundant and financially disadvantageous.Both settlements stem from Vanguard's 2020 move to lower the minimum investment threshold for its lower-cost institutional target-date funds. This triggered a mass migration from higher-cost retail funds, prompting large redemptions that led to capital gains being passed on to remaining investors.Vanguard argued that rejecting the settlement might discourage firms from resolving regulatory and civil actions simultaneously. However, the court emphasized fairness to the class over procedural convenience.US judge rejects Vanguard $40 million mutual fund settlement, cites SEC accord | ReutersThe Trump administration has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to block a lower court order requiring it to provide documents and testimony about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a White House office linked to Elon Musk's federal reform initiative. The watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) filed a lawsuit seeking transparency about DOGE's operations, arguing that it should be subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The administration contends DOGE is exempt because it functions within the White House as a presidential advisory body.A federal judge ruled that CREW's claims were likely valid and allowed limited discovery, including testimony from DOGE administrator Amy Gleason. The court rejected the administration's argument that such discovery violated separation of powers, stating that DOGE had not demonstrated any undue burden or justified confidentiality. The DC Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the lower court's order and noted the administration failed to raise the separation-of-powers defense earlier in the case.The Justice Department is now seeking emergency relief from the Supreme Court, arguing that allowing discovery into DOGE compromises executive confidentiality. Meanwhile, CREW maintains the office exercises substantial independent authority and should not be shielded from public scrutiny. The case raises key questions about the transparency of quasi-governmental offices within the executive branch.DOGE Asks US Supreme Court to Block Access to Its Records - Bloomberg 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

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for May 6, 2025President Trump's Crypto Conflicts Compound United Arab Emirates Investment Fund Uses $2B in Trump-Backed Cryptocurrency for DealA new Trump-backed crypto currency company launched last September got a credibility boost when a United Arab Emirates investment fund used it to make a $2 billion dollar investment in another company.  This raises more conflicts of interest for President Donald Trump, still named as World Liberty Financial's “Chief Crypto Advocate.” Some podcasting platforms strip out our links.  To read our resources and see the whole script of today's report, please go to our website at https://AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgToday's LinksArticles & Resources:ABC News - (2024) Trump's new crypto venture is light on details, heavy on potential ethics landmines World Liberty Finance - Trump-Backed Cryptocurrency Company CNBC - Trump-backed crypto bank joins stablecoin wars with new dollar-pegged tokenABC News - Trump family crypto venture tapped as part of $2B Emirati-backed investment dealThe Telegraph - UAE funnels $2bn into Trump's cryptocurrency The Financial Times - Trump Organization strikes Gulf deals ahead of US president's visit Newsweek - New Trump Tower Announced for Middle East City Skyline Public Citizen - Crypto Has Successfully Purchased Large-Scale Political Influence in the U.S. Groups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW),  Public CitizenRegister or Check Your Voter Registration:U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your StatePlease follow us on Facebook and Bluesky Social, and SHARE! Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Trump #Cryptocurrency #MoneyinPolitics #Corruption #ForeignInfluence

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for April 25, 2025Trump 'Meme Coin' Cryptocurrency Scheme Selling Access to the President Raises Alarms for Emolument Clause ViolationsPresident Donald Trump launched a cryptocurrency “meme coin” with his likeness on January 17th, just before inauguration day.  April 21st, with its value plummeting, the company offered top buyers of the coin a dinner with Trump and a personal tour of the White House.  That likely violates the Emoluments Clause.Some podcasting platforms strip out our links.  To read our resources and see the whole script of today's report, please go to our website at https://AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgToday's LinksArticles & Resources:American Constitution Society - (2019)  Profiting off the Presidency: Trump's Violations of the Emoluments ClausesBrennan Center for Justice - (2019)  How Will the Courts Handle the Trump Emoluments Cases?American Democracy Minute - (2024) The Constitution's Foreign Emoluments Clause was Intended to Stop Bribery and Corruption.  Recently, Not So MuchCitizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) - (2024)  The intensifying threat of Donald Trump's emolumentsMother Jones - Trump Crypto Coin Buyers Offered VIP Tour of White HouseCoinStats - TRUMP Meme Coin Tumbles After Soaring on Exclusive Gala AnnouncementGroups Taking Action:CREW, Public CitizenRegister or Check Your Voter Registration:U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your StatePlease follow us on Facebook and Bluesky Social, and SHARE! Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Corruption #EmolumentsClause #DonaldTrump #TrumpMemeCoin

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Feb. 19, 2025Just Two Weeks Before Bribery and Corruption Charges are Dropped Against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez Gets 11 YearsA federal judge sentenced former New Jersey U.S. Senator Bob Menendez January 29th to 11 years in prison for corruption charges and acting as a foreign agent. Menendez, a Democrat, was contrite in the courtroom, but blasted the process as “political,” and “corrupted to the core” in a not-so-subtle appeal to President Donald Trump.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:American Democracy Minute - (2024) ‘This wasn't politics as usual, this was politics for profit.'  U.S. Senator Robert Menendez Convicted of Bribery & Conspiracy Charges. U.S. Attorney - Southern District of NY - Former U.S. Senator Robert Menendez Sentenced To 11 Years In Prison For Bribery, Foreign Agent, And Obstruction OffensesNJ Monitor - Former Sen. Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years in bribery schemeU.S. Justice Department - New York City Mayor Eric Adams Charged With Bribery And Campaign Finance OffensesU.S. Department of Justice  via CNN – Dismissal Without Prejudice of Prosecution of Mayor Eric AdamsNBC News - Federal prosecutors in New York and Washington resign after refusing to drop Adams chargesGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW),  Public Citizen,  Brennan Center for JusticePlease follow us on Facebook and Bluesky Social, and SHARE! Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Corruption #QuidProQuo #EricAdams #BobMenendez

Author/Professor of Law at Stetson Univ. & nationally recognized expert in election law Ciara Torres-Spelliscy talks about her latest release “Corportatocracy: How To Protect Democracy From Dark Money& Corporate Politicians” offering a chilling expose of how corporations manipulate our political system for profit, how major corporations undermine practices & laws upholding democratic principle like free & fair elections through shadow tactics, bankrolling and more! Ciara is a Professor of Law at Stetson University, Fellow at Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law and member of Board of Directors for Responsibility of Ethics in Washington (CREW), and has testified before Congress, state, local, legislative bodies as experts on campaign finance reform, drafted legislative and Supreme Court briefs, plus shares her insight on the last Presidential election! Check out the amazing Ciara Torres-Spelliscy with her latest release (and other books) on all major platforms and www.cskllc.net plus www.brennancenter.org/bio/ciara-torres-spelliscy and www.brennancenter.org/bio/ciara-torres-spelliscy today! #ciaratorresspelliscy #author #professoroflaw #stetsonuniversity #corportatocracy #electionlaw #democracy #corporations #fairelections #darkmoney #ethics #CREW #spreaker #iheartradio #spotify #applemusic #youtube #anchorfm #bitchute #rumble #mikewagner #themikewagnershow #mikewagnerciaratorresspelliscy #themikewagnershowciaratorresspelliscy   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/themikewagnershow/support

Author/Professor of Law at Stetson Univ. & nationally recognized expert in election law Ciara Torres-Spelliscy talks about her latest release “Corportatocracy: How To Protect Democracy From Dark Money& Corporate Politicians” offering a chilling expose of how corporations manipulate our political system for profit, how major corporations undermine practices & laws upholding democratic principle like free & fair elections through shadow tactics, bankrolling and more! Ciara is a Professor of Law at Stetson University, Fellow at Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law and member of Board of Directors for Responsibility of Ethics in Washington (CREW), and has testified before Congress, state, local, legislative bodies as experts on campaign finance reform, drafted legislative and Supreme Court briefs, plus shares her insight on the last Presidential election! Check out the amazing Ciara Torres-Spelliscy with her latest release (and other books) on all major platforms and www.cskllc.net plus www.brennancenter.org/bio/ciara-torres-spelliscy and www.brennancenter.org/bio/ciara-torres-spelliscy today! #ciaratorresspelliscy #author #professoroflaw #stetsonuniversity #corportatocracy #electionlaw #democracy #corporations #fairelections #darkmoney #ethics #CREW #spreaker #iheartradio #spotify #applemusic #youtube #anchorfm #bitchute #rumble #mikewagner #themikewagnershow #mikewagnerciaratorresspelliscy #themikewagnershowciaratorresspelliscy  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-mike-wagner-show--3140147/support.

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Nov. 18, 2024Colossal Crypto Contributions Change Trump's Mind, Likely Leading to Friendly Regulation - Or None at AllPresident Donald Trump was not a fan of crypto currency.  That is, until crypto magnates started pouring money into SuperPACs supporting his candidacy and select Congressional candidates to the tune of $133 million dollars.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Donald Trump - (2019) Cryptocurrency comment on X/TwitterCNBC - Trump PAC has raised about $7.5 million in crypto donations since early JuneNBC News - Here's what Trump promised the crypto industry ahead of the electionOpen Secrets - Pro-crypto super PACs pouring tens of millions into 2024 electionsOpen Secrets - The crypto trio: How the cryptocurrency industry has made its mark on 2024 electionsPublic Citizen - (Aug. 2024) Big Crypto, Big Spending: Crypto Corporations Spend an Unprecedented $119 Million Influencing ElectionsCNN - The crypto industry plowed tens of millions into the election. Now, it's looking for a return on that investmentGroups Taking Action:Public Citizen, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), End Citizens UnitedRegister or Check Your Voter Registration:U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your StatePlease follow us on Facebook and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #MoneyinPolitics #BigMoneyCorruption #Crypto #Bitcoin #SuperPACs

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Oct. 23, 2024Republicans Appeal to Georgia Supreme Court to Restore Fringe Georgia Election Board Rulings Struck Down by Lower CourtsThere are developments in a court challenge to questionable Georgia Election Board rules recently struck down by state courts.  The rules are widely seen as inviting partisan obstruction to Georgia's election results.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:American Democracy Minute - Georgia State Board of Elections Passes Hand Count Reconciliation Rule Against Recommendations of SOS and County Election OfficialsAmerican Democracy Minute -  In Case with 2024 Presidential Election Implications, Georgia Judge Blocks Controversial State Election Board Rules for Hand Counting & CertificationGeorgia Supreme Court (via Democracy Docket) - GA Republican Party & RNC AppealGeorgia Recoder - New Georgia election rules still in play with Harris-Trump election showdown now fast and furiousGroups Taking Action:Fair Fight Action, Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), ACLU GA,  Common Cause GACheck Your Voter Registration: U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your State Vote.Gov – Register to Vote in Your State Vote.Org – Check Your Registration to Vote Please follow us on Facebook and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Georgia #GeorgiaElectionBoard 

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Sept. 23, 2024Georgia State Board of Elections Passes Hand Count Reconciliation Rule Against Recommendations of SOS and County Election OfficialsAgainst the recommendations of state and county election officials, three Trump loyalists serving on the Georgia State Election Board voted Friday to mandate county election officials to do a hand count reconciliation of machine counted ballots.  The move may unnecessarily delay results and require more personnel.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Georgia State Election Board - Revisions to Subject 183-1-12-.12 Tabulating ResultsGeorgia Recorder - Georgia board's Trump loyalists OK rule to require ballot hand counts despite warnings by state AGSOS Brad Raffensperger - Raffensperger Defends Georgia's Election Integrity Act from Last Minute Changes Delaying Election ResultsAssociated Press - Raffensperger blasts proposed rule requiring hand count of ballots at Georgia polling placesGeorgia Secretary of State - Rules under consideration by the Georgia State Election BoardCNN - Gov. Brian Kemp doesn't need to investigate Georgia election board members who pushed new rule changes, state AG findsGroups Taking Action:Fair Fight Action, Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), ACLU GA,  Common Cause GACheck Your Voter Registration: Vote.Gov – Register to Vote in Your State Vote.Org – Check Your Registration to Vote Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Georgia #ElectionBoard  #BigLie

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Aug. 29, 2024Special Counsel Submits Revised Criminal Conspiracy Indictment of Trump After SCOTUS Immunity Ruling on Presidential PowersSpecial Counsel Jack Smith submitted a revised criminal conspiracy indictment of former President Donald Trump Aug. 27th, adjusted to remove actions deemed “official acts” by the U.S. Supreme Court's conservative majority. To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:U.S. Supreme Court - Presidential Powers - Presidential Immunity OpinionU.S. District Court for the District of Columbia - Revised Indictment in United States v. Donald J. TrumpSCOTUS Blog - Special Counsel Jack Smith revises indictment against TrumpThe Hill - Smith files new indictment in Trump Jan. 6 case, adjusting for immunity decisionGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Campaign Legal Center, States United Democracy CenterCheck Your Voter Registration: U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your State USA Vote Foundation – Registration, Eligibility, State Election Office Links Vote.Gov – Register to Vote in Your State Vote.Org – Check Your Registration to Vote Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #TrumpCriminalTrials #ElectionInterference #JackSmith

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Aug. 9, 2024Ninety Days Before the Election Georgia Launches ‘Voter Registration Cancellation Portal' and Changes Rules on Certifying Elections Just 90 days before the 2024 election, the State of Georgia took actions which could impact the outcome, launching a controversial web page to cancel voter registrations, and allowing county election board members to potentially disrupt election certification.To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Georgia Secretary of State - Voter Registration Cancellation Portal ProPublica - Marjorie Taylor Greene's and Brad Raffensperger's Voter Registrations Targeted in Georgia's New Online PortalAssociated Press - Georgia website that lets people cancel voter registrations briefly displayed personal dataProPublica - “A Terrible Vulnerability”: Cybersecurity Researcher Discovers Yet Another Flaw in Georgia's Voter Cancellation PortalGeorgia Recorder - Georgia election board clears county officials to delay vote certification with information demandsThe Guardian - New Georgia rules let local boards withhold election certificationCitizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW) - Georgia's election certification amendment risks electoral chaosGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), ACLU GA,  Common Cause GAPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #GeorgiaNews #VoterSuppression #GeorgiaPolitics

In keeping with his vow to reform the Supreme Court, President Joe Biden issued a plan calling for term limits for justices, a constitutional amendment to limit presidential immunity, and a “binding code of conduct” to replace the voluntary ethics guidelines established last year by the court. Biden assailed recent Supreme Court decisions and ethics scandals in a recent opinion piece in the Washington Post: “What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public's confidence in the court's decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms,” he wrote. We'll talk about Biden's proposed reforms and which ones – if any – could be enacted before he leaves office. Guests: Olatunde C. Johnson, Ruth Bader Ginsburg '59 Professor of Law, Columbia Law School - She served on President Biden's Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court Philip Bump, national columnist, Washington Post - Bump is the author of "The Aftermath: The Last Days of the Baby Boom and the Future of Power in America" Jennifer Ahearn, Senior counsel, Brennan Center - Ahearn previously served as Policy Director at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), where she led a team focused on government ethics and accountability Alex Padilla, U.S. Senator, Padilla sits on the Judiciary Committee

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for July 18, 2024‘This wasn't politics as usual, this was politics for profit.'  U.S. Senator Robert Menendez Convicted of Bribery & Conspiracy Charges.  U.S. Senator Robert Menendez was convicted July 16th on all federal charges of conspiracy, bribery, extortion, wire fraud, obstruction and acting as a foreign agent in schemes involving an Egyptian-American businessman and a New Jersey developer.    To view the whole script of today's report, please go to our website.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:U.S. Justice Department - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, His Wife, And Three New Jersey Businessmen Charged With Bribery OffensesU.S. District Court, Southern District of NY (via NJ Monitor) - Superceding Indictment for U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, Fred Daibes, and Wael HanaNew Jersey Monitor - Sen. Menendez convicted of bribery, all other charges in federal corruption trialAmerican Democracy Minute - Shades of Corruption: Menendez & Cuellar Prosecuted for Accepting Cash & Cars; Trump Reportedly Promises Climate Rollbacks for $1B in Campaign Contributions from Big Oil with Repercussions UnlikelyNew Jersey Monitor - (2023)  Experts alarmed by claims that Menendez eased military aid to EgyptUSA.Gov - How federal impeachment worksGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW),  Public CitizenPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #NewJersey #NJNews #BobMenendez #Corruption #Bribery 

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for May 3, 2024Revelations from Crypto CEO Sam Bankman-Fried Show How Reported – And Unreported -Money Funds Our CandidatesIn our final Dark Money report this week, we revisit Sam Bankman-Fried's frank admissions of buying influence with U.S. politicians. Bankman-Fried was sentenced in March 2024 to 25 years for defrauding investors of $8 Billion dollars from his crypto customers. Brian will be back on Monday with a new American Democracy Minute Radio Report.Articles & Resources: Journalist Tiffany Fong – Interview with former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (Campaign donation discussions at 13 minutes)CNBC – Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried hit with campaign finance complaint over GOP ‘dark' moneyForbes – Sam Bankman-Fried says he donated just as many millions to Republicans as Democrats, but didn't publicize it because reporters would ‘freak the f–k out'The Hill – FTX founder Bankman-Fried's campaign finance charges ‘just the tip of the icebergOpenSecrets.org – Largest Campaign DonorsGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, Open DemocracyPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #SamBankmanFried #DarkMoney

As we approach the historic SCOTUS oral argument over Trump's disqualification from office, Jessica Denson is joined by Donald Sherman, VP and Chief Counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), the group responsible for the landmark victory barring him from the ballot in Colorado. Donald and Jessica discuss CREW's airtight reply to Trump's SCOTUS brief promising “chaos and bedlam,” the conservative and scholarly amici who have filed briefs in CREW's support, and why the pundits are wrong: SCOTUS has every reason to uphold the Constitution and keep an insurrectionist off the ballot. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast The Influence Continuum: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show Burn the Boats: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 Political Beatdown: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/lights-on-with-jessica-denson On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Feb 9, 2024Arizona Legislator and 2020 Fake Elector Proposes the State Legislature – Not the Voters – Should Pick the State's Presidential ElectorsAn Arizona State Senator has introduced a resolution to take the state's voters out of the U.S. Presidential election process.  Not surprisingly, the Senator is also under investigation as one of Arizona's 2020 fake electors.Our podcasting host recently made changes which stops us from including our entire script as part of the podcast content.  To view the whole script, please go to our website and find today's report.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Arizona Mirror - UPDATED Trump's fake electors: Here's the full listArizona Mirror - Hobbs asks AG to investigate fake electors for using state sealArizona Mirror - Where was Anthony Kern on Jan. 6?Arizona Legislature - Text of SCR 1014The Guardian -  Arizona Republican says state lawmakers, not voters, should pick presidentKNAU News Talk/Arizona Public Radio - Proposed resolution would give Arizona Legislature authority to override popular voteArizona Mirror - Senate Republicans opened a ‘special inquiry' into AG Kris MayesGroups Taking Action:Free Speech for People, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Mi Familia VotaPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!Are you a radio station?  Find our broadcast files at Pacifica Radio Network's Audioport and PRX#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Insurrectionists  #FakeElectors #VotingRights #ElectoralCollege

This Day in Legal History: National War Labor Board Established On January 12, 1942, a major event unfolded in the annals of U.S. labor and legal history when President Franklin D. Roosevelt reestablished the National War Labor Board (NWLB) amidst the exigencies of World War II. This strategic move was designed to maintain labor harmony and forestall disruptions in the critical wartime economy. The NWLB, originally conceived by President Woodrow Wilson during World War I, was reborn with a mandate to arbitrate disputes between workers and employers, a task of enormous significance given the heightened industrial demands of war.The board's jurisdiction extended across vital sectors such as aviation, automobile manufacturing, shipping, mining, telegraph, and railways, reflecting the diverse industrial front of the U.S. war effort. By mediating labor conflicts and enforcing wage controls, the NWLB played a pivotal role in stabilizing the domestic workforce during a period of global upheaval. This stabilization was crucial for ensuring uninterrupted production of war materials, a cornerstone of the Allied victory strategy.The NWLB's impact went beyond mere dispute resolution. It also shaped broader labor policies, influencing wage standards and working conditions. This intervention was critical in maintaining a balance between the needs of the war economy and the rights and welfare of workers, a delicate equilibrium during such tumultuous times.The legacy of the NWLB resonates even today, highlighting the intricate relationship between labor relations, governmental policy, and national security. The Cornell University collection of NWLB files from both World Wars serves as a rich repository of information, offering insights into the board's operations, decisions, and overall influence. These documents not only chronicle a crucial aspect of legal and labor history but also provide valuable lessons for managing large-scale industrial and labor relations in times of national crisis.Today, on January 12, 2024, a lawsuit led by Norma Anderson, a 91-year-old lifelong Colorado Republican, challenges Donald Trump's eligibility for the Republican primary ballot in Colorado. Anderson, who witnessed the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, believes Trump was responsible and should be disqualified under a 19th-century constitutional provision for engaging in insurrection. This case, set for a Supreme Court hearing on February 8, questions Trump's role in the events of January 6 and its implications for his candidacy in the upcoming election against Joe Biden.The lawsuit, joined by three Republicans and two independents, is driven by a concern for the constitution and democracy, citing Trump's alleged role in the Capitol attack. It uses the 14th Amendment's disqualification clause, which bars anyone who engaged in insurrection from public office, a provision never before used to declare a presidential candidate ineligible.Trump's legal team argues against the characterization of January 6 as an insurrection and denies his involvement. The case, initiated by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), a watchdog group, highlights the significance of conservatives challenging Trump's eligibility, emphasizing the non-partisan nature of the issue.Plaintiff Krista Kafer, a conservative columnist and Trump voter in 2020, expresses concern for personal safety and the broader implications of Trump's potential re-election. The case brings to the forefront critical constitutional questions and the enduring impact of the January 6 events on American democracy.Conservative Trump challengers in Colorado see a threat to democracy | ReutersActivision Blizzard Inc. faces two new lawsuits alleging discrimination, despite a proposed $55 million settlement with the California Civil Rights Department over similar claims. The new cases, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, bring fresh accusations including demotion due to complaints about sexist treatment and discrimination against "old white guys." The proposed settlement contains a unique clause stating that no court or independent investigation has substantiated any allegations, which could make it harder for new plaintiffs to use these settled claims in their litigation.The settlement's strict language doesn't prevent new lawsuits but lacks the usual momentum that follows a significant deal with a regulator. In contrast to many class actions, Activision's deal doesn't automatically include all plaintiffs, allowing individuals to pursue separate claims. The recent lawsuits echo previous allegations of unequal pay, promotions, and a "frat boy culture" at Activision, including serious incidents like an employee's suicide linked to intense sexual harassment.The $55 million settlement is relatively small for Activision, a company recently acquired by Microsoft for $68.7 billion, potentially encouraging others to file independent claims. These new claims might find the settlement more relevant if they focus on pay and promotion discrimination, rather than harassment. The new lawsuits don't reference the government's investigation, likely due to the settlement's "no admission" clause.An Activision spokesperson stated that the company takes any allegations seriously and investigates them thoroughly. The existence of these cases could benefit future plaintiffs, as studies show that individual settlements are higher when the government also brings a case. These new claims highlight the ongoing issues at Activision and the complexities of legal settlements in discrimination cases.Activision Discrimination Deal Arms it Against New Wave of SuitsA lawsuit has emerged within the late music icon Prince Rogers Nelson's estate, instigated by his nephew and two close associates against four of his other relatives. The legal dispute, brought to light on Thursday, involves Prince's two half-sisters, a niece, and a nephew, and was filed by entertainment lawyer L. Londell McMillan, music producer Charles Spicer Jr., and Johnny Nicholas Nelson Torres. This lawsuit follows a 2022 Minnesota probate settlement, which divided Prince's $156 million estate among his family and friends, and Primary Wave Music LLC, after Prince died without a will.McMillan and Spicer, as managing members of Prince Legacy LLC, a holding company for the estate, allege that Sharon and Norrine Nelson, along with Breanna and Allen Nelson, breached the operating agreement. They accuse them of attempting to wrongfully remove McMillan and Spicer from their management roles and spread false information online. The lawsuit claims the Nelsons convened an unauthorized meeting to oust McMillan and Spicer and change the rules for selling stakes in the estate, actions deemed invalid by the plaintiffs.The suit highlights the significant role McMillan and Spicer play in managing Prince Legacy's day-to-day affairs and underscores that their removal is subject to strict conditions, which have not been met. The plaintiffs argue that the Nelsons' lack of music industry experience and history of infighting could jeopardize the business. They fear that the Nelsons' involvement in management could disrupt the operations of Prince Legacy.This legal conflict, initially filed under seal on January 5, 2024, raises concerns about the future management of Prince's complex and valuable estate. The case is McMillan v. Nelson, and the attorneys for McMillan, Spicer, and Torres are from Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell LLP and Bassford Remele PA, while the Nelsons have yet to make a court appearance.Music Icon Prince's Estate Prompts New Court Fight Among HeirsThe U.S. Copyright Office has proposed a rule to simplify copyright registration for online news publishers, potentially leading to more lawsuits, especially as the journalism industry deals with artificial intelligence (AI) companies using their content for training models. The proposal allows publishers to register a month's worth of updates at once using representative examples, addressing a long-standing issue where many digital outlets avoided registering due to the cumbersome process.This change would make it easier and more appealing for digital content publishers to protect their work, potentially increasing copyright registration among news outlets. The New York Times, for instance, is seeking statutory damages in its lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft, citing millions of registered articles. The rule change would allow publishers to register more content in one application, potentially emboldening them to enforce copyrights against violators, including AI companies.Gannett Co. Inc., a major news publisher, has praised the proposal for streamlining the registration process. However, the rule's scope raises questions about whether it applies to trade publications or other specific content types. There's also concern about its applicability to emerging platforms as technology evolves.Despite the ease of registration, licensing remains crucial. OpenAI's licensing deal with Axel Springer SE highlights the ongoing negotiations between AI firms and news publishers. Media executives are urging Congress to clarify that using unlicensed copyrighted content to train AI models should not be considered 'fair use'. The proposal, however, doesn't eliminate the challenges news publishers face in litigation against well-funded tech companies. Comments on the rulemaking are due by February 20, with the expectation that the rule will be adopted with few changes, aiding news publishers in their copyright lawsuits, including against news aggregators and generative AI companies.Copyright Rule Would Ease News Registration as AI Fight Looms Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Jan. 1, 2024 Trump's Ballot Disqualification in Colorado is Headed to the U.S. Supreme Court.   What Issues Will SCOTUS Consider?December 27th, state Republicans appealed former President Donald Trump's disqualification from the Colorado primary ballot to the U.S. Supreme Court.  The Fourteenth Amendment seems clear:  If you took an oath and supported an insurrection, you're disqualified from holding office. But it's far from simple, and untested legal territory.Our podcasting host recently made changes which stops us from including our entire script as part of the podcast content.  To view the whole script, please go to our website and find today's report.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Reuters - Republicans appeal Trump Colorado ballot disqualification to US Supreme Court - attorneyCato Institute - Trump's Disqualification: A PrimerColorado Republican Central Committee - Appeal to the U.S. Supreme CourtPolitico - US Supreme Court officially asked to take up Trump's 14th Amendment issueNew York Times - (Possible paywall)  How the Supreme Court May Rule on Trump's Presidential RunDaily Beast - (Opinion)  Here's What SCOTUS Should Do With the Trump Ballot CasesBrennan Center for Justice - (Opinion/Analysis) Accountability for TrumpGroups Taking Action:Free Speech for People, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Mi Familia VotaPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #Insurrection #14thAmendment #USSupremeCourt #SCOTUS #ColoradoPolitics #CREW

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Dec. 29, 2023Michigan Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Trump Ballot Qualification Appeal Based on State Statute, Allowing Trump to Remain in State PrimaryThe Michigan Supreme Court decided December 27th not to hear an appeal, keeping Donald Trump on Michigan's primary ballot. But unlike Colorado's recent decision, it didn't consider the U.S. Constitution's Fourteenth Amendment. Our podcasting host recently made changes which stops us from including our entire script as part of the podcast content.  To view the whole script, please go to our website and find today's report.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Democracy Docket - How the 14th Amendment Could Disqualify Trump and His AlliesDemocracy Docket - Michigan Court of Appeals Allows Trump To Remain on State's Primary BallotMichigan Supreme Court - Order in LaBrant v. MI Secretary of StateAssociated Press - Michigan Supreme Court will keep Trump on 2024 primary ballotNPR - What's next after Colorado? Here's where other challenges to Trump's candidacy standLawfare - Trump Disqualification Challenges by StateReuters - Republicans appeal Trump Colorado ballot disqualification to US Supreme Court - attorneyGroups Taking Action:Free Speech for People, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Mi Familia VotaPlease follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #InsurrectionClause #TrumpDisqualification #14thAmendment

In a landmark decision that could reshape the landscape of American electoral politics, the Colorado Supreme Court has set the stage for a constitutional showdown of historic proportions. The case at hand? The disqualification of former President Donald Trump from the Colorado presidential ballot, now en route to the U.S. Supreme Court. This episode of The Colorado Switchblade podcast features a deep dive into this critical issue with Nikhel Sus from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).Nikhel Sus is the Director of Strategic Litigation at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), where he specializes in impact litigation focused on government accountability, transparency, and ethics. He currently represents a group of Colorado voters who sued to disqualify former President Trump from Colorado's presidential primary ballot under Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment based on Trump's role in the January 6th insurrection. He also represents a group of New Mexico residents who successfully sued to remove a county commissioner from public office under Section 3 based on his role in the insurrection.The Heart of the Matter: Nikhel Sus, CREW's Director of Strategic Litigation, elucidates the significance of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, a post-Civil War addition to the Constitution designed to bar individuals who engage in insurrection from holding office. Sus underscores CREW's commitment to upholding constitutional integrity, especially in the aftermath of the January 6th insurrection, marking this provision's resurgence in relevance.The Colorado Ruling: The Colorado Supreme Court's decision is more than a mere legal victory; it's a reaffirmation of constitutional supremacy. This ruling, as explained by Sus, not only addresses the legal aspects of Trump's disqualification but also confirms the broader authority of courts to enforce the Constitution. The court's detailed decision underlines the January 6th attack as a genuine insurrection, setting a precedent in the historical and legal narrative of the United States.The Echoes of Extremism: A pivotal aspect of the case, as discussed in the trial and highlighted by Sus, is the connection between Trump and the violent elements of his supporters. The evidence presented showcased a calculated effort to mobilize these groups, culminating in the violence witnessed on January 6th. This relationship between a political leader and extremist factions forms a central argument in CREW's legal strategy.The Road to the Supreme Court: As the case potentially progresses to the U.S. Supreme Court, Sus articulates the anticipated challenges and strategies. Given the court's current conservative majority, CREW's arguments are grounded in historical evidence and originalist interpretations of the Constitution — a mode of interpretation favored by the current justices.Concluding Thoughts: In our conversation, Sus reflects on the possible outcomes and the far-reaching implications of a Supreme Court decision. This case isn't merely about one state's decision but could set a precedent affecting future presidential candidates and the very fabric of American democracy.Closing Remarks: As we continue to monitor this pivotal case, The Colorado Switchblade remains committed to bringing you insightful analyses and updates. Stay tuned for more episodes that cut through the noise, offering clarity and perspective on issues that shape our world.Jason Van Tatenhove, an acclaimed author and consultant, intricately blends his writing and political activism expertise. He penned the non-fiction work ‘The Perils of Extremism' and several fictional titles set amidst the scenic backdrop of Estes Park, Colorado, such as ‘Colorado's Chance: The Firewalker.' As a consultant with Georgetown Law's Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and a vocal contributor to MSNBC and CNN, Jason casts a discerning eye on violent political extremism and misinformation, even testifying before Congress on these pressing issues. His writings have found a home in various publications, including Newsweek, Salon, Giant Freakin Robot, and Estes Park Trail-Gazette, seamlessly traversing through diverse media landscapes across Colorado. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.coloradoswitchblade.com/subscribe

Donald Trump's legal team has argued against an attempt to have him thrown off the presidential ballot in Colorado in 2024 by suggesting the wording of the U.S. Constitution's insurrection clause does not apply to him. The Colorado Supreme Court agreed to hear an appeal on a lawsuit filed by the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) watchdog group and Republican figures, who argue that Trump's actions on January 6, 2021, violated Section Three of the 14th Amendment and therefore he should be prohibited from running for the White House again. The section states a person who "engaged in insurrection or rebellion" after taking an oath of office to support the Constitution should be barred from running for office again. In a previous ruling, lower court judge Sarah B. Wallace said that Trump had "engaged in the insurrection" on January 6, the day of the Capitol riot, but should remain on Colorado's primary ballot as the wording of the 14th Amendment does not specifically mention preventing people from running for the presidency. In their appeal against the Colorado lawsuit, Trump's lawyers reiterated that the wording of Section Three does not apply to people running for president and that Trump technically did not swear an oath to "support" the Constitution. Instead, during his January 2017 inauguration, Trump swore to "preserve, protect and defend" the Constitution during his role as president.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/conspiracy-theories--5194379/support.

Stunning revelations about communications between the Secret Service and the Oath Keepers have come to light, as questions linger about why the agency downplayed known threats of violence leading up to January 6. Jordan Libowitz of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) joins Jessica Denson to discuss the shocking emails CREW uncovered, and the larger concern about Donald Trump's politicization of the top security agency. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the Meidas Media Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://pod.link/1510240831 Legal AF: https://pod.link/1580828595 The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://pod.link/1595408601 The Influence Continuum: https://pod.link/1603773245 Kremlin File: https://pod.link/1575837599 Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://pod.link/1530639447 The Weekend Show: https://pod.link/1612691018 The Tony Michaels Podcast: https://pod.link/1561049560 American Psyop: https://pod.link/1652143101 Burn the Boats: https://pod.link/1485464343 Majority 54: https://pod.link/1309354521 Political Beatdown: https://pod.link/1669634407 Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://pod.link/1676844320 Uncovered: https://pod.link/1690214260 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Sept. 18, 2023Proposed Rule Change Could Make the Feckless Federal Elections Commission Even Less EffectiveThe feckless Federal Elections Commission may become even less effective.  A proposed rules change would task the usually deadlocked FEC commissioners with authorizing all campaign finance investigations, likely bringing meaningful accountability to a standstill.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:Federal Elections Commissioner Alan Dickerson - Investigations Conducted by the Office of General CounselThe Intercept - A TRUMP APPOINTEE IS TRYING TO GUT THE FEC'S ABILITY TO INVESTIGATE CAMPAIGN FINANCE CRIMESThe Daily Beast - How the Hell Is Trump 43-0 vs. Campaign Finance Watchdogs?Federal Elections Commission - Commission MeetingsFederal Elections Commission - Contact phone numbers and emailsCampaign Legal Center - CLC Files FEC Complaint Against Rep. George Santos for Violating Campaign Finance LawsCampaign Legal Center - Why the FEC Is Ineffective Groups Taking Action:Common Cause, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Campaign Legal Center===Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #ProtectElections #ProtectPollWorkers

The ethics violations of Clarence Thomas and his wife Ginny never end, with a new disclosure revealing more lavish gifts of travel to the justice from conservative billionaire Harlan Crow. Noah Bookbinder, president of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) joins Jessica Denson to reveal the SCOTUS corruption they've uncovered, and the plan CREW has to demand baseline ethical standards in the highest court. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Support Jessica Denson's legal fund here: http://thejessicadenson.com/donate Remember to subscribe to ALL the Meidas Media Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://pod.link/1510240831 Legal AF: https://pod.link/1580828595 The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://pod.link/1595408601 The Influence Continuum: https://pod.link/1603773245 Kremlin File: https://pod.link/1575837599 Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://pod.link/1530639447 The Weekend Show: https://pod.link/1612691018 The Tony Michaels Podcast: https://pod.link/1561049560 American Psyop: https://pod.link/1652143101 Burn the Boats: https://pod.link/1485464343 Majority 54: https://pod.link/1309354521 Political Beatdown: https://pod.link/1669634407 Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://pod.link/1676844320 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Van Tatenhove of the Colorado Switchblade Podcast welcomes Donald K. Sherman, Executive Vice President and Chief Counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). They discuss CREW's recent lawsuit in Colorado, aiming to keep former President Donald Trump off the ballot due to a provision in the 14th Amendment.Donald Sherman's expansive career has placed him in various oversight, ethics, and policy roles in both the Executive Branch and Congress. His roles span positions at the White House, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the House Ethics Committee, and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. An alumnus of Georgetown University, Sherman earned both his Bachelor's degree and J.D. from the institution.With a steadfast mission, CREW seeks to ensure ethical governance while minimizing the influence of money in politics. The 14th Amendment, stemming from a Civil War-era provision, potentially disqualifies individuals from office if they've incited or supported an insurrection against the U.S. Constitution. Based on this, CREW argues that former President Trump's actions related to the January 6th events put him in violation. Representing six Colorado voters, including some renowned Republicans, the lawsuit seeks to prevent Trump from appearing on the state's ballot.Colorado's legal framework, which permits voters to challenge ballot placements, and the courageous plaintiffs made it an ideal state for this case. A favorable decision in Colorado could potentially pave the way for similar outcomes in other states.The episode also delves into the legal intricacies of the case, like why Secretary of State Jenna Griswold is listed as a defendant and the reasons the Trump team pushed for a federal court hearing.Sherman emphasizes the broad implications of a win for CREW. Both he and Jason touch upon the divisive public perceptions of January 6th, with some still seeing it as merely a "peaceful protest." Emphasizing the timeliness of this centuries-old provision, Sherman underscores its aptness, especially when democratic processes face threats.Join us for this enlightening discussion on the relevance of century-old amendments in today's political landscape. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.coloradoswitchblade.com/subscribe

The strongest lawsuit yet to enforce Trump's disqualification from holding office under the 14th Amendment has now been filed in Colorado by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). CREW co-counsel and Colorado attorney Mario Nicolais joins Jessica Denson to discuss the very real impact the lawsuit aims to have in barring Trump from the ballot. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Support Jessica Denson's legal fund here: http://thejessicadenson.com/donate Remember to subscribe to ALL the Meidas Media Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://pod.link/1510240831 Legal AF: https://pod.link/1580828595 The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://pod.link/1595408601 The Influence Continuum: https://pod.link/1603773245 Kremlin File: https://pod.link/1575837599 Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://pod.link/1530639447 The Weekend Show: https://pod.link/1612691018 The Tony Michaels Podcast: https://pod.link/1561049560 American Psyop: https://pod.link/1652143101 Burn the Boats: https://pod.link/1485464343 Majority 54: https://pod.link/1309354521 Political Beatdown: https://pod.link/1669634407 Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://pod.link/1676844320 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is disqualified from ever holding office again, and the case for why Section 3 of the 14th Amendment must be enforced is gaining more and more traction. Noah Bookbinder, president of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), joins Jessica Denson to discuss the latest developments, the responsibility of Secretaries of State to keep Trump off the ballot, and the legal actions CREW and others are beginning to take. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Support Jessica Denson's legal fund here: http://thejessicadenson.com/donate Remember to subscribe to ALL the Meidas Media Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://pod.link/1510240831 Legal AF: https://pod.link/1580828595 The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://pod.link/1595408601 The Influence Continuum: https://pod.link/1603773245 Kremlin File: https://pod.link/1575837599 Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://pod.link/1530639447 The Weekend Show: https://pod.link/1612691018 The Tony Michaels Podcast: https://pod.link/1561049560 American Psyop: https://pod.link/1652143101 Burn the Boats: https://pod.link/1485464343 Majority 54: https://pod.link/1309354521 Political Beatdown: https://pod.link/1669634407 Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://pod.link/1676844320 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This day in legal history, September 7, 1977, President Carter signed the Panama Canal Treaty, setting the relinquishment date for the Panama Canal back to Panama for January 1, 2000. In the early 20th century, the U.S. secured rights to build and operate the Panama Canal, initially through the Hay-Herrán Treaty with Colombia, but eventually through the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty with Panama, post its independence which was supported by the U.S. The Canal opened in 1914, but the legitimacy of the treaty was questioned by many Panamanians. As the century progressed, tensions escalated between the U.S. and Panama over the control of the Canal, leading to riots and diplomatic interruptions.In the 1970s, both nations recognized the necessity of renegotiating the Canal's status. U.S. diplomat Ellsworth Bunker led the negotiations, focusing on securing perpetual U.S. use rather than control of the Canal Zone. These discussions laid the groundwork for the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. Despite initial opposition, President Jimmy Carter, influenced by advisors, prioritized concluding these negotiations upon taking office.However, the ratification of the treaties faced significant opposition in the U.S. Senate, with critics fearing a loss of strategic control and distrusting Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos. After extensive public and political engagement, two treaties were formulated and narrowly ratified by the Senate in 1978, establishing the terms for the eventual transfer of the Canal to Panama in 1999. Despite fostering initial cooperation, U.S.-Panama relations fluctuated, witnessing an American invasion in 1989 to depose leader Manuel Noriega. By 1999, relations stabilized, and the Canal's administration was peacefully transferred to Panama.Morrison Foerster has amended the eligibility criteria for its DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) fellowship program amidst a lawsuit filed by the American Alliance for Equal Rights, led by Edward Blum, who opposes affirmative action. Initially, the Keith Wetmore Fellowship targeted students from historically underrepresented groups in the legal sector, but now focuses on those showing a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. The lawsuit accuses the firm of racial discrimination against prospective lawyers for over a decade. Meanwhile, Perkins Coie, also a defendant in the lawsuit, maintains its focus on aiding historically underrepresented students and has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the legal field.Morrison Foerster Changes DEI Fellowship Criteria Amid LawsuitUS law firm alters diversity fellowship criteria after lawsuit | ReutersMonique Worrell, a liberal prosecutor who was dismissed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, has filed a lawsuit in the state Supreme Court seeking reinstatement to her elected position as the State Attorney for Orange and Osceola County. Worrell contends that DeSantis had no legitimate grounds to remove her and replace her with a conservative prosecutor, asserting that his reasons violate state law. She emphasizes that her role grants her the discretion to determine prosecutorial strategies, and disagreements with the Governor on these strategies do not constitute grounds for suspension.This case brings a significant issue before the conservative-leaning court, which had previously avoided making a decision in a similar case involving another prosecutor fired by DeSantis. In the earlier case, the court ruled that the prosecutor had waited too long to file the lawsuit. Worrell's case, however, does not have this timing issue. DeSantis had accused Worrell of neglect of duty and incompetence, citing her allowing assistant prosecutors to propose sentences below the state's mandatory minimums and perceived leniency towards criminal defendants. Worrell refutes these claims, stating that reduced jail time and incarceration rates are not indicative of incompetence or neglect, but are within her lawful discretionary powers. Prosecutor DeSantis Fired Sues to Get Her Elected Position BackU.S. President Joe Biden has declined several conditions proposed by five Guantanamo Bay detainees involved in the September 11, 2001 attacks, as part of a plea agreement with federal prosecutors, according to a report by the New York Times. The defendants, including Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, identified as the main architect of the attacks, were offered a plea deal that would exempt them from the death penalty, instead imposing a life sentence, if they pleaded guilty. In response, the defendants presented conditions such as not serving their sentences in solitary confinement and being permitted to eat and pray with other inmates.President Biden, aligning with the advice of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, rejected these conditions, termed as joint policy principles, as grounds for plea negotiations. A White House spokesperson emphasized that accepting these conditions for a pre-trial agreement would not be suitable given the gravity of the 9/11 attacks, which were the most severe assault on the U.S. since the Pearl Harbor incident. The spokesperson reiterated the administration's dedication to maintaining fairness in the military commissions process, aiming to deliver justice to the victims, survivors, and their families, as well as the accused individuals. The 9/11 attacks, orchestrated by al Qaeda militants, resulted in over 3,000 deaths and involved the hijacking of four commercial airplanes, which were used to carry out coordinated strikes in New York City and Washington, D.C. More than 500,000 people died in Iraq and Afghanistan as a result of the ensuing invasions. Biden rejects conditions of plea deal for Sept. 11 attacks defendantsA lawsuit has been filed by the nonpartisan organization, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), aiming to prevent Donald Trump from being listed on the Colorado ballot in the upcoming presidential election, should he secure the Republican nomination. The lawsuit, representing six Republican and unaffiliated voters, including former officials at various government levels, is grounded on the argument that Trump's involvement in the events of January 6, 2021, makes him unfit for office as per the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This amendment prohibits individuals who have engaged in "insurrection or rebellion" against the U.S., and have previously taken an oath to support its Constitution, from holding federal or state office. A historical note here, this amendment was targeted at high ranking U.S. officials that served in the Confederacy during the Civil War – sort of a, you can't just waltz bank in to the Senate and get your job back kind of amendment. This legal approach, which is considered a long shot by experts, would necessitate convincing officials across all states and territories of Trump's ineligibility to serve, given the Capitol attack orchestrated by his supporters in an attempt to overturn his electoral loss. Despite the ongoing false claims by Trump regarding the legitimacy of his defeat, he remains a leading contender for the Republican nomination to oppose President Joe Biden in 2024. CREW's president, Noah Bookbinder, emphasized that the unprecedented nature of the lawsuit is a response to the equally unprecedented attack on January 6th, which the 14th Amendment sought to guard against. Meanwhile, Trump denies federal charges accusing him of conspiring to defraud the U.S. and obstructing a fair election during the 2020 presidential race. Notably, analysts regard Colorado as a firmly Democratic state, where Trump's chances of victory in 2024 are perceived as slim.Washington ethics watchdog files suit to try to block Trump from ballot | Reuters Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for Aug. 29, 2023State of New Hampshire Seeks 14th Amendment Legal Advice on Whether Candidate Donald Trump Can Appear on the First in the Nation 2024 PrimaryA  New Hampshire 2020 U.S. Senate candidate endorsed by former President Trump is questioning Trump's qualification for the Presidency under the 14th Amendment, Section 3, designed to keep former Confederate leaders from holding office.Our podcasting host recently made changes which stops us from including our entire script as part of the podcast content.  To view the whole script, please go to our website and find today's report.Today's LinksArticles & Resources:National Constitution Center - 14th Amendment, Section 3WGIR's NH Today - 8-22 Corky Messner on Trump's eligibility to run for President NH Public Radio - Stories about Corky MessnerUniv. of Pennsylvania Law Review - The Sweep and Force of Section Three  (download of PDF for full paper)  NH Journal - Will ‘Insurrection' Keep Trump Off NH Ballot?Politico - N.H. Republicans feud over bid to knock Trump off 2024 ballotThe Atlantic - (Paywall) The Constitution Prohibits Trump From Ever Being President AgainNBC News - Trump supporters flood New Hampshire election office with calls after false claims about ballot accessDemocracy Docket - How the 14th Amendment Could Disqualify Trump and His AlliesGroups Taking Action:Free Speech for People, Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), ===Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.orgWant ADM sent to your email?  Sign up here!#Democracy  #DemocracyNews #ProtectElections #ProtectPollWorkers

Donald Trump is ineligible to hold office under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution. In this special episode of Lights On, Jessica Denson is joined by Donald Sherman, chief counsel for Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), for an in-depth discussion about why Trump is disqualified, how Section 3 can be enforced, and the legal action CREW is preparing to take to ensure that it is. Visit https://meidastouch.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the Meidas Media Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://pod.link/1510240831 Legal AF: https://pod.link/1580828595 The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://pod.link/1595408601 The Influence Continuum: https://pod.link/1603773245 Kremlin File: https://pod.link/1575837599 Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://pod.link/1530639447 The Weekend Show: https://pod.link/1612691018 The Tony Michaels Podcast: https://pod.link/1561049560 American Psyop: https://pod.link/1652143101 Burn the Boats: https://pod.link/1485464343 Majority 54: https://pod.link/1309354521 Political Beatdown: https://pod.link/1669634407 Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://pod.link/1676844320 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the 2022 election cycle, crypto mogul Sam Bankman-Fried gave as much as $40 million in political donations. That whopping sum caught the attention of campaign finance watchdogs, even before Bankman-Fried was arrested and charged with various financial crimes. Michael Lewis talks to Jordan Libowitz of the Campaign for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) to understand the complex world of campaign finance law. And we hear why SBF, in confessing his dark-money deeds, may be a game changer. (NOTE: after this episode was recorded, federal prosecutors announced they were dropping a campaign finance charge against Bankman-Fried.) Go to atrpodcast.com to submit a question for Michael to answer in an upcoming episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 11: COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OLBERMANN A-Block (1:44) SPECIAL COMMENT: “Donald Trump cannot BE president – cannot run FOR president – cannot BECOME president – cannot HOLD OFFICE – unless two thirds of Congress decides to grant him amnesty for his conduct on January 6th." That's from Will Baude, Faculty Director of the Constitutional Law Institute at the University of Chicago Law School, and member of the ultra-conservative FEDERALIST SOCIETY, and former clerk for Chief Justice Roberts. He was summarizing, for The New York Times, an article he and Professor Michael Stokes Paulsen will publish next year in the University of Pennsylvania law review. They insist that there is no doubt Trump has triggered the disqualification aspect of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, and that it should be applied automatically by State Secretaries of State. “Section 3's disqualification rule may and must be followed – applied, honored, obeyed, enforced, carried out – by anyone whose job it is to figure out whether someone is legally qualified to office.” The Federalist Society constitutional scholars say it's automatic. If you put Trump on the ballot, you are breaking the law. And as academic and theoretical and dilettantish as this all sounds, these guys think it should be made really real: “There are many ways that this could become a lawsuit presenting a vital constitutional issue that potentially the Supreme Court would want to hear and decide,” said Professor Paulsen. And Paulsen is a distinguished university chair and professor of Constitutional Law and Federal Courts at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. And Steven Calabresi, co-chairman of the Federalist Society, co-founder and co-chairman of the Federalist Society, says the Baude-Paulsen article is “a tour de force" that proves “Trump is INELIGIBLE TO BE ON the ballot, and each of the 50 state secretaries of state has an obligation to print ballots without his name on them,” unquote – or they may be SUED. There could be enough to knock Trump off the ballot in individual states. And with Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) having successfully sued to remove a January 6th insurrectionist from office in New Mexico, there is a guidebook to how to literally stop Trump before he starts. Also: Jack Smith really was pushing a Rocket Docket. He wants the J6 trial to launch on January 2. Meanwhile Trump's lawyers are so stupid they think the 2021 insurrection was three-and-a-half years ago, and his apologists like Jon Turley think January 2, 2024 is 18 days before the inauguration that the rest of us seem to believe doesn't happen until a YEAR and 18 days later. B-Block (23:00) POSTSCRIPTS TO THE NEWS: In Iowa, Ron DeSantis literally phones it in. Senator Tommy Tuberville - of Florida? And when it doesn't work the fascists only have one play: yell louder. So Laura Ingraham says they MUST RUN ON HAVING REPEALED ROE-V-WADE. For once I agree with her! (27:45) THE WORST PERSONS IN THE WORLD: Unbanned Twitter QAnon loser has a new conspiracy and a new made-up source; Florida GOP County Chair allegedly plagiarized his university Honors Thesis from Wikipedia; And when Conspiracy Theories collide: the Antivaxxer "running" for POTUS is endorsed by the guy whose father claimed he assassinated the Antivaxxer's uncle. C-Block (34:15) FRIDAYS WITH THURBER: My father so loved "I Went To Sullivant" that he literally listened as I read it to him one last time - and only when I finished did he pass away. Now THAT'S an endorsement!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal  First – a conversation about President Biden's economic record so far with American Action Forum President and former CBO director Douglas Holtz-Eakin  Then -- Noah Bookbinder -- President of Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW) -- discusses former President Trump facing potential criminal charges over his effort to overturn the 2020 election.  Plus, Gregory Allen Director of CSIS's Center for A-I & Advanced Technologies --discusses what Congress may be considering – when it comes to regulating the exploding A-I industry.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An Interview with Crypto CEO Sam Bankman-Fried Shows How  Reported - And Unreported -- Money Funds Our CandidatesThis is a rebroadcast of December 15, 2022Today's LinksArticles & Resources: Journalist Tiffany Fong - Interview with former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (Campaign donation discussions at 13 minutes)CNBC - Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried hit with campaign finance complaint over GOP ‘dark' moneyForbes - Sam Bankman-Fried says he donated just as many millions to Republicans as Democrats, but didn't publicize it because reporters would ‘freak the f–k out'The Hill - FTX founder Bankman-Fried's campaign finance charges ‘just the tip of the icebergOpenSecrets.org - Largest Campaign DonorsGroups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, Open Democracy Today's Script:  (Variations occur with audio due to editing for time)You're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.Recent revelations from a disgraced cryptocurrency CEO gives us a glimpse of just how much campaign money flows into our election system – both what gets reported, and what's called “dark money.”  And both the major parties refuse to stop the torrent.In an interview with journalist Tiffany Fong in November, FTX crypto exchange CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, now in custody in the Bahamas, admitted that he had not only given $40 million to Democrats and Democratic PACs to fund primary races, but he said he also gave an equal amount of “dark money” to Republican candidates.   It's not known which dark money organizations, but typically 501c3 & 501c4 nonprofits, Limited Liability Corporations and other instruments are used to shield donor identities. Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington, has since filed a campaign finance reform complaint with the Federal Elections Commission. CREW suggested that Bankman-Fried contributed as much as $37 Million more to campaigns than was reported to the FEC, and says that while the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision allows independent expenditures to groups, it doesn't not allow those groups to “pass through” donations directly to candidates. Several politicians, including Arizona U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, have reportedly returned money given to them by Bankman-Fried.  We have links to the campaign funding transparency website OpenSecrets, and more details on the allegations at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.   For the American Democracy Minute, I'm Brian Beihl.Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter and SHARE!  Find all of our reports at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org#Democracy  #DemocracyNews

The first million-selling hit from Motown is our theme this week. (RIP Barrett Strong, 1941-2023) Virtually all political scandals involve either seeking greater power, or money. This week's discussion focuses on the latter. We are joined in the podcast by two national leaders in the drive to disrupt the political money machine: Gabe Lezra from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics (better known as CREW), and Lisa Gilbert from Public Citizen. Topping the political news this week: legislative Democrats move quickly on economic development, two major tax cuts and the presidential primary; Haley Stevens rules out a Senate race; Republicans double down on whining about 2020 and the Big Lie; and Florida provides a preview of the Big Brother mentality that could be the mantra of our next President. Lisa Gilbert is the Executive Vice President at Public Citizen. She advocates for government transparency and integrity, financial reform, civil justice, and consumer protections. Lisa has testified before Congress, and been quoted in publications such as the New York Times, the Associated Press, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the Washington Post and NPR. She was also a featured contributor to the National Journal's "Expert Blog" on lobbying and ethics, and writes frequently for USA Today, Yahoo Finance, and The Hill. Gabe Lezra is the Federal Policy Manager and a Senior Counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), where he specializes in anti-corruption, democracy reform, and government ethics law. He also serves as the Policy Working Group Leader at the Declaration for American Democracy (DFAD) coalition, where he has helped develop the coalition's democracy reform agenda. Prior to joining CREW, Gabe served as a counsel at the American Association for Justice and as a financial institutions and consumer law associate at Debevoise and Plimpton LLP in New York. Gabe received his J.D. with honors from Georgetown Law and his B.A. with high honors from Wesleyan University. This week in politics Michigan moves for early slot for 2024 presidential primary | AP News Michigan slated for early slot in 2024 presidential primary Haley Stevens on Twitter: Not running for US Senate Democrats win, GOP upset as Michigan votes to move up presidential primary | Bridge Michigan Whitmer: Pension tax rollback and EITC should be 2023's first laws Whitmer signs spending bill, allocates $240M in federal COVID-19 funds Business group to Michigan Legislature: Extend tax cuts to more seniors | Bridge Michigan Some seniors may be left out of Lansing's rush to cut taxes Gretchen Whitmer on guns: ‘The time for only thoughts and prayers is over.' | Bridge Michigan Minimum wage increase set for February blocked by Michigan court | Bridge Michigan Livengood: Whitmer's messaging has a ring of national aspiration GOP Chair Ronna McDaniel defeats rival in fierce campaign | AP News The crimes Trump or his allies could be charged with in Fulton County - The Washington Post The GOP gameplan… GOP report shows plan to ramp up focus on disproven election fraud claims - The Washington Post RNC urges GOP candidates to ‘go on offense' on abortion in 2024 - The Washington Post Inside the audacious new scheme to erase LGBTQ people from Michigan schools Fighting misinformation in U.S. history GOP-led committees plan to issue subpoenas in Biden probes without consulting Democrats | CNN Politics =========================== This week's podcast is underwritten in part by EPIC-MRAEPIC ▪ MRA is a full service survey research firm with expertise in: • Public Opinion Surveys • Market Research Studies • Live Telephone Surveys • On-Line and Automated Surveys • Focus Group Research • Bond Proposals - Millage Campaigns • Political Campaigns & Consulting • Ballot Proposals - Issue Advocacy Research

An Interview with Crypto CEO Sam Bankman-Fried Shows How  Reported - And Unreported -- Money Funds Our CandidatesToday's LinksArticles & Resources: Journalist Tiffany Fong - Interview with former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (Campaign donation discussions at 13 minutes)CNBC - Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried hit with campaign finance complaint over GOP ‘dark' moneyForbes - Sam Bankman-Fried says he donated just as many millions to Republicans as Democrats, but didn't publicize it because reporters would ‘freak the f–k out'The Hill - FTX founder Bankman-Fried's campaign finance charges ‘just the tip of the icebergOpenSecrets.org - Largest Campaign Donors Groups Taking Action:Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public Citizen, Open Democracy Today's Script:  (Variations occur with audio due to editing for time) You're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.Recent revelations from a disgraced cryptocurrency CEO gives us a glimpse of just how much campaign money flows into our election system – both what gets reported, and what's called “dark money.”  And both the major parties refuse to stop the torrent.In an interview with journalist Tiffany Fong in November, FTX crypto exchange CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, now in custody in the Bahamas, admitted that he had not only given $40 million to Democrats and Democratic PACs to fund primary races, but he said he also gave an equal amount of “dark money” to Republican candidates.   It's not known which dark money organizations, but typically 501c3 & 501c4 nonprofits, Limited Liability Corporations and other instruments are used to shield donor identities. Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington, has since filed a campaign finance reform complaint with the Federal Elections Commission. CREW suggested that Bankman-Fried contributed as much as $37 Million more to campaigns than was reported to the FEC, and says that while the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United decision allows independent expenditures to groups, it doesn't not allow those groups to “pass through” donations directly to candidates. Several politicians, including Arizona U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, have reportedly returned money given to them by Bankman-Fried.  We have links to the campaign funding transparency website OpenSecrets, and more details on the allegations at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.   For the American Democracy Minute, I'm Brian Beihl.

Jessica speaks with Noah Bookbinder, the President and CEO of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). CREW's mission statement outlines the organization's activities to "...use aggressive legal actions, in-depth investigations, and innovative policy and reform work" because "Americans deserve a government that is ethical, accountable, and open." Noah and Jessica discuss efforts to use the 14th Amendment to disqualify lawmakers involved in the insurrection on January 6th, efforts to reform judicial ethics, and more.

Thursday, August 18th, 2022 Today, in the Hot Notes: the Fulton County DA investigation heats up as Rudy Giuliani testifies after being named a target for indictment; Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) get their hands on troves of Secret Service emails; Biden cancels another $4B in student loan debt; Pence says he might make himself available to testify to the 1/6 Committee; Weisselberg will cooperate with the Manhattan DA investigation, but only a little bit; plus Allison and Dana deliver your Good News. Follow the Podcast on Apple: http://apple.co/beans Follow AG and Dana on Twitter: Dr. Allison Gill  https://twitter.com/allisongill https://twitter.com/MuellerSheWrote https://twitter.com/dailybeanspod Dana Goldberg https://twitter.com/DGComedy Follow Aimee on Instagram: Aimee Carrero (@aimeecarrero) How We Win Live! http://secure.actblue.com/donate/howwewinlive How We Win Fund swingleft.org/fundraise/howwewin Listener Survey: http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=short Have some good news, a confession, a correction, or a case for Beans Court? https://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Want to support the show and get it ad-free and early? https://dailybeans.supercast.tech Or https://patreon.com/thedailybeans Promo Codes Thanks Athletic Greens. Go to https://www.athleticgreens.com/dailybeans  to get a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase.

SECRET SERVICE DELAYED WARNING PELOSI OF 1/6 THREATS AGAINST HER. A BLOCK: (1:07) The simple question is: has The Secret Service become politically corrupted, a threat to the nation, a CELL loyal to Trump? (1:24) Citizens For Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) has emails proving Secret Service waited until after the coup attempt to warn Speaker Pelosi of tangible threats against her (2:10) and sat on "Biden will die" message from same Parler account (3:56) It's either extraordinary incompetence by elements in Secret Service, or collaboration in the coup by those elements (4:18) Secret Service was also warned of plans involving guns and the occupation of the Capitol "to change election results" and did nothing (6:30) The story of Tony Ornato, who went from Secret Service agent to Trump's hand-picked choice as Special Assistant and Deputy Chief of Staff protecting the White House, and impossibly, is now BACK AT SECRET SERVICE running training of agents and other employees (8:49) and no one is acting to protect the president or the democracy because while one side continues to plot and scheme and undermine, the side in power refuses to use it and remains convinced the system will heal itself. B BLOCK: (12:00) Every Dog Has Its Day: Bluestone (13:17) Postscripts To The News: How can Trump release the surveillance video from the Mar-a-Lago search if he told Fox News on Monday that the FBI told them to turn off the surveillance camera? (13:56) Eric "Brains" Trump wants to re-name the Republican Party (14:49) Tremendous poll numbers for Democrats in California, Wisconsin, and nationally (15:45) Trump "assumes" Liz Cheney's defeat means dissolution of the January 6th Commission - and you know what they say about ASSuming (16:50) Sports: oh good LeBron gets a raise (17:16) Tiger Woods leads PGA players' solidarity meeting. Bob Slurm reports (18:02) Chuck Howley leads NFL HOF nominees (18:02) Elvis cut on the anniversary of the week Elvis died (18:42) In 1st MLB game, (18:48) Mets rookie Brett Baty masters his domain. (19:23) Mehmet Oz, Nikki Haley, and Jared Kushner compete for Worst Persons In The World honors. C BLOCK: (23:28) Things I Promised Not To Tell: Friday is the 14th anniversary of the day that a year of badgering paid off and I finally bullied my MSNBC bosses into giving Rachel Maddow her own show. This intertwines neatly with the Alex Wagner opening night teleprompter disaster (TOLD YOU SO) and the unlikely story of Paul Harvey's deepest fear: that somebody would figure out he only got to start his 58-year run on ABC Radio because they fired the guy he was filling in for. It's quite a story and it underscores that you have to control your origin story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pull the Pin Already (WAR ROOM Ep 114): Jim and Nate discuss various headlines found in today's media. Opinions are based on personal experience and not from the content of the article, unless someone has happened to read it. What's your take on the opinions and concerns expressed during the show? Let them know by discussing your own views in the comments below. If you like what they have to say click the like button below and share this video with your friends. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell for future episodes. **Subscribe on Rumble or one of our other media platforms and forget ScrewTube** www.pullthepinalready.com VIDEO CHANNELS Youtube www.youtube.com/channel/UCfUOkihz4MloQUyWWYypPGw Rumble https://rumble.com/c/PullThePinAlready Bitchute https://www.bitchute.com/accounts/referral/pullthepinalready/ UGE tube https://ugetube.com/@Pull%20The%20Pin%20Already

Lawsuit Filed Against FEC for Dismissing Credible Complaint on Secret Payments to Trump Family & InsidersToday's Links:   ArticlesCampaign Legal Center - CLC Sues FEC over Dismissal of Complaint Alleging Violations by Trump CampaignBusiness Insider  -  Trump's campaign committee dodges penalty as federal watchdog deadlocks on complaint it laundered hundreds of millions of dollars Associated Press - FEC deadlocks, won't punish Trump over questionable 2020 campaign spending Campaign Legal CenterOrganizations Taking ActionCampaign Legal Center, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Public CitizenYou're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping YOUR government by and for the people.We reported back in May on the Federal Elections Commission deadlock over alleged secret payments benefitting Trump family members.   The complaint alleges Trump family members and insiders financially benefited from sweetheart contracts paid out by a political action committee supporting President Trump's re-election campaign.  The Campaign Legal Center has now filed a lawsuit contesting that decision.    Based on 2020 reporting by the Business Insider,  the Make America Great Again PAC allegedly misreported the payees of secret payments made to American Made Media Consultants, LLC, set up by Jared Kushner.  The LLC had Vice President Pence, Lara Trump, and Kushner as board members, among others.   American Made Media Consultants was reported to have been paid $617 million dollars from the PAC, and some of that money was used to compensate Trump campaign staffers and the partners of his adult children, violating campaign transparency rules.   Parscale Strategy, LLC, headed by Brad Parscale, former Trump campaign manager, was also accused of having received misreported payments.    Despite significant evidence, the FEC's three Republicans and three Democrats deadlocked on whether further investigation was warranted. The Campaign Legal Center lawsuit contests that decision, pointing out that the commissioners' reasonings for rejecting the complaint don't stand up to legal scrutiny.  They ask that the court invalidate the FEC's dismissal, and that the alleged violations be investigated.   Stay tuned for more on this story. We have links to articles and groups taking action at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org.  Granny D said “Democracy is not something we have, it's something we DO.” For the American Democracy Minute, I'm Brian Beihl.

June 24, 2022--On Forthright Radio, host Joy LaClaire talks with co-founder of Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington (CREW) and Senior Fellow in The Brookings Institution Governance Studies program, Norman Eisen, about his latest book, OVERCOMING TRUMPERY: HOW TO RESTORE ETHICS, THE RULE OF LAW AND DEMOCRACY.

Toward the end of its most recent public hearing, the Jan. 6 Committee released a roughly two-minute video laying out how former President Donald Trump and his allies raised $250 million off what they called the "big rip-off."According to the committee, they pitched a supposed "Official Election Defense Fund" that did not exist in order to fight bogus claims of election fraud that even Trump campaign officials knew were false.What's more, a top official for an anti-corruption watchdog that's one of Trump's staunchest critics says Trump is likely to escape any criminal or civil liability over it—at least, based on what's currently known about it."It is incredibly frustrating to learn how many things are highly unethical, but probably legal, and this is probably one of them," Robert Maguire, the research director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), told Law&Crime's podcast "Objections: with Adam Klasfeld."READ FULL TRIAL RECAPS:lawandcrime.comSUBSCRIBE TO OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Court JunkieThey Walk Among AmericaSidebarLAW&CRIME NETWORK SOCIAL MEDIA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawandcrime/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LawCrimeNetworkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawandcrimeTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/lawandcrimenetworkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lawandcrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FEC Deadlocks on Trump Campaign Payments to Family-Controlled LLCToday's Links:    Articles:  Business Insider,  Associated Press, Campaign Legal Center Organizations fighting political corruption:  Campaign Legal Center, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW),  Public Citizen You're listening to the American Democracy Minute, keeping your government by and for the people.One of the many reforms in the S. 1 For the People Act, which stalled in the U.S. Senate earlier this year, would have fixed the Federal Elections Commission.  Over the last two decades, the bipartisan members of the FEC routinely deadlock on campaign corruption and misdeeds complaints, using their role not to uphold the rules, but to protect their own parties.  In a report by Business Insider, the FEC has apparently deadlocked again, this time over sketchy 2020 payments made from former President Trump's campaign to even sketchier LLCs and holding companies set up by Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner.The Make America Great Again PAC was accused by the Campaign Legal Center for misreporting the payees of secret payments made to American Made Media Consultants, LLC, set up by Kushner, and which included Vice President Pence, Lara Trump, and Kushner as board members, among others.   American Made Media Consultants was reported to have been paid $617 Million dollars from the Trump campaign coffers.   Parscale Strategy, LLC, headed by Brad Parscale, former Trump campaign manager, was also accused of having received misreported payments.Even though the FEC deadlocked, it's not yet over. Campaign Legal Center filed a federal lawsuit on this matter in March after its complaint in January to the FEC.   We have more information and links to organizations fighting corruption at our website, AmericanDemocracyMinute.org/  Granny D said, “Democracy is not something we have, it's something we DO.” For the American Democracy Minute, I'm Brian Beihl.

In the Public Interest welcomes renowned environmental activist and former Argentine Secretary of the Environment and Sustainable Development, https://center-hre.org/6471-2/romina-picolotti/ (Romina Picolotti), who speaks with WilmerHale Senior Associate https://www.wilmerhale.com/en/people/kelsey-quigley (Kelsey Quigley) and Counsel https://www.wilmerhale.com/en/people/jessica-lutkenhaus (Jessica Lutkenhaus). This episode focuses on the important intersection of climate justice and human rights, and highlights the work of environmental defenders around the world—and the threats that they sometimes face. Picolotti has filed a claim before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, challenging Argentina's criminal prosecution of her for a crime that she did not commit, and which she alleges is politically motivated and filed in retaliation for her groundbreaking environmental justice efforts. The case has been stagnating in Argentine courts for nearly 15 years, and is just one example of how judicial and criminal processes around the world have sometimes been used to threaten and intimidate environmental defenders—at a time when their work fighting the climate crisis is ever more important. Quigley and Lutkenhaus are two of the lawyers on Picolotti's WilmerHale legal team, which also includes Partner https://www.wilmerhale.com/en/people/david-bowker (David Bowker) and Associate https://www.wilmerhale.com/en/people/courtney-murray (Courtney Murray), who both deserve special thanks for their work on this case. Quigley focuses her practice on representing individuals and corporations involved in investigations, enhancing regulatory compliance, and complex litigation/controversies. She is part of the firm's globally renowned litigation team, and is active in pro bono matters involving human rights and critical issues related to Latin America. Lutkenhaus represents corporations and individuals in criminal defense and civil and government regulatory litigation matters, and has substantial experience in government and internal investigations. Lutkenhaus was selected as WilmerHale's 2019 Pickering fellow and spent six months at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). She also represents pro bono clients in various matters, including one alleging numerous violations of the American Convention for Human Rights. Related Resources: https://www.wilmerhale.com/-/media/files/shared_content/editorial/publications/documents/20190921reportonthemisuseofcriminaljusticesystemstoretaliateagainstenvironmentaldefenders92120191760443391.pdf (Report on the Misuse of Criminal Justice Systems to Retaliate Against Environmental Defenders) https://www.wilmerhale.com/-/media/files/shared_content/editorial/publications/documents/20190921informesobreelusoindebidodesistemasdejusticiapenalparatomarrepresaliascontralosdefensorasydefensoresdelambiente-92120191760443.pdf (Informe sobre el uso indebido de sistemas de justicia penal para tomar represalias contra los defensoras y defensores del ambiente) https://www.wilmerhale.com/-/media/files/shared_content/editorial/publications/documents/20180302petition1667213521.pdf (Petition Alleging Violations of the Human Rights of Environmental Defender Romina Picolotti by the Republic of Argentina) https://www.wilmerhale.com/-/media/files/shared_content/editorial/publications/documents/20180503-p39518petitionspanish1675865271.pdf (Petición que alega violaciones de los derechos humanos de la defensora del medio ambiente Romina Picolotti por parte de la República Argentina) https://center-hre.org/ (Center for Human Rights and Environment (CHRE) )

What role do ethics violations play in the degradation of our democracy? The Trump administration left behind a legacy of profound corruption, egregious conflicts of interest, and outrageous self-dealing. The Wall Street Journal has reported on over 130 judges who have violated conflicts of interest laws. And Congress evades accountability on the regular by exempting itself from the Freedom of Information Act. This week, Debra Perlin speaks with Donald Sherman and Virginia Canter from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) about these and other ethics issues in the news and about how we build more effective government ethics regimes to safeguard our democracy. ----------------- Join the Progressive Legal Movement Today: ACSLaw.org Today's Host: Debra Perlin, ACS Director of Policy and Programs Guest: Donald Sherman, Vice President and Chief Counsel of CREW Guest: Virginia Canter, Chief Ethics Counsel at CREW Link: "What Democracy Looks Like: a blueprint for an accountable, inclusive and ethical government" by CREW Link: "131 Federal Judges Broke the Law by Hearing Cases Where They Had a Financial Interest" by James V. Grimaldi, Coulter Jones and Joe Palazzolo from the Wall Street Journal Visit the Podcast Website: Broken Law Podcast Email the Show: Podcast@ACSLaw.org Follow ACS on Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | YouTube ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of American Constitution Society 2022.

Free speech is under attack. It's often targeted by those on the -left- who want to gag the speech of those who espouse conservative values or any information that the -left- doesn't want released for public consumption. This takes place on numerous fronts and one of them involves speaking out on the issue of elections. --This has resulted in the recent filing of a lawsuit in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The case is known as Wisconsin Family Action v. Federal Elections Commission.--Joining Jim to discuss this lawsuit were two guests. The first was Michael Dean. Michael is an attorney with First Freedoms Foundation, a public interest law foundation defending historic civil liberties and constitutional principles through litigation and education.--Also part of the discussion was Julaine Appling, president of Wisconsin Family Action.--Michael described how special interest groups -such as Wisconsin Family Action- organize such lawsuits for a particular purpose. In this case a left-leaning group in Washington known as Citizens for Responsibility - Ethics in Washington -CREW- were looking for a specific result. --The D.C. Circuit had the case of CREW v. The Federal Elections Commission -F.E.C.- before them. The case grew out of their lawsuit to force the F.E.C. to prosecute a group known as Crossroads, a 501-c-4 organization which is the same IRS classification held by Wisconsin Family Action. It was a high-profile case because it was going after an organization on the -right-.

Free speech is under attack. It's often targeted by those on the -left- who want to gag the speech of those who espouse conservative values or any information that the -left- doesn't want released for public consumption. This takes place on numerous fronts and one of them involves speaking out on the issue of elections. --This has resulted in the recent filing of a lawsuit in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The case is known as Wisconsin Family Action v. Federal Elections Commission.--Joining Jim to discuss this lawsuit were two guests. The first was Michael Dean. Michael is an attorney with First Freedoms Foundation, a public interest law foundation defending historic civil liberties and constitutional principles through litigation and education.--Also part of the discussion was Julaine Appling, president of Wisconsin Family Action.--Michael described how special interest groups -such as Wisconsin Family Action- organize such lawsuits for a particular purpose. In this case a left-leaning group in Washington known as Citizens for Responsibility - Ethics in Washington -CREW- were looking for a specific result. --The D.C. Circuit had the case of CREW v. The Federal Elections Commission -F.E.C.- before them. The case grew out of their lawsuit to force the F.E.C. to prosecute a group known as Crossroads, a 501-c-4 organization which is the same IRS classification held by Wisconsin Family Action. It was a high-profile case because it was going after an organization on the -right-.

In an important ruling this week, Judge Amy Berman Jackson wrote a scathing assessment of the Barr Department of Justice's efforts to rationalize their handling of the serial obstruction of justice within the Trump Administration. This may have been another significant step toward getting some accountability for the last administration's serial abuses. The decision came in a case brought by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). We are joined by CREW president Noah Bookbinder and our regulars, NYU Law Professor and co-editor of Just Security Ryan Goodman and former senior Obama White House official and former Senate staffer Dr. Kavita Patel to discuss how, if ever, we might get from where we are toward bringing Trump and his associates to true justice. It's an important discussion that you won't want to miss. Join us.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/deepstateradio. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In an important ruling this week, Judge Amy Berman Jackson wrote a scathing assessment of the Barr Department of Justice's efforts to rationalize their handling of the serial obstruction of justice within the Trump Administration. This may have been another significant step toward getting some accountability for the last administration's serial abuses. The decision came in a case brought by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). We are joined by CREW president Noah Bookbinder and our regulars, NYU Law Professor and co-editor of Just Security Ryan Goodman and former senior Obama White House official and former Senate staffer Dr. Kavita Patel to discuss how, if ever, we might get from where we are toward bringing Trump and his associates to true justice. It's an important discussion that you won't want to miss. Join us.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/deepstateradio. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Attorneys General of Maryland and the District of Columbia, as well as the nonprofit organization Citizens for Responsible Ethics in Washington (CREW) sued Donald Trump for his obvious and chronic violations of the emoluments clause of the Constitution (personally profiting from his office). The trial courts refused to dismiss the cases but Trump engaged in endless appeals and delays. When the cases finally made it up to the Supreme Court, the court dismissed the cases as moot because Trump is no longer president. This does little more than reward Trump for his endless delays. Sadly, the Supreme Court could have and should have relied on its own guiding principle of deciding - rather than dismissing - a case, that is "capable of repetition yet evading review."   This unjust development reinforces the need for a Presidential Crimes Commission, as Congressman Eric Swalwell has called it, or a Trump Crimes Commission, as I have called it while sharing a panel with Rep. Swalwell. Given the Supreme Court's unfortunate dismissal, the emoluments issue must now be put on the Crimes Commission's agenda.   Please consider becoming a #TeamJustice patron at: https://www.patreon.com/glennkirschner My podcast, "Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner" can be downloaded where you get your podcasts. Follow me on: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/glennkirschner2  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glennkirschner2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glennkirschner2 Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/glennkirschner) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Attorneys General of Maryland and the District of Columbia, as well as the nonprofit organization Citizens for Responsible Ethics in Washington (CREW) sued Donald Trump for his obvious and chronic violations of the emoluments clause of the Constitution (personally profiting from his office). The trial courts refused to dismiss the cases but Trump engaged in endless appeals and delays. When the cases finally made it up to the Supreme Court, the court dismissed the cases as moot because Trump is no longer president. This does little more than reward Trump for his endless delays. Sadly, the Supreme Court could have and should have relied on its own guiding principle of deciding - rather than dismissing - a case, that is "capable of repetition yet evading review." This unjust development reinforces the need for a Presidential Crimes Commission, as Congressman Eric Swalwell has called it, or a Trump Crimes Commission, as I have called it while sharing a panel with Rep. Swalwell. Given the Supreme Court's unfortunate dismissal, the emoluments issue must now be put on the Crimes Commission's agenda. Please consider becoming a #TeamJustice patron at: https://www.patreon.com/glennkirschnerMy podcast, "Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner" can be downloaded where you get your podcasts.Follow me on:Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/glennkirschner2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glennkirschner2Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glennkirschner2Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/glennkirschner)

We welcome President Obama's “ethics czar” Norm Eisen (@NormEisen) to our first episode of 2021. The interview kicks off with a discussion on what the past four years have revealed about the vulnerability and resilience of American political institutions. Norm weighs in on the Mueller investigation, impeachment and currently ongoing legal investigation against President Trump. Hear Norm’s advice on how to shift into a new administration when the previous one is accused of corruption and learn about Norm’s recommendations for improving the integrity of the institutions: a) by reducing conflict of interest that are also outlined in Obama’s new book and by b) increasing transparency. The interview ends on Norm outlining what the world has to offer as a teaching for anti-corruption, what, why anti-corruption needs to be anchor in the general theory and practice of democracy. References: - Book -> https://www.normaneisen.com/a-case-for-the-american-people - Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) that Norm Eisen co-founded à https://www.citizensforethics.org/ - The Voter Protection Program (VPP) the nonpartisan initiative to ensure safe, fair, and secure electionsà https://voterprotectionprogram.org/ - Obama’s new book, A Promised Land à https://obamabook.com/

Stephanie is joined by Donald K. Sherman, deputy director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) and former government oversight and ethics lawyer, to discuss how holdover Trump political appointees could exercise their power in a Biden Administration. And they take a closer look corruption and accountability in Washington. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Former University of Washington Crew student-athlete relates going 'all in' towards college athletics with what it means to go 'all in' for Jesus!

Moe Davis is a retired Air Force Colonel, Director of the Air Force Judiciary and former Chief Prosecutor at Guantanamo Bay. Col. Davis has been a law professor, judge, speaker, writer, and national security expert for Congress. He graduated from Appalachian State and North Carolina Central School of Law. Shortly after he passed the bar exam, his father died of a heart attack. In part to honor his father, Davis decided to join the Air Force, the start of a 25-year career of service in the military. In 2007, while serving as Chief Prosecutor for Terrorism Trials at Guantanamo Bay, Col. Davis dared to publicly take on the Bush Administration. He refused an order to use evidence obtained through torture, believing it was both immoral and illegal and the evidence unreliable. That decision came at a price; to uphold his principles and maintain his oath, Col. Davis had no choice but to resign his prestigious position as Chief Prosecutor at Guantanamo Bay. For his stand against torture and the political pressure placed on prosecutors at Guantanamo, the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) honored Col. Davis by including him in, “Those Who Dared: 30 Officials Who Stood Up For Our Country.” That was not the last time Col. Davis stood up for what he believed was right. In 2009, after retiring from the Air Force, he was working as an assistant director and senior specialist in national security for the Congressional Research Service at the Library of Congress. But when he wrote an opinion piece for The Wall Street Journal that was critical of the Obama Administration’s handling of prosecutions at Guantanamo Bay, Col. Davis was fired. Col. Davis is currently running for election to the U.S. House to represent North Carolina's 11th Congressional District. If you haven’t already, be sure to join our community at SOFREP and find the best tactical equipment and apparel in our store, The Loadout Room. Support our veteran team and be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave us a review! Editor's note: This episode was recorded on September 4th, 2020. Due to technological issues, the quality of some portions of this podcast is low. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Nancy Pelosi says the House will move forward with impeachment articles. Will Trump be impeached? Will the Senate convict? Will any of it mean anything? Michael and Richard Painter discuss. Richard Painter is the S. Walter Richey Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Minnesota, was vice-chair of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), and from 2005 to 2007 Painter was the chief White House ethics lawyer in the George W. Bush administration. His upcoming book is American Nero: The History of the Destruction of the Rule of Law, and Why Trump Is the Worst Offender.

Robert Maguire is the Research Director for Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) tracking campaign cash, dark money, and conflicts. As money in politics has changed over the years, it has become harder and harder to track who is paying what and what they’re getting in return. CREW recently published a report (https://www.citizensforethics.org/2000-trump-conflicts-of-interest-counting/) detailing possible conflicts of interest with President Trump and his businesses. The report outlines some 2,000 conflicts between the White House and Trump’s businesses, asking if these incidents raise ethical questions.

Shortly after the release of Special Counsel Mueller’s “Report on the Investigation into Russian Interference in the 2016 Presidential Election,” congressional committees issued subpoenas for follow-up oral testimony and written documents. In response, President Trump vowed to fight “all the subpoenas.” This strategy has led House Democrats to complain that Congress’s authority as a co-equal branch of government is being thwarted. What are Congress’s constitutional oversight responsibilities and how can it perform them under these circumstances? Is it unprecedented for an administration to withhold documents? What are the remedies left to Congress in response? How will this showdown be resolved? Featuring: Caroline Fredrickson, President, American Constitution Society (moderator) Alan B. Morrison, Lerner Family Associate Dean for Public Interest and Public Service Law, George Washington University Law School Donald K. Sherman, Deputy Director, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW); former Chief Oversight Counsel House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

On April 5, ACS and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) hosted a discussion of whether these justifications should operate as categorical bars to releasing the Report and related evidence. The American people want to see the Mueller Report and the evidence underlying it, and Congress needs to review the Report and supporting material to fulfill its oversight duties. Yet Attorney General Barr has said he will send only a redacted version of the Report to Congress later this month. Potential justifications for limiting disclosure include grand jury secrecy rules and executive privilege.  Featured Speakers: Barbara McQuade, Professor from Practice, University of Michigan Law School; former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Andrew Wright, Senior Fellow and Founding Editor of Just Security; Associate Counsel to President Barack Obama Kristin Amerling, ACS/CREW Presidential Investigation Education Project, Moderator

On August 23, ACS held a conference call on the new publication authored by Professor Neil Kinkopf and released by ACS and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), The Implications for the Mueller Investigation of Confirming Judge Brett Kavanaugh, which addresses: (1) Can a President commit obstruction of justice with impunity?; (2) Can a President defy a grand jury subpoena for testimony?; (3) May the President terminate a Department of Justice investigation of the President himself?; (4) May the President fire Special Counsel Robert Mueller; (5) May the President pardon himself? The conviction of President Trump’s former campaign manager and the guilty plea of his former lawyer that directly implicated Trump in criminal activity, several Senators appropriately called for a delay in the confirmation hearings of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, who has expressed some concerning views of executive power. Featured Speakers: Caroline Fredrickson, President, American Constitution Society Neil Kinkopf, Professor of Law, Georgia State University

The Supreme Court has slowed Arkansas’ unprecedented rush to execute eight men in 11 days, pending a decision in McWilliams v. Dunn. At issue in the case is whether James McWilliams, an indigent defendant whose mental health was a significant factor at his capital trial, was entitled to an independent psychological expert to testify on his behalf. We discuss the case with Stephen Bright, longtime president of the Southern Center for Human Rights, who represented McWilliams at this week’s oral arguments.  We also sit down with Norm Eisen, co-founder of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), to discuss the ongoing anti-corruption litigation against President Trump. Last week, CREW added two new plaintiffs to its lawsuit, which alleges that Trump’s business interests put him in violation of the Constitution’s Foreign and Domestic Emoluments Clauses. Eisen reflects on the ethical issues of the Trump Administration’s first 100 days, why the president’s tax returns still matter, and what he believes is the single most concerning ethics violation of the new commander-in-chief. Transcripts of Amicus are available to Slate Plus members, several days after each episode posts. For a limited time, get 90 days of free access to Slate Plus in the new Slate iOS app. Download it today at slate.com/app. Please let us know what you think of Amicus. Join the discussion of this episode on Facebook. Our email is amicus@slate.com. Podcast production by Tony Field. Our intern is Camille Mott. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court has slowed Arkansas’ unprecedented rush to execute eight men in 11 days, pending a decision in McWilliams v. Dunn. At issue in the case is whether James McWilliams, an indigent defendant whose mental health was a significant factor at his capital trial, was entitled to an independent psychological expert to testify on his behalf. We discuss the case with Stephen Bright, longtime president of the Southern Center for Human Rights, who represented McWilliams at this week’s oral arguments.  We also sit down with Norm Eisen, co-founder of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), to discuss the ongoing anti-corruption litigation against President Trump. Last week, CREW added two new plaintiffs to its lawsuit, which alleges that Trump’s business interests put him in violation of the Constitution’s Foreign and Domestic Emoluments Clauses. Eisen reflects on the ethical issues of the Trump Administration’s first 100 days, why the president’s tax returns still matter, and what he believes is the single most concerning ethics violation of the new commander-in-chief. Transcripts of Amicus are available to Slate Plus members, several days after each episode posts. For a limited time, get 90 days of free access to Slate Plus in the new Slate iOS app. Download it today at slate.com/app. Please let us know what you think of Amicus. Join the discussion of this episode on Facebook. Our email is amicus@slate.com.  Podcast production by Tony Field. Our intern is Camille Mott. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Breach, we take a closer look at those 49 words that mean so much: the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the United States Constitution. Law professor Zephyr Teachout joins host Lindsay Beyerstein for an in-depth discussion of one of our founding document's most critical anti-corruption clauses. Teachout and her legal colleagues at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) have launched a groundbreaking lawsuit against Trump to stop him from taking cash from foreign governments through his empire of hotels and rental properties. The Emoluments Clause has never been tested in court. A loss for Trump will make legal history and could set the stage for divestment, resignation, or even impeachment.