The Dishcast with Andrew Sullivan cover image

The Dishcast with Andrew Sullivan

Jeffrey Toobin On Lawfare And SCOTUS

Aug 2, 2024
Jeffrey Toobin, a lawyer and CNN's chief legal analyst, shares insights from his extensive career, shaped by parents who were both journalists. He discusses the evolution of executive power and the absence of congressional war declarations since WWII, spotlighting the tensions in U.S. foreign policy. Toobin also highlights the transitional nature of presidential accountability, informed by historical investigations from Nixon to Trump. Finally, he addresses the impact of fragmented media landscapes on political dialogue and public perceptions.
42:50

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Jeffrey Toobin's upbringing in a journalistic family profoundly shaped his career path and appreciation for storytelling in media.
  • Toobin emphasizes the complex interplay between law and politics, highlighting how public perception often eclipses legal arguments in investigations.

Deep dives

Jeffrey Toobin's Early Influences

Jeffrey Toobin shares insights about his upbringing in a journalistic family, highlighting the profound influence of his parents' careers on his path. His mother broke barriers as one of the first female television correspondents, covering significant events like the Vietnam War, while his father played a key role in the formation of public television. Growing up in an environment filled with discussions about current events and storytelling sparked his interest in journalism, despite his parents’ caution against entering the field. He fondly remembers accompanying his mother on reporting trips, further deepening his appreciation for the dynamic nature of storytelling in media.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner