Another Way, by Lawrence Lessig S7E5: Strategy of Extortion
Apr 28, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Ben Hepburn, a high school friend of Lawrence Lessig with differing political views, tackles the concept of Trump's strategy of extortion, revealing the complexities behind political pressure and compliance. They delve into the nuanced boundaries between legitimate negotiations and extortion in economic practices. Hepburn and Lessig explore the implications of due process, reflecting on its critical role in immigration cases and wrongful convictions, all while emphasizing the importance of finding common ground in today's divisive political landscape.
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Illegal Extortion of Law Firms
- President Trump used illegitimate threats to force law firms that litigated against him to settle.
- This illegal extortion deprived these firms of due process protections.
Trump’s Illegal Threats Against Universities
- Trump threatened universities with fund withdrawal without following legal due process.
- The threats aimed at controlling university governance over unfounded claims under Title VI law.
Tax System Shutdown Benefits Corporations
- Government’s online tax systems simplify paying taxes for many.
- Trump administration shutting down such systems benefits private companies financially, not taxpayers.