

Normalizing Militarization
18 snips Aug 19, 2025
The discussion kicks off with the D.C. Attorney General's lawsuit against federal overreach in police authority. As National Guard units from several states are deployed to D.C., the legal complexities grow. The hosts dive into the implications of the Posse Comitatus Act as they explore the militarization of state guards. Geopolitical issues surrounding Russia’s ambitions in Ukraine add another layer of intrigue. With ongoing legal battles affecting political power, the conversation highlights serious implications for governance.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Limits On Presidential Takeover Of MPD
- Judge Ana Reyes pressed that the president can request MPD services but cannot simply “take over” the Metropolitan Police Department under the Home Rule Act.
- DOJ rescinded its sweeping takeover order and narrowed its directive after the emergency hearing.
Use Negotiation To Avoid Immediate Injunctions
- Courts often invite parties to negotiate before issuing rulings, so agencies should try to narrow disputes to avoid protracted appeals.
- Agencies should expect judges to signal likely outcomes and use that to seek negotiated resolutions.
Title 32 Enables Out‑of‑State Guard In D.C.
- Title 32 deployments let state National Guard operate without Posse Comitatus constraints because they remain under governors' control.
- D.C.'s unique federal status creates a legal pathway for out-of-state Guard deployments that Congress could clarify.