Cato Daily Podcast Trump, His 'Enemies List,' and the Next Four Years Federal Law Enforcement
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Jan 9, 2025 Clark Neily, Senior Vice President for Legal Studies at the Cato Institute, delves into the ramifications of Trump's potential influence over federal law enforcement. He discusses Trump's threats to prosecute rivals and what that means for the future of the Justice Department. Neily emphasizes the need for reform in federal prosecution, accountability for prosecutors, and the judiciary's impact on justice. He raises concerns about the weaponization of the criminal justice system in this politically charged environment, underscoring vital issues in law and governance.
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Trump's Law Enforcement Dilemma
- Trump wants to prosecute those who wronged him, but also wants to avoid similar treatment.
- This creates tension between using law enforcement as a weapon and ensuring equitable application of rules.
Overcriminalization and Trump's Charges
- Clark Neily discusses overcriminalization, citing examples like growing the wrong plant or mischaracterizing business records.
- He also points out that Trump was prosecuted for some things any of us would be, like directing someone to lie to federal investigators.
Focus on Serious Crimes
- The federal government should focus on serious crimes clearly within its constitutional authority.
- Neily suggests prioritizing dire threats and avoiding trivial prosecutions, like the felony theft case involving a charter boat.