The Political Scene | The New Yorker Senator Adam Schiff on How the Trump Administration Targets Its Opponents
Dec 8, 2025
In a captivating discussion, Adam Schiff, the former U.S. Representative and current Senator from California, dives into the reasons behind Trump's fixation on him. He elaborates on a vague mortgage-fraud inquiry and critiques Merrick Garland's cautious approach to accountability. Schiff reveals his belief that Trump is largely impervious to scandals and expresses concern over preserving democratic norms. He emphasizes the critical role of civic action in safeguarding elections, highlighting the fragility of the rule of law in America.
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Living Rent-Free In Trump's Head
- Adam Schiff recounts being attacked early in the Russia investigation and wanting to tweet a cutting response to Trump.
- He describes deposing Jared Kushner and Kushner's calculated compliment about Schiff's TV presence as a revealing moment.
Weaponized Investigations Without A Case
- Schiff argues the mortgage-fraud probe against him lacks substance and mirrors attacks on other opponents.
- He suggests the Justice Department may be repopulating staff to enable politically motivated prosecutions.
Caution Can Become Immunity
- Schiff says Merrick Garland's caution aimed to restore DOJ independence but delayed accountability for the president.
- That delay allowed the Supreme Court time to narrow or extinguish potential legal remedies against Trump.
