This podcast explores the Supreme Court's presidential immunity decision, the collapse of the political center in France, the Haredi military conscription debate in Israel, and the international repercussions of Biden's disastrous debate. Also, they discuss ideal July 4th barbecue plate preferences like pulled pork with Carolina vinegar barbecue and fresh garden-grown tomatoes.
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Quick takeaways
Former presidents are immune from prosecution for official acts, but can be charged for private conduct.
Rise of far-right party in France indicates shift towards anti-status quo parties, challenging EU functioning.
Deep dives
Supreme Court Decision Regarding Former Presidents
The Supreme Court made a historic ruling stating that former presidents cannot be prosecuted for actions related to their core powers, hinting at immunity for their official acts. This decision allows charges against former President Donald Trump to proceed if they are based on his private conduct rather than official acts, possibly delaying any trial. The ruling sparked debates on judicial oversight over presidents' actions and the potential impact on future presidential indictments.
France's National Rally Party's Electoral Success
Marine Le Pen's National Rally Party gained significant traction in France's lower house parliamentary elections, securing a massive lead in the first round. Despite opposition efforts, the party's support surged since 2017, positioning it to potentially win a substantial number of seats. This rise in support highlights a shift towards anti-status quo political parties, impacting France's political landscape and possibly challenging the European Union's functioning.
Israel High Court's Landmark Ruling on Yeshiva Students' Military Draft
Israel's High Court unanimously ruled that ultra-Orthodox Yeshiva students must be drafted into the military, ending decades-long blanket exemptions. The ruling, influenced by the expiration of exemption laws and security concerns post-Hamas attack, mandates conscription of Ultra-Orthodox recruits. This decision, while addressing outdated practices, raises debates on judicial interference during national emergencies and the need for comprehensive service options for religious individuals.
This week, Walter and Jeremy discuss the Supreme Court’s presidential immunity decision, the collapse of the political center in France, the Haredi military conscription debate in Israel, and the international repercussions of Biden’s disastrous debate.
Each week on What Really Matters, Walter Russell Mead and Jeremy Stern help you understand the news, decide what matters and what doesn’t, and enjoy following the story of America and the world more than you do now. For more, check out tabletmag.com/what-really-matters. You can read Walter Russell Mead’s Tablet column here, and check out more from Tablet here.