Michael Podhorzer, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress and former political director of the AFL-CIO, dives into the influence of money on the judiciary and democracy. He discusses how billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump have reshaped the Supreme Court and weakened labor rights. Podhorzer highlights recent court decisions' implications, the decline of unions, and the urgent need for collective action. He advocates for a reassessment of power structures to protect democracy in an era influenced by technology and money.
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insights INSIGHT
Supreme Court as Auction Block
The Roberts Court effectively "sold" the Supreme Court to rich interests, reshaping the legal landscape away from democratic control.
This auction-like process enabled billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump to wield disproportionate influence over law and governance.
insights INSIGHT
Judicial Supremacy Undermines Democracy
Judicial supremacy leads to passivity, undermining popular sovereignty and democracy.
The Roberts Court has imposed sweeping changes without legislative votes, distorting democratic processes.
insights INSIGHT
Rule by Fiat vs. Rule of Law
Many Supreme Court rulings reflect rule by fiat rather than rule of law, with justices making up decisions to suit agendas.
Distinguishing between law-following decisions and arbitrary rulings is crucial for understanding the current legal crisis.
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Principles for Navigating the Big Debt Cycle, Where We Are Headed, and What We Should Do
Ray Dalio
In this book, Ray Dalio provides a groundbreaking analysis of the Big Debt Cycle, addressing critical questions about debt growth, the potential for a major reserve currency country like the US to go broke, and how to identify and mitigate debt-related risks. Dalio draws on his experience as a global macro investor and his study of 35 historical cases of governments facing financial crises over the past 100 years. He offers a template for identifying and managing debt problems, which he has discussed with treasury secretaries and central bankers worldwide. The book explains the mechanics of debt sustainability, potential government debt reduction strategies, and the role of central bank interventions in managing debt crises.
Money talks, and sometimes it speaks as law by fiat from the highest court in the land. In this episode of Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick delves into the impact of money on the judiciary and, eventually, on, democracy with Michael Podhorzer, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress. They discuss how the many faces of big money in America, currently personified by Elon Musk and Donald Trump, have shaped the Supreme Court and government regulations. They explore the implications of recent court decisions, the downfall of unions, and the crucial role of collective action in preserving democracy. Michael Podhorzer also writes a weekly newsletter, Weekend Reading.
This is part of Opinionpalooza, Slate’s coverage of the major decisions from the Supreme Court this June. The best way to support our work is by joining Slate Plus. (If you are already a member, consider a donation or merch!)Also! Sign up for Slate’s Legal Brief: the latest coverage of the courts and the law straight to your inbox. Delivered every Tuesday.
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Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts 
