Law Talk With Epstein, Yoo & Cooke Greenland, Guns, and Money
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Jan 22, 2026 
In this thought-provoking discussion, legal scholars Richard Epstein and John Yoo tackle provocative topics ranging from the feasibility of a U.S. presidential acquisition of Greenland to the complexities of treaty termination. They dive into the boundaries of presidential power, especially in war decisions and the implications for the Federal Reserve. The conversation also addresses the contentious issues of transgender athletes in sports and recent firearm legislation in Hawaii, highlighting the intricate balance between rights and regulations.
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Greenland Title vs. Practical Control
- The Trump Greenland idea revives historical purchase and territorial arguments but offers little beyond title.
- John Yoo notes the U.S. already enjoys extensive military and resource rights in Greenland under current arrangements.
Treaty Termination's Constitutional Gap
- The Constitution is silent on treaty termination, creating plausible arguments for unilateral presidential withdrawal.
- Yoo argues treaty termination mirrors appointment powers and likely falls within executive authority.
Use Congress To Preempt A Presidential Grab
- Pass an express congressional prohibition to block any presidential attempt to seize Greenland.
- Use an anti-declaration and a sense-of-Congress resolution to limit permanence and enable reversal.