KQED's Forum Elie Honig on the Challenges and Perils of Prosecuting a President
Sep 16, 2025
Elie Honig, a senior legal analyst for CNN and former federal prosecutor, dives into the complex challenges of prosecuting U.S. presidents in his engaging discussion. He highlights the historical implications of holding leaders accountable, from Nixon to Trump. Honig critiques recent DOJ controversies, including the increased politicization and the firing of career prosecutors. He emphasizes the need for a semi-permanent special counsel to navigate these intricate legal and political landscapes, ensuring justice amidst powerful influences.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Bondi Uses DOJ For Retribution
- Elie Honig argues Attorney General Pam Bondi has no line and will do whatever it takes to protect Donald Trump.
- He says Bondi is using DOJ's power for transparent retribution against political opponents.
Firing Career Prosecutors Is A Red Line
- Honig stresses career prosecutors are meant to be nonpolitical and firing them is a red line.
- He warns dismissing line prosecutors for political reasons breaks DOJ's core norm of independence.
Mueller's Institutional Caution Had Costs
- Honig describes Mueller as an institutionalist who protected the presidency and chose cautious disclosure.
- He suggests Mueller's restraint may be judged poorly by history for not clarifying prosecutorial conclusions.
