Fast Politics with Molly Jong-Fast Jeet Heer & Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan
May 31, 2025
Jeet Heer, a contributor to The Nation and host of The Time of Monsters, dives into the intense infighting among MAGA factions and the significant influence of Leonard Leo. Meanwhile, Minnesota's Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan shares her inspiring personal journey and highlights her key policy priorities as she campaigns for the Senate. They discuss the implications of a shifting political landscape, legislative challenges, and the urgent need for more empathetic leadership in today's divisive environment.
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Leonard Leo's Judicial Strategy
- Leonard Leo and the Federalist Society crafted a strategy to place highly ideological Supreme Court justices loyal to their movement.
- This led to overturning Roe v. Wade but now causes friction with Trump who expects judges to obey him personally.
Congress's Critical Role Missing
- Congress is the missing institution to check presidential power and protect democracy effectively.
- Both Republicans support Trump unchecked and Democrats often adopt a passive stance, weakening governance.
Push Congress for Reform
- Voters should pressure their members of Congress to fight for reforms and break ties with Silicon Valley.
- Primary representatives who fail to act to ensure better Democratic performance and accountability.