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'If You Can Keep It': Trump's Early Moves And The Constitution
Jan 27, 2025
Noah Bookbinder, president of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, and Martha Jones, a history professor at Johns Hopkins, delve into the tumultuous start of Trump's second term. They discuss the controversial removal of federal inspectors general, highlighting the importance of accountability. The conversation shifts to the legal challenges against Trump's birthright citizenship executive order and its implications on the 14th Amendment, emphasizing the historical context of citizenship and its vital role in democracy.
32:46
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Quick takeaways
- The dismissal of inspectors general raises alarms about accountability and adherence to legal protocols within the federal government.
- Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship challenges historical legal precedents and ignites debate over immigration and constitutional rights.
Deep dives
The Impact of Inspectors General Purge
The recent dismissal of approximately 17 inspectors general from their positions raises significant concerns about government oversight and accountability. These inspectors, crucial for investigating waste, fraud, and misconduct, ensure that federal agencies function effectively and transparently. The legal requirement for a 30-day notification to Congress before such dismissals was ignored, suggesting an alarming disregard for established protocols. This purge reflects a broader pattern of removing individuals who might challenge or criticize the administration, undermining the independence necessary for inspectors general to perform their roles.
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