The Dispatch Podcast Sleepwalking Into Autocracy | Interview: Liz Cheney
Dec 9, 2023
Former GOP Rep. Liz Cheney discusses the dangers of Trump's return to power and the implications for American democracy. Topics include Trump's central role in planning events on January 6th, his authoritarian tendencies, unethical actions of the new Speaker of the House, and colleagues' motivations and justifications.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
January 6th As A Planned Power Grab
- Liz Cheney argues January 6th was the culmination of a planned effort by Trump to seize power, not a spontaneous rally gone wrong.
- She cites pressure on state legislators, the Justice Department, and the vice president as evidence of a coordinated plan.
Courts Need Enforcement To Work
- Cheney warns courts alone can't stop an unwilling president from refusing enforcement of rulings during a crisis.
- She emphasizes that if the president won't enforce court orders, the judicial remedy is ineffective.
Mike Johnson’s Amicus Brief Episode
- Cheney recounts Mike Johnson circulating an amicus brief that alleged serious fraud in four states and that he'd share signers with Trump.
- She says the brief asserted facts members had no basis to know and was constitutionally infirm.