The DSR Network NTK: Can the Rule of Law in America Be Saved?
Oct 10, 2025
Barbara McQuade, a law professor and former federal prosecutor, joins to dissect the challenges facing the rule of law in America. She highlights the erosion of DOJ independence and alarming trends in domestic policing. Students across the political spectrum are expressing concern over norm-breaking behaviors. McQuade also discusses the implications of politicized prosecutions and critiques the Supreme Court's emerging doctrines that expand presidential power. Her insights spark a crucial conversation about safeguarding democracy.
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Teaching Law During Norms Erosion
- Barbara McQuade says teaching law is now different because norms and DOJ independence are eroding.
- She uses current headlines in class to show how the administration is upending long-held legal norms.
Eroding Norms Look Like Authoritarianism
- McQuade argues the attacks on norms are not simply partisan but represent an authoritarian shift.
- She says students across ideological lines are alarmed because the changes threaten democratic institutions.
DoJ Replacement After Declined Charges
- David Rothkopf recounts the DOJ replacing an interim U.S. attorney after she declined to bring charges.
- He frames the change as a message that the Justice Department will be used for political purposes.
