THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent
“Terrifying”: Trump’s Fury at Foes Darkens amid New Alina Habba Threat
Apr 14, 2025
Leah Litman, a law professor and author of "Lawless," delves into the alarming implications of Trump's escalating threats and manipulations within legal circles. She discusses how law firms are capitulating under pressure, marking a concerning trend in the erosion of the rule of law. Alina Habba's investigations into New Jersey officials symbolize a dark shift, showcasing the chilling effects of political prosecutions. Litman emphasizes the urgent need for public resistance and solidarity to combat this authoritarian drift and protect democratic integrity.
24:18
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Quick takeaways
- Alina Habba's investigation into state officials exemplifies the coercive use of government power to intimidate political opponents, raising constitutional concerns.
- The alignment of prominent law firms with Trump's interests highlights a troubling capitulation that undermines the independence of legal representation and threatens democratic processes.
Deep dives
Threats of Political Prosecution
Alina Habba, the U.S. attorney from New Jersey, has initiated an investigation into state officials, which is viewed as an effort to coerce state compliance with federal immigration law. This situation exemplifies a constitutional issue since the federal government cannot compel state officers to enforce its laws, particularly when states have chosen not to assist in such efforts. Habba's announcement of the investigation on a media platform designed to bolster her message further illustrates a troubling trend where government power is used to intimidate political adversaries. Such tactics are characteristic of authoritarian regimes, where threats against opposition figures are utilized to suppress civic resistance.
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