American Thought Leaders Former Trump Lawyer John Eastman Opens Up About Why He’s Not Backing Down in Fight Against Indictments, Disbarment
Jul 4, 2025
John Eastman, founding director of the Claremont Institute’s Center for Constitutional Jurisprudence, discusses his tumultuous journey as a former Trump attorney facing disbarment and criminal charges. He shares insights on the ethical dilemmas lawyers face in representing controversial clients and reflects on the legitimacy of the 2020 election, highlighting historical precedents. Eastman also critiques media narratives surrounding political legal battles and emphasizes the importance of standing up for freedom and values amid personal and political adversity.
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The Eastman Dilemma Explained
- The “Eastman dilemma” really challenges the legal profession to defend representation rights amid lawfare attacks.
- It's about whether lawyers will stand up to political pressure or let truth be silenced.
State Legislature’s Power in Elections
- State legislatures exclusively control how presidential electors are chosen under Article 2 of the Constitution.
- Changes made without legislative approval in swing states rendered the 2020 election unconstitutional in those states.
Hawaii 1960: Alternate Electors Precedent
- In the 1960 Hawaii election, both Nixon and Kennedy electors met to cast votes amid pending litigation.
- Congress counted the subsequently certified Kennedy electors without objection, illustrating precedent for alternate slates.
