Mark Joseph Stern and Dave Weigel: A Bad Day for Jack Smith
Apr 25, 2024
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Legal expert Mark Joseph Stern and Washington Post's Dave Weigel discuss the Supreme Court's skepticism towards holding Trump accountable post-Jan 6. They explore the blurred line of presidential immunity, Biden's statements, MAGA republicans' foreign policy stance, progressive activism evolution, and mask-wearing implications on privacy rights and protests.
Protesters wear masks for health and privacy reasons, shielding identities against harassment and recognition.
Primary races highlight candidates' votes on foreign aid, impacting voter decisions and shaping campaign strategies.
Democratic and Republican primaries differ in focus, with Democrats emphasizing achievements and unity, and Republicans leaning towards anti-establishment appeals.
Deep dives
Protesters Wearing Masks Outside
Protesters wearing masks outside demonstrations do so for multiple reasons. Some follow COVID-19 precautions seriously, emphasizing solidarity with individuals vulnerable to viruses. Others choose to mask their identity to safeguard their privacy after past experiences of harassment and doxxing. Face coverings provide a shield from recognition by those who might aim to hinder or harm protesters, highlighting a newfound right to privacy in public spaces since the pandemic impacted masking laws.
Primary Races Spotlighting COVID-19 Aid Votes
Primary races, particularly in West Virginia and Nebraska, are focusing on candidates' votes regarding funding for Ukraine. Those who supported aid face challengers using the Ukraine issue to rally opposition. Voters' perspectives on international aid, such as for Ukraine, are influencing primary contests, positioning candidates against each other based on their stances on foreign appropriations.
Summer Lee's Primary Victory
Summer Lee secured victory in her primary, notably facing a well-funded opponent. Despite concerns raised over her stance on Israel, Lee's emphasis on accomplishments and alignment with Biden's agenda resonated positively with voters. The contest highlighted Democratic dynamics, where candidates' policies, achievements, and relationship with the party are integral to electoral success.
Diverse Approaches in Democratic and Republican Primaries
Democratic primaries involve candidates showcasing achievements and support for Biden's agenda, while Republicans often emphasize alignment with Trump and disruptive pledges. The divergent strategies reflect contrasting party priorities and voter bases, with Democrats highlighting accomplishments and unity, and Republicans embracing anti-establishment fervor.
Varied Activist Strategies in Primary Contests
Activists and protesters adopt diverse strategies in primary races, focusing on issues like COVID-19 aid to Ukraine and individual candidates' positions. While mask-wearing signifies health precautions and privacy protection for some demonstrators, it also serves as a shield against recognition to prevent harassment and doxxing. These activism tactics align with evolving legal rights and privacy concerns in public protests.
To Alito, Thomas, Kavanaugh, and Gorsuch, the real threat to democracy is not Trump's attempts to steal the election—but the DOJ's effort to hold him accountable. Plus, the story behind the protesters' masks, activists v Biden, and reading the tea leaves from the Pennsylvania primary. Mark Joseph Stern and Dave Weigel join Tim Miller.