The Counsel cover image

The Counsel

Note from Elie 2/7: The “Make Me” Presidency

Feb 7, 2025
Elie Honig dives into Donald Trump's unique legal strategies, showcasing his audacity in the face of litigation. He discusses the controversial media tactics that shape public perception, even amid legal turmoil. The podcast also reveals the impact of federal funding battles and challenges to birthright citizenship, exposing the fragile legal frameworks behind them. Additionally, it highlights the dramatic firings of DOJ prosecutors under Trump, raising important constitutional questions about accountability and governance.
08:16

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Donald Trump's legal strategy demonstrates a unique indifference to risks, allowing him to engage in multiple contentious lawsuits without personal consequences.
  • Unlike typical politicians, Trump's detachment from the repercussions of legal battles raises concerns about bypassing established norms and potential future backlash.

Deep dives

Trump's Litigation Strategy

Donald Trump's approach to litigation showcases a unique indifference to consequential legal battles, allowing him to leverage the system without significant risk. He historically utilized the strategy of outspending opponents, forcing smaller litigants into untenable financial positions, and now, as a former president, he faces no personal financial repercussions from legal losses. This change in dynamic frees him to pursue numerous contentious legal actions, including attempts to freeze federal funding and challenge birthright citizenship. The legal challenges he embraces often result in swift judicial rebukes, yet he capitalizes on the ability to rally his political base without any real downside.

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