CAFE Insider The Legal Battles That Defined 2025
Dec 23, 2025
Join Preet Bharara and Joyce Vance as they unpack the pivotal legal battles of 2025. They candidly discuss the chaotic start involving federal employees and the shift in Elon Musk's influence. The expansion of executive power raises eyebrows, while courts push back against overreach. The hosts highlight the administration's combative tactics against judges and reflect on the human costs of policy decisions. With predictions for 2026, they underscore the need for civic engagement and hope amidst the challenges.
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Executive Power Expansion Is Personal
- The Trump administration repeatedly sought to expand executive power across many fronts this year.
- Preet Bharara emphasizes that Trump's drive is personal aggrandizement rather than a coherent philosophy.
Lower Courts As A Bulwark
- Federal courts repeatedly checked the administration's excesses, delivering significant defeats.
- Joyce Vance praises district and appeals judges as unsung heroes defending the rule of law.
Law Firms Fighting Executive Orders
- Preet recounts his law firm WilmerHale standing up against executive orders targeting law firms.
- He notes four cases where judges strongly rebuked the administration's attempts to intimidate firms.