Impolitic with John Heilemann Laurence Tribe: God Save This Dishonorable Court
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Feb 10, 2025 
Laurence Tribe, a renowned constitutional scholar and Harvard professor, dives into the threats posed by Donald Trump and Elon Musk to the legal landscape and democracy. He argues we are witnessing an inside coup and emphasizes the courts as vital safeguards against these assaults. Tribe reflects on the Supreme Court’s changing legitimacy and its crucial role amid political chaos. He also discusses how recent events challenge both constitutional integrity and political accountability, leaving audiences with a mix of concern and cautious optimism about the future of democracy.
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Identifying a Coup
- Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and their allies are attempting a coup by seizing government infrastructure outside the rule of law.
- This includes control of communications, finances, data, and even parts of the military.
Defining a Coup
- A coup is not just about elections, but about upending the structural characteristics of government (three branches, checks and balances).
- Disregarding these structures, even if elected, constitutes tearing apart the government.
Digital Coup & Pardons
- Musk's access to the Treasury Department's payment system is a major privacy breach, akin to seizing radio towers in a traditional coup.
- The pardoning of January 6th insurrectionists creates licensed killers, fostering fear.
