Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts cover image

Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts

The Gangster Presidency

Feb 15, 2025
Harry Litman, a former U.S. attorney and host of Talking Feds, discusses the fallout from the controversial decision to drop corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams, tied to significant resignations at the Department of Justice. Sam Bagenstos, a former general counsel for HHS and OMB, examines the chaotic governance under Elon Musk, warning of the dangers of unchecked executive power. Together, they explore the implications of these political maneuvers on law, accountability, and the fragility of government structures in the face of crisis.
01:18:58

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The recent resignations within the DOJ highlight the moral courage of attorneys prioritizing justice over political influence amid corrupt practices.
  • The podcast emphasizes the critical role of the Administrative Procedure Act in ensuring government transparency and accountability in policy implementation.

Deep dives

Exploring the Watergate Scandal

The podcast dives deep into the Watergate scandal, illustrating how a seemingly minor event escalated into a defining political crisis in American history. It recounts the moment when five men were arrested while attempting to install eavesdropping equipment at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, marking the beginning of a series of events that would lead to President Nixon's resignation. The host reflects on the contrasts between the dramatized version of events in the film "All the President's Men" and the lengthy, tumultuous reality that transpired over two years. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the real-time impact and public sentiment during a chapter of American politics that continues to resonate today.

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