
Jessica Pishko
Investigative journalist whose book, "The Highest Law in the Land," explores the unchecked power of sheriffs and its threat to democracy.
Top 5 podcasts with Jessica Pishko
Ranked by the Snipd community

18 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 43min
How the [Un]Constitutional Sheriff Movement Threatens Democracy
Jessica Pishko, author of 'The Highest Law in the Land,' dives into the controversial constitutional sheriff movement, revealing how these elected officers wield unchecked power in their counties. She explains the ideological roots of the movement, linked to far-right ideologies and anti-LGBTQ sentiments. The discussion highlights the unique challenges in holding sheriffs accountable and their influence in immigration enforcement during the Trump era. Pishko urges a reassessment of the sheriff's role in modern governance, emphasizing its implications for democracy.

6 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 1h 8min
Criminal Gangs Run the Sheriff's Department with Jessica Pishko
Jessica Pishko, a lawyer and journalist, discusses the alarming unchecked power held by sheriff departments in the U.S. She emphasizes how this leads to widespread corruption, highlighting the existence of deputy gangs within the LA County Sheriff's Department. Pishko delves into the historical evolution of sheriffs, the complexities of accountability, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The conversation underscores the urgent need for police reform and grassroots advocacy to combat systemic issues within law enforcement.

Jan 7, 2025 • 52min
Lawfare Daily: Sheriffs and ‘The Highest Law in the Land,’ with Jessica Pishko
Jessica Pishko, an independent journalist and lawyer, dives into the unchecked power of sheriffs in her insightful discussion. She unpacks the constitutional sheriffs movement, exploring its roots in originalist interpretations and its influence on far-right politics. Pishko highlights the significant role sheriffs play in the American criminal justice system, particularly regarding jail management and community accountability. The conversation raises critical concerns about the implications of this power on democracy and the growing influence of partisanship in sheriff elections.

Oct 24, 2024 • 42min
Meet the sheriffs who believe they are ‘The Highest Law in the Land’
Jessica Pishko, a lawyer and journalist, dives into the unchecked power of sheriffs in her book, highlighting their crucial role in American democracy. She discusses the rural-urban divide, revealing how rural sheriffs tend to represent more conservative views. Pishko also explores the rise of the 'constitutional sheriff' movement, where some assert they alone can interpret laws, creating tensions in law enforcement. Additionally, she raises concerns about accountability and ethical issues within sheriff's offices, particularly relating to inmate treatment.

Oct 16, 2024 • 32min
How Hurricane Helene Has Fuelled Far-Right Conspiracies
Jessica Pishko, a New Yorker writer covering Hurricane Helene's aftermath, joins to unravel the chaos following the storm in North Carolina. The discussion reveals how conspiracy theories about disaster funding and FEMA's actions gained traction online. Pishko examines the political ramifications, particularly for scandal-plagued Republican candidate Mark Robinson. The episode also addresses the misinformation surrounding rescue efforts and the broader implications of climate change, all set against the backdrop of a pivotal election.