The Lawfare Podcast

The discussion features Eric Columbus, former House Office of General Counsel, who shares insights from his firsthand experience during the January 6 attack. Quinta Jurecic, a senior editor, analyzes Congress's response and the role of the Electoral Count Act, while Molly Reynolds provides a political science perspective on legislative reforms. They explore the legacy of January 6, immediate security failures, increasing transparency in Capitol Police, and the ongoing implications for congressional procedures and investigations.

Scott R. Anderson, a national security law expert, joins Dana Stuster, a foreign policy editor, and Loren Voss, a public service fellow, to dissect the U.S. military strike on Venezuela. They delve into the legal ramifications and justifications for targeting Nicolás Maduro, exploring the balance between law enforcement and military action. The discussion also touches on the geopolitical implications, potential U.S. policy aims like oil access, and the risks that such actions pose to international norms. Their analysis raises questions about whether the U.S. is effectively at war with Venezuela.

Loyaan Egal, Chief of the Enforcement Bureau at the FCC, brings a wealth of experience from the DOJ and telecommunications law. He dives into the FCC's crucial role in U.S. national security, exploring how they oversee undersea cables and tackle election interference via AI. Egal addresses the rise in enforcement actions since 2018, the unique challenges of cybersecurity, and the implications of telecom supply chains. He also discusses the battle against robocalls and fraud, emphasizing the evolving nature of threats in the communications landscape.

From September 30, 2024: New York Mayor Eric Adams is facing indictment in connection with a foreign influence scheme involving Turkey. It’s the latest in a long string of actions by the Justice Department to counter foreign efforts to interfere in the American political system. Lawfare Editor-in-Chief Benjamin Wittes sat down with Managing Editor Tyler McBrien, Senior Editor Quinta Jurecic, and Contributing Editor Brandon Van Grack to discuss the charges against Adams and the larger pattern of which they are a part.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A dynamic discussion unfolds as contributors tackle a range of pressing legal issues. They dive into presidential immunity and the nuances of AI regulations. The legality of military action and congressional authority comes under scrutiny, revealing the delicate balance of power. Questions about executive overreach and the implications of pardons prompt insightful debates. Additionally, the impact of state AI laws and global initiatives to ensure AI safety highlight the evolving landscape of technology and governance.

Molly Reynolds, a Senior Editor at Lawfare and a policy expert, joins Stephanie Pell, also a Senior Editor with extensive knowledge of surveillance law, and Preston Marquis, a student contributor focused on national security. They dive deep into the recent House vote on FISA Section 702, exploring the contentious warrant requirements for U.S. person queries. The discussion reveals the intricate dynamics at play, including bipartisan tensions, political concessions on reauthorization duration, and the implications for civil liberties. Key takeaways offer insight into the legislative process and surveillance law’s future.

Oona Hathaway, a Yale Law School professor, delivers insightful analysis on the legal implications of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. She discusses the robust international response, including sanctions and military aid, and argues for a strengthened General Assembly's role. Constanze Stelzenmüller engages her in a thought-provoking Q&A, and Ambassador Martin Kimani shares perspectives on post-colonial skepticism toward Western legalism. The panel, featuring Rosa Brooks and Karin Landgren, emphasizes the need for accountability and innovative institutional reforms.

This year-end discussion dives into the complex sphere of Western Europe's influence, with the hosts debating its shifting dynamics. They analyze Trump's controversial lawsuit against the BBC as a new front in his battles with the media. Merrick Garland's performance as Attorney General is scrutinized, revealing the friction between legal timelines and political pressures. The hosts also reflect on military actions against drug traffickers and their implications for checks and balances. Finally, humor and insights abound as they explore a Ukrainian sumo wrestler and recommend intriguing books and podcasts.

In a revealing conversation, Tom Brzozowski, a former DOJ official with expertise in domestic terrorism, joins host Michael Feinberg. They explore the recent changes in domestic terrorism investigations and what they mean for American civil liberties. Tom argues that Antifa is not a sophisticated organization but a loose ideological label. He cautions about the risks of expanding surveillance through vague definitions, illustrating historical parallels to past abuses. Their discussion highlights the potential implications for protesters and broader societal compliance.

Loren Voss, a policy analyst and Lawfare contributor specializing in national security strategy, dives into the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. The discussion highlights Congress's push against the Trump administration's defense priorities, emphasizing key provisions like accountability for military actions and the focus on great-power competition. Voss elaborates on the importance of U.S. command within NATO and the implications of recent changes regarding troop deployments and reporting on military operations, ultimately revealing tensions between congressional oversight and executive strategy.