The Lawfare Podcast

In this lively discussion, former special agent Michael Feinberg, soon-to-be Lawfare Public Service Fellow, joins Renee DiResta, a contributor focused on online propaganda. They tackle the politicization of the Justice Department and issues surrounding judicial integrity during the Trump era. Key topics include the impact of a misconduct complaint against Judge Boasberg and legal battles over immigration and sanctuary cities. The conversation also reflects on the complexities of U.S. attorney appointments and recent agreements between universities and the federal government.

In this engaging discussion, Gabor Rona, a Professor of Practice at Cardozo Law specializing in international humanitarian law, and Natalie Orpett, Executive Editor at Lawfare with expertise in national security law, dissect the complex intersection of armed conflict laws and the Genocide Convention. They explore whether legal compliance can defend against genocide accusations, particularly in light of Israel's actions in Gaza. The conversation delves into the nuances of military necessity, the role of AI in accountability, and the pressing implications for future legal accountability in wartime conduct.

Amanda Tyler, Shannon Cecil Turner Professor of Law at UC Berkeley, joins for a riveting discussion on the Supreme Court case United States v. Rahimi. She argues that Founding-era disarmament laws for loyalists serve as critical historical analogues relevant to contemporary debates over domestic violence and gun possession. Their conversation dives into the nature of loyalty in the Revolutionary Era, how it influences modern legal interpretations, and the implications for Second Amendment rights today, blending history with pressing legal issues.

Renée DiResta, an Associate Research Professor at Georgetown focusing on disinformation, and Alan Rozenshtein, an AI law expert at Minnesota, dive into the Trump Administration's 'Woke AI' executive order. They discuss the intricate challenges of ensuring ideological neutrality in AI systems and the clash between federal procurement and First Amendment rights. The conversation also highlights potential biases in AI, the regulatory landscape, and how current policies could shape future developments in the AI sector, emphasizing transparency and accountability.

Joel Braunold, Managing Director of the S. Daniel Abraham Center for Middle East Peace, offers critical insights into the famine ravaging Gaza amidst ongoing conflict. He discusses the interplay between military operations and the humanitarian crisis, stressing the need for urgent action. The conversation also highlights international pressure on Israel to address the situation, including shifting U.S. policies. Braunold explores the complexities of ceasefire negotiations and the challenge of delivering humanitarian aid, revealing the broader geopolitical implications of the crisis.

A tense discussion unfolds on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the world finally reacting to the dire situation. The speakers analyze the implications of the Trump administration's newly released AI action plan amid concerns over culture wars. They also tackle media disparities in covering the Gaza crisis and the sensitive portrayal of suffering. The turmoil within military commissions stemming from a plea deal brings to light complex legal challenges, while a literary exploration adds a reflective note to the conversation.

Candace Rondeaux, Senior Director at New America's Future Frontlines and an expert on the Wagner Group, dives into her book about Yevgeny Prigozhin and the rise of mercenaries in Russia. She discusses Prigozhin's journey from culinary entrepreneur to influential military figure, examining Wagner's role in key geopolitical events like Crimea and Ukraine. Rondeaux also shares insights on the effects of mercenaries on modern warfare and how recent upheavals may reshape Russian power dynamics in the future.

Sezaneh Seymour is the Vice President at Coalition and a former Senior Adviser on the National Security Council. Brandon Wales serves as Vice President for cybersecurity strategy at SentinelOne, having led CISA. They explore the shifting dynamics of private-sector involvement in offensive cyber operations amid rising cyber threats. The duo discusses the need for a structured framework to define objectives, authorized activities, and legal considerations, while assessing the risks of escalation and the potential benefits of private-sector collaboration in cybersecurity.

Join a lively discussion delving into the Supreme Court's controversial rulings on executive agency independence. Explore the complex case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia and its legal ramifications, alongside the implications of recent budgetary decisions affecting U.S. agencies. The hosts tackle whistleblower integrity within the Justice Department and dissect claims of conspiracy tied to the previous administration. Plus, hear about the Ninth Circuit's ruling on birthright citizenship and the intricate legal strategies shaping future challenges.

Former NSA and CIA director Michael Hayden, former CIA deputy director John McLaughlin, and Juan Zarate, former Deputy National Security Advisor, join the conversation to dissect the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and the intelligence community. They delve into the implications of political rhetoric on morale, the challenges of effective communication during presidential briefings, and the potential undermining of the intelligence community's credibility. The trio emphasizes the necessity of collaboration and truth-telling during these divisive times.