The Lawfare Podcast

Matthew Akins, a journalist who reported from Afghanistan since 2008, shares gripping insights on the chaotic Kabul evacuation in August 2021. He highlights how Afghan interpreters became tragic targets and the crucial role they played for U.S. military operations. The lack of regional expertise before 9/11 and the subsequent reliance on local partners is discussed, revealing the profound implications of the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program failures. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships that shaped U.S. actions in Afghanistan.

In this engaging discussion, Scott R. Anderson, a national security analyst; Mary McCord, a former DOJ official; Quinta Jurecic, an intelligence policy expert; and Alan Rozenshtein, a legal analyst, dissect Trump’s controversial Cabinet appointments. They categorize nominees into 'normies,' loyalists, and alarming wild cards. The panel expresses concern over figures like Pete Hegseth and Matt Gaetz, examining their potential impact on military accountability and DOJ integrity. They also explore the constitutional implications of recess appointments, raising alarms about politicization and risks to national security.

In this discussion, Scott R. Anderson, a national security expert, joins Daniel Byman, a specialist in Middle Eastern threats, and Corey Shockey, an authority on U.S. defense policy. They dissect the 2025 National Security Strategy of the Trump administration, criticizing its framing of immigration as a threat and its unrealistic worldview. The guests highlight the document's economic focus on China, its downplaying of Russian threats, and troubling implications for U.S. alliances. Their insights reveal a strategy ripe for controversy and skepticism.

Join military law experts Frank Rosenblatt, a former U.S. Army Lt. Colonel, and Colby Vokey, a former Marine Corps Lt. Colonel, as they tackle the complexities of obeying and disobeying unlawful orders. They discuss the ambiguity of what constitutes an unlawful command and the severe consequences for disobedience. Insightful critiques of recent military actions in the Caribbean shed light on the role of military lawyers. With debates on legal training and oversight, this conversation unpacks the impactful challenges facing military personnel today.

Joining the discussion are Tyler McBrien, Managing Editor at Lawfare, and Alex Zerden, a Contributing Editor focused on sanctions and economic statecraft. They dive into Syria's post-Assad landscape, exploring political changes and economic challenges. The Trump administration's new National Security Strategy is analyzed for its isolationist undertones and focus on border security. Plus, Jamie Dimon's ambitious $1.5 trillion investment initiative is scrutinized for its potential impact on national security and the economy.

Susannah Glickman, an assistant professor at Stony Brook University, dives deep into the intriguing intersection of defense tech and industrial policy. She discusses how Silicon Valley's tech firms are reshaping the Republican agenda and critiques their short-term profit focus. Glickman also highlights the paradox of these companies demanding industrial policy while undermining its foundations. Additionally, she examines the impact of venture capital on defense startups and the implications of Silicon Valley culture infiltrating the Pentagon under the Trump administration.

Jimmy Wales, the founder of Wikipedia and author of "The Seven Rules of Trust," dives deep into the challenges facing the platform today. He discusses Wikipedia’s role as a crucial information source amid shifting political landscapes and AI influences. Wales emphasizes the importance of transparency in building trust and shares insights on how Wikipedia combats misinformation and censorship attempts. He highlights the need for high-quality journalism and the dangers of partisan sources, urging the community to engage in and support collaborative knowledge-building.

Join Michael Feinberg, a Senior Editor at Lawfare specializing in national security, James Pearce, a Contributing Editor focused on litigation, and Molly Roberts, a Senior Editor with a keen eye on First Amendment issues, among others, as they dive deep into high-stakes legal drama. They discuss the recent arrest related to the January 6 pipe bombs and how conflicting narratives shape public perception. The panel also tackles ongoing legal battles involving the Trump administration, including the NPR funding lawsuit and notable dismissals in high-profile prosecutions.

Investigative journalist Lynzy Billing dives into her harrowing multi-year investigation of Afghanistan's CIA-backed Zero Units, exposing the brutal realities of night raids. She shares her personal journey, sparked by a family tragedy that led her to uncover the units’ shady operations and their tragic impact on civilians. Billing recounts shocking eyewitness accounts and the emotional toll on families left without accountability. With at least 452 civilian deaths attributed to one Zero Unit, she highlights the urgent need for reform and accountability amidst ongoing secrecy.

Anne Meeker, a former congressional staffer and author at the POPVOX Foundation, sheds light on the crucial role congressional staff played in aiding Afghan allies during the U.S. withdrawal. She discusses the staggering volume of inquiries staff received—from SIV processing to evacuation logistics. Meeker recounts the emotional toll on caseworkers, navigating successes and traumatic losses. She stresses the need for better infrastructure and support systems, advocating for improved casework recognition and coordination within Congress.