The Lawfare Podcast

Topics discussed include the killing of a senior Hamas official and its potential for regional escalation, updates on the special counsel's case against former President Trump, charges brought against Senator Bob Menendez, challenges of color blindness on the sound board, Gainesville as the chicken capital of the world, recent developments in the Middle East and the federal courts, policy implications of a motion to dismiss based on presidential immunity, legal issues surrounding Trump's appeal of immunity decision, discussion of fiction reading and a Denver bar, and tarot readings and New Year's Day dinner party.

The podcast explores ongoing litigation surrounding Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, including the D.C. case. They discuss the potential disqualification of Donald Trump and the role of the Supreme Court. They provide updates on the ongoing litigation, presidential immunity, and different arguments related to a criminal defendant's response to a stay order. They highlight the significance of enlisting advocate Paul Clement and provide updates on the Fulton County case and legal issues in Trump's defense. They discuss double jeopardy and the possibility of appeal.

Host Benjamin Wittes is joined by Gregory Johnsen, former member of the UN Security Council Panel of Experts on Yemen, and Daniel Byman, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution’s Center for Middle East Policy, to discuss the origins and current state of the war in Yemen. The speakers explore the role of Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the US in the conflict, as well as the devastating humanitarian crisis and food insecurity in Yemen. They also address the challenges of finding a resolution and the US's culpability in the war.

Jake Bittle, an environmental expert, discusses the revolutionary climate adaptation plan of the Marshall Islands. They delve into the challenges of climate financing, the impacts of climate change on the islands, and the proactive measures taken by the Marshallese. The discussion also touches on the funding needs, the lack of financial commitment, and the potential losses and challenges of climate-induced migration. Despite the dire warnings, the plan is seen as an optimistic document.

Vincent Bevins, author and expert on mass protests, discusses why protests often fall short of their objectives, the power of collective action, the role of social media, and the importance of adapting ideas to local contexts. The podcast explores examples from Brazil, Hong Kong, Tunisia, Egypt, and other countries, discussing the dynamics, limitations, and strategies of global protests. It also delves into the consequences of sparking a revolution and includes book recommendations.

Gabor Ro, international humanitarian law expert, discusses international humanitarian law (IHL) in the Israel-Gaza conflict, addressing topics like war crimes accusations, civilian casualties, Hamas' use of human shields, and the importance and challenges of IHL

Recent court decisions regarding TikTok bans in Montana and Texas are explored, including the First Amendment implications and comparison to the WeChat case. The role of animosity and anti-China sentiment in the ban is discussed, as well as the analysis of laws pre-empting state bans. The court ruling on preemption arguments is analyzed, highlighting the issues of foreign affairs and commerce clause. The decline in public support for TikTok bans and its impact on ongoing litigation is also examined.

The podcast covers various topics including the Israel-Gaza War, military aid to Ukraine, Trump trials, presidential pardon ability, violence against elected officials, efforts to combat corruption, and more.

Dan Carlin, former radio talk show host and creator of the Hardcore History and Common Sense podcasts, discusses his podcasting projects, his views on NSA surveillance and US military operations. He also explores the cultural differences between honor cultures of past and modern militaries, the historical context of current issues in the Middle East, and the public's growing concern about intelligence and signals intelligence.

Topics discussed in this episode include the AUKUS deal's impact on the intelligence relationship, enforcing a gag order on ex-President Trump, the potential for a loyalty-first cabinet if Trump is reelected, the role of misinformation in shaping public perception of the Gaza conflict, and transitioning classified documents to digital format. They also share book recommendations and personal experiences.