The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Tonight on The Last Word: The current government shutdown intensifies new economic threats. Also, the House of Representatives is sued over Speaker Mike Johnson’s delay to swear in Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva. Plus, Donald Trump and House Republicans attempt to gerrymander a path to victory. And a posthumous memoir by Jeffrey Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre provides new revelations. House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, Rep. Greg Stanton, Anderson Clayton, and Amy Wallace join Jonathan Capehart. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tonight on The Last Word: Donald Trump lashes out after “No Kings” protests draw a historic turnout. Also, the government shutdown reaches day 20, becoming the third longest in U.S. history. Plus, James Comey files a motion to dismiss the charges against him. And the House Oversight Committee releases the transcript of the Alex Acosta interview. Ezra Levin, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Rep. Eric Swalwell, Joyce Vance, and Lisa Rubin join Jonathan Capehart. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tonight on The Last Word: Americans prepare to march in protest of Donald Trump's agenda on Saturday. Also, Democrats demand more information on Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell from the Justice Department. And American farmers are hurting thanks to Trump’s tariff policy. Chicago Alderman Timmy Knudsen, Sharon Jackson, Lisa Rubin, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and Rep. Angie Craig join Ali Velshi. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tonight on The Last Word: “No Kings” protests against Donald Trump are expected to draw a historic turnout. Also, Democrats demand Speaker Johnson swear in Arizona Rep.-elect Adelina Grijalva. Plus, Americans brace for a spike in health care premiums if ACA subsidies aren’t extended. And Texas state Rep. Gina Hinojosa launches her 2026 campaign for Texas governor. Timothy Snyder, Dan Kasun, Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, Rep. Brendan Boyle, and Texas state Rep. Gina Hinojosa join Ali Velshi. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tonight on The Last Word: The Trump administration dodges questions about the Tom Homan FBI probe. Also, Maine Governor Janet Mills launches a Senate bid against Susan Collins. Plus, early voting is underway in the Virginia governor’s race. And a new book, “1929,” details Wall Street’s greatest crash. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Gov. Janet Mills, Abigail Spanberger, and Andrew Ross Sorkin join Lawrence O’Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rachel Maddow, a prominent television host and political commentator, joins to discuss her documentary on Andrew Young, highlighting his strategic roles in the civil rights movement. Daniel Goldman, a former federal prosecutor, delves into the politicization of the Justice Department and the troubling allegations around Tom Homan, questioning equal justice in the system. Maddow also shares insights on Young’s negotiation skills and his willingness to tackle the 'dirty work', while the broader implications of current events are examined.

In this discussion, Jason Stanley, a professor and author specializing in fascism and propaganda, dives deep into the authoritarian tactics exhibited by the Trump administration. He explains how the chaos is shifting into hard propaganda, raising concerns about an autocratic takeover. Additionally, the implications of invoking the Insurrection Act are explored, alongside a troubling analysis of the political fallout from mass federal layoffs and the targeting of Black officials. Stanley’s insights shed light on the alarming landscape of contemporary politics.

The podcast dives into Trump's infamous enemies list, likening it to Nixon's and discussing why it's a badge of honor for those targeted. There's a critical look at Letitia James' indictment, with analyses of its weaknesses and James' defiant response. The conversation shifts to the ongoing silence around Jeffrey Epstein's client list during Senate hearings, raising crucial questions about accountability. The show also features Texas Rep. Greg Casar's appeal on Medicaid cuts affecting families and a broader discussion on the decline of institutional integrity.

Andrew Weissmann, former chief of the criminal division for the Eastern District of New York, shares insights on the embarrassing moments for Trump's legal team during James Comey's arraignment. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse questions Attorney General Patel on the potentially explosive Epstein files and the DOJ's motivations, suggesting it caters to Trump. Meanwhile, Rep. Mark Pocan discusses the political maneuvering around the swearing-in of a new House member and the rising healthcare costs impacting constituents, highlighting unexpected bipartisan concerns.

Senator Adam Schiff, a key figure in U.S. politics and former House impeachment manager, joins the discussion on Justice Department oversight. He exposes how the DOJ has become a political weapon for President Trump, covering up corruption and evading accountability. Schiff also tackles Attorney General Pam Bondi's troubling evasion during Senate inquiries. Plus, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez offers a clever strategy to handle insecure leaders: ridicule them to diminish their power and influence. Expect sharp insights and unexpected alliances!