Strict Scrutiny
Crooked Media
Strict Scrutiny is a podcast about the United States Supreme Court and the legal culture that surrounds it.
Hosted by three badass constitutional law professors-- Leah Litman, Kate Shaw, and Melissa Murray-- Strict Scrutiny provides in-depth, accessible, and irreverent analysis of the Supreme Court and its cases, culture, and personalities. Each week, Leah, Kate, and Melissa break down the latest headlines and biggest legal questions facing our country, emphasizing what it all means for our daily lives.
Whether you’re a lawyer or law student, or you’re just here for the messy legal drama, Strict Scrutiny has you covered. New episodes out every Monday… plus bonuses whenever SCOTUS takes away another one of our rights.
Hosted by three badass constitutional law professors-- Leah Litman, Kate Shaw, and Melissa Murray-- Strict Scrutiny provides in-depth, accessible, and irreverent analysis of the Supreme Court and its cases, culture, and personalities. Each week, Leah, Kate, and Melissa break down the latest headlines and biggest legal questions facing our country, emphasizing what it all means for our daily lives.
Whether you’re a lawyer or law student, or you’re just here for the messy legal drama, Strict Scrutiny has you covered. New episodes out every Monday… plus bonuses whenever SCOTUS takes away another one of our rights.
Episodes
Mentioned books
25 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 55min
The Shadow Docket Just Won’t Quit
Eli Savit, Washtenaw County Prosecutor and Michigan Attorney General candidate, discusses threats to marriage equality and the pivotal role state attorneys general play in defending LGBTQ rights. Serena Mayeri, a legal expert and author, shares insights from her book on the evolution of marriage laws in the U.S., addressing systemic discrimination and the complexities facing marginalized communities. Together, they explore the legal landscape shaped by recent Supreme Court decisions and the ongoing fight for civil rights amidst shifting societal norms.
40 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 51min
The Dubious Legality of Trump's DC Takeover
Join Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood, and Lisa Beattie Frelinghuysen, founder of Clutch Kit, as they dive into the turbulent aftermath of the Dobbs decision. They discuss the current landscape of reproductive rights, highlighting the challenges women face and the innovative solutions being developed. The conversation also touches on the implications of Trump's attempts at federal intervention in D.C., exploring the balance of power and the urgent need for advocacy to protect health care access.
25 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 60min
How the GOP is Trying to Steal the 2026 Midterms
Imani Gandy, co-chief content officer at Rewire News Group and co-host of Boom Lawyered, joins Brandon Garrett, Duke Law professor and author of Defending Due Process, to explore pressing political matters. They tackle the GOP's tactical efforts to influence the 2026 midterms, discussing redistricting in Texas and the implications of gerrymandering. The duo also highlights the erosion of due process under recent administrations, dissecting how legal integrity is vital for democracy amidst increasing polarization.
16 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 41min
Stacking the Bench with Creeps & Kooks
Mark Joseph Stern, a senior writer at Slate and co-host of the Amicus podcast, discusses alarming judicial confirmations and the rise of threats against judges. Sociologist Jessica Calarco shares insights from her book on how women became America's safety net, highlighting the burdens of caregiving during the pandemic. The conversation dives into the lack of equitable support for caregivers and critiques historical policies that perpetuate gendered labor divisions. Their dialogue underscores the urgent need for a robust care infrastructure and the evolving role of women in society.
15 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 32min
Can Trump Sue His Way Out of the Epstein Mess?
Erin Delaney, Leverholm Professor of Comparative Constitutional Law at University College London and former clerk for Justice Souter, joins the discussion to unpack Trump’s tumultuous connection to the Epstein case. The conversation dives into Trump’s questionable legal tactics and the implications for media and judicial integrity. Delaney and the hosts reflect on Justice Souter's legacy, emphasizing the importance of humility and connection in law. They also critique how recent judicial decisions could redefine presidential powers and the erosion of legal norms.
16 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 30min
SCOTUS Enables Government Destruction
In this engaging discussion, Rachel Barkow, NYU Law professor and author of Justice Abandoned, dives into the Supreme Court's troubling role in facilitating mass incarceration and ignoring constitutional rights. She highlights the consequences of recent rulings impacting government authority and civil servant protections. The conversation also touches on the historical context of punitive measures and plea bargaining, revealing the deep injustices within the legal system and the urgent need for reform in American criminal justice.
58 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 39min
Hunger Games for Legal Hackery
Katie Phang, an independent journalist and trial lawyer, teams up with Chris Hayes, host of MSNBC's All In, to tackle a whirlwind of legal news. They dissect the Supreme Court's growing support for controversial presidential actions and explore the chaos surrounding potential Trump appointees. Hayes shares insights from his book on the attention economy, equating modern attention struggles with historical exploitation. Expect a lively discussion on the implications of judicial integrity and the power of grassroots activism.
65 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 40min
A Term for the Rich, the Reactionaries, and the Ruthless
The hosts recap an eventful Supreme Court term, spotlighting significant rulings affecting marginalized groups. They discuss the tension between corporate interests and individual rights, diving into the implications of recent decisions. Controversies surrounding Justice Barrett and differing opinions on DEI within the court reveal deep divides. The absurdity of political branding, like Trump fragrances, adds humor to the mix. There’s also a deep dive into wrongful deportations, touching on systemic discrimination and immigration policy.
21 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
SCOTUS Strengthens Conservative War on Education
Dive into the recent Supreme Court rulings and their impact on education, particularly challenges to church-state separation in public schools. The hosts discuss key cases affecting LGBTQ+ rights in curricula and parents’ influence on educational content. They dissect a controversial age verification law for adult entertainment and its implications for free speech. With humor and insightful commentary, they reflect on the consequences of these legal battles for societal values and the future of public education.
41 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 52min
SCOTUS Clears the Way for Trump’s Lawlessness
In a gripping discussion, the hosts unpack a startling Supreme Court decision that empowers the Trump administration to bypass judicial oversight. They highlight how this ruling threatens birthright citizenship and critiques the growing reluctance of courts to intervene in executive actions. The conversation delves into the complexities surrounding class actions and nationwide injunctions, revealing the implications for individual rights. Dissenting voices from Justices Sotomayor and Jackson raise alarms about the erosion of constitutional protections, urging listeners to take action.
