Another Way, by Lawrence Lessig

In this engaging conversation, Ben Hepburn, a high school friend of Lawrence Lessig from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, dives into political disagreements while finding common ground. They tackle authoritarianism and the impact of economic policies, sharing thoughts on current challenges in American politics. The duo also shares humorous insights about rural life and the unique struggles of farming. Additionally, they address mental health issues in law and agriculture, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding amidst widespread division.

In this engaging conversation, Ben Hepburn, a high school friend of Lawrence Lessig with differing political views, tackles the concept of Trump's strategy of extortion, revealing the complexities behind political pressure and compliance. They delve into the nuanced boundaries between legitimate negotiations and extortion in economic practices. Hepburn and Lessig explore the implications of due process, reflecting on its critical role in immigration cases and wrongful convictions, all while emphasizing the importance of finding common ground in today's divisive political landscape.

In this episode, Lessig and Hepburn discuss the tariffs. Is there some point at which MAGA supporters call uncle?Become a Patreon subscriber: https://www.patreon.com/EqualCitizensMusic:Roundpine by Blue Dot SessionsNoe Noe by Blue Dot SessionsVengeful by Blue Dot SessionsPost-production:Josh Elstro of Elstro Production

Lessig's conversation with Ben Hepburn continues, this time about Ukraine, DOGE and RFKJr

In this second episode, Ben Hepburn and Lessig continue to see where we can find common ground in our understanding of the current administration. Are we on the left too pessimistic? Is the other side too optimistic? 

In this engaging conversation, Ben Hepburn, a former teacher, wrestling coach, and passionate farmer, joins Lawrence Lessig to explore their differing political views. They reflect on their high school memories while diving into pressing issues like immigration policies and the complexities of H-1B visas. Hepburn shares his journey from athlete to educator and his deep connection to farming, highlighting its impact on his family. The pair emphasizes the importance of civil discourse and seeks common ground in a divided political landscape.

Join Derek Muller, a leading election law scholar from Notre Dame, Ned Foley, an expert on constitutional election law, and Matthew A. Seligman, a fellow at Stanford, as they dissect the complex landscape of U.S. presidential elections. They analyze the implications of close elections on public trust and discuss the intricacies of the election certification process. The trio also examines possible reforms, the impact of recent legal changes, and the challenges posed by election disputes, emphasizing the need for clarity and stability in democratic processes.

Lawrence Lessig, a renowned legal scholar and advocate for campaign finance reform, discusses the profound implications of Maine's Question 1. He explores the upcoming election and the challenges surrounding super PACs. The conversation dives into the complexities of regulating political speech, emphasizing the need for state limits on PAC contributions. Lessig highlights the potential Supreme Court involvement and the importance of perseverance in the fight for justice, wrapping up with a hopeful call for collective action to inspire political reform.

Lawrence Lessig, a prominent advocate against SuperPACs, dives into the grassroots campaign in Maine aimed at empowering voters. He highlights the alarming influence of out-of-state super PACs in the 2022 Senate race, featuring record spending and negative ads that skew election narratives. Lessig discusses the critical decision by Maine's legislature to let the people vote on limiting SuperPACs. The conversation underscores the importance of restoring a political system that truly reflects the will of the people.

In this discussion, the focus shifts to Maine's pivotal legislative hearing on a key initiative addressing money in politics. It contrasts the engagement levels of state legislators with Congress, showcasing grassroots impacts. The episode highlights efforts to limit foreign contributions and super PACs, underlining public support for reform. Furthermore, it examines how political funding dynamics influence democracy, revealing the tension between small donors and billionaires while teasing future developments.