It's Complicated

Hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa are joined by NYU Professor Rachel Barkow to talk about the eroding institutional checks on executive power, and ask: Can Trump fire anyone at will?Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show: patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaAsha, a Yale University National Security Law professor and former FBI special agent, and Renato, a former federal prosecutor, analyze just how far Trump has gone to undermine the independence of executive agencies.Rachel Barkow, author of Justice Abandoned: How the Supreme Court Ignored the Constitution and Enabled Mass Incarceration, breaks down the Supreme Court's pivotal role in defining the limits of executive power—and explores the historical precedents that Trump’s “Unitary Executive Theory” is threatening to undo. Rachel walks us through the story of Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, a seminal 1935 Supreme Court case that affirmed Congress's authority to restrict the President’s power to remove certain agency officials. Barkow also discusses how the modern Supreme Court could change these longstanding precedents, and lead to a cascade of global consequences.But it's not just about what's happening in Washington—the trio decodes how these transformations might impact average Americans, industries, and financial institutions. And we’ll tackle the broader human implications and moral considerations of these power plays. Be sure to join us next week, as Asha and Renato continue to bring clarity to the complex issues that can’t be boiled down to simple sound bites, right here on It’s Complicated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's all-new episode, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss the conflict of interest surrounding the peculiar case of NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and the larger implications for the entire Department of Justice going forward.Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaWe’ll explore the recent legal drama surrounding Mayor Adams and unravel the many complexities of this intriguing case—including the appointment of a special prosecutor, and what this means for judicial impartiality.Renato kicks off the show with a breakdown of the surprising decision by Judge Ho, who appointed Paul Clement as special counsel—despite both the prosecution and defense agreeing to dismiss the case. This decision, echoing a past Supreme Court approach, raises serious questions about the role of the court in situations where both parties agree on a matter.Asha reflects on how this unexpected twist upholds the adversarial nature of the U.S. legal system, comparing it to the Supreme Court's practice of inviting the Solicitor General to argue cases where the government isn't directly involved.Our hosts discuss the possibility that Judge Ho might choose to dismiss the charges with prejudice, eliminating any future DOJ prosecutorial leverage. They also highlight the delicate balance judges must maintain in order to ensure impartiality and protect the court’s integrity.We’ll also reflect on historical examples of how the members of the judiciary have mobilized against politically motivated decisions in the past.The Eric Adams saga is but one microcosm of Trump’s new tumultuous legal landscape, where political loyalty overshadows norms. In an era when court decisions and prosecutorial independence are highly politicized, this episode delivers a vital lesson about the significant legal and political upheaval ahead.In an era where judicial decisions and prosecutorial independence are ever more politicized, this episode is a must-listen for understanding the dynamics shaping our governance and liberty. Be sure to join us next week, as we continue to break down the complex legal issues and headlines that can't be confined to simple soundbites, right here on It’s Complicated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest explosive episode of It’s Complicated, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss the Department of Justice’s "Thursday Night Massacre," which led to a flurry of resignations by prosecutors in the Southern District of New York (SDNY). Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaThe legal community is left reeling from the shockwaves of this drama, which started as an escalating feud between the acting Deputy Attorney General Eric Bove, and the acting US attorney for the SDNY. Listen in as Asha, a professor at Yale and former FBI agent, along with Renato, a legal analyst and former federal prosecutor, navigate these maneuvers that can’t be boiled down to sound bites or quick headlines.Our hosts dissect the implications of the DOJ’s seemingly quid pro quo directive to dismiss pending charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams—which resulted in the resignations of a number of lead prosecutors. The move raises red flags about the politicization of justice and reflects a broader mission to reshape federal law enforcement to fully align with Trump's agenda.We’ll take a hard look at the resignation letters written by dedicated legal professionals like Danielle Sassoon and Hagan Scotten, which underscore the delicate balance between loyalty to leadership, and the pursuit of justice. Their actions also serve as a powerful reminder of the role of individual integrity in upholding democracy and the rule of law.Asha and Renato explore the broader implications for future administrations and the clear erosion of public trust in the American legal system. They’ll explain how Trump’s administration is both shaping and shaking the structure of the Justice Department. And we’ll reflect on how these actions could redefine executive authority and prosecutorial independence in the United States.As always, our hosts close out the show by reminding us of the power of courage and integrity—and to be proactive and resilient in the face of these major political shifts.Be sure to join us next week for another riveting episode, where we unravel the complexities and legal controversies from the front lines.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's all-new episode, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss the dangers of Elon Musk's unchecked power and influence, and whether or not the traditional mechanisms in place will be enough to curtail his power.Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaThe last two weeks have been a bustling whirlwind of Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s audacious reshaping of the federal government. Through frenetic maneuvers, their objectives appear to be aimed at amassing power, with a startling disregard for traditional legal structures.Asha and Renato paint a vivid picture of how Elon Musk’s takeover of key government agencies is happening so fast, existing legal guardrails are struggling to keep up. From DOGE’s unsanctioned access into Treasury payment systems, to dismantling USAID, we’ll analyze the magnitude of Musk’s influence and the massive changes happening before our eyes.Our hosts also examine the Trump administration’s abuse of legal technicalities, and shocking use of prosecutorial power to silence political opponents like Jack Smith. And we’ll take a look at how newly-minted Attorney General Pam Bondi has turned the DOJ’s focus away from pressing national security threats—instead spotlighting political vendettas.In such uncertain times, Asha and Renato implore listeners to stay vigilant and proactive. In this episode, they stress the frontline role of public awareness and engagement in preserving democracy.Stay informed, stay vigilant, stay empowered. And be sure to join us next time, as Asha and Renato break down the truths that can’t be fit into easy sound bites, or click-bait headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's all-new episode, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss the secret and very public machinations that Donald Trump and Elon Musk are employing in their bid to remake the FBI into an organization more focused on vengeance than on justice, with little to no oversight.Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaRenato and Asha break down how Trump is shifting the FBI’s focus from justice to retribution, putting thousands of agents at risk of a mass dismissal. And we’ll look at how, despite the potential backlash, some leaders within the FBI are standing up to Trump.You won’t want to miss our analysis of Elon Musk’s team reportedly getting access to the U.S. Treasury’s sensitive payment systems, which led to widespread concerns over data privacy and national financial stability. With Musk's notorious history, our hosts examine the legitimacy and motivation behind this access.Renato and Asha explore the broader implications of consolidating governmental power under folks like Musk with dubious intentions. And we’ll take a look at how these disruptions in federal agencies could ultimately herald the beginning of a more authoritarian government, and a seismic shift in how public institutions operate.In these turbulent times, our hosts urge us to stay informed and vigilant. Considering the potential economic and national security repercussions these maneuvers could create, our awareness and engagement is more important than ever. Be sure to join us next time as Renato and Asha continue to unravel the complexities that extend beyond soundbites or headlines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's all-new episode, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss the dangers behind a slate of horrendous executive orders signed during Trump's first week in office. In what was meant to be a show of "shock and awe," turned out to be just "shocking and awful."Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaAlso, listen in for more info on a chance to join our hosts on a scenic, North Atlantic Frontiers voyage from Copenhagen to Reykjavik. It’s sure to be a wonderful trip with lots of great conversation: https://www.travelstore.com/group-travel/renato-mariotti-and-asha-rangappa-north-atlantic-frontiers-july-2025/. Or call the Travelstore at 1-800-777-6540 for more information.Asha, a National Security Law Lecturer at Yale and former FBI agent, along with Renato, an ex-federal prosecutor, dissect how Trump's recent executive orders could dismantle birthright citizenship, a pivotal part of America’s identity that’s enshrined in the Constitution.The order seeks to redefine children born to non-legal permanent residents as no longer "subject to the jurisdiction" of the U.S. Asha and Renato explain how this interpretation is in direct contradiction with established precedent, warranting strong legal challenges and public pushback.Our hosts also scrutinize Trump’s executive orders beyond citizenship, including his immigration policies that have led to raids, hurt undocumented immigrants, and heightening tensions in cities across America. And we’ll consider the possibility that Trump's tactics are more about creating fear—rather than implementing any actionable policies. Be sure to join us next week as Renato and Asha unravel the complexities that don’t fit into mere soundbites. Stay informed, stay empowered, and we’ll see you next time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, our hosts Renato Mariotti and Asha Rangappa discuss Special Counsel Jack Smith’s report, with a focus on its significance-or lack thereof-on the future political landscape.Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaAlso, listen in for more info on a chance to join our hosts on a scenic, North Atlantic Frontiers voyage from Copenhagen to Reykjavik. It’s sure to be a wonderful trip with lots of great conversation.With Jack Smith's anticipated report on January 6th now public, we’re here to help you sift through its layers and understand its impact. Asha Rangappa, a Yale national security law lecturer and former FBI special agent teams up with Renato Mariotti, a former federal prosecutor turned legal analyst, to explore what weight, if any, the report holds. We’ll look at the timing and method of the Jan 6 committee's unprecedented public examination, which stand in stark contrast to the secret investigations we’re used to in criminal cases like these. Since the facts were laid bare in real-time, and the very public hearings left little to the imagination. Which, as Renato and Asha dissect, is probably why the report didn’t surprise the public with shocking revelations—as was seen with the Mueller Report—because most crucial details were already common knowledge.While the new factual revelations were sparse, Renato explains how the report shines a light on Smith's strategic and legal reasoning. His decision-making processes, prosecutorial choices, and thoughts on specific charges offer a window into the inner workings of his investigation. Our hosts discuss the obstacles Smith faced, including witness intimidation, the proceedings in Aileen Cannon's court, as well as threats and potential destruction of evidence. And reflect on the inevitable scrutiny this report will receive as a part of American history. Be sure to join us next week as Renato and Asha unravel the complexities that don’t fit into mere soundbites. Stay informed, stay empowered, and we’ll see you next time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our hosts, Yale Professor and former FBI special agent Asha Rangappa, along with former federal prosecutor Renato Mariotti, discuss Trump’s unconditional discharge sentencing, which is laden with complex implications for the American legal system. Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaWhile a guilty verdict was reached, as Asha and Renato explain, the lack of concrete punishment opens a whole line of questions about the effectiveness and perception of American justice, especially considering the context of Trump's impending inauguration.We’ll talk about why Judge Merchan chose unconditional discharge in the first place. We'll also explore the limits and responsibilities of judges, as well as the inconsistencies and biases in the system that arise when high-profile political figures are involved. Our hosts also explain how there is a delicate balance to ensuring justice is served timely and properly, without judges succumbing to external pressures. And we’ll discuss how recent decisions like these threaten democratic norms and weaken public trust in the rule of law. As we continue on the tumultuous legal road ahead, this show seeks to empower our listeners and encourage folks to stay informed, stay involved, and stay vigilant. Be sure to join Asha and Renato next time for another hard look at what’s happening at the intersection of politics and the American justice system. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to an all-new episode of It’s Complicated, where our hosts Asha Rangappa and Renato Mariotti help us navigate the complexities of the American criminal justice system.Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaAsha, a national security law lecturer at Yale University and former FBI special agent, teams up with Renato, a seasoned former federal prosecutor and esteemed legal analyst, to propose a fundamental question: does the criminal justice system work?Well, it’s complicated.Asha and Renato discuss the news that Judge Marchan intends to sentence Trump to an unconditional discharge before his inauguration, raising questions about due process and the feasibility of enforcing a sentence against a sitting president. We’ll also talk about how The Manhattan District Attorney’s hesitancy in pursuing a case against Trump earlier underscores the importance of prosecutorial decision-making, and political timeliness. Their delays cascaded onto federal case postponements and set a dangerous precedent for the future.Speaking of federal courts, our hosts take a broader look at judicial responsibility, and dissect Chief Justice Roberts' recent menacing rebuke of criticism directed toward the Supreme Court. We’ll set the record straight: It’s on the Supreme Court to avoid the controversy that creates the criticism, such as those surrounding the insurrection on January 6th. Asha and Renato also share their take on the normalization of violence in society–like we’ve seen with Trump’s intention to pardon the January 6th rioters. They use the case of Luigi Mangione to illustrate how sensational coverage and the societal normalization of violence signals a deep-seated restlessness and a myriad of systemic issues.Despite the complicated nature of things right now, our hosts call on us all to channel our energy and remain engaged in this new year. And to join us next time, as we continue to tackle the complex issues of law and justice that shape our everyday lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another must-listen episode of It's Complicated, where our hosts Asha Rangappa and Renato Mariotti grapple with this unsettling question: How bad is it going to get for our democracy in the new year?Subscribe to our Patreon here, where paid members will get access to exclusive portions of this show. patreon.com/reallyamericanmediaAsha Rangappa, a national security law professor at Yale and former FBI special agent, alongside Renato Mariotti, a legal analyst and former federal prosecutor, guide us through the challenges and changes poised to redefine the political landscape in 2025. We’ll discuss the rising autocratic tendencies that are rearing their heads worldwide in countries like Hungary and Poland. And our hosts point out that this shift may not mirror the oppression seen in Russia but could manifest as subtler institutional changes under a guise of normalcy.In this episode, Renato and Asha share their concerns with the ability of the judiciary to stand against tyranny and explore how misinformation in the media will only further complicate things. As traditional media struggles to maintain its role as an independent guardrail, our hosts ponder the influence of new platforms like Substack in filling the gap left by mainstream outlets.We’ll also look to answer some very difficult questions, like does the Department of Justice and the FBI have the moral courage needed to resist unethical directives? Can the military maintain its independence from political influence? As new appointments and policies threaten to politicize all of our institutions, the stakes have never been higher for making sure they do.As we embark on 2025, we encourage our listeners to stay vigilant, informed, and engaged, as we collectively navigate the changing tides of democracy. And we’ll see you back here next time, on It's Complicated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices