Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, a key figure in environmental and judicial matters, joins the conversation to analyze the recent Supreme Court term. He discusses Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s influence and unexpected role as a dissenting voice against bias within the court. The chat dives into the problematic nomination of Emil Bove and the implications for judicial accountability. Whitehouse remains hopeful about reforming the judiciary, despite the challenges posed by wealth and influence in American politics.

A pivotal term for the Supreme Court is dissected, spotlighting recent rulings and their implications for justice in America. The discussion emphasizes the consolidation of power under Chief Justice John Roberts. Key cases on abortion rights and citizenship are reevaluated, igniting a call for public engagement. The hosts and guests offer insightful analyses that reveal how these decisions shape the landscape of democracy.

Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern tackle pressing issues facing federal judges and the rule of law in America. They dive deep into the Mahmoud v. Taylor case, questioning the extent of religious opt-outs in public schools and their impact on LGBTQ representation. The conversation also highlights recent legal rulings that foster fear among teachers, leading to self-censorship in discussions of diverse narratives. Finally, they scrutinize the Supreme Court's manipulation of its discretionary docket and the implications for future legal precedents.

Jamelle Bouie, an opinion columnist at The New York Times, Sherrilyn Ifill, a civil rights lawyer and founding director at Howard University, and Steve Vladeck, a Georgetown Law professor, join the discussion. They dive deep into the Supreme Court's recent term, unpacking the major rulings on reproductive rights and LGBTQ issues. The panel critiques the shadow docket's implications, explores the evolving judicial integrity, and highlights the importance of historical context in court decisions. Their insights reflect broader trends affecting marginalized voices and judicial activism.

Recent Supreme Court rulings signal a troubling trend for constitutional protections. The hosts explore how individuals are now expected to pursue their own legal remedies, highlighting the hurdles faced in accessing justice. They discuss the implications of rulings on birthright citizenship, LGBTQ rights in education, and the erosion of judicial authority. Additionally, the critical dissent from Justice Jackson raises alarms about the rollback of civil rights, while discussions on healthcare highlight the tension between religious liberties and societal needs.

The discussion revolves around a controversial Supreme Court ruling that permits the deportation of migrants to dangerous third countries without due process. This decision raises serious concerns about human rights and legal accountability. The hosts delve into the implications of this ruling on executive power and the erosion of lower court authority. They also highlight alarming whistleblower claims regarding a Trump judicial nominee's actions to undermine court orders, adding another layer of tension to an already fraught legal landscape.

Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice at the ACLU, discusses the Supreme Court's recent decisions affecting transgender rights. He shares insights on the upheld Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care, questioning the motivations behind judicial voting patterns. Strangio also highlights the ongoing struggles for trans rights and the need for advocacy amidst political and scientific challenges. The conversation touches on Elena Kagan's surprising alliances in court decisions, hinting at troubling implications for future legal battles.

Mark Joseph Stern, a legal analyst from Slate, joins to dissect the Roberts Court's recent ruling on gender-affirming care for trans minors, effectively banning it in over 20 states. The discussion delves into the stark legal barriers being imposed, particularly in Tennessee, where similar treatments remain available for non-trans minors. Stern critiques the Supreme Court's framework, linking it to broader implications for transgender rights and even drawing parallels with recent abortion rulings, showcasing the ongoing struggle for recognition and equality.

Witness the tension in America as tanks roll through D.C. while protests erupt nationwide. A U.S. Senator is confronted and cuffed for attempting to ask a question, raising alarms about the erosion of democratic norms. Explore the clash between federal and state authority amidst unrest in L.A. and delve into the importance of truth-telling in a time of rising authoritarianism. Legal battles around First Amendment rights take center stage, emphasizing the critical role lawyers play in safeguarding democracy.

Michael Podhorzer, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress and former political director of the AFL-CIO, dives into the influence of money on the judiciary and democracy. He discusses how billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump have reshaped the Supreme Court and weakened labor rights. Podhorzer highlights recent court decisions' implications, the decline of unions, and the urgent need for collective action. He advocates for a reassessment of power structures to protect democracy in an era influenced by technology and money.