Opening Arguments

Join John J. Lennon, an author and journalist serving time at Sing Sing, as he dives into the complexities of true crime narratives. He shares his personal journey, including the emotional impact of seeing his crime dramatized on screen. Lennon critiques how the media sensationalizes the lives of the guilty, exploring the cost of our obsession with true crime. He reflects on accountability, the limits of restorative justice, and how writing helped him confront his past, while introducing a more humane perspective on his fellow inmates.

Join the hosts as they dissect the implications of recent Epstein email releases and the new Transparency Act. They explore New York's ban on civil arrests in courthouses and discuss a pivotal ruling blocking Texas's racially gerrymandered voting map. The conversation turns to the complexities of the Comey indictment and how courts are pushing back against it. Finally, a prison nurse shines as a whistleblower, exposing Ghislaine Maxwell's preferential treatment. A mix of legal insights and upbeat discussions awaits!

In a deep dive into newly released Epstein files, the hosts uncover shocking connections between Jeffrey Epstein and key political figures like Steve Bannon. They reveal Bannon's transactional relationship with Epstein, including offers of use of Epstein's island. The podcast critiques media responses to Epstein's actions, particularly highlighting Megyn Kelly’s minimization of victims' experiences. Survivors are called to demand transparency and justice, while the hosts discuss the ongoing political fallout and the struggle for accountability.

The hosts dive into the recently released emails from Jeffrey Epstein's archives, uncovering connections between various prominent figures. Discussions include Larry Summers seeking advice from Epstein on personal matters and the tangled web of reputation management involving others like Alan Dershowitz and Steve Bannon. They also explore the influence of Peggy Siegel in Epstein's social circle and the blurred lines of public knowledge versus sealed records. With surreal anecdotes and provocative insights, they piece together a compelling narrative of power and enablers.

Dive into a whirlwind of hot topics, including explosive new documents from the Epstein estate that raise serious impeachment calls. The discussion explores how recent legal shifts have empowered federal judges to challenge immigration policies. There's also a lawsuit against RFK Jr. for changing the CDC's vaccine advisory board, adding intrigue to the vaccine debate. Plus, an unexpected twist features a case about a woman wanting to keep a pygmy goat in Wyoming, revealing broader implications for property rights and regulations.

Kat Abughazaleh, a former Media Matters reporter and political commentator running for Congress in Illinois's 9th District, shares her bold stance against authoritarianism and her grassroots campaign. She discusses her indictment for protesting ICE, shedding light on the fear and tactics employed during Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago. Kat highlights the importance of collective action, mutual aid, and her plans for universal healthcare and housing. With insights from her experience covering right-wing media, she emphasizes the need for accountability and reform in Congress.

Dive into how a simple parking garage dispute in Wilmington sparked crucial civil rights discussions. Learn why understanding 'under color of law' is essential for holding public entities accountable. Explore how private actors might circumvent the 14th Amendment and the impact of Section 1983 on constitutional violations. The analysis of Burton v. Wilmington Parking Authority reveals key judicial approaches and the ongoing relevance of state-action tests. Plus, hear about modern concerns regarding privatized power and who can be sued under these laws.

This episode celebrates a wave of good news, highlighting major victories in voting and disability rights across the U.S. An expert discusses recent off-year elections, revealing surprising Democratic wins and local progressive gains. Meanwhile, a legal expert analyzes a significant Supreme Court case challenging Trump's tariffs, noting skepticism from justices. A federal judge's ruling on ASL interpreter requirements for briefings marks another win for disability rights. Plus, an unusual lawsuit over a famous album cover raises questions about art and consent.

Dive into a spooky exploration of political journalism as hosts dissect a Politico piece on Project 2025's perceived collapse. They challenge how empty offices were misinterpreted and argue against the narrative of failure. The conversation shifts to Ross Douthat's controversial take on Trump, examining the fascism debate and assessing how past observations about him missed the mark. With a touch of horror, they connect the destruction within the White House to deeper anti-democratic trends. Halloween may be over, but the conversation remains hauntingly relevant!

The discussion dives into the refusal to seat Adelita Grijalva, shedding light on Speaker Mike Johnson's motives. The hosts explore the landmark Powell v. McCormack case, detailing Adam Clayton Powell's controversial exclusion from Congress in 1966. They analyze the implications of this precedent for Grijalva's lawsuit and debate the boundaries of congressional authority. Insightful comparisons are made with other significant cases and the current Supreme Court's possible reactions to such disputes.