

Main Justice
MS NOW, Andrew Weissmann, Mary McCord
Main Justice is the next era of legal analysis from Andrew Weissmann and Mary McCord, the veteran lawyers behind the hit podcast Prosecuting Donald Trump. As the criminal cases against Trump wind down and his new administration comes to power, Andrew and Mary draw on their extensive experience working within the Department of Justice to break down what’s happening inside Trump’s DOJ. Each week, they use their platform on Main Justice to safeguard against assaults on our laws, our Constitution, and our democracy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 2min
Damage to the System
The Supreme Court's recent ruling on Texas's gerrymandered map sets off a discussion on partisan versus racial gerrymandering. A Virginia grand jury's refusal to re-indict Letitia James raises questions about legal standards and prosecutorial practices. Judge Beryl Howell's landmark decision restricts warrantless immigration arrests, spotlighting Fourth Amendment concerns. The hosts also dive into the Pentagon's IG report on Defense Secretary Hegseth's use of Signal, revealing serious implications for classified communications.

29 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 51min
“Dishonorable and Inhumane”
Todd Huntley, a former U.S. Navy judge advocate and director of Georgetown's National Security Law Program, shares his deep insights into the legality of military operations. He discusses a controversial 'kill them all' order linked to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, highlighting how it may violate international law protecting shipwrecked personnel. The conversation dives into the duty to refuse unlawful orders, military reporting obligations, and the repercussions of operational decisions on military trust and accountability.

Dec 1, 2025 • 10min
Preview of “Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order”
Dive into a shocking revelation about the mass roundup of innocent Japanese Americans during World War II. Discover the powerful figures behind this executive order and the lengths they went to erase its legacy. Hear about Aiko Herzig-Yoshinaga, a determined researcher whose meticulous archival work uncovered a hidden government report, revealing the intent behind these grave decisions. This compelling narrative sheds light on a dark chapter in history, making you rethink what you know about justice and truth.

22 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 51min
Lawlessness in Progress
The dismissal of cases against James Comey and Letitia James takes center stage, with a deep dive into the controversial appointment of Lindsey Halligan. The Pentagon's investigation of Senator Mark Kelly intrigues as he reassures military personnel about unlawful orders. The hosts highlight discrepancies in the Justice Department's approach to redistricting, illustrating a perceived double standard between California and Texas. Legal implications, procedural missteps, and the importance of protecting rights weave through the discussion, making for a compelling listen.

Nov 24, 2025 • 2min
Introducing "Rachel Maddow Presents: Burn Order"
The podcast dives into a dark chapter of American history: the mass incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. It explores the radical decision-making process behind this unprecedented action, revealing emotional personal stories of families caught in the turmoil. Additionally, it uncovers a cover-up involving destroyed reports and emphasizes the importance of remembering these historical injustices. Tune in for a poignant examination of heroism and accountability in the face of systemic discrimination.

20 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 52min
“No Pretense of Evenhanded Justice”
The podcast dives into President Trump's recent push for the release of Epstein files and questions why he doesn't do it himself. It explores a judge's scathing remarks about the DOJ's handling of Comey's grand jury case, highlighting potential misconduct. The hosts dissect the challenges and limitations surrounding the Epstein materials, including what might be redacted. They also touch on issues with prosecutor Halligan's presentation before the grand jury, timing inconsistencies, and recent developments in a critical contempt proceeding.

12 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 2min
Honoring Veterans Day
Tess Bridgeman, co-editor in chief at Just Security and a legal scholar, joins the conversation to dive into the murky legal waters surrounding U.S. vessel strikes. She explains the War Powers Resolution and the complex relationship between the President and Congress regarding military actions. The discussion touches on the legal definition of 'hostilities' and the implications of extrajudicial killings. Bridgeman emphasizes the need for accountability and explores congressional tools to ensure oversight in military engagements.

10 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 55min
Cycles of Factionalism
The Supreme Court's ruling on presidential immunity has sparked controversy, leading to what some call revenge prosecutions, including cases against Comey and Letitia James. The co-hosts delve into the complexities of selective prosecution claims and recent developments in these high-profile cases. Discussions also cover National Guard deployments, SNAP benefit litigation amid a government shutdown, and a preview of an upcoming Supreme Court tariff argument. The episode highlights the ongoing legal battles and the challenges of navigating executive power.

11 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 52min
The East Wing as a Metaphor
The demolition of the East Wing raises concerns about historical preservation and the ethics of private donations for public projects. Legal debates unfold over the Anti-Deficiency Act and potential repercussions of 'pay-to-play' influences. Updates from the Ninth Circuit highlight ongoing National Guard legal matters. Discussions also touch on the legality of U.S. military actions against drug traffickers in international waters, questioning the boundaries of federal authority and potential legal liabilities.

20 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 58min
Hold on "For Just a Little Longer"
The discussion kicks off with the Trump administration's National Guard deployment in Portland and raises legal questions about federal oversight. The hosts examine a concerning promise potentially endangering U.S. informants to secure a deal with El Salvador. They also dive into the indictments of John Bolton and James Comey, debating issues of selective prosecution. Lastly, the hosts analyze key Supreme Court arguments regarding the Voting Rights Act and the implications for Black representation in Louisiana.


