

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

26 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 54min
Ending the Year with Good News
In a refreshing twist, the co-hosts delve into significant positive judicial decisions. The Supreme Court's ruling on the federalization of Illinois National Guard troops is a highlight, emphasizing constraints on military involvement in domestic law. They also discuss a landmark ruling regarding due process for Venezuelans deported to El Salvador. Additionally, insights into potential remedies and judicial oversight are shared, especially concerning security-clearance revocations and the implications for legal professionals. It's a message of hope amid a challenging year.

13 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 52min
Shifting the Overton Window
The recent release of the Epstein files raises eyebrows, with heavy redactions and compliance concerns from the Justice Department. The hosts dive into the implications of the Epstein Files Transparency Act and unpack startling revelations from the documents. They also discuss the unsuccessful attempts to add charges against Letitia James and the intriguing split jury verdict in a Wisconsin trial. Additionally, they analyze a significant ruling on the National Guard's role in D.C., highlighting its unique legal status.

17 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 57min
Kafkaesque
The hosts dive into the complexities of political retribution versus legitimate prosecution, highlighting the recent grand jury's refusal to re-indict Letitia James. They explore extraordinary no-bill grand jury rulings and the implications for the DOJ. The discussion shifts to Jack Smith's upcoming deposition, emphasizing the need for transparency. The saga of Kilmar Abrego Garcia unfolds, revealing government errors in deportation. Finally, they analyze the limitations placed on National Guard deployments and the ongoing debates about federal authority.

42 snips
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.


