

Main Justice
MSNBC
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

Aug 5, 2025 • 53min
Distractions and Sideshows
In a lively discussion, the hosts delve into the complexities surrounding the investigation into Jack Smith and the Hatch Act. They tackle the ongoing political battles involving Trump's allies in the legal landscape. The conversation also takes a turn toward the intriguing 'Clinton Plan' emails and their ties to bigger controversies. Finally, insights are shared about the Ninth Circuit's recent decision to halt ICE raids in California, emphasizing the shifting dynamics in immigration enforcement and legal accountability.

5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 53min
An Unrecognizable Justice Department
Dive into the chaos of the Justice Department as the hosts discuss new developments in the Epstein case involving Ghislaine Maxwell. They tackle the challenges of immigration law through the Kilmar Abrego Garcia saga and a controversial deportation lawsuit. A surprising misconduct complaint against a federal judge shines a light on judicial integrity, especially regarding political influences. The conversation wraps up with an examination of how political appointee removals affect the Justice Department's decision-making and the importance of a nonpartisan civil service.

Jul 23, 2025 • 49min
Disestablishment of the Law
The discussion kicks off with the DOJ's surprising request to unseal grand jury materials in the Epstein and Maxwell cases, shedding light on legal transparency. They then scrutinize the recent sentencing of an officer involved in Breonna Taylor's tragic case, highlighting the ongoing issues of police accountability. The podcast also tackles deportation policies affecting non-citizens and the emotional toll of detention. Finally, the hosts delve into political firings and the complexities surrounding authority within the Justice Department, revealing the intertwining of law and politics.

17 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 52min
This is Not Normal
New whistleblower evidence has the potential to reshape critical immigration cases. A California ruling halts immigration stops grounded in racial profiling, while the East Coast sees challenges to Trump's birthright citizenship restrictions. The implications of ongoing investigations into former intelligence heads raise questions about DOJ integrity. Additionally, significant Supreme Court decisions signal shifts in executive power and civil rights, affecting everything from workforce layoffs to the legality of immigration enforcement actions. It's a riveting dive into the current legal landscape.

16 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 52min
"Your Huddled Masses"
The recent Supreme Court ruling allows the deportation of migrants to South Sudan without due process, stirring concerns over human rights. The hosts delve into Kilmar Abrego Garcia's complex legal battles tied to ICE raids. Intriguingly, letters from Attorney General Pam Bondi promise tech firms immunity regarding TikTok, despite existing bans. A shocking life sentence for a pardoned January 6th defendant highlights the consequences of plotting against investigators. The podcast extends a critical view on the FBI's internal strife and the impact of resource redirection on law enforcement.

7 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 1min
Judicial Authority for Me Not Thee
The Supreme Court's recent ruling on nationwide injunctions is unpacked, affecting future executive action challenges. The hosts delve into a DHS lawsuit against federal judges and the Justice Department's push to denaturalize citizens. They discuss ICE's tactics, particularly targeting migrant workers through routine stops, raising concerns over legal limits and racial bias. Additionally, the intricate issues surrounding birthright citizenship and judicial authority in immigration cases reveal the complexities within the legal system, demonstrating the balance between law and policy.

16 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 57min
Testing the Limits
This week covers the U.S. military's recent actions in Iran, raising questions about presidential war powers and international law. A fascinating whistleblower case from the DOJ unveils ethical dilemmas surrounding immigration practices. The conversation also highlights a pivotal Supreme Court ruling impacting the deportation process and the rights of immigrants. Additionally, the intriguing case of Mahmoud Khalil illustrates the complexities of legal definitions and First Amendment rights, shedding light on the ongoing tensions within U.S. immigration policy.

5 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 60min
Unflinching Obligation
Political violence raises alarms as a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband are murdered, prompting a conversation about the legal ramifications. The hosts delve into a federal appeals court ruling affecting the California National Guard's control. They also dissect the troubling implications of a senator's arrest during a press conference. The legal intricacies surrounding definitions of arrest versus seizure are explored, alongside notable court cases involving Donald Trump, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability in law enforcement and public service.

20 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 59min
Sending in the Military
Protests are escalating across the U.S. as the Trump administration ramps up ICE raids, leading to California's legal challenges over deploying the National Guard. The hosts dive into the legality of military involvement in civil affairs, unpacking federal statute 12406 and its implications for immigrant rights. They also discuss the complex legal issues related to recent rulings on due process for deportees and the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. The episode stresses the balance of power between federal authority and individual rights.

23 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 54min
Checks and Balances
The hosts dive into the legal controversies surrounding Trump's tariffs, analyzing recent court decisions and their implications for executive power. They discuss the complexities of presidential pardons, contrasting past administrations while questioning justice system fairness. Further, they explore significant changes in the FBI, including shifts in leadership and the dismantling of a public corruption task force. Finally, they shed light on the challenges female agents face within the Bureau, emphasizing the need for diversity and accountability.