
Main Justice
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.
Latest episodes

12 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 44min
The Pardon Power
Trevor Morrison, NYU Law professor and Dean Emeritus, dives deep into the complexities of presidential pardon power. He discusses whether a president can pardon himself and the legality of blanket pardons for unadjudicated crimes. The conversation also touches on historical precedents and the moral implications of such actions. Additionally, the implications of political accountability in the Justice Department are explored, especially in light of recent cases. Morrison's insights unravel the intricate balance of law and political realities.

20 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 50min
One Dismissal Denied
A recent ruling denied Trump's motion to dismiss key charges, sparking debates on presidential immunity and its legal ramifications. The analysts dive into evidence admissibility, defense tactics, and the blurred lines between Trump's official and personal conduct. They also navigate the complexities of legal arguments surrounding the former president's actions, reflecting on how political dynamics intersect with justice. The conversation even touches on the holiday spirit and supporting education amid ongoing legal battles.

6 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 49min
A Kitchen Sink of Grievance
The legal challenges surrounding Donald Trump take center stage, with insights into his defense strategies and the concept of elective prosecution. The hosts explore the implications of prosecuting a sitting president, dissecting the constitutional arguments at play. They also discuss a significant letter questioning the FBI Director's leadership, blending serious topics with lighter moments. Their engaging banter reveals the importance of finding joy amidst weighty issues, setting the stage for future discussions.

19 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 52min
Attack on the FBI
Veteran prosecutors dissect the unusual political maneuvers surrounding the FBI, particularly Trump's controversial nomination of loyalist Kash Patel. They discuss the implications of ongoing civil cases against Trump related to January 6th and his attempts to dismiss legal challenges based on presidential immunity. The recent pardoning of Hunter Biden adds another layer of complexity to the conversation, raising questions about political ramifications and national security. With humor and insight, the hosts navigate the intricate web of law and politics.

22 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 51min
Strategic Dismissals
Veteran prosecutors dissect the strategies behind recent legal maneuvers in Donald Trump's cases, highlighting the implications of dismissals without prejudice. They clarify misconceptions around Jack Smith's tactics while examining Judge Merchan's postponement of sentencing. The conversation shifts to Trump's potential self-pardoning and the dynamics within the Department of Justice as they navigate complex legal landscapes. As new leadership appointments loom, the importance of constitutional obligations over personal interests becomes a focal point, all amidst a backdrop of Thanksgiving reflections.

Nov 20, 2024 • 47min
Reports and Recess
Legal analysts dive into the evolving landscape of Donald Trump’s criminal cases, discussing potential outcomes and the concept of presidential immunity. They examine the significance of a final report from the Special Counsel and whether it will be accessible to the public. The hosts also explore the complexities surrounding January 6th defendants and the bipartisan commitment to justice in the judicial process. Lastly, they nerd out on the intricacies of recess appointments and their constitutional implications, shedding light on historical practices and current political dynamics.

8 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 47min
Aftershocks
This discussion delves into the recent legal maneuvers surrounding Donald Trump's cases. Veteran prosecutors analyze Judge Merchan's decision on immunity in a hush money case and the constitutional debates on prosecuting a sitting president. Insights are shared about how Trump's electoral win could influence ongoing civil cases, including the E Jean Carroll lawsuits. They also investigate the complexities of January 6th-related prosecutions, highlighting efforts by convicted individuals seeking presidential pardons amid swirling legal challenges.

Nov 8, 2024 • 43min
Not Prosecuting Donald Trump
Ben Ginsberg, a nationally recognized expert in political law and election litigation, joins legal analysts Mary McCord and Andrew Weissmann to discuss the surprising absence of post-election challenges. They explore the integrity of the recent election and successful voter mobilization strategies, despite fears of suppression. Ginsberg offers insights into Trump's ongoing criminal cases, shedding light on the complexities of prosecuting a former president and what might happen next in the legal labyrinth he faces.

Nov 4, 2024 • 43min
Voting Matters
Legal experts delve into the complexities of mail-in voting in Pennsylvania, addressing issues like naked ballots that could disqualify votes. They discuss ongoing legal challenges related to voter rights and the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings. The conversation shifts to high-profile cases, including developments from Washington, D.C., and Florida, emphasizing the tension between executive privilege and transparency. They also highlight new allegations involving a prosecutor's connections to crucial figures, setting the stage for future discussions on post-election litigation.

Oct 28, 2024 • 50min
Election Stakes
With the election just around the corner, discussions revolve around whether Trump’s criminal case could face dismissal and the implications of using military force domestically. The possibility of a ‘red mirage’ turning into a ‘blue shift’ adds tension, alongside concerns about Elon Musk's PAC incentivizing voter registration in swing states. The hosts delve into the legality of these maneuvers and the importance of safeguarding electoral integrity, all while reminding listeners of their vital role in democracy through voting.
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