Passing Judgment

Jessica Levinson
  • 4.7 (212)
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Passing Judgment

Is the constitution in crisis? This podcast is for people who are curious about politics and the law and how the biggest political and legal issues of the moment affect you. Pull up a chair and join host Jessica Levinson, a professor at LMU’s Loyola Law School, and a rotating cast of experts. Jessica will be joined by journalists, politicians, political scientists, lawyers, and many others. Listen to Jessica and her guests for a wry, and sometimes irreverent take on the most pressing issues of our time. What are the laws of our democracy? How are they changing? And what does that mean for your daily life?

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    The Supreme Court's Role in Trump's Firing Case with Katie Buehler

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the Supreme Court’s decision to abstain from ruling on a Trump emergency appeal about firing Hampton Dellinger, head of the Office of Special Counsel. Jessica Levinson and Katie Buehler, Law360's Supreme Court reporter, analyze the nuances of presidential power and the debate over the constitutionality of restricting executive authority. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: Supreme Court Decision on Trump Emergency Appeal: The episode discusses the Supreme Court's recent decision not to review an emergency appeal concerning the firing of Hampton Dellinger from his position as the head of the Office of Special Counsel. The court allowed the temporary restraining order, which pauses the firing, to run its course and expire. Legal Arguments and Statute Constitutionality: The legal argument centers on whether President Trump had to provide a reason for Dellinger's firing, as required by federal law. Trump’s administration argues that the statute requiring a reason is unconstitutional and that the president should have the power to fire at will. This theme explores the larger question of presidential authority and statutory constraints. Significant Supreme Court Cases: Katie Buehler highlights other significant Supreme Court cases beyond the Trump-related decision, including a case involving the Federal Communications Commission's authority and executive power, as well as cases on religious rights such as opting-out of LGBTQ-related education and funding for religious charter schools. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @bykatiebuehler

    13 min

  2. FEB 18

    What the Federal Workforce Reduction Means for American Citizens with Tami Luhby

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we delve into the Trump administration's controversial federal buyout plan aimed at reducing the workforce. Jessica is joined by expert guest Tami Luhby to unpack the deferred resignation offer's complexities, union opposition, and the vagueness surrounding its terms. We explore how these workforce reductions could impact government services and the ongoing legal battles related to this initiative. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: Federal Buyout Plan: The Trump administration aimed to downsize the federal workforce, incorporating a controversial program called the deferred resignation offer. Approximately 2 million federal employees were offered this program, where 77,000 accepted the resignation offer. However, there was confusion and reported ineligibility among recipients. Legal Proceedings: A Boston judge twice paused the program, considering the unions' claims, but ultimately decided they lacked standing, supporting the administration’s effort to proceed with the buyout program. Impact on Services: The reduction in workforce potentially affects various essential services such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs, leading to concerns about extended wait times and disrupted services for the public. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @Luhby

    26 min

  3. FEB 11

    Analyzing the Role of Doge in Federal Government Efficiency with Lisa Mascaro

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the uncharted territory of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. Host Jessica Levinson, along with guest Lisa Mascaro, delve into the department's mission to overhaul federal operations and its legal uncertainties. We examine DOGE's drastic measures, including federal employee buyouts and the reduction of USAID, all under the influence of Musk. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: Overview of the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge): The episode delves into the establishment of a new entity known as the Department of Government Efficiency, headed by Elon Musk. They explore what this department is meant to accomplish, how it is categorized (as a department or agency), and its power and influence. Legal and Political Dynamics Surrounding Doge: Lisa Mascaro highlights the legal challenges and political scrutiny faced by Doge. Questions are raised about the authority and legality of actions taken by this department. There is mention of the involvement of Vivek Ramaswamy in the initial establishment, and how this aligns with broader conservative goals of cutting back federal government size and spending. Congressional and Public Scrutiny: The initiative has sparked debates and raised questions in Congress and among the public. There are historical parallels with past governance styles, but nothing quite matches DOGE's scale and influence fueled by Musk's vast reach and resources. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @lisamascaro

    36 min

  4. FEB 4

    Exploring Trump's New Cabinet: Controversial Picks and Confirmation Hearings

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the political landscape of President Trump's new cabinet picks through the expert lens of Michelle Shen from CNN's politics team. Jessica and Michelle dissect the confirmation hearings of controversial figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services Secretary and Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence, along with Elise Stefanik's smoother path as UN Ambassador. The discussion sheds light on the intrigues and political maneuvers surrounding these nominations and their potential impact on Trump's administration over the next four years. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: RFK Jr.'s Nomination for Health and Human Services Secretary: The discussion focuses on RFK Jr.'s controversial stance on vaccines and his break from the Kennedy family, who have been stalwarts in the Democratic Party. His views, which have been scientifically disproven, present difficulties in his confirmation process, even among some Republicans. Media and Reporting Challenges: Michelle Shen shares the challenges faced in reporting on the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of careful fact-checking and contextualization in her journalism work. Inauguration Reflections: Shen reflects on the inaugural weekend, highlighting the contrast between Trump supporters and the wealthier individuals who have close access to him. This theme underscores questions of who will have influence in Trump's administration. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @Michelle_shen10

    29 min

  5. JAN 28

    The Second Trump Administration: Executive Orders Unpacked with Megan Lebowitz

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we dive into the rapid-fire executive orders issued during the first week of President Trump’s second administration. Joined by political reporter Megan Lebowitz, Jessica explores key topics such as immigration, energy policies, transgender rights, and foreign policy changes. Megan also discusses her recent article on Trump's comments about Ukraine and his stance on international relations. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: Unprecedented Volume of Executive Orders: President Trump has issued dozens of executive orders in his first few days, a stark contrast to his previous term. From birthright citizenship to energy production, the scope is extensive and impactful. Immigration Policies Under Scrutiny: Key actions include the reinstatement of the remain-in-Mexico policy and the suspension of refugee resettlement. These orders are set to face significant legal pushback. Shift in Foreign Policy and Public Health: Withdrawal from international organizations like the WHO and the Paris Climate Accord signifies a return to Trump’s "America First" policy. Public health funding and higher education grants are also restructured, particularly impacting DEI initiatives. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @megan_lebowitz

    34 min

  6. JAN 21

    Supreme Court Insights: Transgender Rights, Ghost Guns, and TikTok Controversies with Lindsay Whitehurst

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we delve into the Supreme Court's current term with Lindsay Whitehurst from the Associated Press. Jessica Levinson and Lindsay discuss three significant cases: a Tennessee law on transgender minors' access to gender-affirming care (Skirmiti), regulations on ghost guns, and flavored e-cigarettes. They explore the implications of these cases, potential judicial leanings, and the role of presidential administrations in legal arguments. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: Transgender Rights in Healthcare: A case involving the access of gender-affirming care for minors, which touches on parental rights and the role of the state in healthcare decisions. Ghost Guns and Federal Regulations: A significant case about the regulation of untraceable homemade firearms and the broader implications for federal agency powers. E-Cigarettes Rules Challenge: The court's review of regulations around flavored vapes, further tying into the authority of administrative bodies. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica @lwhitehurst

    24 min

  7. JAN 16

    Examining the Four Criminal Cases Against Trump

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we unravel the current status of the four pending criminal cases against former President Trump. Host Jessica Levinson explains that while Trump was convicted in the New York State hush money case, he received no real sentencing. The Georgia election interference case stalled due to conflict of interest allegations against the district attorney. Jessica provides a detailed overview of each case and what it means now that Trump is set to return to office. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: New York State Hush Money Case: Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records for hush money payments to Stormy Daniels. However, the sentence resulted in no jail time, fines, or probation due to constitutional concerns about punishing a sitting president. Georgia Election Interference Case: This case, involving Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, stalled due to conflict of interest allegations against District Attorney Fani Willis. The delay and constitutional concerns have put the case on indefinite hold. Federal Cases: Both the DC election interference and Mar-a-Lago classified documents cases stalled due to legal challenges and questions of immunity. Following Trump's recent election victory, Special Counsel Jack Smith resigned, and the cases were effectively closed. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica

    13 min

  8. JAN 7

    What’s Next for TikTok? Supreme Court to Rule on Nationwide Ban

    In this episode of Passing Judgment, we analyze the high-stakes TikTok ban case as it heads to the Supreme Court on an accelerated timeline. Host Jessica Levinson explains the key arguments: ByteDance claims the ban violates First Amendment rights, while the government cites national security concerns over TikTok's Chinese ownership. With oral arguments set for January 10th, Jessica discusses potential outcomes and actions President Trump might take once in office. Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss: 1️⃣ Overview of the Legislation: The law in question mandates that TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, divest its U.S. operations by January 19th, 2024, or face a nationwide ban. The ban would affect app stores and Internet providers, eventually causing TikTok to stop working as updates and downloads would be prohibited. 2️⃣ Lower Court Rulings: The DC Circuit upheld the law as constitutional. A three-judge panel determined that the national security concerns cited by Congress justify the legislation. Judges generally defer to the political branches on national security issues. 3️⃣ Arguments by ByteDance and TikTok: ByteDance argues that the law violates the First Amendment by eliminating a mode of communication without a compelling government interest. They contend that the national security concerns are baseless and accuse the U.S. government of targeting TikTok based on its content, which is potentially a content-based restriction—a key concern in First Amendment law. Follow Our Host:  @LevinsonJessica

    10 min
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About

Is the constitution in crisis? This podcast is for people who are curious about politics and the law and how the biggest political and legal issues of the moment affect you. Pull up a chair and join host Jessica Levinson, a professor at LMU’s Loyola Law School, and a rotating cast of experts. Jessica will be joined by journalists, politicians, political scientists, lawyers, and many others. Listen to Jessica and her guests for a wry, and sometimes irreverent take on the most pressing issues of our time. What are the laws of our democracy? How are they changing? And what does that mean for your daily life?

Information

  • Creator
    Jessica Levinson
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    328
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 491570
  • Show Website
    Passing Judgment

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