In this episode of Passing Judgment, we dive into the high-profile defamation cases filed by journalist E. Jean Carroll against former President Donald Trump. Our guest for today is Erica Orden, a reporter for Politico, who was at the forefront of the courtroom proceedings. Join us as we explore the legal intricacies of the case, the jury's decision, the behavior of the involved parties, and the impact of Trump's presence during the trial.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Trump's Behavior: Trump's conduct in the courtroom likely influenced the jurors' decision in the second trial. It raises questions about his ability to comply with court etiquette and handle upcoming criminal trials where his presence is mandated.

2️⃣ Judge Kaplan's Firm Hand: Judge Kaplan's strict demeanor and rules within the courtroom shed light on the tension and emotion present during key testimonies, and provide insights into the judiciary's handling of complex legal battles.

3️⃣ Attorney Roberta Kaplan's Effort: Renowned for her pivotal legal battles, Roberta Kaplan's role in advocating for her client, E. Jean Carroll, demonstrates the significance of a well-prepared and experienced legal team in navigating high-stakes trials.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In this week's gripping episode of "Passing Judgment," host Jessica Levinson and esteemed guest, Lawrence Hurley of NBC News, unpack the complexities of Trump's request for immunity and the potential consequences for our legal system. Join them as they dive into the mechanics of our judicial system, and the razor's edge upon which current events balance. ⚖️

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Supreme Court Decisions: How upcoming Supreme Court rulings could reshape the election landscape and set precedents on presidential immunity.

2️⃣ Separation of Powers: The implications of the DC Circuit's stance against absolute immunity and what it means for the checks and balances of our system.

3️⃣ Legal Uncertainty and Timeline: The potential paths the Trump-related cases might take and the associated uncertainties that could affect the trial and election timelines.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

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On Threads: @LawrenceHurley

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we're delving into the Colorado Supreme Court's recent ruling on whether former president and potential 2024 candidate, Donald Trump, can appear on the state's primary election ballot. We'll break down the legal arguments, the potential implications, and why this decision may land in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court. Join us as we analyze the constitutional issues at play and examine the political dynamics surrounding this case.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Section 3 of the 14th Amendment: The Colorado State Supreme Court relied on this little-known section to justify its ruling. This section, which was implemented after the Civil War, aims to prevent individuals who engaged in an insurrection or provided aid or comfort to insurrectionists from serving in federal office.

2️⃣ An Uncertain Future: The case presents a complex legal and political dilemma, raising questions about the role of the Supreme Court in determining the eligibility of presidential candidates.

3️⃣ The Supreme Court Conundrum: The episode delves into the possible paths the Supreme Court could take, the political pressure at play, and the potential ramifications of the Court's decision.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, Jessica Levinson dives into a thought-provoking discussion with guest, novelist and essayist, Stephen Marche. Together, they dissect the corrosive impact of money in American politics, the flaws in the electoral college system, and the urgent need for profound electoral reforms.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode:

1️⃣ Money in Politics: The conversation delves into the damaging effects of unlimited corporate spending in elections, the influence of dark money mechanisms, and how fundraising can shape politicians' priorities and actions.

2️⃣ Flaws in the Electoral College System: We discuss the significant flaws in the electoral college system and express concern about its potential collapse, leading to an illegitimate government.

3️⃣ Necessity for Electoral Reforms: From the limitation of campaign spending and donations to open primaries, it's clear that significant changes are needed to address corruption, ensure the legitimacy of the political system, and empower a more representative democracy.

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On X formerly known as Twitter: @StephenMarche

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On X formerly known as Twitter: @LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we discuss the upcoming presidential election with Professor Michael Genovese, President of the Global Policy Institute at Loyola Marymount University. Join us as we delve into the complexities of presidential politics, and examine the impact of media sensationalism, the challenges of giving up power, and the qualities critical for a great president.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ The Impact of Political Spectacle: The political landscape has become dominated by spectacle, with the media and public more focused on personalities and entertainment rather than policy.

2️⃣ Leadership Qualities: Drawing from historical perspectives on leadership, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, the conversation underscores the significance of leaders prioritizing the welfare of the people and the country over personal ego.

3️⃣ Presidential Elections and Political Dynamics: The episode delves into the dynamics of presidential elections and the influence of political tribalism; touching on scenarios where leaders may resist relinquishing power and the role of the media and public in shaping political narratives.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In this week's episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson delves into the aftermath of the recent Supreme Court decision in the Dobbs case, and the upcoming landmark abortion rights case in April. Join us as we discuss the current state of abortion rights, the legal landscape, and the upcoming significant Supreme Court cases that are poised to shape the future of reproductive healthcare in the United States.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ The fallout from the Dobbs decision: The Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v Wade and the upcoming case dealing with abortion rights demonstrates a fundamental question about pregnant women's entitlement to full protection under the law.

2️⃣ Legal battle over pregnant women's access to abortions: The Supreme Court will address the conflict between a federal law entitling all people to emergency medical care and state laws in Idaho and Texas that severely restrict abortions, leaving pregnant women with limited options for care.

3️⃣ Impact of judicial appointments on abortion laws: The new makeup of the federal judiciary, particularly lower court judges appointed by President Trump, has had significant effects on abortion rights, leading to near outright bans on abortions in some states.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In this week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, host Jessica Levinson engages in a compelling discussion with guest Dean Baker, co-founder of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, on the state of the economy and associated governance challenges. Join us as we cover a range of crucial economic issues, shedding light on several key takeaways for you listeners.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Economic Perception vs. Reality: Despite public perception of a negative economy, the data tells a different story. With low unemployment rates, high workplace satisfaction, and real wage gains, the economy is showing positive signs.

2️⃣ The Influence of Pessimism on Economic Behavior: While people may feel negatively about the economy, high levels of consumer spending, particularly on non-essential items, suggest that behavior does not always align with perception.

3️⃣ The Tension Between Expertise and Politics: Issues like combatting global warming, altering prescription drug research financing, implementing a financial transactions tax, and addressing CEO pay are key priorities, but there are structural government challenges hindering progress.

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On X formerly known as Twitter: @DeanBaker13

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the legal question of whether former President Trump is immune from criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office. With two federal cases pending against Trump, one involving election interference, the stakes are high! Tune in as we navigate the legal landscape surrounding this case and explore the implications of presidential immunity on criminal prosecution.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Presidential immunity shields the president from civil suits for official actions. This doctrine aims to allow presidents to function without fear of frivolous suits and to protect sensitive discussions involving national security.

2️⃣ The Supreme Court has not definitively ruled on whether a president can be criminally prosecuted for acts taken while in office, but guidance from past cases gives us insight into this complex legal issue.

3️⃣ The recent ruling by district court judge Chutkan states that there is no presidential immunity in Trump's case, as his alleged attempts to interfere with the election were considered nonofficial acts. The case now awaits a decision from the DC Circuit Court.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

In our latest episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson breaks down the recent decision by the Colorado Supreme Court regarding the eligibility of former President Donald Trump to appear on the state's 2024 primary election ballot. She delves into the reasons behind her belief that the verdict might be overturned and discusses why she thinks the case will ultimately end up at the US Supreme Court.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Colorado Supreme Court's Decision: The court relied on section 3 of the 14th Amendment to conclude that Donald Trump is constitutionally barred from appearing on the state's 2024 primary election ballot.

2️⃣ Implications for the US Supreme Court: This case is likely to head to the US Supreme Court for resolution, and the decision could have significant political implications.

3️⃣ Potential Outcome: While the host believes that the US Supreme Court will overturn the Colorado decision, the case presents complex legal and political considerations that will require careful navigation.

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica

Join us in a thought provoking conversation about the Republican Party's transformation and the potential impacts of court decisions on elections and politics. We're joined by Dr. Norm Ornstein; senior fellow emeritus at the American Enterprise Institute, as he provides eye-opening insights offering a perspective on the potential emergence of a figure with Trump-like views in the party's future.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ The Republican Party's journey from a traditional problem-solving entity to a more right-leaning stance, influenced by historical struggles with authoritarians and tribalism, presents significant implications for the country's political trajectory.

2️⃣ Thought-provoking discussions on the influence of money in politics, ethical concerns within the court system, and the impact of individual decisions on significant outcomes, such as Supreme Court decisions.

3️⃣ The potential scenarios for the next 4 years in the U.S., including the implications of potential executive appointments, structural problems in the Senate, and concerns about the electoral college's impact on the legitimacy of elections.

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On Threads: @NormOrnstein

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On Threads: @LevinsonJessica