George Conway Explains It All (To Sarah Longwell)

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann cover Trump’s escalating war with the press, from his White House ban on CNN, MS NOW, and Politico to the growing consolidation of major media companies. They also debate Zohran Mamdani’s approach to Trump, unpack the dubious “national security” rationale for Trump’s giant arch, and discuss Weissmann’s victory in the defamation lawsuit brought against him by Cassidy Hutchinson’s former lawyer. Find the fall pieces you’ll reach for most at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://www.quince.com/illegalnews for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. #ad Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod Weight Loss by Hers offers access to affordable FDA-approved GLP-1 medications, including the Wegovy® pill and Wegovy® pen, with personalized treatment plans and 100% online access to licensed providers. Get started at https://forhers.com/illegalnews Show Links: CNN, MS NOW & Politico sue over Trump’s White House press ban: https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/news-outlets-will-ask-judge-end-trumps-white-house-ban-hearing-2026-09-23/ Trump & Zohran Mamdani press conference: https://www.c-span.org/event/news-conference/nyc-mayor-zohran-mamdani-holds-press-conference-following-meeting-with-pres-trump/447368 Paramount settles states’ lawsuit over Warner Bros. takeover: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/paramount-settles-with-california-other-states-clearing-major-hurdle-warner-bros-2026-09-21/ Trump says planned arch will house drones, snipers & ammunition: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/09/20/trump-says-planned-arch-will-be-military-complex-drones-snipers/ Passantino v. Weissmann — court ruling: https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/district-of-columbia/dcdce/1%3A2023cv02780/260017/53/

JVL is joined by Alex Wagner to trace how four conservative power brokers built the legal machine that would reshape the Supreme Court decades later, and how that project helped create the politics we’re living with today. Plus, they break down Samuel Alito’s dissent in the Supreme Court’s mail-ballot ruling and Trump’s escalating fight over the Kennedy Center. Alex Wagner’s “The Steal”: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250901637/thesteal/ Start your free trial of Perplexity Computer today at https://pplx.ai/illegalnews and experience the next phase of AI. #ad Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod #ad Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://www.forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Weight Loss by Hers is not available in all 50 states. Wegovy® is the registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. To get started and learn more, including important safety information, Wegovy® clinical study information, and restrictions, visit https://www.forhers.com/illegalnews.

Andrew Weissmann turns the tables on Sarah Longwell for a conversation about her new book, How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time—and what a post-Trump political future could look like. They get into Trump’s unusual hold on his voters, the right-wing media ecosystem, why Democrats too often let polls dictate what they believe, and what years of listening to voters have taught Sarah about how to build a pro-democracy coalition that can actually win. Factor makes chef-crafted, dietitian-designed meals that are ready to eat in just two minutes, with no prep or cleanup. Choose from more than 100 menu items each week, including meals, snacks, and add-ons. Head to https://factormeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until 10/31/2026. Weight Loss by Hers offers access to affordable, FDA-approved GLP-1 medications, including the Wegovy® pill and Wegovy® pen, with treatment handled 100% online. Connect with a licensed provider to see if treatment is right for you, and if prescribed, medication is delivered directly to your door. Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Weight Loss by Hers is not available in all 50 states. Wegovy® is the registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. To get started and learn more, including important safety information, Wegovy® clinical study information, and restrictions, visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews. Links: Buy Sarah's book, How to Eat an Elephant: One Voter at a Time https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250464170/howtoeatanelephant Giuliano da Empoli, The Hour of the Predator https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/808353/the-hour-of-the-predator-by-giuliano-da-empoli/ Julia Curlee, “The Wrong Kind of American” — The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/2026/10/trump-white-house-transgender-mike-pence/688284/ Julia Curlee interview, “The Trump Administration Wanted Her Expertise, Just Not Her” — The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.com/podcasts/2026/08/ra-trans-cia/688289/

Sarah Longwell and George Conway discuss Trump’s attempt to overhaul mail-in voting before the midterms—and why Conway thinks the administration’s chaotic new USPS system is likely to lose when it gets back to the Supreme Court. They also cover SCOTUS letting Trump continue construction on his ballroom, the possibility that Democrats could stop the project in January, and the Epstein questions that still aren’t getting enough attention. Ready to reach your weight loss goals? Weight Loss by Hers offers access to personalized, affordable care, including FDA-approved GLP-1 medications such as the Wegovy® pill and Wegovy® pen. Visit https://www.forhers.com/illegalnews to get started and learn more, including important safety information, clinical study information, and restrictions. Weight Loss by Hers is not available in all 50 states. Wegovy® is the registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. Factor makes chef-crafted, dietitian-designed meals that are ready in two minutes, with no prep or cleanup. Head to https://FactorMeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until 10/31/2026.

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss a pair of Supreme Court moves benefiting Trump, including John Roberts allowing construction on the White House ballroom to continue and a ruling affecting Trump’s plans for mail-in voting. They also examine Greg Abbott’s refusal to extradite an ICE officer accused of shooting a man and lying about it, a provocative case involving a traveler who wiped his phone rather than let border agents search it, and the unanswered questions surrounding Natalie Harp’s lack of a security clearance despite her extraordinary access to Trump. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://BollandBranch.com/illegalnews with code illegalnews. Exclusions apply. Use code ILLEGALNEWS at https://jonesroadbeauty.com to get a Free Gift with your first purchase! #JonesRoadBeauty #ad Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://honeylove.com/ILLEGALNEWS! #honeylovepod

Andrew Weissmann joins Sarah Longwell to discuss the Trump administration’s move to erase corporate ownership records, the latest developments in the Fauci investigation, how a bizarre election controversy in Alaska led to a DOJ investigation, and what Democrats still need to learn about persuasion in the Trump era. Ready to reach your weight-loss goals? Visit https://www.forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Upgrade your everyday with Quince and get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns at https://www.quince.com/IILEGALNEWS. Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod #ad Bulwark LIVE: GOOD FIGHT TOUR with Tim, Sarah, Sam and JVL is coming to the Southeast in October. Tickets go on sale August 21. Paid members of the Bulwark members get early access via our presale NOW. Head to https://www.thebulwark.com/Events for details and to get your tickets.

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss the escalating campaign against Anthony Fauci, why his lawyers may see the congressional investigation as a perjury trap, and what happens now that his contempt referral is headed to Trump’s DOJ. They also take on Bill Cassidy’s vote to confirm Todd Blanche, Trump and RFK Jr.’s attacks on vaccines, and a stunning foreign bribery case involving a $10 billion investment offer, career DOJ prosecutors who wanted no part of the dismissal, and a federal judge questioning the administration’s reasons for trying to make the case disappear. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you.

Sam Stein and Andrew Weissmann discuss the Justice Department’s dismissal of charges over damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, potential recourse for Olympian David Hearn, and Trump’s response. They also examine Todd Blanche’s Senate confirmation prospects, the proposed “anti-weaponization” fund and tax-immunity agreement, Capital One’s anti-money-laundering claims involving Trump Organization accounts, and Anthony Fauci’s decision to invoke the Fifth Amendment before Congress. Head to https://FactorMeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50 percent off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until 10/31/2026.

Sam Stein and George Conway discuss James Comey’s challenge to the “8647” prosecution, Donald Trump’s Supreme Court bid to overturn E. Jean Carroll’s $83 million defamation judgment, and the administration’s push for new restrictions on mail-in voting. They also cover the withdrawal of subpoenas targeting New York Times reporters and the delayed Paramount-Warner Bros. merger. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod Go to https://Dupe.com for their 100% Free Research for Me comparison shopping tool. Finally feel good about what you’re buying with Dupe.com. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you.

Sarah Longwell welcomes George Conway back to The Illegal News to discuss Trump Media’s plan to sell Wall Street firms early access to Trump’s market-moving Truth Social posts. They also talk about DOJ subpoenas targeting New York Times reporters and their families, Trump’s Qatar jet, the newly activated Alien Terrorist Removal Court, and the Paramount–Warner merger. Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss on a week that tested both of them: Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing, and Trump's prime-time speech on election interference. Andrew walks through the cross-examination Senate Democrats didn't run—the statements that went unchallenged, the follow-ups nobody asked, and the one question about the withheld Epstein files that Blanche has still never answered. Then: why he thinks dismantling the government's election-security apparatus isn't neglect, but the point. Also discussed: the $1.776 billion payout, the document absolving Trump of tax liability, what Blanche told the Epstein victims that simply isn't true, and why Andrew keeps calling BS. Sleep cooler this summer with Boll & Branch. Their sheets are 100% organic cotton, woven for airflow, and 94% of customers say they get softer with every wash. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://bollandbranch.com/illegalnews with code ILLEGALNEWS. Exclusions apply. OneSkin's OS-1 peptide targets the cells behind visible aging, and their limited-edition summer bundles pair it with SPF. Get 15% off at https://oneskin.co/illegalnews with code ILLEGALNEWS. After you purchase they'll ask where you heard about them—please tell them we sent you. Andrew Weissmann's new book is out now: https://www.amazon.com/Liars-Kingdom-Trumps-Deceit-America/dp/0316601306

Andrew Weissmann joins Sarah Longwell to discuss a big week in legal news: DOJ's stunning concession in a reporter's lawsuit over the Epstein files, the questions senators must make Todd Blanche answer at his confirmation hearing, and the Trump-appointed judge who torched DOJ's demand for the names of every 2020 election worker in Fulton County. Plus: the DOJ letter that signals a plan to challenge the 2026 midterms, and the Supreme Court's surprising ruling on your phone's location data. Reining in a Rogue Supreme Court by Norman Ornstein https://www.contrariannews.org/p/reining-in-a-rogue-supreme-court Be your own boss. No dress code, no commute, no Steve from accounting. Free trial at https://shopify.com/illegalnews Head to https://FactorMeals.com/ILLEGALNEWS50OFF and use code illegalnews50off to get 50 percent off and free daily greens per box, with new subscription only, while supplies last until 09/27/2026.

Sarah Longwell and Georgetown University Law Center's Steve Vladek discuss the Supreme Court's final day of the term—a narrow 5-4 ruling upholding birthright citizenship, the court gutting independent agency protections (while carving out a suspicious exception for the Fed), and a rapid-fire tour through rulings on mail-in ballots, trans athletes, campaign finance, TPS for Haitians, and asylum seekers at the border. Plus: why Amy Coney Barrett has become the MAGA right's newest target, and what Steve thinks Alito is waiting for before he retires. Ready to reach your weight loss goals? Get started at https://ForHers.com/ILLEGALNEWS. NOBL gives you real travel peace of mind — security, design, and convenience all in one. Head to https://NOBLTravel.com for 46% off your entire order! #NOBL #ad

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann talk about the Iran nuclear deal—why the "win" Trump is selling actually leaves America with less leverage, fewer allies, and zero nuclear resolution than where we started. Plus: what Jonathan Swan and Maggie Haberman's book reveals about JD Vance's behind-the-scenes opposition to the war, Trump's habit of comparing himself to history's worst tyrants, and the new DOJ legal theory that could gut Americans' right to sue polluters under environmental law. Head to https://FactorMeals.com/ILLEGALNEWS50OFF and use code illegalnews50off to get 50 percent off and free daily greens per box, with new subscription only, while supplies last until 09/27/2026. Head to https://Superpower.com and use code ILLEGALNEWS at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod Ready to reach your weight loss goals? Get started at https://ForHers.com/ILLEGALNEWS.

Sarah Longwell is joined by law professor and Strict Scrutiny co-host Leah Litman to discuss the White House’s plan to suspend habeas corpus, JD Vance’s push to invoke the Insurrection Act, the Gavin Newsom investigation, and the 19 Supreme Court decisions that could reshape American democracy before the midterms. Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you.

Trump's AG nominee Todd Blanche lost Trump's own criminal trial, built an illegal slush fund, and lied on Fox News—and Republicans are confirming him anyway. Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss what Democrats can actually do at the hearing, why Trump is screaming election fraud while gutting the unit that investigates it, and why his DOJ now holding the only copy of the Fulton County ballots should concern you. Plus: A federal judge ruled Trump's Kennedy Center takeover illegal, his lawyers told a court they could bulldoze the Statue of Liberty, and there's now a grotesque 92-foot metal structure on the White House lawn Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod Ready to reach your weight loss goals? Get started at https://ForHers.com/ILLEGALNEWS.

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann return to disuss Todd Blanche’s growing Senate confirmation problems, Trump’s $1.7 billion “weaponization fund” scheme, why the judge isn’t letting the case die, the DOJ’s targeting of Congress members and critics, potential Ghislaine Maxwell fallout, and the reason Weissmann thinks the case against John Bolton is different than other "revenge" prosecutions. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at https://shopify.com/illegalnews Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Buy Liar's Kingdom: https://www.amazon.com/Liars-Kingdom-Trumps-Deceit-America/dp/0316601306

Sarah Longwell welcomes Mary McCord—former DOJ prosecutor and co-host of the Main Justice podcast—to discuss a series of jaw-dropping legal scandals surrounding Trump’s Justice Department. They include the secretive $1.776 billion “slush fund” for January 6 defendants, a federal judge exposing shocking grand jury misconduct in the Broadview Six case, the collapse of the Kilmar Abrego Garcia prosecution, growing judicial distrust of DOJ lawyers, and what happens when prosecutors start acting like political operatives instead of officers of the court. Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/illegalnews to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Listen to 'Main Justice' on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/main-justice/id1679657705

Andrew Weissmann joins Sarah Longwell on launch day for his book 'Liar's Kingdom'—but first they discuss why Weissmann calls Trump's $1.776 billion "anti-weaponization fund" an outright fraud on taxpayers. Then: why election lies are distinct even among Trump's 30,000 lies, what Brazil and the UK do to stop them, and the publisher that vanished the day after a Trump executive order. Plus mob bosses in bathrobes. Head to https://Factormeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50 percent off and free daily greens per box, with new subscription only, while supplies last until 09/27/2026. See website for more details. Buy Andrew Weissmann’s book, Liar’s Kingdom: https://bookshop.org/p/books/liar-s-kingdom-how-to-stop-trump-s-deceit-and-save-america-andrew-weissmann/e79cc4410e81f719?ean=9780316601306&next=t&next=t&affiliate=2344 Buy 'Liar's Kingdom' on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0505rxTd

Sarah Longwell and Ben Wittes discuss the Supreme Court mifepristone fight and why it could reshape abortion politics for years to come, then dig into Trump’s proposed $1.7 billion “weaponization” fund for Jan. 6 allies, the DOJ’s effort to protect Jeffrey Clark, and Kash Patel’s increasingly bizarre behavior as FBI director. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss the Supreme Court’s voting rights decision, the rush to redraw congressional maps before the midterms, Trump allies pushing criminal investigations against political enemies, the escalating fight over Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve, and the growing fears around abuse of FISA surveillance powers. Plus, Weissmann explains why the SPLC case is already DOA—and why he believes these moves are straight up authoritarian. Illegal News fans can get 15% off Andrew's book, 'Liar's Kingdom' by using this link to pre-order: https://bookshop.org/a/2344/9780316601306 Head to https://factormeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% and free daily greens per box—with new subscription only—while supplies last until 09/27/2026. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod The Bulwark is going to Southern California! Go to https://thebulwark.com/events to learn more.

Kate Shaw—ABC News contributor and co-host of the podcast 'Strict Scrutiny'—joins Sarah Longwell to explain a major Supreme Court ruling that American elections. Then they discuss a string of notable legal news: a DOJ filing that reads like Trump wrote it himself, Trump suing his own government for $10 billion, and the indefensible Comey “seashell” indictment. Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your @MUDWTR with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://mudwtr.com/ILLEGALNEWS! #mudwtrpod Check out the Strict Scrutiny podcast: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/strict-scrutiny/

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss a series of major legal developments—from a questionable DOJ indictment targeting the Southern Poverty Law Center, to Kash Patel’s high-risk lawsuit against The Atlantic, to a wave of firings inside the Justice Department that’s raising alarms. They explain what’s actually in these cases (and what’s missing), why some of the legal theories fall apart under scrutiny, and what it all signals about the direction of the DOJ. Plus: a major ruling on Trump’s January 6 liability—and whether taxpayers could end up footing the bill. Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at https://BollAndBranch.com/illegalnews with code illegalnews. Buy Andrew Weissmann’s book, Liar’s Kingdom! Use code Liar15 at checkout to receive 15% off and a signed bookplate from Andrew Weissmann. Offer expires 5/19/26 —https://bookshop.org/a/2344/9780316601306

Sarah Longwell and Elliot Williams explain why courts keep rejecting Trump's defamation claims, what “actual malice” really means, and how his wave of lawsuits is really meant to pressure the media. Plus: the bizarre Trump-as-Jesus post, the growing use of the justice system for retribution, and why targeting witnesses like Cassidy Hutchinson should set off alarms. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann explain the legality of Trump’s unhinged Iran threats, the legal reality behind “war crimes” warnings, and the global fallout of a strategy with no clear objective. They also discuss Trump’s push to control elections, why it’s likely unconstitutional—and why losing in court may actually be part of the plan. Plus, the Steve Bannon case and what it says about a system where accountability depends on loyalty to the president. Right now, Betterwild is offering up to 40% off your order at https://betterwild.com/ILLEGALNEWS. Buy Liar’s Kingdom, by Andrew Weissmann: https://linktr.ee/BulwarkLiarsKingdom Pre-order Sarah’s book, How to Eat an Elephant, coming in September: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-eat-an-elephant-sarah-longwell/1149619381?ean=9781250464170

Sarah Longwell and Elliot Williams explain a series of legal fights that go to the core of how the country operates—from whether birthright citizenship could actually be undone, to a new immigration detention policy that could keep people locked up for years. They also discuss the Pentagon’s escalating clash with the press and what it means for the First Amendment and the surreal push to rewrite the January 6th attack on the Capitol. Correction (March 31, 2026, 9:20 p.m. EDT): Elliot Williams mistakenly mentioned San Antonio, Texas as the location of a court conducting legal proceedings involving abortion pills; in fact, the court is in Amarillo, Texas.

JVL (filling in for Sarah Longwell) joins Andrew Weissmann for a wide-ranging breakdown of a system under strain. They discuss the DOJ’s $1.25M payout to Michael Flynn, a surprising leak tied to the Trump investigations, and the backlash that followed—including a top official calling prosecutor Jack Smith a “proven liar.” Buy "Liar's Kingdom”: https://linktr.ee/BulwarkLiarsKingdom Make this the year you stop guessing about your health, with Superpower. Not only did Superpower reduce their price to just $199, but for a limited time, our listeners get an additional $20 off with code ILLEGALNEWS. Head to https://Superpower.com and use code ILLEGALNEWS at checkout for $20 off your membership.

Andrew Weissmann joins Sarah Longwell to explain Trump’s failed attempt to target Fed Chair Jerome Powell—and why a judge shut it down as harassment. They also discuss the Trump admin's bizarre border strategy that’s collapsing in court, as DOJ lawyers admit they’re being forced to bring cases they can’t prove. Plus: a major Supreme Court fight over immigrant protections, and new warning signs around Trump’s broader legal strategy heading into 2026. Review of State Bar Complaints and Allegations Against Department of Justice Attorneys: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/05/2026-04390/review-of-state-bar-complaints-and-allegations-against-department-of-justice-attorneys Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod Pre-order Andrew's new book, "Liar's Kingdom": - Chatham Bookstore signed copies: https://bit.ly/4aXHu4R - Politics & Prose signed copies: https://bit.ly/4aALp8Q - Amazon: https://amzn.to/3MHQ8MR - Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/402H2xc - Bookshop.org: Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/3N5hVa3 Pre-order Sarah’s book, How to Eat an Elephant, coming in September: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-eat-an-elephant-sarah-longwell/1149619381?ean=9781250464170

Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann discuss a chaotic week for the rule of law, from the DOJ bizarrely flip-flopping on defending Trump’s executive orders targeting law firms, to a Trump-appointed judge finding evidence of racial profiling in ICE stops in Minnesota, and a new DOJ proposal that could shield government lawyers from ethics investigations. Get OneSkin with 15% off using code ILLEGALNEWS at https://oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS.

Sarah Longwell talks with former federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann about his new book: "Liar’s Kingdom" They discuss how Donald Trump exposed weaknesses in American institutions, why misinformation has become so central to modern politics, and what that means for the future of democracy. Weissmann explains why simply winning elections won’t fix the problem, explores how other democracies handle threats to the rule of law, and lays out reforms that could strengthen guardrails without rewriting the Constitution. Buy "Liar's Kingdom": - Chatham Bookstore signed copies: https://bit.ly/4aXHu4R - Politics & Prose signed copies: https://bit.ly/4aALp8Q - Amazon: https://amzn.to/3MHQ8MR - Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/402H2xc - Bookshop.org: Bookshop.org: https://bit.ly/3N5hVa3 Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod

Sarah Longwell talks with Just Security’s Tess Bridgeman about whether the Iran war is legal under the Constitution, the War Powers Resolution, and international law. They discuss how presidents have stretched their authority for decades, why Congress keeps failing to act, and what it means when one man can take the country to war on his own. Read more from Tess: https://www.justsecurity.org/author/bridgemantess/ Pre-order Sarah’s book, How to Eat an Elephant, coming in September: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-eat-an-elephant-sarah-longwell/1149619381?ean=9781250464170 Head to https://factormeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% off and free breakfast for a year. Eat like a pro this month with Factor.

Sarah Longwell is joined by CNN legal analyst Elliot Williams to break down Trump’s latest legal battles—from the Supreme Court limiting his tariff plan to a judge holding ICE in contempt for ignoring court orders. They also discuss the FCC targeting late-night shows, questions about DOJ independence after Trump put his face on the building, and new reporting on the Epstein files. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod If you’re tired of being tired, this is your chance to finally get answers and get your energy back. Go to https://Superpower.com and use code ILLEGALNEWS for $20 off your membership this year. If you’re 21 or older, get 35% OFF your first IndaCloud order with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://inda.shop/ILLEGALNEWS! #indacloudpod

The Supreme Court struck down Trump’s sweeping tariffs in a 6–3 decision—including votes from two of his own appointees. Sarah Longwell and Andrew Weissmann explain why the Court said Congress, not the president, controls the power to tax, what the “major questions” fight was really about, and why Chief Justice Roberts appeared to take direct aim at Kavanaugh’s dissent. Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code ILLEGALNEWS15 at https://theperfectjean.nyc/ILLEGALNEWS15 #theperfectjeanpod NOBL gives you real travel peace of mind — security, design, and convenience all in one. Head to http://nobltravel.com/ for 46% off your entire order! #NOBL #ad

Andrew Weissmann explains to Sarah Longwell the new filing from officials in Georgia’s Fulton County election office attacking the FBI's search of the county's election records last month. They also discuss the latest around ICE cases in Minnesota and get to Sarah's rapid fire questions. Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code ILLEGALNEWS15 at theperfectjean.nyc/ILLEGALNEWS15 #theperfectjeanpod NOBL gives you real travel peace of mind — security, design, and convenience all in one. Head to http://nobltravel.com/ for 46% off your entire order! #NOBL #ad

Andrew Weissmann explains to Sarah Longwell why Pam Bondi’s bizarre hearing indicates deep problems at the Justice Department. From the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files to the FBI’s raid on Georgia’s Fulton County election office, they discuss what’s happening behind the scenes—and whether core legal standards are being ignored. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ILLEGALNEWS #oneskinpod

Sarah Longwell and CNN legal analyst Elliott Williams walk through a stunning week of norm-breaking: the arrest of journalists after a Minnesota protest, Trump hovering over federal law enforcement, an FBI raid on a Georgia election office, and open talk of "nationalizing" U.S. elections. They also discuss Trump’s jaw-dropping $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS and his move to take over—and potentially shut down—the Kennedy Center. Head to https://FactorMeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% off your first Factor box PLUS free breakfast for 1 year. Links: Read the Don Lemon indictment: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mnd.231106/gov.uscourts.mnd.231106.39.0_7.pdf Read Trump's $10 billion lawsuit: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.flsd.706172/gov.uscourts.flsd.706172.1.0_3.pdf ON SALE NOW: Bulwark Live in Minneapolis and Texas at https://thebulwark.com/events

Sarah Longwell is joined by former ICE attorney and CNN legal analyst Elliot Williams to discuss the growing clash between ICE, the Justice Department, and the courts. Williams explains why a federal judge in Minnesota is threatening contempt after ICE ignored a court order, and why DOJ’s response—appealing denied arrest warrants tied to a church protest—stunned the court. They talk about a secret DHS memo claiming ICE can enter private homes without judicial warrants, what that means for the Fourth Amendment, and why these tactics are triggering growing legal and public backlash. Letters from Judge Schiltz calling out DOJ's abuse of the court system: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca8.113669/gov.uscourts.ca8.113669.00805439055.0.pdf https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca8.113669/gov.uscourts.ca8.113669.00805439054.0.pdf Secret DHS memo on warrantless entry by ICE: https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26499371-dhs-ice-memo-1-21-26/ If you’re 21 or older, get 25% OFF your first order + free shipping on orders $89+ @IndaCloud with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://inda.shop/ILLEGALNEWS! #indacloudpod

Asha Rangappa joins Sarah to discuss the ICE raids in Minnesota, a federal court injunction limiting certain actions against protesters, DOJ retaliation, the stalled Epstein files release, and the growing use of law enforcement as a political weapon. Read the Ruling Restricting Federal Agents’ Actions in Minnesota: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mnd.229758/gov.uscourts.mnd.229758.85.0_1.pdf If you’re tired of being tired, this is your chance to finally get answers and get your energy back. Go to https://Superpower.com and use code ILLEGALNEWS for $20 off your membership this year. NOBL gives you real travel peace of mind — security, design, and convenience all in one. Head to https://NOBLTravel.com for 46% off your entire order! #NOBL #ad Go to https://HelloFresh.com/illegalnews10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code ILLEGALNEWS15 at https://theperfectjean.nyc/ILLEGALNEWS15 #theperfectjeanpod

Sarah Longwell sits down with Asha Rangappa—a lecturer at Yale Law School and co-host of the “It’s Complicated” legal podcast—to discuss Venezuela, Jack Smith's congressional testimony, the Minneapolis shooting, and the many other high-profile lawsuits and investigations that have already popped up in 2026. Get up to 30% off OneSkin with the code ILLEGALNEWS at https://www.oneskin.co/ Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ILLEGALNEWS at https://laundrysauce.com/ILLEGALNEWS #laundrysaucepod Go to https://Dupe.com today and find similar products for less. It’s 100% free to use. Stop wasting money on brand names and start saving with https://Dupe.com today.

Sarah Longwell sits down with Andrew Weissmann to break down a fatal ICE shooting in Minnesota, shocking detention conditions exposed by a federal judge, and a growing pattern of the government misleading courts and defying judicial orders. Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your @MUDWTR with code illegalnews at https://mudwtr.com/illegalnews! #mudwtrpod Head to https://FactorMeals.com/illegalnews50off and use code illegalnews50off to get 50% off your first Factor box PLUS free breakfast for 1 year.

Sarah is off this week so Andrew Weissmann joins Sam Stein to explain why the Epstein files rollout has become a legal and political disaster—from blown deadlines and redactions to the DOJ’s credibility crisis. They also discuss Supreme Court’s spotty pushback against the administration, Trump’s use of military power, and growing risks to democratic norms. Our listeners get the Harry’s Plus Trial Set for only $10 at https://www.Harrys.com/ASKGEORGE #Harryspod #sponsored

George Conway is stepping away to run for Congress — but the show isn’t ending! Sarah Longwell explains what’s changing, what isn’t, and why The Bulwark is sharing a full episode of The Secret Podcast. Go to https://HelloFresh.com/askgeorge10fm to get 10 free meals and a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.

George Conway and Sarah Longwell close out the year—and this chapter of the show—with a conversation on the legal chaos of the Trump era. They discuss Trump’s attacks on the media, the chilling effect of defamation suits and settlements, the collapse of the DOJ, and growing concerns about courts, contempt, and judicial authority. Get your free, personalized assessment and the best option for you at https://pdsdebt.com/ASKGEORGE.

George explains to Sarah the Supreme Court’s newest fights, Trump’s push to control independent agencies, the mess inside his DOJ, the failed effort to indict Letitia James, Alina Habba’s pitiful stint as U.S. attorney, and why the Epstein grand-jury files are finally being forced into the open under the new transparency law. This holiday, give your loved ones the only gift that keeps on giving — health. Go to https://Superpower.com/gift to get a free $49 gift box with your gifted membership. If you’re 21 or older, get 25% OFF your first order + free shipping @IndaCloud with code ASKGEORGE at https://inda.shop/ASKGEORGE F*%k your khakis and get The Perfect Jean 15% off with the code ASKGEORGE15 at https://theperfectjean.nyc/ASKGEORGE15 #theperfectjeanpod

Sarah Longwell and George Conway answer listener questions in a special mailbag episode, taking on the Supreme Court’s “shadow docket,” DOJ and court reform, post-Trump conservative rethinks, and George lists his many guitars. Plus, George explains the Lindsey Halligan ruling and what it means for the Comey and Letitia James cases. Find your forever cookware @hexclad visit https://hexclad.com! #hexcladpartner Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entire order @LaundrySauce with code ASKGEORGE at https://laundrysauce.com/ASKGEORGE #laundrysaucepod Get 15% off OneSkin with the code ASKGEORGE at https://www.oneskin.co/ASKGEORGE #oneskinpod