cover of episode Trump’s Parade of Clowns, Idiots, and Creeps

Trump’s Parade of Clowns, Idiots, and Creeps

2024/11/18
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Strict Scrutiny

Key Insights

Why are some individuals auditioning for potential Supreme Court nominations in the Trump 2.0 administration?

With the Trump 2.0 administration on the horizon, ambitious individuals are seeking Supreme Court nominations, aiming to align their views with the administration's agenda, which includes controversial topics like birthright citizenship and racism against whites.

What is the significance of Judge Jim Ho's comments on birthright citizenship?

Judge Jim Ho's comments on birthright citizenship, suggesting it might be wrong in cases of war and invasion, are seen as a strategic move to gain favor with the Trump administration, which has historically opposed birthright citizenship for children of unauthorized migrants.

Why is there a debate about Justice Sonia Sotomayor potentially retiring?

Some argue Justice Sotomayor should retire so President Biden can replace her with a younger liberal, fearing a conservative majority if she remains. However, this overlooks her health and the political reality of confirming a new justice under a potential Trump administration.

What is the concept of recess appointments and how might Trump use them?

Recess appointments allow the president to bypass the Senate and install officials during a recess, lasting up to two years. Trump is considering using this power aggressively, possibly to fill his entire cabinet, testing the limits of constitutional provisions and party loyalty.

Who are some of the controversial nominees Trump is considering for his cabinet?

Trump is considering several controversial figures, including Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, Lee Zeldin for EPA, Elise Stefanik for UN Ambassador, Kristi Noem for DHS, Mike Huckabee for Israel Ambassador, Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, Pete Hegseth for Defense, and Tulsi Gabbard for DNI.

What are the implications of Matt Gaetz being nominated as Attorney General?

Matt Gaetz, under investigation for sex trafficking, leading DOJ would be unprecedented and alarming. His potential role could undermine the department's credibility and focus, especially given his history of controversial legislation and behavior.

How does the case Velazquez v. Garland relate to immigration law?

Velazquez v. Garland involves whether non-citizens facing deportation can file motions to reopen on the next business day if their voluntary departure period ends on a weekend or holiday, creating a circuit split that the Supreme Court must resolve.

What was the significance of Ted Olson's career, especially regarding his stance on marriage equality?

Ted Olson, a prominent conservative lawyer, notably took progressive stances, notably challenging Proposition 8 and defending DACA. His work on marriage equality is credited with paving the way for Obergefell v. Hodges, despite facing backlash from conservative circles.

Chapters

The hosts discuss the election fallout, including Trump's proposed use of recess appointments to bypass the Senate for his cabinet picks.
  • Trump plans to use recess appointments to install his cabinet.
  • Democrats control the Senate but face practical challenges in confirming nominees.
  • Justice Sotomayor's potential retirement is debated, but unlikely given current Senate dynamics.

Shownotes Transcript

Leah, Melissa, and Kate wade through more election fallout, including President-elect Trump’s proposed use of recess appointments to jam his cabinet picks through. Also covered: this week’s SCOTUS arguments, the tryhards auditioning to be Trump Supreme Court nominees, and why everyone should shut up about Justice Sotomayor retiring.