Bonus: What Happened to Todd Blanche?
Summary
Host Mark Joseph Stern and guest Madiba Denny analyze Todd Blanche’s contentious Senate confirmation hearing as Attorney General, highlighting his lack of independence and role in targeting political enemies. They also discuss Supreme Court Justices Barrett and Kagan’s request for increased security funding, criticizing their resistance to congressional oversight and enforceable ethics codes. The episode underscores concerns about the erosion of judicial accountability and the consolidation of executive power under the current administration.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest Madiba Denny
Todd Blanche's nomination and Senate hearing performance
Blanche's arrogance, ethics issues, and loyalty to Trump
Blanche's political transformation and confirmation outlook
Supreme Court requests for increased security funding
Justice Kagan defends the shadow docket
Disagreement on enforceable ethics code and conclusion
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