Melissa Murray Gives the Constitution Some Strict Scrutiny
Summary
Host Thomas Smith interviews NYU Law professor Melissa Murray about her new book, *The U.S. Constitution: A Comprehensive and Annotated Guide for the Modern Reader*. They discuss the Constitution as a hedge against tyranny, the recent Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship, and common misconceptions about the First Amendment. Murray also shares anecdotes about clerking for Justice Sonia Sotomayor and highlights historical examples of citizens successfully amending the Constitution.
Topics discussed
Intro: Melissa Murray, her new book, and podcast shoutouts
Melissa Murray's annotated Constitution guide for modern readers
Code-switching: Podcast persona vs. classroom professor
The Framers' trauma and the Constitution's compromises
Why every American should read the Constitution
Debunking the myth that liberals hate the Constitution
Misconceptions: The Constitution limits government, not individuals
Birthright citizenship and the 14th Amendment controversy
Justice Sotomayor: Mentorship, diligence, and dancing
Diversity, meritocracy, and the rise of critical legal commentary
Historical precedents for pushing back against court overreach
Inspiring story: Kansas voters rejecting abortion ban amendment
Recent legal victories and executive power checks
The dire state of the rule of law and accountability institutions
Hope in younger generations and changes in teaching Con Law
Justice Sotomayor's collegiality and footnote snark
Outro: Book club selection and show credits
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