Ethics

The ruling against Trump's law firm order shows how to respond in this moment

Judge Howell's decision striking down the order targeting Perkins Coie can serve as a framework for addressing Trump. And, for paid subscribers: Closing…

May 4 •

DOJ ends a key racial discrimination case, signaling an end to the Civil Rights Division as it existed

The lawsuit alleged a brazen pattern of racial discrimination against a Black woman, but AAG Harmeet Dhillon ended the case. Also: A look at the bigger…

Apr 15 •

The Signal chat, state secrets, and March 15

Some thoughts on what we've learned over the past two days.

Mar 26 •

On DOJ's petty and small — but also alarming — complaint against a federal judge

Chad Mizelle filed the judicial complaint against Judge Ana Reyes after a hearing over one of Trump's anti-trans orders. Also, for paid subscribers…

Feb 24 •

DOJ in disarray: Bove's bluster to blame? Resignations ripple after Adams case order.

Also: Two more parts of Trump's anti-trans executive orders are blocked — a win for trans teens seeking health care and those supporting them.

Feb 14 •

Sunday scaries: Elon Musk edition

A long weekend of too much Musk. Also: More on the canceled Indiana University LGBTQ+ Health Care Conference. And, for paid subscribers: Closing my…

Feb 3 •

Special counsel's report on the January 6 case is now public

“[B]ut for Mr. Trump's election and imminent return to the Presidency," the report concludes that a conviction in the Jan. 6 case against Trump was…

Jan 14 •

Lawless Cannon orders DOJ to tell her about Jack Smith's January 6 report

The order from the Florida federal judge who dismissed the special counsel's case against Donald Trump is lawless for at least three reasons.

Jan 12 •

Trump and Alito, two men who disdain ethical constraints, chatted on Tuesday

The next day, Trump asked the Supreme Court to stop his New York criminal sentencing — and to give presidents-elect complete immunity.

Jan 9 •

Trump is laying out his legal takeover this week — before he even takes office

After fighting not to give up power at all after losing re-election in 2020, Trump is now fighting to take power early after having won election in…

Jan 8 •

John Roberts attacks court criticism that he decides lacks a "credible basis" as "illegitimate"

Conflating violence against judges with broad criticism the court faces for its extremism, the chief justice ultimately sends a chilling end-of-year…

Dec 31, 2024 •

Senate Dems' report on SCOTUS ethics inquiry decries "culture of misconduct"

Judiciary Dems' majority staff report calls for Congress to act given that "the justices have allowed ethical misconduct to persist for decades."

Dec 21, 2024 •

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