Jill Wine-Banks hosts this week’s episode, discussing the tragic shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C., the legal and personal impacts of military service, and the investigation into the Afghan refugee accused in the attack, along with the political reactions that may shape what comes next. The Sisters also dig into community safety, recent indictments involving Comey and James, and the controversies around improperly appointed U.S. attorneys, while unpacking a video from former military members in Congress urging service members to defy orders they deem illegal. They explore the uproar surrounding the video, potential responses from the FBI and Defense Department, the limits of congressional speech protections, and the delicate balance between free expression, political pressure, and understanding what truly counts as an illegal order under military law.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks speaks with Dr. Kamiya Pekka about trauma, healing, and the unique program at Ruth's Place designed to support survivors of sexual assault. They discuss the importance of community, the phases of healing, and the impact of sexual trauma on survivors. Dr. Pekka emphasizes the need for empowerment, the role of public disclosure in healing, and the ongoing support required for survivors as they navigate their journeys toward recovery.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks and Matt Topic discuss the intricacies of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and its implications for transparency in government. They explore the necessity of the Epstein Transparency Act, the challenges surrounding grand jury secrecy, and the efforts to obtain information from the Mueller Report through FOIA requests. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency in government actions and the role of FOIA in achieving these goals.
Read MoreJoyce Vance hosts #SistersInLaw to discuss the flaws in the prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, looking at failures within the Justice Department that have led to procedural errors and violations of the 4th Amendment and attorney-client privilege. Then, the #Sisters break down the passage and effects of the Epstein Files bill, as well as the political motivations behind it. They also examine the increasing level of military operations against Venezuela on the premise of drug trafficking, why the law should apply, and what constitutes a lawful order to our military.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks hosts Christie Hefner to discuss the current challenges to the First Amendment in the United States. They explore historical and contemporary assaults on free speech, the role of organizations like FIRE and NewsGuard, and the importance of supporting local journalism. The conversation also touches on the impact of misinformation, the significance of critical thinking skills, and the need for civic engagement to protect democratic values.
Read MoreBarb McQuade hosts #SistersInLaw to discuss the recent court hearing weighing the disqualification of prosecutor Lindsay Halligan in the pending cases against former FBI Director James Comey and NY AG Letitia James. Then, the #Sisters examine the corruption within the DOJ, focusing on Todd Blanche’s attack on judges, the resignation of Judge Mark Wolf, and the Epstein files. They also review Trump’s recent pardons, laying out the case for judicial independence, the role the judiciary plays in checking presidential power, and the need for transparency in government.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks hosts #SistersInLaw to discuss the merits of the case against the DC sandwich thrower, the relevant jury instructions, the accuracy of the charges, and whether jury nullification played a role in its dismissal. Then, the #Sisters look at Chicago’s handling of violence and warrantless arrests by ICE agents, the steps the leadership of the city is taking to fight back against federal overreach, and the unethical conditions in local detention centers. They also investigate the ongoing prosecution of former FBI Director Jim Comey, the ethics and facts involved, and what it means for other members of government.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks and her dear friend Susan Sher chat about the complete destruction of the East Wing of the White House. Susan was Michelle Obama’s Chief of Staff. They talk about life there and the emotional and symbolic importance of the East Wing. They also explore how its demolition is a loss not just of a building, but of a vital part of the nation’s heart and identity.
Read MoreKimberly Atkins Stohr hosts #SistersInLaw to analyze the power of the president to impose tariffs, its upcoming review by the SCOTUS after challenges by small businesses and numerous states, and the argument for leaving that power in the domain of Congress. Then, the #Sisters explain the effects of the government shutdown on SNAP benefits, discuss the suit by 25 states over their suspension, and the role AGs play in pushing back against the Federal Government. They also look at the growing legal war on same-sex marriages ignited by Texas, and whether those rights are at risk going forward.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks interviews Kate Andersen Brower, a renowned journalist and author The Residence, about the White House's history, layout, and recent changes, particularly the demolition of the East Wing. They discuss the significance of various sections of the White House, the emotional impact of the East Wing's destruction, and the implications of the proposed new addition. The conversation highlights the importance of preserving historical sites and the emotional connection Americans have with the White House.
Read MoreBarb McQuade hosts #SistersInLaw to break down the historical context of deploying the National Guard, the potential for judicial review to restrain the administration, how the 1st and 10th Amendments apply to their use on our streets, and what it means when these decisions become federalized. Then, the #Sisters castigate Trump’s harvesting of $230 million of our money, how the Federal Tort Claims Act applies, and the ethical considerations involved. They also explain the NBA sports betting scandal, looking at how it impacts the integrity of professional sports, and the role of a recent SCOTUS decision on gambling, seeking to prevent corruption.
Read MoreKimberly Atkins Stohr hosts #SistersInLaw to revisit the impact of Louisiana v. Callais on the Voting Rights Act, and explore what it means for the ongoing racial disparities in our elections and the future of our civil rights. Then, the #Sisters review John Bolton’s indictment by weighing whether the manner in which he handled national security documents is worthy of prosecution in light of precedent and the prior prosecution of Trump. They also explain why the administration is now targeting Jack Smith, looking at the claims being made against him, and if they constitute a politically motivated attack.
Read MoreJoyce Vance hosts #SistersInLaw to analyze the merits of the indictment against NY Attorney General Letitia James by examining the challenges of proving mortgage fraud, while skewering Trump’s weaponization of the DOJ under a complicit Pam Bondi.. Then, they dive into the legality of National Guard deployments in our cities, explain what the letter of the law means in 10 USC 12406, and lay out the dangers that these troops pose for the people of Portland, Chicago, and future targets of the administration. They also break down the voting rights issues confronting the country through the lens of the ongoing gerrymandering case, Louisiana v. Callais, currently before the Supreme Court.
Read MoreSusan Berger and Jill Wine-Banks discuss the challenges of engaging with individuals who hold differing political views, particularly in the context of the current political climate in the United States. They explore strategies for effective communication, the importance of building trust, and the role of media in shaping public perception. The discussion emphasizes the need for collaboration and understanding in order to bridge divides and protect democratic values.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks, Susan Berger, and Karin Tamerius discuss the complexities of communicating with individuals who hold differing political views. They explore the importance of building trust, engaging emotionally before presenting facts, and employing effective dialogue strategies. The discussion emphasizes the need for personal stories, setting boundaries in political discussions, and finding common ground to foster understanding. Additionally, they address the impact of media consumption on mental health and the importance of staying informed without becoming overwhelmed.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks hosts #SistersInLaw to preview the upcoming SCOTUS term and the cases that will define our future, spanning LGBTQ+ rights, campaign finance, and excessive executive power at a time when the justices have a critical impact on law and policy. Then, the #Sisters castigate the Trump administration for making government agencies political by sending ICE into our communities, considering the militarization of our cities, and choosing convenient falsehoods over facts. They also discuss a recent ruling that resoundingly upholds the 1st Amendment for everyone of all backgrounds while in the United States.
Read MoreJill Wine-Banks and Jim Robenalt discuss the recent indictment of James Comey, exploring its implications, legal context, and controversies. They delve into the indictment’s details, key figures’ credibility, and broader issues of women in the military. The conversation highlights legal complexities and challenges faced by public figures. They discuss ongoing investigations related to Donald Trump, preliminary hearings, and ethical considerations within the Justice Department. Drawing parallels to Watergate, they emphasize the integrity of the legal system and civic engagement in political challenges. The discussion emphasizes evidence, ethics, and historical context of political accountability.
Read MoreKimberly Atkins Stohr hosts #SistersInLaw to lay out the insanity of the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, decry the politics of revenge, and look at whether the claims have any merit. Then, the #Sisters explain what ‘AntiFa’ refers to, and why the term has become such a flash point in the age of democratic decline and help us understand the historical framework of domestic terrorism under the law. They also look at the allegations against Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, regarding his acceptance of $50,000 in cash and explain the challenges of holding people in the administration to account.
Read More