In this micro episode of The Passing Judgment Podcast, host Jessica Levinson discusses two major legal issues. Firstly, former Republican congress member George Santos pled guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, among other charges, effectively avoiding a federal trial and ensuring some prison time. The second case involves Lisa Finley, who was arrested for attempting to fraudulently foreclose on Elvis Presley's Graceland by claiming that Presley’s late daughter had used it as collateral for a loan, backed by forged documents.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ George Santos Legal Issues: George Santos, a former Republican congress member from New York, has pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, avoiding a public federal trial.

2️⃣ Graceland Foreclosure Attempt: Finley falsely claimed that Lisa Marie Presley had put up Graceland as collateral for a $3.8 million loan, creating a fictitious entity to carry out the scheme.

3️⃣ Common Thread of Aggravated Identity Theft: Both cases are marked by deceptive and fraudulent activities, whether in political campaigns or in attempts to claim ownership of a legendary estate.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson speaks with Perry Stein to gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing legal challenges in former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago case. Stein shares unique insights into the strategies and dynamics at play in the courtroom, highlighting the roles of key figures like Judge Aileen Cannon and special counsel Jack Smith. The discussion explores the intricacies of legal proceedings, the significance of intent in charges, and the impact of procedural delays on the trial's progression.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Courtroom Dynamics and Decision-Making: Perry Stein provides an analysis of Judge Eileen Cannon's distinctive courtroom style and decision-making approach, explaining how these factors influence the legal proceedings and the strategies employed by both the defense and prosecution.

2️⃣ The Role of Intent in Legal Charges: The conversation delves into the importance of intent in the charges being faced by the defendant, exploring how this legal concept plays a critical role in shaping the arguments and potential outcomes of the trial.

3️⃣ Impact of Procedural Delays: Perry Stein discusses the procedural delays that have arisen during the trial and their impact on the timeline and overall dynamics of the case, offering insights into the strategic maneuvers by both sides and the implications for the defendant's legal journey.

Follow Our Guest and Host:

@PerryStein

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, Jessica speaks with Dan Morain, celebrated author of Kamala's Way, to gain a deeper understanding of Kamala Harris' journey to becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. Dan shares his unique insights into Harris' career trajectory, from her early days in California politics to her tenure as vice president. Dan also delves into specific moments that highlight Harris' political savvy and resilience, providing a comprehensive look at a candidate who could become the first female president of the United States.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Kamala Harris' Career Trajectory: Dan Morain traces Kamala Harris' career from being appointed to a state position in 1994 by then-Speaker Willie Brown, to becoming a surrogate for Barack Obama in 2008, and eventually serving as the Attorney General of California and a U.S. Senator.

2️⃣ Presidential Campaigns: Morain discusses Harris' 2019 campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, describing it as poorly managed and fraught with stumbles, leading to her early withdrawal. Conversely, he notes her current campaign as more confident and focused on one primary opponent: Donald Trump.

3️⃣ Public and Media Perception: Harris' public and media perception is explored, with Morain noting how she can be both celebrated and criticized. Her ability to handle media scrutiny and maintain a positive public image is highlighted, demonstrating why she is effective in her role despite the challenges.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we explore the robust start of Kamala Harris’s 2024 campaign. Joined by political reporter Carla Marinucci, we discuss Harris's impressive early achievements, including 170,000 volunteers and $200,000,000 in donations, mostly from first-time donors. Carla provides insights into Harris's newfound confidence, her strategic focus on reproductive rights and environmental justice, and her strong appeal to young voters. We also address concerns about office turnover and the challenges Harris faces as a female candidate of color. Discover how Harris is reshaping her image and what it means for her political future.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Challenges and Media Criticism: Concerns about high turnover rates in Harris’s office and campaigns and how her status as a tough boss and a woman of color might impact public perception.

2️⃣ Electoral and Policy Strategy: Harris's strategy of making critical connections within the Democratic Party helped her win races, including establishing relationships with key donors and mentors.

3️⃣ Future Challenges: Potential hurdles for her presidential campaign include negative ads, criticisms on policy issues like urban crime and immigration, and her ties to Joe Biden’s presidency.

Follow Our Host and Guest:

@LevinsonJessica

@Cmarinucci

In this episode of Passing Judgment, Jessica delves into the political and legal ripple effects following President Joe Biden's unexpected decision to withdraw from seeking the Democratic nomination. She examines the current political landscape, with Democrats rallying around Vice President Kamala Harris, and discusses the complex legal procedures of picking a new nominee at the convention. Tune in as Jessica navigates this unprecedented moment in American politics and answers the burning questions on everyone's minds.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Political Impact of Biden's Decision: President Joe Biden's announcement not to seek the Democratic nomination is unprecedented and has significant political repercussions.

2️⃣ Role of Delegates: Delegates previously pledged to Biden are now free agents but are likely to support Harris if she garners the necessary backing.

3️⃣ Potential Running Mates for Harris: Kamala Harris is expected to choose a running mate who can strategically enhance the ticket’s chances in crucial swing states.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we delve into a shocking yet somewhat unsurprising ruling from judge Aileen Cannon on the Mar-a-Lago case against former president Trump. On July 15th, Judge Cannon dismissed all charges related to Trump's unlawful retention of sensitive government documents, citing unconstitutional appointment of special counsel Jack Smith. Host Jessica Levinson takes us through the intricacies of the appointment clause of the constitution, Judge Cannon's legal reasoning, and the likely path forward, including a potential appeal to the 11th Circuit.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Dismissal of the Mar-a-Lago Case Against Trump: Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the federal case against former president Trump involving his retention of sensitive government documents at his Mar-a-Lago residence.

2️⃣ Appointments Clause and Constitutionality: Judge Cannon's decision to dismiss the case was based on her interpretation of the Appointments Clause in the Constitution.

3️⃣ Potential Impact on Other Cases: The ruling could potentially affect the DC election interference case but does not impact state cases. Other federal judges, including Judge Chutkan in the DC case, have not made similar rulings regarding Jack Smith's appointment.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we delve into the intricacies of the 25th Amendment and the Democratic National Committee's rules concerning presidential succession. Host Jessica Levinson provides a thorough breakdown of what would happen if President Biden steps aside or is declared incapacitated. She explains the history and application of the 25th Amendment, highlighting its various sections and uses. Additionally, she discusses the procedural rules for selecting a new Democratic nominee should President Biden choose not to run.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Historical Context: Several historical instances (e.g., President Harrison's death in 1841, Garfield's incapacitation in 1881, Wilson's stroke in 1919, and Eisenhower's health issues in the 1950s) highlighted the need for clear constitutional guidelines.

2️⃣ The 25th Amendment Section 4: Provides the procedure if the president is deemed unable to discharge duties, which involves the vice president and a majority of the cabinet, and requires a two-thirds vote in both House and Senate for the president to be removed.

3️⃣ Democratic National Committee (DNC) Rules: Discusses the procedural implications if President Biden decides to step aside before or after the Democratic National Convention.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica

In this episode of Passing Judgment, we delve into the blockbuster Supreme Court case regarding presidential immunity. Host Jessica Levinson takes you through the Court's 6-3 ruling on whether a president or former president enjoys some or absolute immunity from criminal prosecution. This pivotal decision arose from former President Trump's alleged actions related to the January 6 events and the so-called DC election interference case. Tune in as Jessica explains the intricacies of this landmark case, its implications for the future, and what it means for the ongoing legal battles surrounding former President Trump.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1️⃣ Supreme Court Decision on Presidential Immunity: The Supreme Court issued a 6-3 ruling on most issues, with Chief Justice John Roberts writing the majority opinion.

2️⃣ Impact on Legal Proceedings: The case is unlikely to go to trial before the election, which could impact the case if Trump wins.

3️⃣ Practical Implications for Prosecutors: The majority opinion restricts the use of evidence of official conduct to prove private acts, making it harder for prosecutors to prove cases involving presidents or former presidents.

Follow Our Host:

@LevinsonJessica