Trump and Leo’s Tense Relationship: Power Struggle Unfolds NOW
URGENT UPDATE: Tensions between former President Donald Trump and Federalist Society co-founder Leonard Leo are escalating, revealing a complex power struggle within the conservative legal movement. Recent discussions have raised questions about Leo’s influence and Trump’s commitment to his judicial pipeline as both men navigate their fraught relationship.
During the latest episode of the Amicus Plus podcast, legal expert Dahlia Lithwick interviewed Lisa Graves, a prominent political analyst and author of Without Precedent: How Chief Justice Roberts and His Accomplices Rewrote the Constitution and Dismantled Our Rights. Graves highlighted the Federalist Society’s dual role as both a kingmaker in judicial appointments and a reluctant partner for Trump amid accusations of lawlessness within the administration.
Graves explained that the Federalist Society was founded to create a pipeline of legal talent to promote a regressive agenda. She emphasized, “They’ve been very successful… on the vast majority of the most important issues, they are in alignment.” This relationship has allowed Trump to advance his judicial picks, despite a backdrop of public dissatisfaction and internal dissent.
The Federalist Society has remained notably silent as Trump’s actions have faced increasing scrutiny from lower courts. This silence raises critical questions about their commitment to the rule of law, particularly as the U.S. Supreme Court, under Chief Justice John Roberts, has frequently intervened to support Trump’s agenda. Graves noted that the Roberts Court has “aggressively set aside” significant legal challenges, creating a pathway for Trump to act without restraint.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump criticized Leo and others associated with the Federalist Society, suggesting a fracture in their alliance. “We don’t have a court system that’s going to let you destroy our country any longer,” Trump stated, igniting speculation about his level of loyalty to the conservative legal establishment.
Graves pointed out that any division between Trump and the Federalist Society is concerning, especially as they have historically collaborated to reshape the judiciary. She highlighted that, despite differences, both parties share a commitment to limiting rights and rolling back protections established under previous administrations.
As tensions rise, the implications for the upcoming elections are significant. Groups associated with billionaire Charles Koch are reportedly gearing up to fund initiatives aimed at maintaining a conservative majority in Congress, indicating that the struggle for judicial and political power is far from over.
The dynamics between Trump, Leo, and the Federalist Society will be pivotal as the nation heads toward the 2024 elections. Observers are urged to watch how this internal conflict plays out, particularly as it could shape the future of American jurisprudence and governance.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds. The stakes are high, and the impact on the rule of law and democracy is profound.
