The Tristan Snell Show - podcast cover

The Tristan Snell Show

Audiocrafty/Bluewaveredcircle.com
TAKING DOWN TRUMP is a book, a Substack, and now – a podcast. Every week, Tristan Snell gives you an indispensable go-to pod on Trump’s trials and other top stories impacting law and democracy – with a weekly news roundup, a deeper dive on a topic you need to know about, and special guests. Tristan Snell led the NY AG’s successful prosecution of Trump University, recovering $25 million for Trump’s victims in the first major legal loss he ever suffered. As a lawyer, a legal commentator on MSNBC and CNN, and the author of the best-selling book TAKING DOWN TRUMP: 12 Rules for Prosecuting Donald Trump By Someone Who Did It Successfully.

Episodes

Beyond the Whiteboard w/ Katie Porter

Katie Porter joins Tristan to break down Trump’s economic mess and what Democrats need to do differently to win in 2026. As markets experience their worst April since the Depression, Porter explains how Trump’s tariffs are driving up housing costs by 20% and pushing America toward stagflation. Drawing from her experience flipping a long-held Republican district, Porter wants Democrats to deliver stronger economic messengers by focusing on kitchen-table issues like housing and childcare costs. Th...

May 08, 20251 hr 3 min

Crypto Bribes & Classified Leaks: Exposing Trump’s Profit Machine (w/ Sen. Murphy)

Tristan sits down with Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) to talk about the administration’s brazen corruption. Murphy reveals how his “Meme Act” legislation targets Trump’s cryptocurrency schemes, with CEOs now openly admitting they’re buying Trump coins to secure favorable tariff treatment.The conversation tackles “Signalgate”-where classified information flows through commercial apps-and exposes how unqualified Trump appointees conduct rogue diplomacy, including Kremlin negotiations without staff or...

May 07, 202547 min

From Opposition to Opportunity: Democrats’ Game Plan for 2026 and 2028 Wins

Tristan Snell returns with a scorching deep dive into the first 100 days of Trump’s second term-a period marked by economic freefall, plummeting consumer confidence, and a stock market in retreat. With the U.S. economy officially shrinking and Trump’s approval rating at a pathetic 39%, Tristan unpacks how tariff taxes, business uncertainty, and self-inflicted policy wounds have driven the country to the brink of recession.But this episode isn’t just a post-mortem. Tristan lays out a simple, powe...

May 01, 20251 hr 9 min

Trump’s 100 Days Debacle: Approval Sinks to 39%

Let’s take a big-picture look at the first 100 days of Donald Trump’s second term; the least popular start to any presidency in modern American history. With approval ratings plunging as low as 39%, Tristan breaks down why Trump’s support has cratered so fast, from economic mismanagement and spiraling prices to broken promises on law and order and the rise of billionaire bros in government.This episode unpacks the political science behind presidential approval, why independents are abandoning Tr...

Apr 29, 202556 min

Mailbag: High Crimes, Low Blows, and the Limits of Presidential Power

Powered by your toughest questions, Tristan dives into a whirlwind of legal and constitutional chaos: Can a sitting president be court-martialed for crimes committed in office? (Spoiler: No, but the constitutional crisis scenarios get wild.) Is defying a Supreme Court order impeachable? Absolutely—and Tristan explains why Congress’s refusal to act is a historic failure. Listeners ask about the slow grind of justice for Trump-era corruption, the legal exposure of law firms and universities target...

Apr 25, 202541 min

How Harvard’s Lawyers Are Schooling the Trump Administration

Tristan dives into Harvard University’s landmark lawsuit against the Trump administration. As the stock markets head for their worst April since 1932, Tristan examines how Harvard is fighting back against what it sees as unconstitutional government overreach threatening academic freedom and free speech. The episode breaks down the legal arguments on both sides, focusing on First Amendment protections and Administrative Procedure Act violations, while explaining why this case represents a critica...

Apr 23, 202554 min

Signalgate Expands: Pete Hegseth’s Pentagon Purge and Immigration Injustice

In this episode, Tristan begins with a deep dive into the expanding “Signalgate” scandal, revealing that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had a second Signal chat group sharing sensitive military information about Yemen airstrikes with inappropriate recipients, including his wife, brother, and personal lawyer. The scandal has triggered an investigation by the DOD Inspector General and led to a staff purge at the Pentagon. Tristan also examines the ongoing immigration crisis, discussing the Supreme...

Apr 22, 202553 min

Mailbag: Democracy on the Razor’s Edge

From the legality of deporting citizens to foreign detention camps, to why Elon Musk hasn’t faced prosecution for alleged election interference, to the prospects for impeaching a president who defies the rule of law—Tristan answers your questions. We’ll unpack the constitutional bedrock of habeas corpus, the dangers of circumventing due process, and the real-world consequences of unchecked executive power. Submit your questions for the next mailbag at tristansnell.com

Apr 18, 202551 min

Authoritarian Throwback: Trump’s Deportation Playbook (with David Pakman)

Tristan breaks down how Trump’s latest immigration moves are straight-up medieval—think mass detentions, zero due process, and even outsourcing detainees to El Salvador’s infamous mega-prison. It’s not just a policy debate; it’s a full-on challenge to the rule of law, and the Supreme Court is getting dragged into the mess. Tristan is joined by David Pakman—YouTube OG, host, and author of the bestseller The Echo Machine—for a no-BS conversation about the rise of authoritarian vibes, why loyalty i...

Apr 16, 202556 min

Vacuum of Power: How Policy Chaos Empowered China, Raised Costs, and Threatened Democracy

Tristan unpacks the far-reaching consequences of America’s withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)—one of the most damaging foreign policy mistakes in modern U.S. history. With years of diplomatic effort with key allies like Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam squandered, Trump has left a power vacuum in Asia that China is now exploiting. Tristan connects this strategic blunder to a broader pattern of policy missteps—from healthcare cuts that threaten millions of Americans, to voting rig...

Apr 15, 202555 min

Mailbag: SCOTUS in Shambles

Tristan’s answering your questions about the Supreme Court, from the Trump vs. JGG case to the looming specter of the Insurrection Act. Will Amy Coney Barrett surprise us again? Can Chief Justice Roberts keep the ship from crashing? And what’s the real deal with Trump’s election antics? Join Tristan as he tackles these topics and more.

Apr 11, 202551 min

Unraveling Trump’s Trade Debacle w/ James Surowiecki

Today we delve into the chaotic world of Trump’s trade policies, featuring an exclusive interview with renowned author and economist James Surowiecki. James offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the infamous tariff charts were created and the dishonesty surrounding them. The episode also examines Elon Musk’s public feud with Trump’s trade advisor, Peter Navarro, and how tech billionaires are reevaluating their support for the administration amidst market turmoil.

Apr 09, 20251 hr 2 min

Incompetence Ignites a Global Economic Crisis

When the going gets tough, Trump goes golfing. Today, Tristan examines the already infamous tariff charts that contributed to the crisis and discusses potential legal cases that could impact Trump’s future. He analyzes the growing backlash from financial communities and the implications for Trump’s political coalition.

Apr 08, 202554 min

Mailbag Mayhem: Safeguards Against Chaos

In this week’s mailbag episode we discuss Donald Trump’s civil fraud and E. Jean Carroll cases, more fallout of SignalGate and the risks of unsecured military communications and we explore the limits of presidential power, safeguards against reckless military orders. For a good time, we’ll even speculates on the 2028 Democratic presidential field.

Apr 04, 202547 min

Wisconsin Wins, GOP Hypocrisy, and the Road to 2026

On this episode of The Tristan Snell Show, we unpack a week of political twists and turns. From a major Democratic victory in Wisconsin to surprising bipartisan action on Capitol Hill, Tristan breaks down what these developments mean for the fight ahead. Plus, the hypocrisy of “pro-family” Republicans is on full display as they block basic accommodations for new mothers. And in New York, the Eric Adams corruption saga takes a new turn—could state charges be next?

Apr 03, 202541 min

A Conversation with Rep. Jake Auchincloss

In this episode of The Tristan Snell Show, Tristan dives into the continuing SignalGate saga, exposing the Trump administration’s use of insecure communication platforms like Signal and Gmail. Tristan also examines Trump’s recent push for retaliatory tariffs, which threaten to raise costs on everyday goods, prescription drugs, and even home insurance premiums. Joining the discussion is Representative Jake Auchincloss of Massachusetts, a rising Democratic star. Rep. Auchincloss shares his insight...

Apr 02, 202556 min

Mailbag: Retroactive Justice and Hope for America’s Future

In this mailbag episode, Tristan Snell tackles questions from listeners about the ongoing Signalgate scandal, potential legal consequences for the Trump administration, and the motivations behind Trump’s 2024 election victory. Snell explores the illegality of DOGE, the lack of due process for detained immigrants, and presidential immunities. He also discusses the possibility of retroactive justice for current administration officials and speculates on the best realistic outcome for the next four...

Mar 29, 202551 min

Exposing Bad Laws: Elie Mystal on Voter Suppression and Immigration Reform

Legal expert Elie Mystal joins Tristan Snell to discuss his new book Bad Law: Ten Popular Laws That Are Ruining America and expose the racist origins of voter registration and immigration laws. Learn how these popular but problematic laws are undermining democracy and enabling cruelty, and hear Mystal’s insights on the Supreme Court’s strategy for dealing with Trump.

Mar 28, 202556 min

Signalgate Scandal with Allison Gill

Tristan and guest Allison Gill (Mueller She Wrote) dive deep into the Signal Gate scandal rocking the Trump administration. They analyze the shocking security breach involving classified military plans shared on an unsecured Signal chat, explore its implications for national security, and discuss how it compares to past controversies. Snell and Gill also examine the potential political fallout, the role of Senate Republicans in investigating the incident, and strategies for communicating the gra...

Mar 27, 20251 hr 2 min

Mailbag Madness Part 2: Presidential Immunity, Accountability, and Citizen Power

In this special mailbag edition of The Tristan Snell Show, Tristan breaks down the Supreme Court’s controversial presidential immunity ruling, explaining its limitations and implications for Trump’s second term. We know what you’re thinking, what about Elon? Tristan provides detailed answers about whether Elon Musk enjoys presidential immunity protections (he doesn’t), explores the lack of recall mechanisms for federal representatives, and outlines how state governments can serve as bulwarks aga...

Mar 21, 202535 min

What Happens If Trump Defies Court Orders? Legal Chaos Explained With Glenn Kirschner

Tristan Snell is joined by former federal prosecutor Glenn Kirschner to discuss the implications of the Trump administration defying court orders, the role of U.S. Marshals in enforcing judicial decisions, and provide insights on significant legal cases, including the Eric Adams case. Additionally, they explore the importance of supporting non-profit organizations in the fight to protect democracy.

Mar 19, 202557 min

The Mailbag: Fighting Trump, Musk, and Corruption

In this week’s mailbag episode, Tristan tackles pressing questions from listeners about the ongoing battles against Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He discusses strategies for pressuring vulnerable Republican representatives, the intimidation of law firms by the Trump administration, and the potential for disbarring lawyers who violate ethical standards. Snell also delves into the abuse of executive orders, the limitations of congressional power, and the hush money case against Trump.

Mar 14, 202535 min

Trump's Six-Week Economic Wreckage & the VA Betrayal w/ Brooklyn Dad Defiant

Tristan Snell and Brooklyn Dad Defiant break down how Trump's administration has quickly derailed what they call "the best American economy since the 1960s." They examine the market volatility, tariff chaos, and rising unemployment, highlighting February's worst job cuts since 2009. The conversation takes a serious turn discussing veterans' issues, including cuts to burn pit exposure benefits and plans to fire 80,000 VA employees - what Snell calls "the most anti-veteran presidency in American h...

Mar 13, 202549 min

Legal Guardrails: Can Courts Restrain Executive Power? W/ Dahlia Lithwick

In this powerful episode, Tristan is joined by fellow podcast host and legal expert Dahlia Lithwick to analyze the unprecedented constitutional challenges as courts attempt to check executive overreach. They explore whether judicial orders will be followed, the targeting of law firms like Perkins Coie and Covington & Burling, and what collective action might be necessary to preserve the rule of law. This essential conversation tackles the urgent question: can America's institutions withstand an ...

Mar 11, 20251 hr 10 min

The Mailbag: Lions, Tigers, and Billionaires

Tristan dives into your burning questions about Elon Musk’s controversial dealings, the Supreme Court’s latest rulings, and the Democrats’ messaging struggles. From billion-dollar contracts to voting reform and the fight for Ukraine, we’re unpacking the chaos. Plus, a deep dive into how we can mobilize non-voters and hold power players accountable.

Mar 07, 202556 min

Global Chess: Europe's Unity Strengthens While American Trade Policy Falters

In this episode, Tristan breaks down Trump's inconsistent approach to tariffs, comparing the current situation to the disastrous Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930 that worsened the Great Depression. Snell analyzes how Trump's tariffs on Canada and Mexico are already creating economic uncertainty, with frequent policy reversals revealing administrative chaos. The episode also explores Europe's strengthening unity in support of Ukraine despite Trump's attempts to weaken NATO alliances, and critiques Tru...

Mar 06, 20251 hr 14 min

Government by Billionaires for Billionaires: Musk's Power Grab & Ukraine's Ambush

Today we’ll discuss the alarming economic indicators suggesting a potential recession, Elon Musk's unprecedented role in government despite massive conflicts of interest, and the disastrous Oval Office meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. While Elon is securing billion-dollar government contracts for his companies while serving as an unelected official, Trump's botched handling of Ukraine has revitalized global support for Zelensky. The episode also covers America's broken pro...

Mar 04, 20251 hr 12 min

The Mailbag: MSNBC's Future, Ukraine's War, and Tesla's Tailspin

In this mailbag episode, Tristan Snell tackles listener questions covering today's most pressing issues. He examines why MSNBC and CNN viewership continues to decline, analyzes the Ukraine-Russia conflict's long-term strategic implications, and discusses how Tesla shareholders might hold Elon Musk accountable for plummeting stock values.

Feb 28, 202547 min

Wheels Off the Trump Train: 9/11 Funding, Skyrocketing Drug Prices & Germany's Election Surprise

The Trump administration is showing cracks just weeks in, with prescription drug prices soaring, 9/11 first responder funding cuts (later reversed after public outcry). Tristan analyzes Germany's recent election where the far-right AFD failed to gain power, explains how social media activism successfully pressured the administration to restore 9/11 health funding, and breaks down why Republicans in purple districts are increasingly vulnerable defending unpopular policies. Plus: why Elon Musk's E...

Feb 25, 20251 hr 23 min
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