The Evolution of Public Defenders in the U.S. Legal System

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to an attorney for those who can't afford one, public defenders now represent up to 80% of people charged with crimes in the U.S. This episode explores how public defenders became essential to the criminal legal system and what changes are needed for them to serve everyone effectively.

Political Endorsement and Criminal Justice

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg endorsed Sen. Ted Cruz's re-election campaign and discussed the killing of Jocelyn Nungaray, blaming a lack of background vetting for the release of dangerous individuals.

Critique of Vice President Kamala Harris by Fox News Host Jesse Watters

Fox News host Jesse Watters criticizes Vice President Kamala Harris, labeling her as a San Francisco radical with extreme views on criminal justice and gun control.

Sharp Divisions Among Biden and Trump Supporters on Cultural Issues

A Pew Research Center survey reveals sharp divisions between supporters of President Biden and former President Trump on various cultural issues, including gender identity, criminal justice, and immigration. Both candidates are gearing up for a hotly contested election in November.

Republican Call for Retaliation Against Democrats Following Trump's Conviction

Republican allies of Donald J. Trump are calling for retaliatory measures against Democrats following his felony conviction, including targeted investigations and prosecutions. Prominent G.O.P. leaders are openly advocating for using the criminal justice system against Democrats, surpassing previous levels of anger and intensity.

Enthusiasm among Black Voters for President Joe Biden

Enthusiasm among black voters for President Joe Biden is sharply less than it was four years ago due to concerns about the economy, Middle East tension, criminal justice, and election integrity reforms. Confidence in Biden's economic leadership is at a historically low point.

Criminal Justice Bill in Kentucky

Tennessee Judiciary Committee passes bill allowing death penalty for child rape cases. Kentucky's Democratic governor vetoed a GOP-backed criminal justice bill that would impose harsher sentences for a range of crimes, including criminalizing homelessness.

Backlash against New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul at NYPD officer's funeral

New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul faced backlash and was denied the opportunity to speak at slain NYPD officer Jonathan Diller's funeral, with mourners confronting her and other officials. Former Rep. Lee Zeldin criticized Hochul's actions as disrespectful and self-serving, highlighting the public's frustration with liberal policies. The incident reflects growing discontent with New York officials' priorities and handling of criminal justice issues.

Decriminalization of Small Amounts of Hard Drugs

In 2020, voters approved a ballot measure to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of hard drugs. Journalist E. Tammy Kim explains the shift in public opinion.

Fatal Shooting of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller in New York City

Officer Jonathan Diller, 31, was fatally shot during a traffic stop in New York City. The suspects involved had at least 20 prior arrests. There is criticism towards Gov. Kathy Hochul and the bail reform policies in New York. The incident has sparked a debate on recidivism and the criminal justice system.

Covert Racism in AI Chatbots

AI chatbots show covert racism by recommending death penalty more often for those who write in African American English, matching AAE speakers with less prestigious jobs, and describing AAE as 'stupid' and 'lazy'. This could have massive harmful effects on African American individuals in areas of employment and criminal justice.

Shift in Tough-on-Crime Policies in Democratic-Run Cities

Lawmakers in some big Democratic-run cities are embracing tough-on-crime policies they have long denounced, in response to high-profile violent crimes and public demand for solutions. San Francisco, New York, and Washington, D.C. have seen shifts in criminal justice strategies, including conservative-leaning measures and increased police powers.

Cook County State's Attorney Primary Race

Two candidates, Eileen O'Neill Burke and Clayton Harris III, vie for the open seat of Cook County state's attorney in a spirited Illinois primary race. The race highlights the divide among progressive Democrats in big city prosecutor offices.