The Brian Lehrer Show NJ's Outgoing AG Reflects on Achievements and Challenges
Jan 12, 2026
Matt Platkin, the outgoing New Jersey Attorney General, shares insights from his impactful tenure. He discusses leading significant lawsuits, including challenges to birthright citizenship and social media companies over youth harm. Platkin highlights innovative strategies that reduced gun violence and emphasizes the importance of community engagement. He also reflects on political corruption, his reforms within the state police, and the confidence he has in his successor while pledging to stay involved in public service.
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State AGs Moved Fast To Defend Birthright Citizenship
- Matt Platkin led the first lawsuit against the executive order to end birthright citizenship and took the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
- His rapid preparation began months earlier with coordination among multiple attorneys general to protect constitutional rights.
Federal Enforcement Without Oversight Risks Citizens
- Platkin warned federal enforcement actions can terrorize communities when operated without normal law-enforcement training and oversight.
- He argued state law can, in certain circumstances, limit federal officers who commit criminal acts like homicide.
Sue Platforms Using Consumer-Fraud Strategies
- Use consumer-fraud and public-health legal theories to hold tech platforms accountable for harms to children.
- Treat deceptive safety claims like tobacco or opioid litigation to force industry changes and relief for kids.