Advisory Opinions Friends With DOJ Benefits
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Feb 20, 2025 
David Lat, a legal journalist and author of Original Jurisdiction, joins Sarah Isgur and David French to discuss the intriguing motion to dismiss the case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams. They dive into the ethical dilemmas of political prosecution, examining how loyalty often trumps the rule of law. The trio tackles the complexities of legal representation amidst personal beliefs, alongside the turbulent dynamics between the Department of Justice and the Office of Legal Counsel during the Trump administration, illuminating the shadows of political influence in legal practice.
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Adams's Unpopularity
- David Lat shares an anecdote about a friend in New York criticizing Mayor Adams's performance.
- The anecdote highlights Adams's unpopularity among some New Yorkers.
Politically Motivated Prosecution?
- Some argue that the prosecution of Eric Adams was politically motivated from the start, given its timing.
- However, dismissing the charges without prejudice contradicts this claim, as it maintains leverage over Adams.
Cooperation vs. Quid Pro Quo
- A listener questions if the DOJ's actions are comparable to offering leniency in drug cases for cooperation.
- David Lat explains how such cooperation benefits the case itself, unlike using it for external political gain.