Amicus With Dahlia Lithwick | Law, justice, and the courts When Trump Hits New Jersey, This Lawyer Hits Back
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Aug 16, 2025 Matthew Platkin, New Jersey Attorney General and a front-line defender against the Trump administration, discusses the courage of blue states in resisting federal overreach. He highlights legal strategies challenging controversial policies, emphasizing state autonomy and civil rights. The conversation dives into reproductive rights and the critical role of attorneys general in defending democracy amidst political pressures. Platkin shares insights on navigating ethical dilemmas in the legal profession while advocating for a resilient judiciary and constitutional integrity.
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State Law As A Shield
- State law and constitutions offer meaningful tools for protecting rights when the federal government retreats or attacks.
- Platkin emphasizes enforcement of long-standing state civil-rights and protective statutes.
Protect Reproductive Care Locally
- Use state enforcement and guidance to safeguard reproductive health access post-Dobbs.
- Coordinate with clinics and police to protect centers and advise doctors on lawful practices.
Regulatory Loopholes Threaten Appropriations
- The administration used obscure OMB regulatory language to freeze appropriated funds, effectively usurping Congress's power.
- Democratic AGs sued to preserve billions in federal funding for states reliant on those appropriations.
