The Lawfare Podcast

Ambassador Nathalie Jaarsma discusses tensions in cyber negotiations at the UN, accountability for state behavior in cyberspace, progress in cyber diplomacy, evolving trends in cyber diplomacy, implications of AI in the military and justice sector, the Netherlands' cyber strategy, the UN Open-Ended Working Group on cyber security, and reflections and advice for the future of cyber diplomacy.

National security reporter Zach Dorfman discusses the story of James Harper, an engineer convicted of spying for the Soviet bloc. The podcast delves into Harper's motive, the role of Silicon Valley in national defense, challenges faced by the government, tensions between tech companies and intelligence agencies, and the strained relationships and tense encounters during the spy operation.

Emily Bass, a writer and activist, discusses the potential expiration of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and its impact on millions of people. They explore how PEPFAR has changed over the years and the reauthorization battle it currently faces. The podcast also addresses the transformation of HIV treatment, the Mexico City Policy, and the importance of a clean reauthorization to protect the program's progress.

Former President Donald Trump is indicted and his defense team claims he was protected by the First Amendment, relied on counsel's advice, and genuinely believed his own lies. The podcast analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of these defenses, including the impact of the United States v. West case, the implications of protected speech, and the challenge of proving criminal intent. It also discusses the cumulative effect of election lies and potential indications of insurrection in the indictment.

The podcast discusses the indictment of Donald Trump and co-conspirators for attempting to interfere with Georgia's 2020 election results. It also explores the appointment of a special counsel to investigate Hunter Biden. Additionally, the podcast analyzes President Biden's executive order on outbound U.S. investments, particularly in relation to China and sensitive technology sectors. The hosts also mention entertaining topics such as a thriller novel, an amusing court transcript, Pee-Wee Herman's legacy, and a courtroom treat from Papa John's Pizza.

The podcast explores the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan and the need for local partners in the war against al-Qaeda. It discusses the chaotic evacuation effort, the government response after 9/11, the CIA's plan to attack Al Qaeda, the shift to a new kind of war characterized by clandestine missions and airstrikes, and the demand for translators in Iraq.

Molly Reynolds, Senior Fellow at Brookings and Senior Editor at Lawfare, discusses her report on congressional oversight in the post-Trump era. She explores the challenges and benefits of experimental hearing formats and the legacy of the Maizars case on congressional committees. The podcast also delves into changes in oversight in the 117th Congress and highlights the hidden bipartisan work of Congress.

Guest Calder Walton, intelligence historian and author, discusses Russian spying operations and their portrayal in movies and television. Topics include the Mitrokhin archive, the Cambridge Five, Russian disinformation campaigns, and the Rosenberg case. Also explores the overlooked role of Uleg Pankovsky in the Cuban Missile Crisis and the importance of context in intelligence.

Anna Bower, Lawfare Fulton County Correspondent, joins the podcast to discuss the intricate story of the computer intrusion in Coffee County, Georgia. They delve into the involvement of the Trump campaign, the breaches in election systems, and the disinformation surrounding the incident. The chapter also explores the implications of focusing on election fraud claims and the importance of addressing real threats to election security.

Michigan's criminal charges against fake electors involved in an attempt to overturn the 2020 election, the Republican Party's internal conflict and Michigan's role, spread of conspiracy theories in Michigan, criminal charges and civil litigation surrounding the election, involvement of 'Cyber Ninjas' in auditing state election equipment, and speculation on potential future cases related to post-2020 election shenanigans.