The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Tonight on The Last Word: Democrats hold a hearing to mark five years since the January 6 insurrection. Also, Pete Hegseth censures Sen. Mark Kelly over his “illegal orders” video. And Jacob Soboroff’s new book, “Firestorm,” reflects on the Los Angeles fires one year later. Andrew Weissmann, Sen. Mark Kelly, Rep. Ro Khanna, and Jacob Soboroff join Lawrence O’Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tonight on The Last Word: Democrats condemn Donald Trump over the Venezuela attack. Also, Marco Rubio dodges legal authority questions on Venezuela. And Jack Smith says there is “powerful evidence” that Trump “willfully” kept classified documents. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Sen. Adam Schiff, and Andrew Weissmann join Lawrence O’Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Adam Smith, a U.S. Representative and ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, provides insights on U.S. foreign policy, critiquing the administration's inconsistent stance on Ukraine and Venezuela. Lisa Rubin, a senior legal reporter for MSNOW, discusses the troubling delays in the Justice Department's release of Epstein-related files and the congressional pressure for transparency. The conversation delves into the implications of Jack Smith's deposition related to January 6, revealing critical connections to ongoing investigations.

Roy Cooper, the former governor of North Carolina and a Democratic Senate candidate, dives into the delays surrounding FEMA buyouts for hurricane recovery. He highlights the failures of federal support and staffing issues that have stalled aid. Cooper also discusses the implications of partisan gerrymandering on governance, sharing insights from his tenure as governor. The conversation touches on the pressing need for accountability and effective disaster response, revealing the challenges of navigating federal recovery systems.

Robert Garcia, a U.S. Representative and member of the House Oversight Committee, pushes for transparency regarding the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files. David Enrich, a New York Times investigative reporter, reveals alarming details about Trump’s connections to Epstein, including multiple flights together. Adam Smith, another U.S. Representative, critiques military operations amidst concerns of oversight and legality. The discussion culminates in a call for accountability and deeper investigations into both Epstein’s network and recent military actions.

Jena-Lisa Jones and Marina Lacerda, both survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, candidly share their traumatic experiences and the urgent need for transparency in the released files. Lawyer Bradley Edwards discusses the significant gaps in these disclosures and the implications of DOJ handling. The guests express their emotional reactions to the initial documents and the risk of unredacted names harming survivors. A passionate conversation unfolds about the potential for future accountability, including the chilling possibility of pardons.

Jamie Raskin, U.S. Congressman and legal expert, dives into the controversial release of heavily redacted Epstein files by the Trump DOJ. He discusses critical concerns over victim protection and the lack of transparency. Raskin criticizes delays in disclosing information, highlighting calls for legal action against the DOJ. He also examines Jack Smith’s strong case against Trump and the political ramifications. Plus, insights into GOP divisions and Trump's economic messaging during his North Carolina rally add to the dynamic conversation.

Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic leader of the House, passionately criticizes Trump's recent speech and clarifies misconceptions about healthcare policies. Daniel Goldman, a former federal prosecutor, dissects Jack Smith's testimony, emphasizing the evidence against Trump and warning of potential Republican resistance to its release. Senator Amy Klobuchar challenges FCC Chair Brendan Carr for his political maneuvers, advocating for genuine consumer protection. Jim Himes raises serious concerns about a controversial military strike, suggesting it could be deemed a war crime, pushing for transparency.

Nicholas Kristof, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, and Ro Khanna, a U.S. Representative, join in a riveting discussion on the humanitarian impacts of USAID cuts. Kristof shares harrowing accounts of child deaths linked to reduced aid, while Ro Khanna challenges the credibility of Trump and his Chief of Staff's claims regarding Ghislaine Maxwell's prison transfer. They also delve into military actions at sea and the implications for oversight in Congress. Brace yourself for insightful debates on morality, accountability, and the consequences of political decisions.

Brendan Boyle, a U.S. Representative and budget committee member, discusses the alarming impacts of health care cuts on constituents in Pennsylvania, revealing projected premium hikes. Economist Jared Bernstein analyzes troubling job data, inflation, and how expiring ACA subsidies could send costs soaring. The duo highlights the disconnect between Trump's claims and the struggles of everyday Americans, while local responses to federal policies showcase a growing resistance to Trump's influence.