Bulwark Takes: The Most Disgraceful Action By A Law Firm Ever (w/ George Conway) – Detailed Summary

Release Date: March 21, 2025

Hosts and Guests:

• Tim Miller – Host from The Bulwark
• George Conway – Legal commentator and critic

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, Tim Miller hosts George Conway to discuss what Conway describes as "the most disgraceful action by a major law firm"—a situation involving the prominent New York law firm, Paul Weiss. The conversation delves into the firm's capitulation under pressure from former President Donald Trump, exploring the implications for the legal profession and the broader fight against authoritarianism.

2. Background on Paul Weiss and George Conway's Involvement

Paul Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is introduced as a prestigious law firm based in New York City, renowned for its litigation prowess and influential legal work. George Conway provides a historical perspective, highlighting the firm's origins as a Jewish-founded counterpart to traditionally WASP-dominated firms and its legacy of high-profile legal engagements.

Conway emphasizes the firm's stature:

“It is one of the top four or five law firms to my mind, in the city of New York. It is considered to be one of the two or three best litigating firms in New York, I think by many people.” (00:58)

3. The Capitulation of Paul Weiss

The core issue discussed is Paul Weiss's response to an executive order issued by Donald Trump targeting law firms that oppose his administration. Conway outlines the situation:

• Mark Pomerantz, a former partner at Paul Weiss, led investigations into Trump's business practices, which Conway and others deemed as targeting a "recidivist criminal."
• Under Trump's directive, Paul Weiss was ordered to dedicate $40 million in pro bono legal services supporting the administration's initiatives, including fairness in the justice system and opposition to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies.

Conway criticizes the firm's response:

“Paul Weiss agrees to conduct $40 million worth of pro bono legal services over the course of Trump's term to support the administration's initiatives...” (10:54)

He further condemns the firm's failure to stand up against Trump's overreach:

“It's like the dude, the guy's not even there anymore, and he didn't do any of this stuff of which you were probably guilty...” (06:56)

4. Analysis of Trump's Actions and Authoritarian Tendencies

Conway characterizes Trump's executive orders as blatant attempts at authoritarianism, aimed at punishing and controlling entities and individuals who oppose him. He draws parallels to actions seen in other authoritarian regimes, such as Hungary, where institutions bend under pressure from centralized power.

Key points include:

• Divisive Tactics: Trump’s strategy divides entities and discourages resistance by making organizations feel isolated.
• Abuse of Power: Conway asserts that Trump is using government mechanisms to settle personal scores rather than uphold justice.
• Threat to Rule of Law: By undermining law firms like Paul Weiss, Trump is portrayed as eroding the foundational principles of the legal system.

Conway underscores the severity of Trump's overreach:

“He is engaging in the overturning of legislation by executive order, essentially USURPING the Article 1 powers of Congress. And he's continually undermining the courts.” (12:57)

5. Broader Implications for Law Firms and the Private Sector

The capitulation of Paul Weiss is seen as a harbinger for other law firms and private sector entities, setting a dangerous precedent where financial incentives or pressures from powerful figures lead to ethical compromises.

Conway warns of a domino effect:

“But once people start making those concessions, the ramifications are very real. And it gives power to authoritarian style power to this president without even making them fight for it.” (15:24)

He draws attention to other firms like Perkins Coy and Covington & Burling, noting their resistance as commendable contrasts to Paul Weiss’s compliance:

“Their willingness to step up is such a sharp contrast to Paul Weiss and a lot of other firms.” (20:17)

6. Conway's Moral and Professional Reactions

George Conway expresses profound disappointment and moral outrage over Paul Weiss's actions. He calls for immediate resignations of partners and associates who comply with Trump's orders, stating that failure to do so would signify a breach of ethical and professional standards.

His stance includes:

• Moral Obligation: Lawyers are officers of the court with a duty to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law.
• Professional Integrity: Continuing to support a morally compromised firm tarnishes one's reputation irreparably.

Conway insists:

“Any lawyers at the firm, partners or associates who don't promptly resign will defile their moral and professional reputations beyond repair.” (22:29)

He emphasizes the existential threat posed by such capitulations:

“If it is not [the case that lawyers resign], it is only because this country is lost.” (22:29)

7. Conclusion and Reflective Thoughts

The episode concludes with Conway reflecting on the broader dangers of authoritarianism and the critical role that legal professionals play in safeguarding democratic institutions. He underscores the necessity for law firms to resist undue pressure and maintain their commitment to justice and ethical standards.

Final remarks include:

• Personal Impact: Conway shares his personal dismay and the emotional toll of witnessing such ethical failures.
• Call to Action: He urges lawyers to introspect and take a stand against compromising their principles for financial or political gain.

Conway poignantly states:

“People need to start doing the right thing because it's the right thing.” (23:59)

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• George Conway on Paul Weiss's Legacy:

  “It is one of the top four or five law firms to my mind, in the city of New York.” (00:58)

• On Trump's Abuse of Power:

  “He is engaging in the overturning of legislation by executive order, essentially USURPING the Article 1 powers of Congress.” (12:57)

• Conway's Moral Standpoint:

  “Any lawyers at the firm, partners or associates who don't promptly resign will defile their moral and professional reputations beyond repair.” (22:29)

• Warning of Authoritarianism:

  “The biggest security threat to the United States of America is the President of the United States.” (21:29)

Implications for the Future

George Conway's analysis serves as a stark warning about the erosion of ethical standards within the legal profession under political pressure. The capitulation of Paul Weiss could lead to a chilling effect where other firms may hesitate to take strong stances against powerful political figures, thereby weakening the checks and balances essential for a healthy democracy.

The episode calls on legal professionals and institutions to uphold their integrity, resist authoritarian overreach, and ensure that the rule of law remains inviolable.

This summary captures the essence of the conversation between Tim Miller and George Conway, highlighting the critical issues surrounding Paul Weiss's actions and their broader implications for law, ethics, and democracy.