Legal AF by MeidasTouch - Episode: The Intersection with Michael Popok (Released June 25, 2025)

Hosts:

• Ben Meiselas – Founder and Civil Rights Lawyer
• Michael Popok – National Trial Lawyer Strategist
• Karen Friedman Agnifilo – Former Chief Assistant District Attorney, Manhattan DA's Office

Overview

In this episode of Legal AF, hosted by the MeidasTouch Network, Michael Popok delves deep into the tumultuous intersection of law and politics, focusing on the actions of the Trump administration. The discussion is segmented into two primary themes:

1. Lying to Federal Judges:

   • The Trump administration's alleged deceitful practices in legal proceedings.
   • Whistleblower revelations exposing internal misconduct within the Department of Justice (DOJ).

2. Use of Profanity and Aggressive Rhetoric:

   • The administration's frequent use of the F-bomb and derogatory language in public statements.
   • The broader implications of such language on legal and political discourse.

Theme 1: Lying to Federal Judges [03:31 - 35:00]

Michael Popok begins by addressing the Trump administration's strategy of presenting false evidence and misleading federal judges to bolster their legal positions. He highlights a recent whistleblower case involving Emil Bovet, a high-ranking DOJ official who advised colleagues to deceive judges.

• Whistleblower Incident:
  • Emil Bovet, scrutinized for pushing the Alien Enemy Act under dubious pretenses, allegedly instructed DOJ members to "look federal judges in the eye and tell them to go f**k themselves."
  • Drew Ensign, another key DOJ attorney, is accused of similar misconduct, lying to judges in high-profile cases such as that of Abrego Garcia.

Key Points:

• The DOJ's manipulation of legal processes undermines the integrity of the judiciary.
• Judge Zinnis and Judge Boasberg are highlighted as federal judges standing against these deceptive practices.
• The whistleblower has prepared a comprehensive 30-page letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee, detailing the extent of the administration's legal malfeasance.

Notable Quote:

"They ordered him to lie to a federal judge. That alone should take away their bar license." – Michael Popok [05:45]

Legal Implications:

• Potential disbarment of DOJ officials for violating ethical standards.
• Increased likelihood of contempt charges against the Trump administration for obstructing justice.

Theme 2: Use of Profanity and Aggressive Rhetoric [35:01 - 45:00]

Michael Popok transitions to the second theme, focusing on the Trump administration's penchant for using profane language as a tool of intimidation and defiance.

Key Points:

• Donald Trump frequently employs derogatory language, including the F-bomb, in official capacities, such as during NATO summit speeches.
• This aggressive rhetoric reflects a broader pattern of unpredictability and disrespect towards institutional norms.

Notable Quote:

"It's not a strategy to be erratic. It's not a strategy to start cursing up a blue streak on your way to NATO." – Michael Popok [40:22]

Impact on Legal and Political Landscape:

• Deteriorates the professional decorum expected within legal and governmental institutions.
• Erodes public trust in the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Case Study: Abrego Garcia and Judicial Resistance [45:01 - 50:00]

Michael Popok provides an in-depth analysis of the Abrego Garcia case, illustrating the DOJ's legal strategies and the judiciary's response.

Case Details:

• Abrego Garcia was deported to El Salvador without due process, based on flawed evidence and misleading testimonies presented by the DOJ.
• Judge Holmes in Tennessee found that the DOJ had failed to provide credible evidence, leading to improper pretrial detention.

Legal Outcomes:

• Judge Holmes issued a preliminary injunction against the DOJ’s deportation practices, stating, "This is based on animus, not national security" [48:15].
• The case exemplifies the judiciary’s increasing resistance to executive overreach and unethical legal practices.

Supreme Court Decision on Immigration [50:01 - 55:30]

The episode culminates with a critical examination of a recent Supreme Court decision affecting immigration policies under the Trump administration.

Decision Highlights:

• In a 6-3 ruling, the Court allowed the Trump administration to deport individuals to third countries without due process.
• Justice Sotomayor delivered a passionate dissent, criticizing the majority for "abuse of power" and failure to consider the "irreparable harm" to deportees [53:50].

Notable Quote:

"This is an abuse of power by the United States Supreme Court... we will just be silently led to the slaughter." – Justice Sotomayor's Dissent [54:45]

Analysis:

• The decision bypassed thorough deliberation through the shadow docket's emergency application process, leading to swift yet controversial rulings.
• Popok argues that this sets a dangerous precedent, undermining constitutional protections and human rights.

Conclusion and Calls to Action [55:31 - End]

Michael Popok emphasizes the importance of judicial independence and the need for continued resistance against unethical legal practices. He encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged through the MeidasTouch Network and associated platforms.

Closing Remarks:

• Encouragement to support legal integrity and uphold the rule of law.
• Promotion of related content on the Legal AF YouTube channel and Substack for in-depth analysis and updates.

Notable Moments

• Discussion on Iran's Nuclear Facilities [10:15]: Popok critiques the Trump administration's military actions in Iran, questioning their true motivations and legitimacy.

• Whistleblower's Testimony [25:40]: Detailed recounting of internal DOJ communications urging dishonesty in court proceedings.

• Judge Holmes’ Ruling [48:15]: Emphasis on the judiciary's role in checking executive overreach and ensuring due process.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Legal AF serves as a compelling examination of the erosion of ethical standards within the DOJ under the Trump administration and the judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding justice. Michael Popok's incisive analysis underscores the critical need for transparency, accountability, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law in the face of political pressures.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the intricate dance between law and politics, this episode offers invaluable insights and a clarion call to uphold the sanctity of the legal system.