Todd Blanche Blew Up His Own Case Against The SPLC (w/ Andrew Weissmann)

In this episode of The Bulwark, host Sarah Longwell is joined by Andrew Weissmann to discuss the fallout from the Supreme Court's recent decision in Louisiana v. Calais, which significantly weakened protections under the Voting Rights Act. Weissmann argues that the Court's decision to fast-track the ruling—allowing states to redraw congressional maps before the midterms—reveals deep partisan hypocrisy, especially given how states previously resisted last-minute redistricting. He criticizes the Court for acting as a political actor, claiming its assertion of a 'post-racial era' is absurd amid rising racialized rhetoric and policies. The conversation then shifts to potential reforms, including court expansion, term limits, and professionalizing judicial nominations, though Weissmann ultimately opposes expanding the Court, favoring structural changes like term limits and nonpartisan selection processes. The discussion also covers the reauthorization of FISA, particularly Section 702, which allows surveillance of non-U.S. persons overseas without a warrant. Weissmann explains the legal and privacy concerns around this tool, especially its potential to sweep in U.S. persons due to flawed targeting mechanisms, while emphasizing the need for reform without dismantling essential national security capabilities.