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Latest Pantsuits and Lawsuits Episode Discusses Role of State AGs in Upholding Rule of Law

LANSING – In the latest episode of Pantsuits and Lawsuits, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is joined by guest host and former New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin to discuss how state attorneys general step in to challenge unlawful actions, stabilize services, and protect the people caught in the policy whiplash of the Trump administration.

The podcast includes a discussion with Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, who talks through managing early crises while also tackling the unglamorous but critical work of modernizing systems, supporting frontline staff, and defending consumers. Rayfield explains the multistate challenge to federal tariffs and how questions of authority translate directly to everyday costs.

Former District of Columbia Attorney General Karl Racine also joins the podcast to reflect on the first travel ban, the evolution of the state attorney general role in a more polarized era, and major accountability fights, including the emoluments lawsuit. They discuss prosecutorial ethics, officer-involved shooting investigations, and how new legal doctrines are reshaping the limits of accountability.

“It was great hearing from former Attorney General Platkin, former DC Attorney General Racine, and Oregon Attorney General Rayfield on the evolution of the role of state attorneys general since the first Trump administration until now,” said Attorney General Nessel. “It's been a very busy decade for us, and it was insightful to look back at how far we've come, the important fights we've had, and what new frontiers lie ahead.”  

New episodes of Pantsuits and Lawsuits are released biweekly to break down complex legal topics in a way that is engaging, informative, and accessible to listeners. With their blend of expertise, humor, and straight talk, Attorneys General Nessel and Kris Mayes explore major legal cases, analyze state and national policy debates, and discuss how attorneys general help shape justice. Through these discussions, listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the work attorneys general do to serve and protect their communities. 

The latest episode is available now on major podcast platforms.

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