The Week Ahead

The Week Ahead: I prepped you for developments in several important areas: the National Guard cases coming out of both Chicago and Oregon, the Epstein files, and, in counterpoint to Trump’s revenge prosecutions, his pardons for those he favors. What Happens When the Government Loses Its Credibility: The Comey Prosecution: First context, then an in-depth analysis to help you understand the significance of developments in the Comey case, a case that is emblematic of the state the Justice Department is in. A reason to be concerned and to stay informed. "Quiet Piggy!": My thoughts on the president’s words to journalist Catherine Lucey and why they bear noticing and remembering at this moment. Live with Norman Eisen: Norm and I discuss the possible shift in mood around Trump, which we’re cautiously optimistic about—cautiously, because Trump has shown an ability to wear people down, distract them, and outrun challenges to his primacy. Is Trump on the verge of his Joseph McCarthy moment? Live with Stacey Abrams: Stacy and I offer practical advice for questions including: what are you going to do at Thanksgiving dinner? Whether you’ll be with family or friends, people who agree about politics or not, we offer specifics. I won’t spoil it—click on the photo at the top or read the transcript to see what we suggest, and please share your own ideas in the comments! Sorry, George Washington Would Not Have Hanged Them: We took a look at some of Trump’s most shocking recent comments regarding “seditious behavior from traitors” (lawful behavior by elected members of Congress). Read my take on why every American needs to understand this news and what it means. Five Questions with Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers: In a week where Trump took significant steps toward making good on the threat from Project 2025 of shutting down the Department of Education, we had the chance to hear from a fierce advocate for teachers and public education. These are complicated legal times, and it’s easy for the truth to get lost in the chaos. Civil Discourse doesn’t just track today’s headlines—it connects them to the legal and political history that explains why they matter. We won’t forget what’s at stake, or let Trump and his allies rewrite the past. You can subscribe to Civil Discourse for free and get clear analysis that helps you see the whole picture, delivered straight to your inbox. If you’re in a position to, your paid subscription helps me devote the time and resources it takes to write the newsletter. That means everyone has access to information they can share with friends and family—a constructive act we can all participate in right now, helping more Americans understand how critical this moment is. We’re in this together, -Joyce Vance