Podcast Episode

Surveillance State

SpinSisters··30 August 2026·55 min

About this episode

Mary and Tara speak with Stacey Young of Justice Connection and Professor of Law, Jessica West about issues of surveillance and constitutional law, highlighting the challenges in regulating federal agencies and the historical context of surveillance in the US. They discuss the actions of the Trump DOJ on Minnesotans during Operation Metro Surge in surveilling Minnesotans just exercise their free speech to protest. It also explores the role of Congress and the implications of Supreme Court decisions in addressing these challenges. The conversation delves into the complexities of First Amendment rights and the challenges in enforcing civil rights, particularly in the context of government surveillance and legal remedies. It highlights the need for structural changes and citizen activism to address these issues.www.thejusticeconnection.orgTakeawaysSurveillance and constitutional lawChallenges in regulating federal agencies First Amendment RightsChallenges in Enforcing Civil RightsChapters00:00 Introduction to Surveillance and Constitutional Law05:15 Challenges of Surveillance and Constitutional Law06:11 Establishment of The Justice Connection08:19 Constitutional and Legal Red Flags10:13 Historical Context of Surveillance in the US11:36 Comparison with Past Administrations15:07 Institutional Norms and Separation of Powers18:32 Role of Congress and Popular Constitutionalism23:08 Implications of Supreme Court Decisions25:50 First Amendment Rights and Surveillance36:13 Challenges in Enforcing Civil Rights