Luigi Mangione, Section 504 Under Attack, & Republican Regret—Are We in a Constitutional Crisis?

In this episode of Unveiling Democracy, Syanne Bloom and civil rights lawyer Ashley Jacobson break down the Luigi Mangione case—why his lawyers launched a website, how jury nullification could play a role, and what’s next in his legal fight.

We also examine the Republican-led attack on Section 504, how 17 states are using trans rights as a scapegoat to undermine disability protections, and why some Trump voters are regretting their support as his administration’s policies come back to bite them.

Plus, we unpack DOGE, the funding crisis, and the mass firings of government workers, which have ultimately led to backed-up and overwhelmed agencies that are unable to help people.

 And the biggest question of all: Are we already in a constitutional crisis?

Finally, we wrap up with resources for disabled people facing legal challenges in the wake of Trump’s policies.

*As always, we remind our listeners that this podcast is not a substitute for legal advice. If you require legal assistance, we encourage you to seek guidance from a local attorney who can provide professional counsel.*

Chapters

• 2:14 Luigi Mangione's Cases
• 9:25 Luigi's Possible Legal Strategies
• 21:13 The Threat Against Section 504 and the scapegoating of trans people
• 25:35 The Difference Between Gender Dysphoria and Trans
• 32:57 Republicans Regret Voting for Trump
• 35:20 Trump's EO to Freeze Federal Funding and its Impact
• 37:00 Elon Musk and DOGE: President Musk
• 44:19 Are We in a Constitutional Crisis?
• 45:56 Our Theories on Trump's Goals
• 53:54 Important SCOTUS Court Case on Special Education: AJT V. Osseo Area Schools
• 1:02:28 Resources of Disabled Individuals Who Have Had Their Civil Rights Violated