Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel appeared on the latest episode of Pantsuits and Lawsuits, a podcast focused on legal topics, joined by guest host and former New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin. The discussion centered on how state attorneys general respond to unlawful actions, stabilize services, and protect people affected by shifting federal policies during the Trump administration.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield participated in the conversation, addressing early crises faced by his office. He described efforts to modernize systems, support frontline staff, and defend consumers. Rayfield also discussed a multistate challenge to federal tariffs and explained how questions of governmental authority can affect everyday costs for residents.
Former District of Columbia Attorney General Karl Racine joined the podcast as well. He reflected on responses to the first travel ban, changes in the attorney general role amid increased polarization, and major accountability efforts such as the emoluments lawsuit. The episode also covered prosecutorial ethics, investigations into officer-involved shootings, and new legal doctrines that influence accountability.
Attorney General Nessel said: “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. 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.”
Pantsuits and Lawsuits releases new episodes every two weeks with discussions led by Attorneys General Nessel and Kris Mayes. The podcast aims to explain complex legal issues through expert analysis while exploring significant cases and policy debates at both state and national levels. Listeners gain insight into how attorneys general serve their communities.
The Michigan Department of Attorney General operates statewide with authority to protect residents across Michigan through public service initiatives such as combating human trafficking, supporting vulnerable populations—including crime victims—and addressing key community needs like expungement opportunities under laws such as Clean Slate drafted in 2019 (https://www.michigan.gov/ag). As Michigan’s 54th attorney general (https://www.michigan.gov/ag), Dana Nessel leads efforts advancing social impact via consumer protection measures—including alerts about scams or data breaches—and support for those affected by issues like opioid abuse (https://www.michigan.gov/ag).
The most recent episode is available now on major podcast platforms.
