High above Hollywood Boulevard, an assembly of Democratic attorneys general gathered on Tuesday to strategize against what they perceive as an escalating threat from President Trump. This meeting, held at a policy conference overlooking the TCL Chinese Theater, marked a pivotal moment for these legal leaders, who view themselves as the last line of defense for American democracy.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The stakes couldn’t be higher right now.” He noted the unprecedented scope and pace of what he described as illegal and unconstitutional actions from the Trump administration. The gathering was organized by the Democratic Attorneys General Association (DAGA), a coalition of progressive state attorneys general that has evolved from a political action committee into a significant judicial force.
The conference served as a platform for the attorneys general to coordinate their ongoing legal battles against the Trump administration, which they believe is undermining the Constitution and the rule of law. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul remarked, “This is just the beginning,” highlighting the urgency of their discussions on how to combat what they view as an assault on democracy.
Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings voiced her concerns about the potential for a constitutional crisis, pointing to calls from Trump supporters urging the president to disregard unfavorable court rulings. “I believe it’s a crisis already,” she warned, stressing the existential threat posed if the rule of law is ignored.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed a more measured outlook, stating, “I believe our system is durable.” However, he acknowledged that the legal community is being tested as they confront the challenges presented by Trump’s administration. The attorneys general, while not seeking confrontation, have already filed numerous lawsuits against the president, with 23 of them collectively launching at least six legal actions within weeks of Trump’s second term.
The origins of DAGA date back to 2002, when a small group of like-minded attorneys general sought to counterbalance the influence of their Republican counterparts. Over the years, the organization has grown in strength and funding, raising nearly $20 million last year from various sources, including high-profile donors like Stephen Spielberg and organizations such as the Communication Workers of America.
As they prepared for future legal challenges, the attorneys general discussed strategies to effectively communicate the importance of defending the Constitution to the public. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell emphasized the need to connect with everyday citizens, framing the Constitution as a contract between the government and the people.
Concerns about the Supreme Court’s willingness to uphold the rule of law were palpable among the attendees, particularly given the court’s recent decisions that have favored Trump’s agenda. “At some point soon the United States Supreme Court is going to be tested,” warned Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, questioning whether the court would maintain its commitment to the separation of powers.
The Hollywood meeting reflected a blend of camaraderie and urgency among the attorneys general, who shared personal connections while preparing to face significant legal and political challenges ahead. As they strategized, they acknowledged the weight of their responsibilities in safeguarding democratic principles during a time of unprecedented political turmoil.