March 26, 2026

The initial round of the unique bracket challenge, designed to spotlight the most ethically dubious lawyers from the Trump administration, has concluded with minimal upheaval, save for the dismissal of Ed Martin. Despite his egregious actions, including leaking grand jury material and intimidating the New York Attorney General while dressed as Inspector Gadget, Martin’s infractions weren't enough to secure a win in a field rife with ethical breaches.
Now, as the competition narrows down to the final eight, the stakes are higher and the scenarios more severe. What was once a mere defying of court orders now competes against the fabrication of criminal prosecutions in a tightening race to determine who most deserves to lose their license to practice law.
High-Stakes Matchups in the ROY COHN REGION: Pam Bondi vs. Brendan Carr
In a stark confrontation, Attorney General Pam Bondi faces off against FCC Chair Brendan Carr. Bondi, known for firing a DOJ lawyer for honesty and for proposing a rule to block state bars from investigating government lawyers, symbolizes the extreme measures some will take to avoid accountability. Carr, on the other hand, has used his regulatory power to punish unfavorable political speech, influencing major network decisions under the threat of revoking broadcast licenses.
RUDY GIULIANI REGION Draws Eyes with Lindsey Halligan vs. Alina Habba
This pairing features two lawyers notoriously out of their depths. Lindsey Halligan and Alina Habba, both installed as top federal prosecutors without requisite experience and subsequently rebuffed by federal courts, represent a choice between ongoing incompetence and high-profile judicial reprimands. Halligan’s bold misuse of her title and Habba’s spectacular courtroom failures highlight a critical decision for voters in this bracket.
JOHN EASTMAN REGION: A Contrast in Disgrace with Todd Blanche vs. Jeanine Pirro
Todd Blanche, former Cadwalader partner turned Trump’s deputy attorney general, has kept controversial files under wraps and declared war on judicial oversight, embodying the administration's defiance. Jeanine Pirro, barely advancing past her previous opponent, has gained notoriety for her pre-trial failures and has been described by former colleagues as a "reckless maniac."
STEPHEN MILLER REGION: Emil Bove vs. Chad Mizelle
In a battle of blatant disregard, Emil Bove, now a Third Circuit judge, previously instructed DOJ lawyers to defy court orders explicitly. Chad Mizelle’s term as DOJ Chief of Staff was marked by undisclosed conflicts of interest and unconventional recruitment strategies, undermining the integrity of the position.
With polls open until Monday evening, the public has a chance to weigh in on these crucial matchups. Each candidate's continuation in this regrettable tournament underscores the profound ethical challenges and the pressing need for accountability within the legal profession. This bracket, though untraditional, sheds light on the severe ethical violations and the imperative for state bar actions.
Vote now to voice your opinion on which of these legal professionals most deserves disciplinary action, setting a precedent for accountability and ethical standards in government positions.