August 14, 2026


This Week in Legal Drama: From Coyote Courtrooms to Supreme Court Shakedowns

In this week's edition of the "How Appealing Weekly Roundup," we delve into a variety of eye-catching legal battles and judicial controversies that are shaping discussions nationwide. From animated courtroom dramas to political maneuvers aimed at the Supreme Court, here's what's stirring in the legal landscape.

Wile E. Coyote Takes Warner Bros. to Court

An unexpected twist in Hollywood sees the shelved Looney Tunes project, "Coyote vs. Acme," making a bombastic return. Initially dismissed as a tax write-off by Warner Bros. Discovery, the film found new life thanks to director Dave Green's persistence, now poised to become a cultural phenomenon. David Canfield provides an in-depth look at this surprising revival in The Hollywood Reporter.

Political Moves: Adam Schiff and Court Packing

Over at The Washington Post, a provocative editorial discusses Senator Adam Schiff's controversial proposal to expand the Supreme Court to 13 justices — a plan that might even get an unexpected nod from former President Donald Trump. This idea, however, raises questions about timing and political strategy as the nation remains divided on judicial reform.

Academic Freedom Upheld in Indiana

The Seventh Circuit has ruled on Indiana's "intellectual diversity" law, which mandates that professors expose students to a range of political ideologies. Contrary to claims of First Amendment violations, the court found that the law does not harm professors, as reported by Caitlyn Rosen of Courthouse News Service. This decision underscores ongoing debates about academic freedom and educational standards.

Trump's Wartime Deportation Law Scrutinized

A recent court decision has dismissed a case concerning former President Trump's use of a wartime deportation law, a move that has sparked a flurry of legal and ethical questions. Jacqueline Thomsen of Bloomberg Law sheds light on the implications of this ruling, which remains partially obscured due to subscription requirements.

Democratic Leader Eyes Supreme Court Changes

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is making headlines with his declaration that the Supreme Court could see significant changes if Democrats regain power. Reported by Damian Paletta and Maya Davis of The Wall Street Journal, this statement has ignited a firestorm of speculation about what these "variety of different options" could entail.

A Guilty Plea Expected in High-Profile Stalking Case

In a chilling development, Luigi Mangione is anticipated to plead guilty in a federal stalking case resulting in death, with further details pending. This case, which precedes a murder trial set for next month, highlights severe consequences of criminal harassment. Coverage by The New York Times' Benjamin Weiser and colleagues offers a grim look at the events leading to this legal outcome.

Justice Department Criticized as Pro-Trump Law Firm

Jay Willis of Balls and Strikes provides a scathing critique of the Justice Department under President Trump, describing it as a "glorified Pro-Trump law firm." This essay discusses the ethical and legal ramifications of staffing government positions with loyalists, a strategy that continues to polarize observers.

Each of these stories reflects the complex and often contentious nature of law and governance. For more in-depth coverage and additional stories, visit Howard Bashman's "How Appealing" blog.