September 15, 2026

In an unexpected twist to an already contentious legal saga, Amy Wax, a professor under fire for her controversial remarks and actions, has teamed up with John Eastman, a lawyer known for his disbarred status and involvement in post-election controversies. This partnership adds a new layer to Wax’s ongoing struggle with the University of Pennsylvania, where she faces minimal sanctions after a series of actions deemed damaging by the institution.
Amy Wax’s tenure at the University of Pennsylvania has been marred by numerous incidents, including making derogatory comments about minority students and allegedly endorsing white nationalist ideologies. Her decision to involve Eastman, who was disbarred in California for his role in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, signals a doubling down on her fight against what she perceives as wrongful treatment.
Eastman, who likened his disbarment to religious persecution, now steps into a legal arena where his eligibility to practice is highly questionable due to his disbarred status in California and suspended license in Washington D.C. Despite this, he has expressed enthusiasm for representing Wax, aligning their legal battles against what they consider a broader culture of cancellation and suppression.
The legal specifics of Eastman's involvement remain murky. Disbarred attorneys are not typically allowed to represent clients in court, raising questions about his role in Wax’s legal strategy. Critics argue that his participation may be more about creating a spectacle than making substantive legal contributions.
Wax's troubles with the university stem not only from her public statements but also from procedural complaints regarding how the university handled her sanctions. She contests the fairness of not being allowed to confront witnesses and the reliance on hearsay, even though the evidence includes her own publicly made statements.
This legal battle unfolds as Wax and Eastman portray themselves as victims of a politically motivated campaign to silence their views. This narrative plays into broader discussions about academic freedom, freedom of speech, and the limits of professional conduct within academia and beyond.
Observers are watching closely as this case progresses, with potential implications for the boundaries of free speech and the accountability of professionals in positions of influence. The coming months promise to bring more attention to this high-profile case as legal and public debates continue to swirl around the actions and consequences faced by Amy Wax and her new, controversial ally, John Eastman.