How Appealing Weekly Roundup

Above the Law

by Above the Law

February 20, 2026

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The article "How Appealing Weekly Roundup" provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of significant appellate litigation developments from Howard Bashman's How Appealing blog. This week’s roundup highlights key legal stories, including new data that weakens Trump’s case at the Supreme Court and raises questions about the effectiveness of tariffs on reducing the trade deficit. Additionally, it delves into a critical press freedom case involving Alan Dershowitz, who played a pivotal role in *New York Times v. Sullivan* but now argues for revising or overturning that landmark decision. One notable story featured in the roundup is the shift in strategy by David Thomas of Reuters, focusing on the ongoing legal battles over abortion pills. The article reports that lawyer David Daleiden has joined conservative law firm Lex Politica, signaling a potential change in approach to these high-stakes cases. This move could have broader implications for reproductive rights and access to medication in the U.S. The roundup also highlights Barbara McQuade’s essay on safeguarding the Department of Justice (DOJ) from future administrations like Trump’s. McQuade emphasizes the importance of institutional resilience within the DOJ, offering actionable recommendations to protect its independence and integrity. Her insights are particularly relevant given ongoing concerns about political interference in federal agencies. Another key piece discussed is Judge Leon’s critique of Pete Hegseth’s military lawfare tactics, as detailed

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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/20/2026