We talk with former immigration judge and current immigration advocate, Ting Chen, about her work as an immigration judge, her firing by the Trump administration, ICE in and around Immigration Court, and the multi-pronged effort by the Trump administration to undermine asylum and other legal protections.

The conversation refers to the recent federal decision to remove ICE from immigration courts. For more on that, here is a link: https://www.aclunorcal.org/press-releases/federal-court-delivers-crushing-blow-to-trumps-mass-deportation-agenda-striking-down-courthouse-arrests-nationwide-and-restoring-protections-against-inhumane-detention/

Ting's story was covered by the SF Chronicle. Here is a link: https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/judge-shuting-chen-immigration-21207729.php

Here is a NYT story about how the Trump administration purged immigration judges to speed up deportations: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/09/us/politics/trump-miller-immigration-judges-purge.html

Kate and Avi interview LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia & Senior Advisor (plus former federal defender) Dinah Manning. The conversation covers the role of the City Controller, financial transparency, community input in budget allocation, challenges and independence of the Controller's Office, and accountability. Dinah Manning talks about bringing her public defender background to the policy arena.

In this conversation, Paul Boden, director of the Western Regional Advocacy Project, discusses the systemic issues surrounding homelessness in America, the role of policing, and the need for community organizing and mutual aid. He emphasizes the historical context of homelessness, the impact of federal policies, and the importance of advocating for housing rights and dignity for all individuals. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by unhoused individuals and the collective efforts needed to address these issues effectively.