AALS Open Source Program

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Session Type: AALS Open Source Programs

Session Capacity: N/A

Hotel: Marriott Marquis Washington, DC

Room: Marquis Salon 1

Floor: Level M2

What does it mean for the law to try and hold political figures accountable? In a democracy that is usually left to elections, or impeachment. But we have seen a number of cases where political figures have been subject to civil and criminal liability for their actions in office. Does this enhance or undermine democracy? What about accountability? And are the courts the right venue to pursue this kind of accountability? There are also foundational questions about the scope. Who counts as a political figure is becoming increasingly nebulous: does it encompass donors? What about an owner of a media company? Can a political figure ever be held responsible for the actions of someone else, like an ardent supporter?