Instant Insight

30-Second Take

• Preet Bharara, former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, continues to make waves in the legal and political spheres.
• He hosts the popular podcast “Stay Tuned with Preet,” discussing law, policy, and politics.
• Bharara has been floated as a potential candidate for high-profile roles, including the head of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

Preet Bharara served as the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York from August 2009 to March 2017. During his tenure, he was known for his aggressive stance against Wall Street fraudsters and his involvement in high-profile cases, including the prosecution of Bernie Madoff and the Times Square Bomber Faisal Shahzad.

Core Players

• Preet Bharara – Former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, host of “Stay Tuned with Preet” podcast
• Vinit Bharara – Preet’s brother, co-founder of Café Studios
• Donald Trump – Former president who fired Bharara in 2017
• Vox Media – Owner of Café Studios, Bharara’s podcast company

Key Numbers

• 8 years – Bharara’s tenure as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York (2009-2017)
• 2017 – Year Bharara co-founded Café Studios
• 2020 – Year Vox Media acquired Café Studios
• 2006 – Year Bharara investigated the midterm dismissal of U.S. attorneys

Full Depth

Complete Coverage

The Catalyst

Bharara’s career took a significant turn when he was fired by former President Donald Trump in March 2017. This event did not diminish his influence; instead, it propelled him into new roles.

“I am enjoying it very much,” Bharara said about his transition. “I miss subpoena power. Who wouldn’t? It is a different mission now, but it is consistent to what I was doing before.”

Inside Forces

After leaving public service, Bharara transitioned into teaching, working on task forces, and producing content through his podcast and other media ventures. His podcast, “Stay Tuned with Preet,” features discussions on law, policy, politics, and more, often with high-profile guests like Mary McCord, Pete Buttigieg, and Mark Leibovich.

Bharara also co-founded Café Studios, which was later acquired by Vox Media. This move has expanded his reach and influence in the media landscape.

Power Dynamics

Bharara’s name was floated as a potential head of the SEC, a position that ultimately went to Gary Gensler. Despite this, Bharara remains a significant figure in legal and political circles, known for his expertise and outspoken views.

In recent interviews, Bharara has discussed the implications of Donald Trump’s criminal convictions and the ongoing legal battles involving Trump and other high-profile figures like Hunter Biden and Senator Bob Menendez.

Outside Impact

Bharara’s work continues to have broader implications. His podcast and public appearances keep him at the forefront of legal and political discussions. He has addressed issues such as election interference, cybersecurity, and corporate responsibility.

His engagement with audiences through various platforms ensures that his insights and analysis are widely disseminated and influential.

Future Forces

Looking ahead, Bharara is likely to remain a key figure in both legal and media circles. His potential return to public service is often speculated about, although he is currently content with his current roles.

“At some point in the future, it would be great to get back into public service. But I think some of what I am doing now is a public service,” he has said.

Data Points

• August 2009 – Bharara began his tenure as U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York
• March 2017 – Bharara was fired by President Donald Trump
• 2017 – Year Bharara co-founded Café Studios with his brother Vinit
• 2020 – Year Vox Media acquired Café Studios