In this episode of our special Regulatory Oversight: Solicitors General Insights series, Jeff Johnson is joined by District of Columbia Solicitor General Caroline Van Zile and Washington Solicitor General Noah Purcell to discuss their respective offices, and the distinct challenges and focuses of each. Noah shares insights into the Washington Solicitor General’s Office, and Caroline discusses the multifaceted nature of the District of Columbia Solicitor General’s Office, as they balance a diverse array of appellate work and providing legal advice on novel issues.

The episode explores the pressing legal challenges and cases currently being addressed by each office. This includes litigation against federal policies and the defense of state laws in Washington, alongside consumer protection cases in the District of Columbia. The conversation then transitions to two pivotal U.S. Supreme Court cases that examine the intricate relationship between public education, religious freedoms, and state action. These cases raise critical questions about parental rights and the role of charter schools within the public education system. Throughout the episode, Caroline and Noah offer insightful perspectives on the potential ramifications of these cases, emphasizing their broader impact on state and local governments.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the rewarding aspects of their roles and the importance of their work in shaping public policy and serving their communities.

Transcript: Solicitors General Insight Series: The Tale of Two Washingtons (PDF)