Decoding Ryan Goodman's Twitter: A Legal Scholar's Digital Footprint

In an era where information travels at the speed of light, and public discourse often finds its epicenter on social media platforms, the voices of authoritative experts become invaluable. Among these, Ryan Goodman stands out. As a distinguished legal scholar and a prominent figure in discussions surrounding U.S. national security, his presence on Twitter, under the handle @rgoodlaw, offers a direct conduit to nuanced legal analysis and timely commentary on pressing national issues.

For anyone seeking to understand the intricate workings of American law, particularly in the realm of national security, following Ryan Goodman on Twitter is akin to having a front-row seat to expert-level insights. This article delves into who Ryan Goodman is, what makes his Twitter feed a significant resource, and why his contributions resonate with a broad audience.

Who is Ryan Goodman? A Profile in Legal Expertise

Before exploring his digital footprint, it's essential to grasp the depth of Ryan Goodman's professional background. He is far from just another online commentator; his credentials firmly establish him as a leading authority in his field:

Academic Prowess: Ryan Goodman is currently the Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Professor of Law at NYU School of Law. His academic journey includes being a former Chaired Professor at Harvard Law, and he joined the NYU faculty in 2009 after serving as the inaugural Rita E. Hauser Professor. His foundational education includes a Yale PhD, Yale JD, and a BA from the University of Texas.
Founding Co-Editor-in-Chief of Just Security: Goodman is the founding co-editor-in-chief of Just Security, an editorially-independent online forum based at the Reiss Center on Law and Security at NYU. This platform is dedicated to U.S. national security law and policy, serving as a vital resource for in-depth analysis and debate.
Government Service: Adding a practical dimension to his academic work, Goodman served as Special Counsel to the Department of Defense from 2015-2016. This experience provides him with a unique perspective on the intersection of law, policy, and government operations.
Co-Director, Reiss Center on Law and Security: He also serves as the Co-Director of the Reiss Center on Law and Security at New York University School, further cementing his role in shaping the discourse around national security issues.

These roles collectively paint a picture of a scholar deeply embedded in both the theoretical and practical aspects of national security law, making his commentary on Twitter particularly authoritative.

@rgoodlaw: A Glimpse into His Twitter Feed

Ryan Goodman's Twitter account, @rgoodlaw, is a dynamic extension of his professional life. It's where he shares his "latest posts" and engages directly with current events, offering a blend of sharp analysis, critical commentary, and insightful observations.

National Security and Legal Commentary

The core of Goodman's Twitter activity revolves around U.S. national security law and policy. He frequently dissects complex legal and political developments, providing context and implications that might otherwise be missed by the general public. His tweets often touch upon:

DOJ and Justice System Scrutiny: Goodman doesn't shy away from critiquing the Justice Department when he perceives missteps or potential abuses. He has, for instance, tweeted about "What a blight on Justice Department," referencing "Clear evidence of potential crimes in DOJ coup attempt threats to Georgia officials pressure on Pence attack on." This demonstrates his commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
Analysis of High-Profile Cases: He provides incisive commentary on significant legal proceedings, such as the revelations from the Meadows’ hearing transcript. He has highlighted "NEW and big revelations," noting Meadows' testimony about getting involved in the false electors scheme "Because I know I would get yelled at by" Trump if I didn't," and detailing the "Several legal implications" of such statements.
Insights into Presidential Actions and Investigations: Goodman offers expert opinions on ongoing investigations and their potential impact, such as special counsel Jack Smith's ability to gain "valuable information" from directly accessing former President Donald Trump's Twitter account. He frequently explores how "The president and senior officials manipulated Americans and played down the severity of the" situation in various contexts.

His tweets serve as a vital source for understanding the legal ramifications of political actions, often breaking down intricate legal concepts into digestible insights for a broader audience.

Beyond Just Security: A Broader Digital Presence

While Just Security is his primary editorial platform, Goodman's digital reach extends further. He utilizes Twitter not just to promote articles from Just Security but also to engage in real-time discourse. His profile also links to his personal website, www.ryangoodman.us, and his faculty profile at NYU Law. Beyond Twitter, he maintains a presence on other platforms, including:

Threads: He can also be found on Threads under "prof.ryan.goodman," expanding his reach to a newer social media audience.
Substack: Goodman publishes "In the Know," a Substack publication with thousands of subscribers, offering another avenue for his in-depth analysis.
Other Social Media: His presence is also noted on LinkedIn, Bluesky, and he has a YouTube Channel, indicating a comprehensive approach to digital engagement.

This multi-platform strategy ensures that his expertise is accessible across various digital landscapes, catering to different preferences for consuming information.

Why Follow @rgoodlaw? The Value Proposition

For anyone invested in understanding U.S. national security, legal policy, and the dynamics of political power, following Ryan Goodman on Twitter offers distinct advantages:

Timely and Informed Analysis

Goodman provides immediate, expert commentary on breaking news and evolving legal situations. His insights are grounded in deep academic knowledge and practical experience, offering a level of analysis that goes beyond typical news reporting. He can quickly identify "potential fodder for pre-election political machinations" or highlight "big revelations" as they emerge.

Bridging Academia and Public Discourse

One of Goodman's strengths is his ability to translate complex legal concepts into accessible language. He effectively bridges the gap between specialized academic discourse and public understanding, making critical legal and national security issues comprehensible to a wider audience. This public engagement is crucial for fostering informed civic participation.

A Critical and Unflinching Voice

Goodman is known for his willingness to offer critical assessments of government actions and policy decisions. While Twitter can sometimes "incentivize" certain behaviors and become "toxic," Goodman leverages the platform to provide a necessary counter-narrative and to hold power accountable. His directness, as seen in his comments on the Justice Department, is a testament to his commitment to transparency and justice.

Conclusion

Ryan Goodman's Twitter presence, under the handle @rgoodlaw, is more than just a social media account; it's a vital resource for anyone seeking informed, expert analysis on U.S. national security law and policy. As an NYU Law Professor, former Special Counsel to the Department of Defense, and co-editor-in-chief of Just Security, Goodman brings unparalleled depth and insight to his digital commentary. His willingness to dissect complex legal issues, critique governmental actions, and engage directly with the public makes his Twitter feed an essential follow for students, legal professionals, journalists, and engaged citizens alike. Through his concise yet profound tweets, he continues to shape public understanding of the critical legal and political challenges facing the nation, solidifying his role as a leading voice in contemporary American discourse.