The NOLA terrorist attack shows the stakes for the incoming administration's picks. Also, the Judicial Conference denies Democrats' request to refer Justice Thomas to the Justice Department for ethics violations. Plus, it is unclear if Mike Johnson has the votes to remain Speaker. And President Biden awards 20 outstanding Americans with the Presidential Citizens Medal. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and Rep. Eric Swalwell join Lawrence O'Donnell.

Donald Trump's lawyers try to stop the release of Jack Smith's report. Also, a New York judge denies Trump's bid to delay his sentencing on Friday. And former Capitol police condemn Trump's January 6 pardon pledge. Sen. Adam Schiff, Andrew Weissmann, fmr. Officer Harry Dunn, and fmr. Sgt. Aquilino Gonell join Lawrence O'Donnell.