The Smerconish Podcast

Is it possible to call Donald Trump a successful president—even if you oppose him? In this episode Michael breaks down the provocative daily poll question at Smerconish.com, which is asking you: "Is Trump a successful president if he keeps Gaza peace, resolves Russia/Ukraine war, reforms Venezuela, purchases Greenland, and enables Iran regime change?" Drawing on criticism from The Atlantic, current betting markets, approval ratings, and his own mixed reactions to Trump’s style and substance, Michael challenges listeners to confront their assumptions and test the limits of Trump Derangement Syndrome. It’s a thought experiment designed to push b...

Michael talks with Congressman Bryan Steil (R-WI), chairman of the House Administration Committee, about a bipartisan push to crack down on congressional stock trading. Steil explains why existing insider-trading laws fall short, how his proposed Stop Insider Trading Act would ban lawmakers from buying individual stocks, and whether the reform could restore public trust in Congress. The conversation dives into ethics, accountability, wealth disparities on Capitol Hill, and whether Washington is finally ready to police itself. Original air date 15 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal...

As GLP-1 weight loss drugs surge in popularity, Michael asks a big question: will they make society healthier — or undermine exercise and long-term wellness? A thoughtful look at health, behavior, and the future of weight loss. Listen here, then vote on today's poll question at smerconish.com, and please rate and review this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Halperin is Editor in Chief at 2WAY, and host of Next Up with Mark Halperin.

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Should the United States buy Greenland? Michael explains today's Smerconish.com poll question sparked by Senator John Fetterman’s provocative comment suggesting the U.S. could purchase Greenland — just as it once bought Alaska and Louisiana. With global tensions rising and renewed focus on the Arctic, Michael explores the strategic, political, and historical arguments behind the idea, including insights from former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis. Why does Greenland matter now? What role do China, Russia, climate change, and military strategy play? And are Americans open to expanding U.S. territory in the 21st century? Listen and rate/revi...

A new Gallup survey reveals a political reality the media has long ignored: independents are now the largest group in American politics. Michael Smerconish breaks down the data showing a record 45% of Americans reject both major parties. He explains why past Gallup headlines missed the real story, why this shift matters for elections and governance, and whether younger voters will stay independent or eventually choose sides. Plus, listener calls from across the country on what it really means to be politically independent in today’s polarized climate. Original air date 13 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.ad...

As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, a new redesign of American coins has sparked a familiar national debate. Should commemorative coins focus solely on the founding year of 1776—or reflect a broader, more inclusive version of American history? In this episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael unpacks today’s Smerconish.com Daily Poll, explores the controversy surrounding the Semiquincentennial coin designs, and explains how decisions about history, symbolism, and memory end up in our spare change. Thoughtful, timely, and guaranteed to get you thinking—and voting at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswiz...

In the wake of Bob Weir’s passing, Michael Smerconish reflects on discovering the Grateful Dead later in life—and what that journey revealed about music, ritual, and our deep human need to belong. From missed concerts and chance encounters to live shows as modern-day ceremonies, this episode explores how shared experiences create community, meaning, and common purpose in an increasingly fragmented world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear a landmark case on transgender athletes in public school sports, Michael Smerconish explains today’s Smerconish.com Daily Poll Question: "Should transgender women and girls be allowed to compete on women’s sports teams at public schools?" Drawing on recent legal history, personal experience, and past Supreme Court rulings, Michael explores the tension between inclusion and competitive fairness—why he strongly supports transgender rights in the workplace, yet reaches a different conclusion when it comes to sports. A thoughtful, nuanced discussion of one of the most contentious cultural and constitutional debates facing the countr...

Happy hour used to be where careers were shaped, friendships were formed, and mentors emerged. Now, it’s disappearing. In this episode, Michael explores a Wall Street Journal report on the decline of workplace happy hours—and what that loss means for young professionals, workplace culture, mental health, and social connection. From listener stories to generational insights, Smerconish makes the case that mingling isn’t just fun—it’s essential. Are we trading human connection for convenience, and at what cost? Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection...

Michael takes a deep dive into the Minneapolis ICE shooting that has ignited fierce debate across media and politics. Instead of partisan talking points, he examines the case through the actual federal standards governing use of deadly force — including ICE, CBP, and DHS policy memos spanning more than a decade. Today's Smerconish.com poll question asks: "Did the ICE agent reasonably believe the woman in the SUV posed to him a significant threat of death or serious physical harm?" Michael walks through the video evidence, explains what “reasonable belief” legally means, and breaks down when — and when not — law enforcement is authori...

A fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis reignites the national debate over immigration enforcement and police use of force. Michael Smerconish examines the video, the law, and the rarely discussed federal policies governing when ICE agents may fire their weapons. Joined by former Boston police lieutenant and DHS advisor Dr. Thomas Nolan, Smerconish breaks down why this case may fail the legal standard—and how a local sheriff’s race in Pennsylvania foreshadowed this exact moment. Original air date 8 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for ...

Michael Smerconish unpacks today’s Smerconish.com poll question: "Is there less chaos and more purpose in the decision making process of President Trump than is commonly portrayed in the media?" Drawing on insights from political analyst Mark Halperin, Michael explores whether what looks like disorder may actually be “controlled chaos" - weigh in at Smerconish.com after listening, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Donald Trump finally “doomed,” or is that a familiar storyline playing on repeat? Michael Smerconish sits down with political analyst Mark Halperin to examine why predictions of Trump’s political collapse keep falling short. From foreign policy flashpoints like Greenland, Ukraine, and Venezuela to tariffs, media bias, and what Halperin calls “controlled chaos,” the conversation explores whether Trump’s leadership style is reckless—or deliberately disruptive. A sharp, candid discussion about power, perception, and why Trump continues to dominate American politics, for better or worse. Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for inform...

Five years after January 6, Michael Smerconish tackles a deeply uncomfortable question: should Americans feel any empathy for the defendants who say they believed they were defending the country? Drawing on a new New York Times report, expert analysis on political violence, and firsthand conversations with Trump attorneys, Michael explains today’s Smerconish.com poll and examines whether intent, belief, and misinformation complicate moral judgment—without excusing violence. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for ...

Robert Pape is a professor of political science at the University of Chicago and director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats. He is a leading expert on political violence, terrorism, and democratic stability, and has conducted extensive research on the January 6 defendants.

Michael van der Veen is a Philadelphia-based trial attorney who served as lead defense counsel for President Donald Trump during his second impeachment trial. He has also represented multiple defendants charged in connection with January 6.

William J. Brennan is a veteran criminal defense attorney with decades of experience handling complex federal...

As protests spread across Iran amid soaring inflation and economic collapse, President Trump warns that the U.S. could respond “very hard” if Iranian authorities use deadly force against demonstrators. In this episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael breaks down today’s Smerconish.com poll question: If Iran uses force against protesters, should the United States respond militarily? Michael examines the moral case for intervention, the real-world risks of escalation, and whether non-military options—like sanctions, communications support, and exposure of regime abuses—offer a better path forward. With global tensions rising and America already stretched abroad, where should the line be dr...

The United States has captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a dramatic, highly coordinated military operation—but what happens next? in this episode, Michael examines the stunning takedown of Maduro, now facing sweeping narco-terrorism charges in a New York courtroom, and asks the question few seem prepared to answer: Was there a real plan for the day after? Michael breaks down the indictment, the potential life sentence Maduro faces, and the extraordinary military precision behind the operation—while weighing sharply divided reactions from The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Thomas Friedman. He also explo...

Michael Smerconish breaks down today’s Smerconish.com poll question: Is the Minnesota fraud the exception or the norm? From a viral video alleging widespread daycare fraud to the trillions of dollars rushed out during the COVID pandemic, Michael adds context, skepticism, and historical perspective. He explains why Minnesota may not be a one-off, how speed overtook security in federal relief programs, and why enforcement efforts later fell short. A timely conversation about government oversight, viral outrage, and the real cost of pandemic spending. Listen here, then cast your ballot at Smerconish.com, and please rate and review this podcast! Ho...

Why are fewer Americans volunteering—and why does it matter? Michael digs into new data showing a long-term decline in volunteerism, echoing warnings first raised by Robert Putnam in Bowling Alone. Joined by Wall Street Journal opinion editor Mary Julia Koch, Michael explores how civic engagement has shifted toward episodic, virtual, and performative activism—and what we’ve lost as a result. They discuss generational trends, loneliness, the rise of online substitutes for real connection, and why volunteering doesn’t just help communities—it strengthens the people who do it. From tutoring students to mentoring veterans, listeners across the country share how...

Can you really trust your smartphone to cast a secure vote? Michael Smerconish talks with venture capitalist and political strategist Bradley Tusk about a groundbreaking experiment in mobile voting, launching in Anchorage, Alaska. As smartphones already manage our money, medical records, and identities, Tusk argues it’s time they handle our ballots too. They dive into how phone-based voting works, the security safeguards behind it, the criticism from election experts, and whether increased convenience could boost turnout and weaken political extremism. Plus, callers weigh in on trust, tradition, and whether voting should remain a communal civic ritual—or move fully into...

President Trump announces plans for a new class of massive U.S. Navy warships—but are battleships the future or a relic of the past? Michael Smerconish speaks with retired four-star Admiral James Stavridis, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, about America’s shrinking fleet, China’s rapid naval expansion, and why concentrating power in giant ships may create dangerous vulnerabilities in the age of drones, missiles, cyber warfare, and submarines. Original air date 23 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the United States a Christian nation — and should it be? Michael breaks down Vice President JD Vance’s explosive comments at Turning Point USA, sparking a national debate over faith, identity, and the Constitution. He also examines the very public conservative infighting between Ben Shapiro, Tucker Carlson, and Steve Bannon, raising questions about whether the movement’s biggest gathering is a political asset or liability. Plus: why CBS spiked a 60 Minutes segment, what that says about media power, major political and cultural headlines shaping the moment, and a year-end reflection on what truly unites America. Vote in today’s poll and...

What can bear hunting in rural Pennsylvania teach us about American politics? Michael speaks with Washington Post columnist and bestselling author Salena Zito about her immersive reporting from a Pennsylvania bear camp — a place where Democrats, Republicans, and independents come together without arguing politics. Zito explains why most Americans are far less politically obsessed than social media suggests, how community and tradition shape voter behavior, and why Pennsylvania remains the most misunderstood — and decisive — state in national elections. A timely conversation about culture, unity, and the real lives behind the headlines. Original air date 22 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz compan...

In this episode, Michael dives deep into the chaos at Turning Point USA’s America Fest. With more than 30,000 attendees, the event revealed a growing rift within the GOP. From Ben Shapiro’s scathing critique of fellow conservatives to the controversial presence of rapper Nicki Minaj, the conference exposed the future direction of the Republican Party. Is Turning Point USA a political asset or a liability for the GOP? Listen here then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and...

Birthright citizenship is headed to the Supreme Court — and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Michael Smerconish sits down with Washington Post columnist and National Review editor Ramesh Ponnuru to unpack one of the most consequential constitutional debates of our time. As the Court prepares to hear a challenge to birthright citizenship, they explore what the Constitution actually says, how the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” should be interpreted, and whether the U.S. is truly an outlier compared to the rest of the world. From immigration enforcement and executive authority to American exceptionalism and global norms, this conversation breaks d...

Michael breaks down today’s poll question at Smerconish.com: Will the Friday release of Epstein materials be of any great consequence? With the DOJ racing to meet a congressional deadline, Smerconish explains why massive redactions, prior disclosures, and political realities may leave the public disappointed — and why this story is far from over. Listen here, then vote at smerconish.com, and please rate and review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today’s episode, Michael Smerconish unpacks President Trump’s unusually rapid and partisan White House address — and explores whether a major New York Times investigation into Trump’s long-obscured friendship with Jeffrey Epstein helps explain the tone. Michael walks through the Times reporting, the president’s polling struggles, and why major networks seemed to ignore the story. Plus: the arrest of protesters in the U.K. for chanting “Globalize the Intifada” and what that means for free speech debates in the U.S. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of per...

Michael breaks down a fast-moving news cycle—from President Trump’s national address and a bombshell New York Times report on Trump and Epstein, to a provocative new poll question: Should British police arrest protesters who chant “Globalize the Intifada”? As the UK begins making arrests and Australia weighs new speech laws after a deadly anti-Semitic attack, Michael explores the stark contrast between British law and America’s First Amendment—and asks where the line between free speech and public safety should be drawn. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of p...

Mark Halperin is editor-in-chief of 2WAY and host of the Next Up podcast.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael breaks down today’s Smerconish.com Daily Poll Question: Are President Trump’s comments about Rob Reiner a new low? After Trump issued a controversial Truth Social post in the wake of the Reiner family tragedy, even some usual allies spoke out against him. Michael reviews the reactions, compares this moment to past Trump controversies—from McCain to Kovaleski—and asks listeners to decide where this one ranks. Vote now at Smerconish.com and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertis

Michael is joined by longtime Trump adviser David Urban for a candid conversation about the president’s controversial Truth Social post following the tragic murders of Rob and Michele Reiner. Urban, who ran Trump’s 2016 Pennsylvania campaign, publicly called the post “indefensible”—and here he explains why. Together, he and Michael explore the political fallout, the human cost behind the Reiner family tragedy, and what the moment reveals about decision-making inside Trump’s orbit. A sobering and insightful discussion on leadership, restraint, and the national mood. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collecti...

Antisemitic incidents are rising across the U.S. and around the world. Michael's answer to today's Smerconish.com poll question, "Is antisemitism becoming normalized in our society today?" is, sadly, "Yes." Listen here to hear his take, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michael speaks with attorney Shane Pennington, a leading expert on cannabis rescheduling, about reports that President Trump is preparing an executive order to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. Pennington explains what a reclassification would mean for consumers, the legal cannabis industry, medical research, criminal justice, and state–federal power. Michael also explores the contrasting New York Times and JAMA analysis questioning the medical benefits of cannabis—and hears from listeners whose real-world experiences tell a different story. A fast-moving, deeply informative conversation about federal drug policy, politics, and the shifting landscape of cannabis in Amer...

In this episode, Michael Smerconish confronts a deeply troubling question: Are mass shootings a permanent part of American life? Following a devastating weekend—from the Brown University shooting to tragedies abroad—Michael unpacks today’s poll question at Smerconish.com and shares why he’s grown pessimistic about meaningful change. In a prepared statement he reads from each time there is a mass shooting, he revisits the Second Amendment, the Heller decision, and the political realities that keep America stuck. A candid, sobering reflection on a crisis that shows no signs of slowing. Listen here, then vote at smerconish.com, and plea...

Michael explores the political impact of the massive intergenerational wealth transfer underway. With over $124 trillion set to pass from Baby Boomers to Millennials and Gen X, could this spark a political divide or even a civil war? Joined by Eric Levitz, Senior Correspondent at Vox, the discussion dives deep into how inherited wealth might shape future political battles, the rise of economic inequality, and the shifting landscape of U.S. politics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael digs into today’s poll question: Who should regulate AI — the federal government, the states, or no one at all? With Trump’s new executive order, escalating job losses, a shocking wrongful arrest tied to facial recognition, and global AI competition heating up, Michael breaks down why the stakes have never been higher. Plus, reactions to Time’s “AI” Person of the Year and the political twists shaping the regulation battle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Raw, emotional, and fiercely divided—today’s Smerconish Program features some of the most intense calls yet. Listeners share heartbreaking stories of fentanyl loss, defend or condemn Trump’s deadly anti-drug boat strike, question military orders, and debate the legality and morality of the operation. From “sink the boat” to “dead men tell no tales,” this episode captures the full spectrum of America’s reaction to the border controversy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

TIME Magazine has officially named the “Architects of AI” as the 2025 Person of the Year — and Michael says it was the only possible choice. In today’s episode, he breaks down why AI’s impact, for better or worse, outweighs any single human, and revisits the history of TIME’s most controversial picks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael and political analyst Mark Halperin unpack Trump’s marathon Pennsylvania speech and the instantly infamous late-night Truth Social post that followed. They dive into Trump’s ongoing message-discipline problem, the GOP’s economic and healthcare vulnerabilities, the latest reporting on a possible Ukraine deal, and Halperin’s early power rankings for the 2028 Democratic nomination—including surprising movement for Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom. A fast, wide-ranging conversation about the political stakes heading into 2026 and beyond. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.