The Smerconish Podcast
Spirited discussions of government, politics, and current events without predictable left/right bias. The Smerconish Podcast is for Independent Minds. The Michael Smerconish Program airs live on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 9AM-12PM ET and replays 9PM-12AM East, Monday-Friday.
Sin Nation: Have Gambling, Porn & Weed Replaced American Values?
Michael Smerconish reacts to a provocative Axios piece arguing that America is becoming a modern âSin Nationâ â where gambling, marijuana, pornography, and digital vice are no longer hidden, but legalized, monetized, and normalized. From âItâs a Wonderful Lifeâ and Robert Putnamâs "Bowling Alone" to declining faith, patriotism, and community involvement, Michael explores whether America is losing the social glue that once held it together â and whether technology, capitalism, and politics accelerated the shift. Listeners weigh in on everything from Vegas culture and junk food to loneliness, digital life, and the erosion of real-world relationships. Original air date 12 May 2026. Hosted by Simple...
Today's Poll Question: Were any of the three Trump assassination attempts staged?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Were any of the three Trump assassination attempts staged? Michael examines a startling new survey showing that nearly one-third of Americans believe at least one assassination attempt against Donald Trump was stagedâor arenât sure the attacks were real. From Butler to the golf course incident to the White House Correspondentsâ Dinner scare, Michael breaks down the conspiracy theories gaining traction, the partisan divide driving public opinion, and why distrust is becoming a defining feature of modern politics. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an Ads...
The Untold Ted Turner Story the Media Ignored
Michael explores the overlooked conversation surrounding Ted Turnerâs bipolar disorder and asks whether mental illness can sometimes contribute to extraordinary leadership, creativity, and resilience. Drawing on the work of psychiatrist Dr. Nassir Ghaemi â author of A "First-Rate Madness" â Smerconish examines historical figures like Churchill, Lincoln, MLK Jr., and Turner himself through the lens of mental health. The episode also dives into Ben Sasseâs warning about AI, loneliness, declining trust, and the erosion of human connection in modern America. From shrinking conversations to algorithm-driven lives, Smerconish reflects on whatâs being lost â and how we might reclaim it. A wide-ranging...
Today's Poll Question: Which War Ends First, Russia-Ukraine or US/Israel-Iran?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which war ends first â Russia/Ukraine or U.S./Israel versus Iran? Michael examines two global conflicts that suddenly appear to be moving in opposite directions. Vladimir Putin is hinting that the Russia-Ukraine war could be âcoming to an end,â even as ceasefire violations continue and battlefield clashes intensify. Meanwhile, tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran are escalating rapidly, with failed negotiations, military strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, and fears of broader regional instability driving energy prices higher. Michael also reflects on Admiral James Stavridisâ new geopolitical thriller 2084 and the unsettling future s...
Billionaires vs. Mamdani: The NYC Tax Fight Turning Ugly
Michael dives into the explosive backlash surrounding New York Mayor Zohran Mamdaniâs new âpied-Ă -terreâ tax targeting ultra-wealthy property owners who do not live in the city full-time. After billionaire hedge fund manager Ken Griffin blasted Mamdaniâs viral âtax the richâ video and threatened to expand jobs outside New York, Michael asks a provocative question: Has âtax the richâ become a political slur? Listeners from across the country weigh in on wealth inequality, fairness, capitalism, philanthropy, and whether aggressive taxation could push jobs and investment out of major cities. Plus: reactions to Wall Streetâs growing frustration with New York politics a...
Today's Poll Question: Is "tax the rich" a slur against wealthy Americans?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is the phrase âtax the richâ a slur against wealthy Americans? Michael examines the political and cultural firestorm sparked by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdaniâs viral âtax the richâ video targeting billionaire Ken Griffinâs Manhattan penthouse. Supporters call it economic fairness; critics call it class-based demonization. With Wall Street leaders warning that anti-wealth rhetoric could drive jobs and investment out of New York, Michael explores where legitimate tax policy ends and public shaming begins. Is âtax the richâ simply a political slogan, or has it become a derogatory label aimed at successful Americans? Liste...
John Malone: Ted Turner Thought CNN Had âLost Its Wayâ
Media titan John Malone joins Michael for a deeply personal conversation about his lifelong friendship with CNN founder Ted Turner, who passed away this week at age 87. Malone shares behind-the-scenes stories about Turnerâs rise, his relationships with Jane Fonda and Rupert Murdoch, the birth of CNN, and Turnerâs concerns about the future of cable news. The discussion also explores polarization in America, the evolution of 24/7 media, and whether news has become entertainment. Original air date 7 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for adve...
Today's Poll Question: Has the 24/7 news cycle done more public good or harm?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Has the 24/7 news cycle done more public good or harm? Michael reflects on the life and legacy of CNN founder Ted Turner while examining the profound impact of round-the-clock news coverage on American society. From the Gulf War and 9/11 to O.J., political polarization, and âdoomscrolling,â Michael explores how cable news transformed journalism, public awareness, and national discourse. Did real-time reporting democratize information and strengthen accountability â or create ideological silos, anxiety, and a nonstop demand for outrage? Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz compan...
Mark Halperin on Trump, Iran, and the Midterm Earthquake
Michael Smerconish and Mark Halperin break down the confusion, contradictions, and political fallout surrounding Trumpâs Iran strategy â from nuclear negotiations and the Strait of Hormuz to whether the president is heading toward a historic win or an Obama-style replay. Plus: midterm warning signs for Republicans, and key races in Texas, Ohio, and California. Original air date 6 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question: Is Donald Trump a consequence or the cause of our political polarization?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is Donald Trump more a consequence or the cause of our political polarization? Michael argues that most voters will instinctively blame Donald Trump for Americaâs deep political divide â but says the more accurate answer is that Trump is a consequence of forces decades in the making. Drawing on conversations with Axios co-founder Jim VandeHei and Harvard political scientist Robert Putnam, author of "Bowling Alone", Michael explores how social isolation, declining civic engagement, and the collapse of shared community life created fertile ground for populism long before Trump arrived. The episode also previews Smerconishâs new...
Trump Allies Target FettermanâCould He Switch Sides?
Listen to Michael's recent interview with Senator Fetterman in episode #1831.
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Today's Poll Question: Are Americans hopelessly divided and increasingly hateful?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: 'True or false? Americans are hopelessly divided and increasingly hateful.' Michael challenges the dominant narrative of a fractured America, drawing on insights from Axios co-founder Jim VandeHei and broader social data. While cable news and social media amplify conflict, most Americans remain disconnected from that noiseâfocused instead on work, family, and community. Listen in as Michael explores how algorithms, declining shared experiences, and social âself-sortingâ create the illusion of division, even as acts of generosity and civic engagement tell a different story. Is the country truly coming apartâor are we being misled a...
When Admiral McRaven Broke Down Reading âI Rememberâ
Michael revisits his powerful CNN interview with Admiral William McRaven, the former Navy SEAL commander behind Operation Neptune Spear and author of "Duty, Honor, Country and Life." After asking McRaven to read from his poem âI Remember,â a tribute to fallen service members and Gold Star families, the moment turned unexpectedly emotional. Michael reflects on the silence, the sacrifice, and why listeners say America needs more leaders like McRaven. Original air date 4 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question: Are opinions of Trump driven by his policies or his personality?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Are people's opinions of Donald Trump today driven more by his policies or his personality? Fresh polling from ABC/Washington Post and Pew shows Trumpâs approval sinking to new lows, with majorities disapproving not just of his leadership styleâbut nearly every major policy issue as well. For years, critics drew a distinction between Trumpâs conduct and his agenda. Now, those lines appear to be converging. Listen to Michael's take, and then cast your vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of...
A Legal Firestorm: Trump, Redistricting & the â86â Controversy
Michael sits down with legal scholar John Yoo to unpack todayâs biggest legal and political flashpoints. From presidential war powers and U.S. involvement in Iran to a major Supreme Court ruling that could reignite redistricting battles nationwide, Yoo explains whatâs at stake. Plus, they dive into the controversial â86 47â case and whether it crosses the line from political speech to criminal threat. A wide-ranging, thought-provoking conversation on law, power, and the Constitution. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question: Will The Comey Prosecution Ever Reach A Jury?
Michael breaks down the headline-grabbing indictment of former FBI Director James Comey. With legal experts questioning the strength of the caseâand whether it will ever reach a juryâMichael examines the First Amendment implications, key Supreme Court precedents, and why this prosecution may be doomed from the start. 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 use of personal data for advertising.
Inside Montanaâs Senate Shake-Up: Independent Seth Bodnar Takes on Both Parties
Michael Smerconish sits down with independent Senate candidate Seth Bodnar to discuss his unconventional run in Montana, the controversy surrounding a last-minute GOP shake-up, and why he refuses to caucus with either party. From war powers and foreign policy to political polarization at home, the conversation explores what it means to govern from the center. Then, Montana listeners weigh in on the race, party dynamics, and life in Big Sky Countryâculminating in a surprise call from one of Michaelâs longtime friends. Original air date 30 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information abou...
Today's Poll Question: Should Race Shape Voting Maps?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should race be considered when drawing legislative boundary lines? The Supreme Courtâs latest 6â3 decision on redistricting could have sweeping consequences for how political power is allocated across the country. Michael breaks down the complex Louisiana case at the center of the ruling, the clash between constitutional âcolorblindnessâ and protections for minority representation, and what this means for the future of the Voting Rights Act. With potential ripple effects across Southern states and beyond, the episode explores whether fairness demands ignoring raceâor confronting it directly. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz co...
Did Republicans Just Get Called OutâBy a King?
Michael Smerconish dives into a remarkable moment in U.S.âU.K. relations as King Charles III delivers a speech to Congress that may have carried more than just ceremonial weight. CNNâs Stephen Collinson joins to unpack the âsubtle but strikingâ message on democracy, executive power, and Americaâs global roleâplus the political theater behind the royal visit and its impact on President Trump. Then, political analyst Mark Halperin breaks down the latest headlines: Trumpâs legal strategy and âlawfare,â the real significance of the Kingâs visit, tensions over Ukraine and Iran, and media flashpoints from late-night comedy to the White...
Today's Poll Question: On A Scale of 1-10, Rate the Biden Presidency
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "On a scale of 1 to 10, rate the Biden presidency." Michael invites listeners to render a retrospective judgment on Joe Bidenâs time in office, as a new scholarly book offers the first historical assessment of his presidency. With discussion of legislative wins like the CHIPS Act and infrastructure bill, alongside challenges including inflation, Afghanistan, and border policy, the episode explores how timing, perception, and political aftermath shape legacy. Drawing on polling data and historical context, Smerconish asks whether Bidenâs final chapter altered the way his presidency will be rememberedâand how you would score...
Too Perfect? The WHCD Shooting That Sparked a Conspiracy Firestorm
In the aftermath of a shocking incident at the 2026 White House Correspondentsâ Dinner where a shooter - potentially trying to assassinate the President - was apprehended at a security checkpoint, conspiracy theories spread at lightning speed onlineâraising questions about security, misinformation, and public trust. Michael examines what actually happened, looks at the psychology behind viral conspiracies, and opens the phones to listeners divided on what to believe. From the WHCD scare to broader debates about âfalse flagâ thinking and the role of social media, this episode explores why so many Americans are questioning realityâand what that means for the future...
Today's Poll Question: Are Geofence Warrants worth the risk to privacy?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Are geofence warrants - which sweep up the location data of everybody in an area - worth the risk to our privacy? Michael unpacks a pivotal Supreme Court case testing the limits of law enforcement in the digital age. After a Virginia bank robbery was solved using geofence data, the Court must now weigh public safety against constitutional protections. With unusual alliances emerging among the justices, the debate highlights broader concerns about surveillance, personal data, and the future of policing. Is this a necessary tool to catch criminalsâor a dangerous precedent for privacy? Li...
Chaos at the White House Correspondentsâ Dinner: Inside the Assassination Scare
A shocking security scare rocked the White House Correspondentsâ Dinner, raising urgent questions about how a gunman got so closeâand whether disaster was narrowly avoided. Michael breaks down the incident, asking: was it a security success or a failure? With firsthand insight from SiriusXM colleague, veteran journalist and former WHCA president Steve Scully, this episode takes you inside the roomâfrom the early warning signs to the chaotic moments when shots were reported and guests were told to take cover. Plus, new details about vulnerabilities at the venue, the role of pre-event access, and what this means for the future...
Today's Poll Question: Was the WHCA assassination attempt a security success or security failure?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Was Saturday's assassination attempt a security success or security failure? Michael examines the alarming incident at the Washington Hilton, where a gunman was stopped before reaching his targetâbut not before raising serious concerns. Was this a case of security doing exactly what it was designed to do, or did systemic vulnerabilities allow a dangerous situation to unfold in the first place? Listen in, then vote. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question: Should SNAP recipients be able to use their benefits to buy hot rotisserie chicken?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should SNAP recipients be able to use their benefits to buy hot rotisserie chicken? Michael revisits the debate over food assistance rules as a bipartisan group of senators pushes to carve out a narrow exception to the long-standing ban on hot foods. The issue highlights a quirky regulatory gapâwhere a cold rotisserie chicken is allowed, but a hot one is notâraising questions about practicality, dignity, and intent. Supporters argue itâs a common-sense fix for families, seniors, and those without cooking access, while critics warn it could open the door to broader change...
Inside Obamaâs Inner Circle With Reggie Love
Hear Michael's 2016 interview with Reggie Love on The Book Club with Michael Smerconish Podcast, on his book "Power Forward: My Presidential Education"
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Today's Poll Question: Should the US ban tobacco sales for anyone born in 2009 or later?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Britain just banned tobacco sales to anyone born in 2009 or later, forever. Should the U.S. do the same? Michael breaks down the UKâs unprecedented âsmoke-free generationâ policy, which phases out tobacco access by birth year rather than banning it outright. The approach aims to stop addiction before it starts, citing data that most smokers begin youngâbut critics call it discriminatory and overly paternalistic. With similar efforts attempted (and reversed) in places like New Zealand, the debate raises fundamental questions about public health, personal freedom, and whether such a policy couldâor shouldâeve...
Bruce Springsteenâs Political Tour Sparks Backlash â Fans Divided
Bruce Springsteenâs latest tour is making headlinesânot just for the music, but for its strong political message. Michael dives into the growing debate: has The Boss gone too far, or is he simply using his platform as artists always have? With ticket prices soaring and politics front and center, fans are split. Some praise Springsteenâs activism and authenticity, while others question the cost, the messaging, and whether concerts should be an escape from politics altogether. Plus, listeners from across the country weigh inâwould they go to the show, or sit this one out? Listen in, then be sure...
Today's Poll Question: Is retaliatory gerrymandering ever justified?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is retaliatory gerrymandering ever justified? Michael unpacks Virginiaâs controversial mid-decade redistricting move and the broader national trend of partisan map-drawing in response to earlier actions by opposing parties. With Republicans and Democrats both reshaping districts to gain advantage, the question becomes whether âfighting fire with fireâ is defensibleâor corrosive to democracy itself. Is this strategic necessity, or a race to the bottom? Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Contemplation Is DyingâAnd It Could Cost Us Everything
Ironically, you should put your phone away....AFTER listening to this episode. Michael explores a growing crisis hiding in plain sight: the loss of contemplation in modern life. Drawing on research from The Washington Post and Georgetown professor Cal Newport, Michael examines how constant audio, smartphones, and even AI may be eroding our ability to think deeply. With Americans consuming hours of content daily and attention spans shrinking dramatically, what are we losingâand what are the consequences for our minds, our productivity, and even the economy? Through reflections on historian David McCulloughâs disciplined thinking process and conversations with call...
Today's Poll Question: Is John Fetterman a Democratic Party asset or liability?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Is John Fetterman a Democratic Party asset or liability?" Michael unpacks the growing divide within the Democratic Party as Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) breaks ranks on key issues, including Iran and U.S. foreign policy. After yesterday's conversation with Fetterman (listen to the podcast episode!), Michael explores whether his independence, candor on mental health, and cross-party appeal strengthen or undermine Democratic prospects. With polling showing uneven support among Democrats but surprising favorability among Republicans, the episode examines what Fettermanâs trajectory could mean for 2028, party unity, and the broader political landscape. Listen, and rate, re...
Fetterman Breaks With Democrats on Iran War â âWe Must Finish Thisâ
As tensions escalate in the Iran conflict, Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joins Michael for a candid and high-stakes conversation about war powers, nuclear threats, and political divisions in Washington. Fetterman explains why heâs breaking with most Democrats to support authorizing military force against Iran, arguing the U.S. must act decisively to prevent a nuclear-armed regime. Michael and Fetterman debate the legal, political, and moral implications of the War Powers Act, the looming congressional deadlines, and whether partisanship is shaping national security decisions. With a fragile ceasefire, rising casualties, and questions about Americaâs next move, this episode dives into...
Today's Poll Question: Should Congress authorize the use of military force against Iran?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should Congress authorize the use of military force against Iran? As tensions escalate and a fragile ceasefire nears expiration, Michael Smerconish breaks down the legal, political, and strategic stakes behind a potential Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). With the War Powers deadline looming, Congress faces mounting pressure to actâor step aside. Michael examines recent military developments, inside-the-Beltway maneuvering, and why the timeline may be shaping Iranâs strategy. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of pers...
Why the Voters Who Decide Elections Arenât Who You Think
A new set of political data is challenging a long-held assumption about American votersâand even Michael Smerconish himself. After reviewing insights from veteran political strategist Doug Sosnik, Michael digs into a surprising claim: the voters who actually decide elections arenât the fiscally conservative, socially liberal âcentristsâ many believe dominate the middle. Instead, the data points to a different, often overlooked groupâeconomically populist but socially conservative. But when Michael polled his own audience, the results told a completely different story. So who really represents America? And who actually swings elections? This episode explores the growing divide between perception and realit...
Today's Poll Question: Should Social Security cap benefits for the wealth?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should Social Security cap benefits for the wealthiest retirees? Michael Smerconish explores a provocative proposal to limit Social Security payouts for high-income retirees, raising fundamental questions about the programâs purpose. Is it a guaranteed return on what you paid inâor a safety net meant to prevent poverty? With nearly half of Americans lacking retirement savings and the worker-to-retiree ratio shrinking, pressure is mounting to rethink the systemâs sustainability. Smerconish breaks down the economic realities, political implications, and competing philosophies shaping this debate, and explains why your answer likely depends on how you de...
Boomers vs Millennials: Who Really Had It Harder?
In this episode, Michael dives into a generational debate that never seems to go away: who had it harderâboomers or millennials? Drawing on new data from The Wall Street Journal, Michael breaks down income, housing, college costs, and major economic events that shaped each generation. From 18% mortgage rates to student debt and the 2008 financial crisis, both sides make their case. Listeners from across the country weigh in, offering personal stories and sharp opinions on whether todayâs younger Americans are truly worse offâor just facing different challenges. Listen in, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Sim...
Today's Poll Question: Are You (Actually) Fiscally Liberal but Socially Conservative?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which describes you best? a) Fiscally liberal, socially conservative, b) Fiscally conservative, socially conservative, c) Fiscally liberal, socially liberal, d) Fiscally conservative, socially liberal? Michael revisits a long-held assumption about the American electorate after a revealing conversation with political strategist Doug Sosnik earlier this week (Episode # 1821). Using data-driven insightsâSosnik argues that the decisive voting bloc isnât where many think it is. Listen here, then vote! And be sure to rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use...
Trump vs. the Pope?! Mark Halperin Breaks Down the Latest Political Firestorm
Michael is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest headlines shaping American politics. They break down Donald Trumpâs controversial clash with the Pope, the strategy behind his âcounterpunchingâ style, and whether any political move can truly hurt him. The discussion turns to rising tensions with Iran and what a potential dealâor escalationâcould mean for U.S. politics and global stability. Halperin also weighs in on the 2028 presidential field, the risks candidates face under intense scrutiny, and why midterm results may not predict the next White House race. Listen here, then rate, review and...
Today's Poll Question: Is Americaâs record low fertility rate a problem?
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Is America's record low fertility rate a problem?" Americaâs birth rate has fallen to historic lows, well below the level needed to sustain the populationâbut does it actually matter? Michael explores the economic, social, and political implications of a shrinking younger generation, including pressure on Social Security, a tightening labor force, and shifting demographics. Listen here for some great insights and data, 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...
George Santos Uncensored: Prison, Politics & the Truth About Congress
Reps. Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales stepping down from Congress has reignited a major question in Washington: when should lawmakers be forced outâand what does due process really look like on Capitol Hill? To unpack it, Michael Smerconish turns to a unique voice: George Santos, one of the only members ever expelled from the House of Representatives. In a candid and often controversial conversation, Santos weighs in on the resignations, the culture inside Congress, and whether accusations alone are now enough to end a political career. He also reflects on his own expulsion, his time in prisonâincluding weeks in s...