The Smerconish Podcast

What really went wrong at Cornell? Michael speaks with Hanna Stotland, an educational crisis consultant who has handled 363 campus sexual misconduct cases, about the controversial rape allegations, the role of drugs and alcohol, and what the public may be overlooking. Stotland argues that substance abuse is a common denominator in these cases—but is that victim-blaming or an uncomfortable truth? Plus, Michael takes listener calls on consent, accountability, and campus culture. Original air date 8 October 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 at Smerconish.com: Are you in favor of the death penalty for a person convicted of murder? As executions make headlines in Texas and Florida, California Governor Gavin Newsom considers commuting hundreds of death sentences, and the Trump administration revisits the use of firing squads, Michael examines America's complicated relationship with capital punishment. Gallup polling reveals a dramatic shift: support for the death penalty peaked at 80% in 1994 but stands at just 52% today. What explains the dramatic swings in public opinion over nearly 90 years? From the civil rights era to the crime wave of the 1990s, Michael explores...

A botched execution in Tennessee, a firing squad in Texas, record-setting executions in Florida, and a possible mass commutation of death sentences in California. America's death penalty debate is back in the spotlight. Michael is a longtime supporter of capital punishment, but admits he's questioning his position more than ever. Is the death penalty justice or revenge? Does it deter crime? And what happens when the justice system gets it wrong? Michael examines the latest developments and takes calls from listeners on both sides of this deeply divisive issue. Original air date 8 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you agree with Mark Halperin that as the media has gotten more diverse, the bias of the dominant media against Trump has worsened? More media choices than ever—but is mainstream news coverage becoming less fair? Michael Smerconish examines journalist Mark Halperin's provocative argument that legacy media outlets have grown increasingly biased against Donald Trump, even as podcasts, cable news, and independent platforms reshape the information landscape. Halperin contends that anti-Trump sentiment has become embedded in newsroom culture, making it harder for Republicans to receive balanced coverage. But Michael questions whether a truly "do...

Is the press giving Donald Trump and Republicans a fair shake? 2WAY Political Analyst Mark Halperin joins Michael Smerconish to argue that America’s “dominant media” applies a different standard to Democrats and Republicans—and that the problem has only intensified in the Trump era. They discuss coverage of Trump’s record and Democratic flip-flops, plus the extraordinary success of Fox News as it marks 30 years on the air today. Then, listeners weigh in, challenging—and defending—Halperin’s case. Original air date 7 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of perso...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Prior to a verdict, who should remain anonymous in a rape accusation case? Only the accuser, both the accuser and the accused, or no one? Michael examines the difficult balance between victim privacy, the presumption of innocence, and the public’s right to know. Using the Cornell rape case as a backdrop, he looks at why the accuser remains anonymous while the seven accused men have been publicly identified, photographed, and discussed despite no criminal charges. He also considers how social media, newsroom traditions, past false-accusation cases, and the lasting power of online reputational da...

Listen to Michael's Book Club Podcast interview with Annie Jacobson on her latest book "Biological War: A Scenario"

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should New York Attorney General Letitia James be the person to investigate the Cornell rape case? Michael examines whether AG James can fairly oversee the high-profile Cornell case after publicly referring to the accuser as a “survivor” before an investigation was completed. Drawing on arguments from former federal prosecutor Elie Honig and attorney Justin Dillon, Michael explores the appearance of prejudgment, prosecutors’ ethical obligations, and lessons from the 2006 Duke lacrosse case. The issue isn’t whether the allegations deserve investigation—they do. The question is whether James is the right person to conduct it. Listen her...

The latest developments in the Cornell rape case raise a complicated question: When is someone too intoxicated to legally consent to sex? Michael breaks down New York’s rape laws, the controversial “voluntary intoxication” loophole, and why the distinction between being drugged, unconscious, and voluntarily intoxicated could make this case extraordinarily difficult to prosecute. Plus, new reporting on recorded phone calls involving the Cornell students and Michael’s conversation with listeners about whether New York law should change. Original air date 5 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of perso...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is America over-policed or under-policed? Michael explores a provocative argument from Malcolm Gladwell’s new book, "The American Way of Killing" (hear Michael's conversation with Gladwell on The Book Club Podcast later today): America may have too few police officers, not too many—and far too many people behind bars. Comparing U.S. cities with their European counterparts, Michael examines whether smaller police forces can actually contribute to more violence, while easy access to guns turns everyday disputes deadly. He also revisits the Second Amendment, the Heller decision, and Gladwell’s argument that Americans have m...

With the 2026 midterms just weeks away, Mark Halperin joins Michael to break down the battle for control of the House and Senate—and why races in places like Kansas and Iowa deserve attention. They also revisit the Bernie Sanders–AOC 2028 idea, discuss Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s presidential potential, and examine Donald Trump’s stakes in the midterms. Could the political map be shifting faster than Republicans expected? 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 at Smerconish.com: Will the renewed investigation at Cornell result in any criminal convictions? Michael revisits the Cornell sexual assault case with new information now in the public record, including reporting on Jane Doe’s statements, text messages, the university’s Title IX process, and the district attorney’s decision not to initially bring charges. While acknowledging the disturbing conduct described in the case, Michael explains why he still believes the contradictions and the high burden of proof could make criminal convictions difficult to obtain. Listen, then cast your vote at Smerconish.com - and be sure to rat...

New details have emerged in the Cornell rape case, including reporting about Jane Doe’s statements to police, text messages after the alleged incident, and Cornell’s Title IX investigation. Michael is joined again by NBC News legal analyst Danny Cevallos to examine what the new information means for the renewed criminal investigation — and why, in Danny’s view, prosecutors may not be able to “unring the bell” when it comes to statements already in the record. Original air date 1 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal dat...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should AI designers consider religious doctrine when programming morality? As artificial intelligence becomes a source of advice on everything from family conflicts to medical decisions, whose values should guide its answers? Michael examines reports that Anthropic has consulted religious scholars as it wrestles with the “moral formation” of AI—and considers the larger question of whether centuries of religious thought should have a role in shaping the technology’s ethical framework. If every AI system inevitably reflects somebody’s values, should religious doctrine be one of the influences its designers consider? Listen here, and please rat...

How biased is Michael? The latest Ad Fontes Media Bias Chart is out, and Michael is more than happy to share his report card: A Blutarsky. He breaks down where his CNN program and SiriusXM podcast land on the left-right media bias spectrum, compares his scores with some of the biggest names in news and commentary, and offers a theory for why his radio show lands slightly to the left of his TV program: the callers. Plus, listeners weigh in on whether Michael — and the media they consume — are really as politically balanced as they think. Original air date 30 September 2026. Host...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should the government tax the wealth of billionaires, or stick to taxing income? Michael examines the growing debate over whether enormous fortunes should be taxed based on wealth rather than income. Drawing on his conversation from yesterday with economist Gabriel Zucman, Michael explores proposals aimed at billionaires, including the argument that vast stock holdings can appreciate for years without generating taxable personal income. But a wealth tax raises difficult questions of its own: How do you value private companies, real estate, art, and other illiquid assets—and could founders be forced to sell shares ju...

A newly filed civil lawsuit has put an alleged 2024 sexual assault at Cornell University back in the spotlight—and prompted the local district attorney to reopen the investigation. Michael examines the graphic allegations, the accuser’s earlier sworn statement described by the DA, and the major discrepancies now at the center of the case. NBC senior legal analyst Danny Cevallos joins Michael to discuss why, despite deeply troubling alleged conduct, securing a criminal conviction could prove extraordinarily difficult. Then listeners weigh in on consent, prosecution, campus culture, and the burden of proof. Original air date 29 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsW...

John Yoo is the Emanuel S. Heller Professor of Law at the University of California, Berkeley.

William (Bill) Galston holds the Ezra K. Zilkha Chair in Governance Studies and is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution.

Watch the latest episode of CAN WE AGREE? here.

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Early voting begins in just a few days in many states, so the midterm elections are underway. Political strategist Doug Sosnik joins Michael to break down the forces shaping the battle for Congress. They examine shifting voter enthusiasm, Trump’s approval, the war in Iran, inflation and gas prices, and why historical midterm trends may only tell part of the story. Then, Michael opens the phones to listeners for their take on what could drive voters this November. Original air date 28 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should stay-at-home parents get the same federal child care aid as parents who use daycare? Michael examines a proposal that could expand federal child care assistance to families in which one parent works while the other stays home with the kids. He traces the idea to a 2021 Wall Street Journal essay co-authored by J.D. Vance and explores the arguments over daycare, parental choice, child development, and whether public policy should financially support at-home caregiving. With the proposal now drawing attention—and disagreement—among CONSERVATIVES, Michael asks whether federal child care dollars should follow fami...

Can Americans disagree politically without treating each other with contempt? Michael speaks with Special Olympics International Chairman Tim Shriver about the Dignity Index, an eight-point scale measuring contempt and dignity in our public discourse. With nearly 9 in 10 Smerconish.com voters saying a candidate’s civility toward opponents matters to their vote, they ask whether Americans are truly ready to reject the politics of personal attacks—and become “dignity voters.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bernie Sanders and AOC… on the same 2028 presidential ticket? Michael examines Mark Halperin’s provocative prediction that the two progressive stars could team up early and instantly reshape the Democratic primary. Could a Sanders–Ocasio-Cortez ticket actually be viable in 2028? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nikole Hannah-Jones made a principled decision to send her daughter to a struggling Brooklyn public school—but a decade later, she’s confronting the consequences. Michael examines her deeply personal story and the fierce debate it has sparked over school choice, segregation, teacher accountability, and a difficult question for every parent: When it comes to your child’s education, should principle ever come before opportunity? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Will AI destroy humanity—or save millions of lives? Michael explores the growing fears surrounding artificial intelligence alongside remarkable examples of AI improving healthcare, predicting sepsis, cutting hospital wait times, and potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment. So which future is more likely: AI apocalypse or AI medical miracle? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez join forces in 2028? Mark Halperin joins Michael Smerconish and floats the provocative possibility of a Bernie-AOC presidential ticket — and what it could mean for the Democratic field. Plus, they discuss the approaching midterms, Donald Trump’s battles with the media, and the growing 2028 conversation surrounding Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. Original air date 23 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Listen to Dana Bash talk about her book "The Elections That Changed the World: Fifteen Pivotal Moments That Shaped How We Live" on The Book Club with Michael Smerconish Podcast.

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President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani are about as politically different as it gets—so what should we make of their surprisingly cordial meeting at Gracie Mansion? Michael examines whether either man is getting played, and whether their willingness to work together offers a rare lesson in political civility. New York City Councilman Frank Morano and former Trump White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci join the conversation, followed by listeners weighing in on whether cooperation—or confrontation—is what America really wants. Original air date 22 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com fo...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Trump and Mamdani working together. Who's getting played: Mamdani, Trump, Both, or Neither? Michael connects the unexpected cordiality between President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to a broader question about dignity in politics. After a Gracie Mansion meeting focused on housing, immigration, and affordability, Michael asks whether either man is being played—or whether the willingness of ideological opposites to cooperate is worth welcoming. He also revisits Tim Shriver’s Dignity Index and the challenge of treating political opponents with respect without ignoring real disagreements. Plus, what might each leader have...

Michael opens with retired four-star Admiral James Stavridis for a rapid-fire look at Iran, the Houthis, Ukraine, and the growing danger of humans weaponizing artificial intelligence. Then, after weeks of warnings about runaway AI and its potential for catastrophe, Michael turns to the other side of the story: how AI is already being used for good in education, medicine, public health, and everyday life. Is AI our greatest emerging threat—or one of our most powerful tools? Original air date 21 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of pe...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is a candidate's civility toward opponents a factor in your vote? Michael Smerconish explores whether respect, dignity, and a willingness to work across political lines still matter when voters choose a candidate—or whether policy positions outweigh everything else. The conversation is prompted by Tim Shriver’s work with Unite and the Dignity Index, which focuses on reducing contempt in public life. Michael considers a difficult tradeoff: what if you agree with a candidate’s agenda but reject the way they treat opponents? And what if a more civil candidate holds views you oppose? It’s a...

'Bucks County, USA' premieres on PBS on September 20, 2026.

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Should Robert Kraft have pressured Ed Sheeran to drop Macklemore from his tour? Michael breaks down the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s “Free Palestine” remarks and the pressure from Kraft and other NFL owners. Was this a stand against hate speech, or did it cross the line into silencing political expression? Plus, Michael explains why the fallout may have only amplified the controversy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Has America’s era of global dominance come to an end? Michael contrasts two very different assessments of U.S. power—one arguing that the “American Age” is over, and another saying the shining city has dimmed but remains formidable. From Trump, NATO and immigration to energy, China and America’s standing abroad, Michael lays out the debate and hears from listeners across the country. Original air date 17 September 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 at Smerconish.com: Was the Boston Globe right to name the Clancy holdout juror? Yes or no? Michael examines the fallout after the Boston Globe identified the lone holdout juror in the Lindsay Clancy murder case, despite a judge’s decision to seal jurors’ names over safety concerns. What does the disclosure mean for juror privacy, future high-profile trials, and people’s willingness to serve? Plus, a revisit to yesterday's poll question on the growing debate over artificial intelligence regulation, including recent examples of AI misuse and troubling behavior by developing AI systems. And, a preview of tonigh...

Michael talks with political analyst Mark Halperin about the developing 2028 Democratic presidential field, including the potential contenders already positioning themselves for the race. Halperin updates us on his '8 for 2028' list with some surprising moves involving Bernie Sanders, Kamala Harris, and Gavin Newsom. Then, the conversation turns to artificial intelligence, regulation, China and whether AI could emerge as a defining political issue. Plus, listeners weigh in on the candidates, AI and what they want from the next president. Original air date 16 September 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and...

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Who should regulate artificial intelligence? As AI advances at breathtaking speed, the debate over who should set the guardrails is intensifying. Michael explores the choices: federal regulation, state-by-state rules, oversight by AI companies themselves, or no regulation at all. The discussion features arguments from former cyber czar Richard Clarke and Cato Institute policy expert Jennifer Huddleston, plus insight from former NATO Supreme Allied Commander James Stavridis’ case for federal oversight. From fears of deceptive AI behavior to concerns that regulation could stifle innovation, this episode examines the stakes behind one of technology’s most urge...

For 25 years, we’ve heard the people who fell from the Twin Towers on 9/11 described as “jumpers.” Former New York City death investigator Barbara Butcher tells Michael why that word is wrong—and why every victim who died that day was officially classified as a homicide. A powerful conversation about language, dignity, and how we remember those lost on September 11. Original air date 14 September 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 at Smerconish.com: Is the Democratic Party's future democratic socialism? Michael examines the ideological battle shaping the Democratic Party and introduces his new long-form YouTube series, Can We Agree? In the debut episode, Democratic centrist Congressman Tom Suozzi faces former Ohio State Senator and Bernie Sanders campaign co-chair Nina Turner over capitalism, democratic socialism, economic inequality, the social safety net, and what voters actually want from government. Michael shares a revealing exchange between the two and explains why he’s betting on substance, civility, and uninterrupted debate in an era dominated by sound bites and political food fi...

The people building artificial intelligence are sounding increasingly dire warnings about what it could become—but Michael says the bigger story is what AI is already being used to do. He digs into Anthropic’s latest report detailing real-world cases involving mass surveillance, autonomous weapons, cyber operations and biological research, and asks whether government and industry are moving fast enough to prevent disaster. Original air date 14 September 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 at Smerconish.com: Who really runs the American economy? Is it big tech, big banks and big oil or the millionaires on Main Street? Michael explores the surprising wealth and economic influence of America’s “Main Street millionaires,” inspired by Owen Zidar and Eric Zwick’s new book, "The Everywhere Millionaire." From car dealers and contractors to doctors, lawyers, restaurateurs and other owners of pass-through businesses, these entrepreneurs may be hiding in plain sight—and collectively wielding far more wealth than the Forbes 400. Are we paying too much attention to billionaire tech titans and Wall Street moguls while over...