Smerconish on CNN

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: CNN Podcasts

Michael Smerconish tackles the American political and news stories of the week, offering a unique non-ideological take: his own.

✂️ Clip this podcast
Decoding Election Dynamics: From Blue Waves to Political Strategy
Yesterday at 5:10 PM

Can Trump's era be ending, or is it just beginning a new chapter with stronger populist currents. Is history set to repeat itself this Tuesday? Join Michael Smerconish as he dives deep into political dynamics and election predictions with insights from expert Doug Sosnik.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Reflections of Unrest: What Europe's Protests Mean for America
10/24/2026

Are Europe's protests a glimpse into the future? Discover the parallels between European unrest and American politics with insights from experts like Jonah Goldberg and Clarissa Ward. Tune into the discussion with Michael Smerconish.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Legislation or Investigation: The Future of the Democratic Agenda
10/17/2026

Join Michael Smerconish as he delves into the key issues at stake in the upcoming midterm elections. Will Democrats prioritize investigations or legislative action if they win the House? Tune in for insights from Senator Manchin and Congresswoman Budzinski.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Impact of Isaias and Diesel Diplomacy: Navigating Complex Times
10/10/2026

As Election Day nears, the battle between principles and pockets heats up. Tune in to hear Larry Sabato's perspective on swing states and the Trump-Putin diesel deal.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Cornell Case: Legal Complexities and Social Implications
10/03/2026

Dive deep into the complexities of the Cornell case and NY's 'voluntary intoxication loophole.' Can changing the law redefine consent? Explore both sides in our latest discussion.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Choice and Consequence: The Education Dilemma
09/26/2026

Nikole Hannah-Jones reflects on the cost of her educational choices for her daughter. Does one family's decision have the power to change the system? We discuss this and more.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


AI Missteps: Nearing Conflict and Human Responsibility
09/19/2026

Michael Smerconish dives deep into the unsettling intersection of AI and international conflict. How can AI missteps almost spark wars? And what should we be truly worried about?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Looming Threat: Could AI End Humanity?
09/12/2026

"Could AI wipe out humanity?" Major figures sound the alarm over AI risks. Tune in as we unravel alarming insights from Anthropic insiders.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Data Center Dilemma: Politics, Public Opinion, and the AI Race
08/29/2026

Data centers are at the center of a heated political debate, but what does it mean for local communities? Dive into the conversation with Michael Smerconish as he unpacks the controversy, featuring perspectives from politicians, developers, and concerned citizens.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Debt Nation: From $10 Trillion to $40 Trillion - How Did We Get Here?
08/22/2026

We just hit a staggering $40 trillion in national debt, and why are some Democrats quitting? Dive into the latest discussion with experts about its causes and what lies ahead. Join the conversation and vote in today's poll at smirconish.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Special Bonus - Introducing: Civilian or Spy
Special Bonus - Introducing: Civilian or Spy episode artwork
08/16/2026

When a Russian-born American citizen named Ilya Beloozerov is gunned down by the FBI in 2024, the authorities refuse to say why they’d killed him. CNN’s Isabelle Chapman embarks on a sprawling investigation that takes her from the Mississippi parking lot where he died to Washington, D.C. to unravel the mystery: Why did Ilya abruptly leave his family and his job and head for the border with laptops and cash? Why is there still no official explanation of his death? And maybe most importantly: Was Ilya a spy? 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas...


The Dilemma of Justice: Luigi Mangione's Trial and American Healthcare
08/15/2026

Join the conversation with Michael Smerconish! From courtroom dramas to racial dynamics in the WNBA, this episode tackles the big issues head-on.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Democratic Socialism's Rise: Parallels with the Tea Party
08/08/2026

Is the Democratic Party shifting towards Democratic Socialism? Dive into the rising parallels with the Tea Party movement and explore the future of American politics.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Silent No More: The Dr. Fauci Saga
08/01/2026

Dr. Fauci's silence isn't the real story, it's a reflection of our political chaos. Dive deep into why real answers about COVID's origins are elusive and what's needed for transparency.

Also, can AI's personalization jeopardize our shared reality? Discover what experts have to say about the potential societal impact of hyper-personalization. A must-listen debate on today's show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Redefining the Political Map: South Carolina Takes the Lead
07/25/2026

Does the order of primaries really shape the future of elections? Dive into our latest discussion where political heavyweights debate the impact of South Carolina's primary lead.

Also, what's the future of independent candidates in Congress? Join us as we explore Joe Manchin's bold strategy to shift the balance of power in Washington

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Democratic Electability: Study History
07/18/2026

Do establishment democrats need to have A 'Sister Souljah moment' – when taking the on democratic socialist wing of the party? Smerconish discusses this with Bill Daley, former White House Chief of Staff under Obama. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Dividing Line: Democratic Socialists vs. Establishment Democrats
07/11/2026

Is being a Democratic socialist an asset or liability? Dive into today's explosive discussion with insider Tad Devine and uncover what this means for the Democrats in 2028.

From Senate races to the future of the Democratic Party, explore the heated dialogues dividing progressives and centrists.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


America at 250: Reflections and Realities
07/04/2026

Celebrate America's 250th with a fresh perspective! Dive into how the world sees us, straight from 36 countries, and the surprising truth visitors discover when they touch American soil. Let's embrace the wonders around us.

Global perceptions vs. local experiences – which tells the true story? Explore this Fourth of July narrative as survey data meets the voices of World Cup fans. Are we really who they thought? Let's find out.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Democratic Divide: Future of the Party
06/27/2026

Is the Democratic Party at a crossroads? Dive into the primary wins that could reshape its future.

Could your smartphone be the real reason behind the dropping birth rates? Discover how tech is influencing demographics.

"Kidnapping or hoax? The Nancy Guthrie case twists continue with new insider info. Join the discussion on the latest developments.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Navigating Uncertainty: The Iran Deal Debate
06/20/2026

Why Trump's Iran deal might be the worst possible outcome except for all the others. Tune in as we break down the complexities behind this controversial agreement with expert insights from Admiral James Stavridis and David Sanger.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Mingle Project: Restoring America's Common Experience
06/13/2026

"America, we've never been more connected, yet never more alone." Join me as we explore the growing societal disconnect and the mission to restore common experiences. Featuring insights from Robert Putnam, Scott Galloway & more. Let's bridge the divide. - MS

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Navigating Political Divides and War Power Resolutions
06/06/2026

Is the political landscape shifting from neighborly charm to privacy walls? Explore the symbolism of the disappearing white picket fence and what it says about today's America. Plus, dive into the controversial war resolutions in Congress with Smerconish and guests.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Democratic Dilemmas: Blind Spots and Controversies
05/30/2026

Breaking down the controversies this week with Michael Smerconish: From a provocative Nazi tattoo revelation to political drama at the Great American State Fair, and Trump's escalation issues in Iran. Dive into the nuances with us.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Reimagining American Primaries: A Call for Inclusivity
05/23/2026

Did you know 45% of US adults identify as Independents? Michael Smerconish tackles the growing trend of political independence and why the primary system might be due for a change. Find out more about his personal stake in the movement.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Power of Perception: Presidents and Public Opinion
05/16/2026

Curious about how strategic ambiguity plays out in international relations? Check out the latest insights from Michael Smerconish on the US-China-Iran dynamics and more.

From dissecting Trump's foreign policy to exploring the rise of lazy conspiracism, Michael Smerconish examines today's hot-button issues.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Taxing the Rich: Asset or Liability?
05/09/2026

Is 'Tax the Rich' an effective strategy or a liability for Democrats on a national scale? Dive into the debate with Councilman Frank Morano as we unpack New York City's newest tax policy. Take a deeper look at political implications on today's show.

Plus, exploring the legacy of Ted Turner: his monumental impact on media, and the struggles he faced with mental health. How do leaders thrive under pressure, and what can we learn from their stories?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Artificial Intelligence on Trial: Musk vs. Altman"
05/03/2026

Dive into the intense courtroom drama as Elon Musk and Sam Altman battle over the future of OpenAI. From explosive testimonies to AI ethics, this is a saga you can't miss. Who's your pick?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Iran's Nuclear Debate: Risks, Polls, and Political Divides
04/25/2026

From mentalism to monarchy, dive into a fascinating conversation on world affairs, the White House Correspondent's Dinner, and more.

Does the risk of Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon justify the military and economic costs? Senator Fetterman weighs in with a bold stance.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Trump's Executive Order and the Strait of Hormuz Tensions
04/18/2026

President Trump signs an executive order on groundbreaking treatments for mental health. Join us as we delve into how this could revolutionize care for PTSD and depression.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Madman Method: Understanding Trump's Decision-Making
04/11/2026

In our latest show, I dive into the depths of President Trump's decision-making process. Is it all madness, or is there method to the madness? Hear insights from leadership expert Jeffrey Sonnenfeld and much more. Tune in now.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Conflicted Paths: Navigating Global Politics and Local Faith
04/04/2026

Caught in the chaos of global politics? Tune in for a gripping analysis of US-Iran tensions and the unclear path forward. Unpack the complexities with Michael Smerconish in the latest broadcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Strategic Ambiguity or Bluff: The Geopolitical Chess Game
03/28/2026

As the Iran conflict enters week 4, global tensions rise with new fronts and troop movements. Is the unpredictability of tactics strategic ambiguity or chaos? Join the discussion with experts on foreign policy and the Middle East.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Balancing Global Power: Military Moves and Political Fallout
03/21/2026

Mixed messages in the war with Iran and a clash between US responses and potential outcomes. Deep dive with Admiral James Stavridis and Smerconish as we unravel the complexities behind military maneuvers and global politics. Tune in for insights.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Iran Conflict: Partisanship vs. National Interest
03/14/2026

How does the US strategy in Iran impact global security? Explore the ongoing conflict's challenges and the debate on partisanship in times of war.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Operation Epic Fury: The US-Iran Conflict Unfolds
03/07/2026

From U.S. military operations in the Middle East to the politics steering these actions, our latest episode dives deep into the intricate web of international diplomacy and conflict. Don't miss expert insights and exclusive analysis!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


At the Crossroads: Trump's Strategic Decisions on Iran
02/21/2026

What's President Trump's next move at the crossroads? Tune in to my latest analysis on his high-stakes decision between negotiation and conflict with Iran. Plus, a deep dive into the US military buildup and global reactions. Don't miss it!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


The Guthrie Kidnapping: Breaking News and Privacy Concerns
02/14/2026

Breaking down the role of technology in criminal investigations: Can it help solve the Nancy Guthrie case? Join us as we explore privacy concerns in today's tech-savvy world. Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Tell us what you think!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Unraveling the Abduction: The Search for Nancy Guthrie
02/07/2026

The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie, intensifies with mysterious notes, expert insights, and new leads. Dive into the latest developments and join the discussion on this gripping investigation.

The Super Bowl isn't just about touchdowns this year. Will Bad Bunny make a political statement during the halftime show? Vote on my poll and share your thoughts on this hot debate. Let's keep the game day spirit alive!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Legal Standards and Public Perception: A Double-Edged Sword
01/31/2026

How do we determine what's 'reasonable' in deadly force cases involving law enforcement? Dive into Michael Smerconish's in-depth discussion on current events and legal standards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Predictive Markets and Political Shifts: The Rise of Independents
01/17/2026

Michael discusses the potential future of predictive markets in political forecasting and their comparison to traditional polling. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices