PoliticsNation

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Rev. Al Sharpton, MS NOW

Rev. Al Sharpton highlights political stories and issues requiring a national platform.

✂️ Clip this podcast
Game Day
#261406
Today at 1:21 AM

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses the intersection of sports and politics as President Trump prepares to host a UFC-style event on the White House South Lawn for Flag Day and his birthday. Sharpton also highlights New York City’s excitement following the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals victory, a championship that has united the city after decades without a title, while the FIFA World Cup brings fans from around the globe to the U.S. At the same time, the episode examines rising tensions overseas as the administration signals a possible breakthrough in negotiations relate...


DC Drama
#261306
Yesterday at 12:32 AM

On tonight’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines President Trump’s latest display of political spectacle as events tied to Flag Day and the president’s birthday unfold across Washington, D.C. From a UFC-style showdown planned for the White House South Lawn to public demonstrations near the Kennedy Center, Sharpton explores how Trump’s focus on image, dominance, and media attention continues to shape the national conversation. The episode also turns to the deeper issues overshadowing the weekend’s theatrics, including growing political division across the country and the ongoing conflict Trump claims he is close to e...


A House Divided
#263106
06/06/2026

On tonight’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the political battle unfolding on Capitol Hill as President Trump’s $700 billion immigration bill heads to the House after passing the Senate. With a House vote expected as early as Monday, Sharpton highlights growing fractures within the Republican Party, including recent GOP support for a War Powers resolution on Iran and additional aid to Ukraine despite White House opposition. The episode also explores Democratic efforts to regain control of Congress ahead of the midterm elections while raising concerns about renewed voter suppression tactics and attempts by MAGA Republicans to c...


Tensions Outside Delaney Hall ICE Detention Facility
#263105
05/31/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton covers breaking news from Newark, New Jersey, where tensions appear to be easing outside the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility after days of protests and clashes between demonstrators and police. Authorities announced that limited family visitations have resumed, with full visitation hours expected to return tomorrow as officials and activists work to calm unrest across Newark and surrounding communities. Meanwhile, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is calling for the facility's closure following an oversight visit with New Jersey House Democrats. Reverend Al examines every angle of the developing story wi...


Gone Fishing
#263005
05/30/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton is joined by Democratic kingmaker Congressman Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, who was celebrated at his 34th Annual World Famous Fish Fry after surviving a GOP gerrymandering effort that threatened to weaken his district and diminish his political influence in a move critics say was designed to benefit President Trump. The victory against Trump-backed redistricting efforts gave Democrats a boost heading into the weekend, while Clyburn’s South Carolina gathering also offered an early glimpse at several high-profile Democrats who could be eyeing a 2028 presidential run. To listen to the...


Another Un-hinged week
#262405
05/25/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton opens the week amid renewed concerns over political violence following another alarming incident near President Trump, a shooting outside the White House that left the suspected gunman dead and at least one person injured. Sharpton also examines the political fallout from soaring gas prices tied to Trump’s escalating conflict with Iran, as the president’s approval ratings continue to slide. But instead of focusing on domestic policy or easing voter frustrations, Trump is drawing attention to his controversial ballroom project and using the latest violence to defend its necessity despit...


Reparation Discrimination
#262305
05/23/2026

On Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton covers President Trump’s push for a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund to reward political allies, including January 6th participants—a plan so extreme some Republicans refused to support it. Sharpton contrasts this swift action with decades of stalled reparations efforts for African Americans, arguing that Republican resistance to Trump’s power comes too late and predicting increased demands for justice if Democrats return to power. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early acce...


Anger To Action
#261706
05/17/2026

On today’s episode of PoliticsNation, Rev. Al Sharpton examines how this week’s primary elections could become a major test of voter frustration following the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Louisiana v. Callais. The ruling effectively gutted the Voting Rights Act. As voters across several states head to the polls, the episode explores how Americans are evaluating both President Trump’s leadership and the Democratic opposition ahead of the 2026 midterms. Sharpton also highlights growing concerns among Black voters in Southern states where voting rights advocates warn of increasing threats to political representation and ballot access. Following a weekend of votin...


All Roads Lead South
#261605
05/16/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Rev. Al Sharpton opened with a live report from Selma, Alabama — one of the most historic centers of the Civil Rights Movement — where demonstrators gathered to protest Republican-led gerrymandering efforts unfolding across the South. Faith leaders, activists, and political organizers assembled in Selma, Montgomery, and other cities nationwide, warning against what they describe as attempts to roll back decades of Black political progress in order to preserve Republican control of Congress and support President Donald Trump’s political agenda. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sig...


New Reality
#261005
05/11/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton examines how the 2026 midterm landscape is rapidly shifting after major court rulings on voting rights and redistricting. For months, Democrats hoped President Trump’s declining poll numbers would help them regain control of Congress. But recent decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court and the Virginia Supreme Court have reshaped the political battlefield, potentially favoring Republicans ahead of November. Sharpton discusses how GOP-led states across the South and Midwest are moving quickly to redraw congressional maps, while Democrats face legal and political setbacks. The episode features Democratic lawmakers and candidates navi...


Gut Punch!
#260905
05/10/2026

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the escalating national battle over redistricting and voting rights as Republicans push new congressional maps ahead of the midterm elections. Following a Virginia Supreme Court decision striking down the state’s Democratic-favored voting map, lawmakers across the South and Midwest are advancing controversial redistricting efforts amid renewed debate over the Voting Rights Act and minority representation. The discussion highlights growing concerns over the future of Black and Brown voting districts in states like Tennessee, where new maps have sparked criticism over transparency and voter input. The episode also explores fo...


Aftermath
#260503
05/07/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton takes a closer look at a pivotal moment for Black voters as the Supreme Court’s ruling on Louisiana voting maps sparks legal challenges, accelerates redistricting efforts across the South, and raises new concerns about fair representation ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for...


Flash Point
#260414
05/02/2026

On a special “Flash Point” edition of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the sweeping implications of a historic Supreme Court ruling on Black congressional districts in Louisiana. The decision, issued by the conservative-led court, has intensified the national battle over voting rights by undermining key protections long associated with the Voting Rights Act and raising concerns about the future of majority-Black districts across the South. The ruling has already triggered political fallout, with Louisiana’s governor halting ongoing primaries to redraw congressional maps that could further shift the balance of power toward Republicans. Sharpton frames the moment as both a...


Deal Or No Deal
#260413
04/19/2026

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the confusion reigning in the Mideast as Iran claims it has reimposed its control over the Strait of Hormuz until the U.S. ends its blockade of Iranian ports. Reports indicate that vessels face fire from Iranian gunboats as they attempt to pass through the strait. A new Wall Street Journal report quotes U.S. officials stating that the military now plans to board ships in international waters if those vessels are linked to Iran. At the White House, President Trump refuses to answer questions about the strait but...


THE CAVALRY, PART II
#260412
04/13/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, you’re getting the latest on rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. President Trump is issuing new threats, saying he could “immediately” blockade ships in the Strait of Hormuz and target Iran’s civilian energy infrastructure if a deal to end the war isn’t reached. You’ll also hear about Vice President J.D. Vance returning to the U.S. after talks with Iranian negotiators fell apart Saturday. And while those negotiations were breaking down in Pakistan, Trump was in Miami attending a UFC fight. There’s more you need to know—growing...


The Cavalry
#260411
04/12/2026

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discussed his week hosting the National Action Network's Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention in New York. During the event, political leaders from all levels, as well as several prominent Democrats expected to run for president in 2028, shared their perspectives. The episode also featured remarks from several of these figures, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. All of these leaders expressed concern that American democracy is currently in peril and will likely face significant challenges...


Easter at War
#260405
04/05/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how, on a Christian holiday symbolizing renewal and hope, the United States finds itself amid escalating conflict. The day began with encouraging news—a reported miraculous overnight rescue of a missing U.S. airman from inside Iran. However, the hopeful tone shifted when President Trump took to social media, warning that Iranians would be “living in hell” if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened, as his 10-day ultimatum nears its end. A White House official confirmed to MSNBC that Tuesday night marks the president’s deadline for a deal. To...


Under Fire
#260404
04/05/2026

On today’s Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton breaks down rising tensions with Iran as President Trump warns time is running out on his 10-day ultimatum, threatening major consequences within 48 hours. As the U.S. military searches for a downed service member and reports emerge of additional aircraft losses, the human toll continues to climb. Back in Washington, Trump and Republicans push for a massive $1.5 trillion military funding request—amid deep cuts to social programs and growing economic strain for Americans, with midterm elections just months away. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads...


Trump Under Pressure
#260329
03/29/2026

Tonight, on Politics Nation with Rev. Al Sharpton: Tensions escalate in the Persian Gulf as thousands of additional U.S. combat troops deploy and Houthi rebels in Yemen launch strikes on Israel. With the Strait of Hormuz still closed, the global economic impact continues to intensify into the second month of conflict. Back in the U.S., more than 8 million people rally in “No Kings” protests opposing the war and the Trump agenda, putting pressure on lawmakers ahead of the midterms. Plus, a key special election in Florida boosts Democratic momentum—hear from the candidate flipping expectations in Trump’s backyard...


No Kings
#260328
03/28/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton takes listeners inside the explosive “No Kings” rallies unfolding across the United States and around the world. As demonstrators turn out in the midst of a war and a partial government shutdown, they are voicing deep frustrations with President Trump and policies critics argue resemble the actions of a monarch rather than a democratically elected leader. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select...


Triple Threat
#260322
03/22/2026

On Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton highlights a tense week as President Trump issues a series of high-stakes ultimatums—threatening military strikes on Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, escalating a broader conflict that could impact global energy and security. At home, Trump is also pressuring Democrats by threatening to send ICE agents into airports during a DHS shutdown, while insisting Congress pass his voting-focused SAVE America Act—despite resistance and ongoing debate on Capitol Hill. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also...


Mixed messages
#260321
03/21/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses President Trump’s conflicting statements on the war with Iran. While he claimed the U.S. was winding down, reports suggest Trump is considering sending troops, and the Pentagon is asking Congress for $200 billion for military preparations. Rev. Sharpton also remembers former FBI Director Robert Mueller, who passed away at 81 and was known for investigating Russia’s interference in the 2016 election. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content...


No Endgame
#260315
03/15/2026

Tonight on Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses President Trump’s war with Iran and the financial impacts on Black Americans. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


The Widening War
#260314
03/14/2026

On this episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses the growing death toll of the war with Iran as well as voting rights and the American economy. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


Conflicting Messages
#260308
03/08/2026

Rev. Al Sharpton discusses the live and legacy of his late mentor, Rev. Jesse Jackson following his public funeral service in Chicago. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


A Bridge at a Time
#260310
03/08/2026

Rev. Al Sharpton crosses the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, AL during the 61st Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee along with thousands of people in commemoration of Bloody Sunday. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


Looking Forward and Looking Back.
#260221
02/22/2026

Tonight’s episode of Politics Nation opens with a tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson, highlighting his legacy of cooperation and humanity. Later in the show, Reverend Al Sharpton addresses current tensions, including the president’s criticism of Supreme Court justices, threats of military action against Iran, and the ongoing government shutdown over immigration policy. The looming midterm election, shaped by these controversies, is also discussed, with the House’s top Democrat joining the show for further analysis. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll...


Deja Vu
#260214
02/16/2026

Today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the fact that the nation once again finds itself in the midst of a partial government shutdown—the second in just over a year since Donald Trump took office. This time, the gridlock centers on a single department, as Democrats continue to push for basic reforms to Homeland Security following public outrage over ICE’s violent tactics in Minnesota and other locations. However, the president and his Republican allies in Congress have, so far, shown no interest in pressuring DHS to scale back its actions. With Congress out of Washington for...


Shut-downs And Show-downs
#260214
02/16/2026

On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton covers the ongoing stalemate between the White House and Congressional Democrats over Homeland Security funding, which has resulted in a partial government shutdown. The impasse continues as the President and Republicans resist Democratic demands for ICE and Border Patrol reforms. Meanwhile, President Trump is also facing dissent within his own party regarding the release of the Epstein files. The latest controversy centers on a six-page Justice Department letter to congressional leaders, justifying redactions and listing every high-profile name in the files. The release is drawing criticism from Republicans who ar...


Game On
#260208
02/09/2026

Tonight, on 'Politics Nation', Reverend Al Sharpton opens the show just hours before Super Bowl 60 kicks off in San Francisco. While the big game looms, President Trump’s ongoing culture wars threaten to overshadow the festivities, with Bay Area officials raising concerns about potential ICE activity near the stadium. Conservatives remain fired up over the politics surrounding the halftime show and the Winter Olympics abroad, as the U.S. political climate heats up with the midterm elections now less than nine months away. New York Governor Kathy Hochul joins the program to discuss her re-election campaign, ICE enforcement in New Yo...


Mask Off
#260207
02/08/2026

On today’s episode of 'Politics Nation', host Rev. Al Sharpton delivers a forceful rebuke of a racist video shared this week by President Trump depicting former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. Rev. Sharpton condemns the post as vile, dehumanizing, and beneath the office of the presidency, noting that even members of Trump’s own party were compelled to denounce it. The episode examines the broader implications of the incident, particularly as it occurred during the opening days of Black History Month and amid ongoing efforts by the administration to diminish the contributions of African Amer...


Living History
#260201
02/04/2026

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how, on the first night of Black History Month, America faces a new challenge in protecting civil rights. Across the nation, we are seeing scenes reminiscent of the 1960s as thousands join mass demonstrations and sit-ins in response to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. In Georgia, our democracy is at risk after the FBI seized ballots and voter data from the 2020 election, raising concerns for the upcoming midterm elections. Recent special election results indicate that Trump and the Republicans may face significant backlash from voters worried about the country's...


Follow The Leader
#260131
02/01/2026

On tonight’s Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton and the House Democratic Leader discuss the ongoing government shutdown, tough House spending bill negotiations, frustration over heavily redacted Epstein files, and continued Minnesota protests after a judge allowed DHS operations to proceed. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


Breaking News in Minneapolis
#260125
01/26/2026

On today’s episode, Reverend Al Sharpton reports breaking news following a tense weekend in Minneapolis after the killing of 37-year-old VA nurse Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents on Saturday. Administration officials continue to blame Pretti for the deadly encounter, as Minnesota lawmakers announced their next legal moves earlier today. Joining the discussion are Minnesota Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty and Steve Simon, the Minnesota Secretary of State. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early ac...


Trump Versus the World
#260118
01/19/2026

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', Reverend Al Sharpton discusses preparing to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., feeling hopeful yet weary. He observes that in cities across the country, civil rights are being challenged by the Trump administration's crackdowns, with the Twin Cities currently representing the forefront of this conflict. The Washington Post reports that the president is contemplating sending up to 1,500 soldiers, according to anonymous defense officials. Minnesota has also placed its National Guard on standby following clashes in downtown Minneapolis over the weekend involving right-wing and anti-ICE protesters. Meanwhile, the Trump administration refuses to investigate the killing...


Fire and Ice
#260110
01/11/2026

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's mass deportations, which have sparked a political firestorm. The aggressive tactics used by Federal immigration forces have inflamed communities from Minneapolis to Portland. Attorney General Keith Ellison is joining us to comment on the death of Renee Nicole Good. She was shot three times in her car this week by an ICE agent, who the administration claims was acting in self-defense, before a full investigation has been conducted. More details will follow, including a video of the ICE agent involved. This is a story that is sadly...


Minnesota Not Nice
#251206
12/07/2025

On today's Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's recent targeting of Minnesota's Somali community. Residents say Minneapolis neighborhoods are unusually quiet as some fear federal crackdowns after Trump called the Somali population 'garbage' following a deadly shooting in Washington D-C, allegedly by an Afghan immigrant with no Somali ties. The White House appears uninterested in facts, focusing instead on justifying an attack on Americans' civil liberties. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access...


A Holiday Season On Edge
#251130
12/01/2025

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the lack of a seasonal pause from President Trump and his administration as they push an extreme agenda at home and abroad. The administration is making new claims about the deadly attack on National Guardsmen in the capital just before the holiday and is advocating for strict immigration restrictions targeting individuals from “third-world countries.” Additionally, the President's escalating tensions with Venezuela are raising concerns among some Republican lawmakers, who have questions for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding his role in the killings of crew members involved in alleged drug smug...


Pushing the Limits
#251129
11/30/2025

On Politics Nation, Rev. Sharpton discusses America’s holiday weekend and the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration and crime policies following a violent Washington D.C. shooting that killed one National Guard member. The president plans to halt all immigration from so-called third-world countries, despite uncertainties about the shooter's motives. Meanwhile, he's threatening military action against Venezuela after months of targeting drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific with little oversight. The nation feels tense as it enters the holiday season, uncertain about what’s next. To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign u...


War And Peace
#251123
11/26/2025

Tonight, on Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the self-described "President of Peace," who appears to be escalating tensions by giving Ukraine until Thanksgiving to accept his peace deal or risk proceeding alone against Russia. The White House is also ramping up efforts to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, with increased military actions and strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean. At home, President Trump faces defections from loyal MAGA supporters over the Epstein files, as public confidence in his economy wanes. Is he seeking distractions by sounding the war drums he promised to silence? We’ll address th...