The Mark Thompson Show

CNN's well known conservative voice is calling for the U.S. to declare victory over Iran. Scott Jennings says it's the president's responsibility to explain to Americans how the war has been won. Meanwhile, money for the Iran war is still being spent and American warships are still deployed. Will Americans believe Trump if he claims victory or will it be perceived as another piece of propaganda in support of an unpopular war ahead of America's midterm elections. Guests today include former federal prosecutor and now defense attorney, David Katz. We will ask him about Congress blocking a proposed constitutional amendment to keep Supreme Court justices to nine. Comedian, impressionist and attorney J – L Cauvin will stop through to talk politics and tell us about his upcoming comedy tour.

Creating election chaos could pay off big-time for Trump. He doesn't need to win every legal battle over mail-in ballots, gerrymandering, election monitors or voter confusion, he only needs the mess itself. Confusion becomes the weapon.Confusion suppresses turnout. Uncertainty over voting procedures and information discourages participation. A smaller, more demoralized electorate works in his favor. We'll talk elections with presidential historian and host of Around the Political World. John Rothmann will join us in the first hour. Political analyst and author Jared Yates Sexton will stop through to talk politics. His brilliant insight on the issues will make you seek out his writing. He's that good. Find Jared at : https://www.jysexton.com/books https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/ Then, we are off to save the planet with amazing eco- journalist, Belinda Waymouth. She'll explain how a mining company fell to opposition from Native American tribes. The Mark Thompson Show 9/2/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Here comes the Trump billion dollar ballroom we didn't need. The Supreme Court is allowing Trump to move forward indefinitely with the construction of a new White House ballroom. In a 5–4 decision, the justices blocked lower-court rulings that would have halted work on the project's above-ground portion. Trump' tone deaf project, dripping with gold accents, comes ahead of the midterm elections - a time when issues of affordability are on the minds of voters. Pulitzer Prize winning author and investigative journalist David Cay Johnston stops through to talk about presidential powers, distractions and crimes. The Mark Thompson Show Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Health concerns about President Trump are growing after he joined Trey Gowdy for a bizarre conversation covering golf, the economy, and foreign policy. Trump's statements were so strange that critics questioned what was really going through his mind, including peculiar claims about Canada and an unusual plea asking voters to imagine him on the 2026 midterm ballots. Trump also claimed to have "largely taken care of inflation." We'll talk about it with a star studded Monday guest list including: Emmy award-winning news anchor David Shuster, Find David: https://davidshuster.substack.com Journalist Greg Palast New series: Jim Crow Reloaded. SaveYourVote.org The Mark Thompson Show 8/31/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Trump's latest trade-war power move is making waves. His new executive order officially renames Lake Ontario “Lake America.” The move is sparking fierce pushback from Canada, US governors, and Indigenous history advocates. Is this patriotic branding or political theater? Emmy award winning news anchor David Shuster returns to pilot the show. He'll look at "This Week in Politics" with Michael Shure and Mo Kelly, delve into the strange place that is the state of Florida and chat about movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder. Happy Friday!

More than 165 people are dead and as many as 1,500 are unaccounted for following catastrophic floods devastating towns and valleys along the Nepal-Tibet border. In Nepal's hardest-hit Rasuwa region, videos show the power of the floodwaters as they tore apart bridges and swept people away. Authorities believe the disaster was triggered by a landslide associated with a glacial event in the Himalayas, which sent a massive surge of water. Emmy award-winning news anchor David Shuster is sitting in for Mark today. He'll speak with former federal prosecutor and now defense attorney David Katz about the recent ruling on voting by mail and so much more.

Despite an embarrassing blunder during a recent debate, Darline Graham is advancing to the General Election in her South Carolina Senate Race, securing the party's nomination for the Senate seat previously held by her brother, Lindsey Graham. Darline is backed by Donald Trump, whose PAC dumped a lot of money into this race. She moves forward to face Democrat Annie Andrews in the general election. We'll talk about it with John Rothmann. He is a presidential historian and political analyst. He's also heard daily on his audio podcast ‘Around the Political World with John Rothmann.' The political conversation continues with political analyst and author, Jared Yates Sexton. Find more of Jared at Substack - https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/ “It's the Planet, Stupid!“ brings our amazing eco-journalist Belinda Waymouth to the show. It's worth staying to the very end to catch today's uplifting turtle story. The Mark Thompson Show 8/26/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Here's what happens when a racist, sexist jerk like Jesse Watters trieds to steamroll someone that can actually fight back with facts. Democratic Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed sat down with Watters for a heated debate covering gas prices, the Iran war, Sharia law, Colin Kaepernick, gender-affirming care, and more. They had an intense exchange on the issues shaping the 2026 election. We will put it to David Cay Johnston, our Pulitzer Prize, winning investigative journalist and best selling author. The Mark Thompson Show 8/25/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

A federal judge is putting a stop to the Trump administration's freeze on immigrant visas affecting applicants from 75 countries. U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that Secretary of State Marco Rubio exceeded his legal authority by ordering visa denials for applicants who had otherwise been found eligible to enter the United States. The policy, introduced in January, suspended immigrant visa issuance to nationals from countries the State Department considered at high risk of public-benefit dependency. The affected nations span regions including Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. It's a star studded guest line up today: Sarah Kendzior joins us. She is a best selling author and scholar. Find her on The Mark Thompson Show Mondays at noon Pacific/3pm Eastern, check sarahkendzior.com for a quick way to buy her books and find more of Sarah on Substack at: https://substack.com/@sarahkendzior Emmy award winning news anchor David Shuster joins the Monday line-up. Find more of David: https://substack.com/@davidshuster Skye Perryman, CEO of Democracy Forward, will wrap it up with an update on the battle to uphold the Constitution . https://democracyforward.org The Mark Thompson Show 8/24/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

The US-Iran conflict is at a dangerous standstill. President Donald Trump is threatening a sweeping new sanctions campaign against Iran and countries that continue doing business with it. We examine whether Washington's “economic D-Day” can force a breakthrough, whether Iran's sanctions-evasion networks and international alliances will undermine the strategy and whether Trump is making empty threats that may weaken the position of the United States. Mo Kelly and Yasmin Khan will join us for a look at 'This Week in Politics.' Friday Fabulous Florida highlights our weirdest state. The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will slide down his rainbow to share his thoughts on the latest movies and streaming options ahead of the weekend. Let's get this Friday started!

America doesn't have an Iran deal and gas prices are skyrocketing, but don't worry, at least we have a fancy new driveway and helicopter pad at the White House. President Construction Project is back at it with another way to spend money. Trump called reporters to the South Lawn for an impromptu tour of his new driveway replacement and a look at the progress on his new helipad. Trump also says the driveway is getting an upgrade with California-mined white granite that he says is more fitting for the White House. Standing near the carved granite helipad with the presidential seal, Trump presented the construction as a central part of his legacy. Speaking of goings on at the White House, we are learning more about the odd relationship between Trump and his aide Natalie Harp. Reports indicate that she once rode in the trunk when there weren't enough seats in Trump's vehicle so they wouldn't be separated...and that for more than a year, she refused to get a security clearance.

Progressive Democrats made a surprising splash in Florida's Senate primary as state Rep. Angie Nixon beat Alex Vindman, setting up a tough general election against GOP Sen. Ashley Moody and signaling possible left-wing momentum in President Trump's home state. We will look at election results from Alaska as well, where Democrats think they may have a road to the Senate.  In Wyoming, Megan Degenfelder becomes the 5th Trump-backed gubernatorial candidate to lose a primary this election cycle.  It seems that having Trump's support isn't the key to winning anymore. Guests today include John Rothmann.  He is the host of the podcast "Around the Political World with John Rothmann" and a former KGO Radio host.  Belinda Waymouth joins us to talk about the environment. Our favorite eco-journalist brings the latest on efforts to drill for oil off the coast of California, but you will leave the show feeling hopeful as she always packs positive stories about our world too. The Mark Thompson Show 8/19/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Donald Trump's political problems are getting harder to ignore — and his options overseas may be shrinking just as fast. A brand-new Reuters/Ipsos poll has Trump's approval at just 33 percent, the lowest of his presidency, with 64 percent disapproving and a remarkable 80 percent of Americans now expecting the Iran war to drag on. Meanwhile, Trump's promised quick resolution with Iran looks increasingly elusive: the negotiating period has expired without a deal, the Strait of Hormuz remains a dangerous sticking point, and Trump is escalating his rhetoric even as his practical choices for ending the conflict appear increasingly limited. We'll look at a president boxed in abroad, battered in the polls at home, and running out of room to maneuver on both fronts. Former CNN anchor Jim Acosta may be pulling a trick from Johnny Carson's Carnac the Magnificent when it comes to predictions. Acosta recently guessed that President Trump would check out of the White House early, before his term is up. Acosta cited trump's issues with cognitive decline, a disasterous job on affordability and the possibility that the Democrats could sweep the midterm elections as reasons for Trump's growing frustration. Acosta also said a major event could force Trump out, like if he is caught overtly trying to steal the midterm elections. Military analysts think a big catastrophe forcing Trump out might not be far off if he continues with his Iran plans. We will put it to our Pulitzer Prize winning author and investigative journalist David Cay Johnston. Find David Cay Johnston: https://substack.com/@davidcayjohnston https://www.dcreport.org/ Christian nationalists are gaining more of a foothold in America with Trump‘s Religious Liberty task force and the promotion of laws that would force public schools to display the 10 Commandments in classrooms. Congressman Jared Huffman will drop by to talk about his new book “No Prophets: The Fight to Save Democracy from Christian Nationalism. The book is being released today. Find it here: https://www.amazon.com/No-Prophets-Democracy-Christian-Nationalism/dp/1324130482 For more on Congressman, Jared Huffman, please check out his sub stack: https://repjaredhuffman.substack.com/ The Mark Thompson Show 8/18/26 Today's Guests Links Prof. David Cay Johnston at RIT, Pulitzer Prize winning Author & Investigative Journalist https://bsky.app/profile/davidcayjohnston.bsky.social Congressman Jared Huffman https://www.commonwealthclub.org/events/2026-08-18/congressman-jared-huffman-fight-save-democracy-christian-nationalism https://huffman.house.gov/ https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324130482 The Rundown- 0:00 Welcome 10:08 Iran and Korea 27:18 David Cay Johnston 1:04:07 Comments 1:05:58 Trump to step down 1:12:05 Congressman Jared Huffman 1:37:51 Comments Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/? The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff called out Trump's relationship with his much younger aide Natalie Harp.  We'll roll the video. With a spotlight on Trump's Iran War,  it is glaringly clear that there are critical vulnerabilities in his approach to military and defense strategies. Trump talks big, relying heavily on rhetoric and posturing, but defense analysts have identified significant gaps between public statements and strategic execution. In addition to the declining condition of the military under Trump's Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, Trump's military actions, including strikes on infrastructure, have often lacked long-term planning, leaving blind spots for after effects like disruptions to shipping lanes or unintended regional escalation.His reliance on precision munitions depleted critical inventory, compromising military readiness and leaving America more vulnerable.  Add to that the damage Trump has done to America's alliances. He has weekend coordination and information sharing. and damaged relationships that may now be beyond repair.We will look at how these weaknesses shape the standing of U.S. defense and what they mean for global security.Guests today include the brilliant Sarah Kendzior. She is a best selling author and a scholar. Her research on authoritarian states gives her a unique perspective on the current condition of America. Kelly Dietrich served as a Democratic strategist and is the founder & CEO of the National Democratic Training Committee. He joins to discuss recent primaries and how Democrats should move forward. The Mark Thompson Show 8/17/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/

How much would it take for you to go on Fox News and tell lie after lie day after day? We'll take a look at some surprising salaries. Sometimes when the lies get exposed to people that swallowed them whole, it can be very surprising. It appears Joe Rogan has had a bit of an awakening. President Trump wants the Navy to go back in time, ditching key technology aboard aircraft carriers in favor of older less efficient equipment. The changeover will cost big bucks. We'll look at the biggest stories of the week with political analysts Michael Shure and Mo Kelly. A little Friday levity comes in the form of Friday Fabulous Florida and the Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will stop by to talk movies. Happy Friday y'all!

President Trump took a swipe at the Secret Service as he claimed a military plane that secretly flew him out of Turkey last month was “at greater risk” of being targeted, while also insisting it was the Secret Service that made the call. He told reporters he only followed what agents and the military wanted, saying they had arranged an “equal safety” change.  When pressed, Trump suggested the aircraft he was put on would be more likely to be the one attackers might go after.On the election front, the progressive candidate in the Wisconsin governor's race fell to the more mainstream Democratic candidate. The My Pillow guy Mike Lindell was too crazy for Minnesota voters. Despite being endorsed by Trump, Lindell was defeated in his attempt to govern Minnesota. We'll examine the election results. Guests on the show today include  John Rothmann.  Our friend and former KGO host now hosts his own podcast "Around the Political World With John Rothmann"Author and political analyst Jared Yates Sexton will stop by to talk politics.  https://www.jysexton.com/booksSubstack - https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/Then, we save the planet with eco-journalist Belinda Waymouth.  She'll discuss jellyfish, hippos and exciting developments in battery storage with "It'is the Planet, Stupid!"The Mark Thompson Show 8/12/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

President Trump's latest executive order is aimed at overhauling the nation's childhood vaccination recommendations. He is directing federal agencies to cut the number of vaccines children receive and spread out their shots across more doctor ‘s appointments. Trump's new "gold standard" recommendations consist of only 11 core vaccinations against the most serious diseases, along with the MMR vaccine, which the president hopes will eventually be administered as separate shots rather than as a combined vaccine. Doctors are already speaking out against these changes, saying it means fewer children will be fully vaccinated. The Washington Post is reporting that President Trump had to be smuggled out of Turkey in a catering truck and onto a smaller airplane in an attempt to thwart threats against him. We'll discuss it all with Pulitzer Prize winning author and investigative journalist David Cay Johnston. The Trump administration‘s grifting, scandals and interesting pardon policies have us following the money. We get help in that regard from Dr. Bill Black. He is a law professor and the author of “The Best Way to Rob a Bank is to Own One.” The Mark Thompson Show 8/11/26 Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshow Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24 And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/ Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%

"The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Donald Trump's previous attempt to impose restrictions on birthright citizenship, but the President hasn't stopped trying to reinterpret the constitutional guarantee to advance his restrictive immigration agenda. In the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump signed two new executive orders on immigration—one that would exclude specific categories of U.S.-born children from getting automatic citizenship, and another that would authorize visa and entry restrictions for “birth tourism.” Guests today include: Best selling author Sarah Kendzior Author and legal expert June Carbone News anchor David Shuster

President Trump signs new executive orders aimed at narrowing birthright citizenship, citing an “unfortunate” Supreme Court decision blocking his earlier effort. The moves tighten existing limits and narrow exceptions, including rules tied to “alien enemies” and so-called birth tourism...but the Supreme Court already reaffirmed that the 14th Amendment grants citizenship to children born on U.S. soil. Is Trump trying to skirt the Constiution and the Supreme Court ruling? We'll discuss.Please help us grow The Mark Thompson Show. If you can click like, make sure you're subscribed and share the show with your social media contacts, it would be most appreciated. Let's get to 200k subscribers! It's going to be a great Friday Mark Thompson extravaganza.'This Week in Politics ' brings two favorites, Mo Kelly and Michael Shure, by the show to discuss everything from the war in Iran to Trump's freak out over word of US munitions shortages to Vice President Vance taking on some of Trump's meaner qualities. A litte swing by Florida will lighten the mood and then 'The Culture Blaster' Michael Snyder will carry in the joy with a look at all the new movies and streaming options to kick start your weekend. The Mark Thompson Show Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:   / themarkthompsonshow   Maybe you're more into PayPal. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted... And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.com The Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page. Please join! Here's the link:   / themarkthompsonshow   Show sponsors: coachellavalleycoffee.com - use code MarkT at check out to save 10% Have a great sponsor in mind? Email us at TheMarkThompsonShow@gmail.com #Trump #Iran #Birthright #SCOTUS #birthrightcitizenship #JDVance #Vance #Midterms #MitchMcConnell #politics #political #MichaelShure #MoKelly #MichaelSnyder #Movies #TheCultureBlaster #moviecritic #MovieReviews #Entertainment #Florida #FridayFabulousFlorida #FFF #gators

When Democrats can't agree on Democratic priorities, you know something is wrong. It was evident on Monday's installment of ‘The Weekly Show.' Host Jon Stewart questioned Pennsylvania's Democratic Senator John Fetterman about his threats to leave the Democratic Party because he feels there is insufficient support for Israel. To Fetterman's claim that Israel is his "red line," Stewart said "Israel is not our country." Today's guests include: Former federal prosecutor David Katz. We will ask him about Todd Blanche, the dropped reflecting pool cases and the possibility that the UK could open an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and what that might mean here in America. Author and political analyst Jared Yates Sexton. The political conversation continues with Jared Yates Sexton. His take on the issues of the day will leave you thinking long after the show is over. Find Jared at: https://www.jysexton.com Substack - https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/ “It's the Planet , Stupid!” with eco- journalist Belinda Waymouth. Belinda will share details about continued grant funding at the EPA, damage to the environment from wildfires and a new trend involving ‘do it yourself' solar projects.

President Trump issues a stark warning for Iran during an Oval Office signing event, declaring that this represents Iran's "last chance" to negotiate a deal with his administration. Is that just another back-and-forth or is time running out for Trump to end his war with Iran? Guests today include: David Cay Johnston is a regular Tuesday delight on The Mark Thompson Show. Johnston is a Pulitzer Prize winning author and investigative journalist. He is a professor at the Rochester Institute of technology and the founder of DC report. https://www.dcreport.org/ https://substack.com/@davidcayjohnston Christopher Armitage is an author whose work focuses on governance, institutional resilience and public policy systems. You can find him at Christopherarmitage.com or on his substack: https://cmarmitage.substack.com/

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. got some hard pushback from CNN anchor Dana Bash during a contentious 21-minute interview on “State of Union." Bash pressed him on his vaccine skepticism. The conversation turned heated as Bash challenged Kennedy's claims about COVID-19 vaccines and their impact on children, specifically asking whether he could point to credible research demonstrating that the vaccine “did more harm than good.” Guests today include: Trita Parsi. He is an expert on foreign policy, including Iran, and serves as the Executive Vice President of the Quincy Institute. https://www.tritaparsi.com https://tritaparsi.substack.com David Shuster is an Emmy award winning news anchor. You've seen him on MSNBC, Fox News, CNN, Current TV, The Young Turks and more. https://substack.com/@davidshuster On YouTube - Rebel HQ Rich Logis was deep into MAGA until 2022. It was January 6th, the botched handling of Covid and Uvalde that shook his faith. Now he runs a group for those leaving MAGA. His book is called "One Betrayal Too Many: Why I left MAGA. Find him on the web at leavingmaga.org

"President Donald Trump has a choice: allow changes to a controversial court settlement and secure the confirmation of his former personal lawyer as attorney general, or thumb his nose at a pair of his few remaining Republican critics in Congress." Michael Shure and Mo'Kelly will join us to discuss the top stories of the week. The Mark Thompson Show 7/31/26

"The approval rating marks a new low for Trump's presidency in the center's polling. A CNN survey conducted within the same period reported an approval rating of 34 percent for the president. Seventy-six percent of GOP respondents in the July survey approved of Trump's job performance, while 12 percent disapproved. The results are a notable difference from the university's June 24 poll, in which 85 percent of Republicans expressed confidence in the president." David Katz will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.

Sen. Lindsey Graham was eulogized by President Trump as a "true American original" and "beloved friend"at his funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., attended by many members of Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy."The Mark Thompson Show 7/29/26Today's Guests LinksJared Yates Sexton https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/  https://www.jysexton.com/Judith Kunisch Former Vice President of Medical Strategies at a Fortune 100 insurer, and Former director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Healthcare Leadership program at Yale University.Kunisch has served on boards for public and private organizations, including the Donaghue Medical Research Foundation and the Connecticut Partnership for Patient Safety, which she co-founded.Author of  "The Center of the Star - Understanding and Changing the US Healthcare System," Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

"President Trump's speech at a rally in Michigan Monday afternoon was interrupted by a persistent heckler. Someone kept yelling “pedophile protector” while Trump was extolling the benefits of his tariffs on foreign automakers. Others in the crowd eventually tried to drown him out, and when the protester stopped, the crowd cheered before breaking into a “USA” chant."David Cay Johnston will join to discuss the top stories. The Mark Thompson Show 7/28/26Today's Guests LinksProf. David Cay Johnston at RIT, Pulitzer Prize winning Author & Investigative Journalist  https://bsky.app/profile/davidcayjohnston.bsky.socialChristopher Berry - Nonhuman Rights Projecthttps://www.nonhumanrights.org/person/christopher-berry/Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT#News #Politics #TheMarkThompsonShow

"The Pentagon updated its official war casualty database over the weekend, adding more than 140 wounded service members. The Defense Casualty Analysis System (DCAS) also introduced a new casualty category labeled “Overseas Operations” for personnel killed and wounded “starting July 7”.According to the updated database, the official toll for the earlier phase of the US-Iran war, known as Operation Epic Fury, now stands at 14 service members killed and more than 400 wounded in action."Trita Parsi and Sarah Kendior will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.Follow Trita Parsi:https://x.com/tparsihttps://www.tritaparsi.com/https://tritaparsi.substack.com/Follow Sarah Kendzior, Author, scholar and journalist:http://www.sarahkendziorbooks.com/https://sarahkendzior.substack.com/The Mark Thompson Show 7/27/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

"Donald Trump will address a rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WCHA) dinner on Friday three months after the original event was abruptly halted after an armed assailant tried to storm it, with the alleged aim of assassinating him. The rearranged dinner has been condemned as “hypocritical” by retired journalists and press freedom groups, who are urging the association to use it to confront Trump over his administration's intensified attacks on the media." Mr. Mo'Kelly and Michael Snyder will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.

"Democrats have accused the US House of Representatives judiciary committee of a “baseless” and “vindictive” attack on former special prosecutor Jack Smith after it referred him for criminal prosecution for allegedly lying to Congress over his investigation into Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The committee chair, Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican, wrote to the acting US attorney general, Todd Blanche, on Wednesday night, asserting Smith “made willfully and intentionally false statements of material fact” during testimony about obtaining phone records of a number of Republican lawmakers."

"NEW YORK — New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said late Tuesday that the city would not be able to execute an arrest warrant issued by the world's top war-crimes court for Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu, but urged the federal government to do so.In the video Mamdani described the Israeli prime minister as a "war criminal" and said he is not welcome in New York City."The Mark Thompson Show 7/22/26Today's Guests LinksPatreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT#News #Politics #TheMarkThompsonShow

"Fox News host Laura Ingraham called on President Donald Trump to find a way out of the Iran war that he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu started in February.The U.S. bombed Iran for the 10th consecutive night on Monday after Iran strikes on Jordan killed two active-duty U.S. Army soldiers over the weekend. Another U.S. soldier was killed in Iraq while disposing of an Iranian drone. At least 17 U.S. soldiers have been killed since Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched the war in February.The conflict has intensified this month after a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran fell apart, leading Iran to re-close the vital Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. to reimpose its blockade of Iranian vessels in the Gulf of Oman."Mo'Kelly and David Cay Johnston will join to discuss the top stories. The Mark Thompson Show 7/21/26Today's Guests LinksProf. David Cay Johnston at RIT, Pulitzer Prize winning Author & Investigative Journalist  https://bsky.app/profile/davidcayjohnston.bsky.socialPatreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT#News #Politics #TheMarkThompsonShow

"Spain's national soccer team shared a photo of the team's celebration after winning the 2026 World Cup to social media on Sunday, July 19. Notably absent from the photo was United States president Donald Trump.As expected, Trump helped FIFA president Gianni Infantino present the World Cup trophy to Spain after La Roja won the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Argentina on Sunday.However, Trump lingered on the podium for part of Spain's celebration, despite Infantino's apparent efforts to usher him off the stage that had been set up in the middle of the pitch.""A Senate Democrat — for the second time in four days — criticized CBS's coverage of President Donald Trump's primetime speech on CBS's own air.Speaking with Margaret Brennan on CBS's Face the Nation Sunday, Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) called out network leadership for opting to air Trump's speech about election integrity — in which numerous fact checkers found the president made a bevy of false claims.“There are so many absurdities and falsehoods in Trump's Thursday night speech,” Warner said. “And I'm glad that most media treated it not as serious news — and I know some folks at your network, the journalists I have huge respect for. I was disappointed that your senior management made the decision to cover it as news.”"Mo'Kelly, Gary Dietrich, and Sarah Kendzior will join to discuss the top stories. Today's Guests LinksLooking for Sarah Kendzior's substack? https://sarahkendzior.substack.com/You can slso find links to Sarah's books at: https://sarahkendzior.com/The Mark Thompson Show 7/20/26Today's Guests LinksGary Dietrich, CBS TV & iHeart Radio Political Analyst https://twitter.com/garydietrichGary Dietrich's segment is sponsored by Bill Campbell at RE/MAX GOLD. If you're relocating in, to or from Northern California you need a highly respected real estate professional… like Bill Campbell of RE/MAX GOLD. Call or text Bill at (530) 448-7474… (530) 448-7474.Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

We examine President Trump's July 17, 2026, national address, including reactions to his remarks. "A White House teleprompter operator made more than $100,000 on Kalshi bets related to public speeches made by President Trump, two sources familiar with the matter told CBS News. The sources identified the federal employee as Gabriel Perez. A Kalshi spokesperson said the company investigated Perez's trading activity after its surveillance systems detected trades that didn't adhere to typical buying and selling patterns. Kalshi froze Perez's account, locking more than $90,000 in profits he made on the platform, the spokesperson confirmed." Mr. Mo'Kelly, Michael Shure, and Michael Snyder will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.

"Pete Hegseth wants a manly military. And he really, really wants you to know how badly he wants a manly military. In his 2024 book, The War on Warriors, Hegseth worried that the military risked becoming “effeminate, and apologetic”; he insisted that what liberals really want is “soft men, and a weak military,” and he scolded “Pentagon pussies” who refuse to stand up for soldiers on the battlefield. As secretary of defense, Hegseth has blocked the promotion of female military officers, removed the first woman to lead the Navy, and ordered a review of women's “effectiveness” in ground-combat roles. He has also used the Defense Department's social-media channels to post a steady stream of tougher-than-thou videos." Mr. Mo'Kelly and David Katz will join us to discuss the top stories of the week. The Mark Thompson Show 7/16/26

Todd Blanche is getting grilled today as he faces what could be the toughest test of his confirmation process to become Attorney General. Senators are expected to press him on the Justice Department's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, allegations of politically motivated prosecutions, his close ties to President Trump, and his support for a proposed $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund. With Republicans holding only a narrow advantage on the Senate Judiciary Committee, today's hearing is likely to produce sharp exchanges and revealing answers. We'll break down the biggest moments, what Blanche says under oath, and what it all means for the future of the Justice Department and the confirmation fight ahead. "Donald Trump has threatened to expand US strikes on Iran next week to target power plants and bridges if Tehran does not agree to a deal amid a continuing dispute over the strait of Hormuz.“Next week it gets really bad for them because next week comes the power plants. Next week comes the bridges,” the US president said in a Fox News interview on Tuesday. “We're going to knock out all their power plants. We're going to knock out all their bridges unless they get to the table and negotiate.”Trump made similar comments in March, when he threatened to “obliterate” Iran's power stations and fresh water plants if Tehran did not agree to peace terms “shortly”. Destroying civilian infrastructure such as power and water facilities would be illegal under international humanitarian law and would probably constitute a war crime."Michael Shure, John Rothmann, and Jared Yates Sexton will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.The Mark Thompson Show 7/15/26Today's Guests LinksDavid Ost https://thenewpress.org/books/red-pill-politics/Mike Musheiesh https://www.detroitaxle.com/Jared Yates Sexton https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/        https://www.jysexton.com/John Rothmann https://www.spreaker.com/show/around-the-political-world  https://www.youtube.com/@aroundthepoliticalworld_Jared Yates Sexton https://jaredyatessexton.substack.com/  https://www.jysexton.com/MichaelShure https://twitter.com/michaelshurePatreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT#News #Politics #TheMarkThompsonShow

"A federal judge on Monday imposed professional penalties against lawyers representing President Trump in a civil lawsuit he brought against the IRS and harshly criticized the Justice Department for its handling of the case, concluding that the suit was brought for an "improper purpose."In a scathing 56-page decision, U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams referred one of Mr. Trump's lawyers, Alejandro Brito, to the Florida Bar for potential disciplinary action. The judge limited the ability of a second lawyer, Daniel Epstein, to practice in the Southern District of Florida.""US military says latest strikes will ‘continue imposing a heavy cost on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack innocent civilians and commercial shipping' in strait of HormuzDonald Trump's announcement that the US will start charging ships for safe passage through the strait of Hormuz comes after his administration has until now insisted the waterway should remain open to all without tolls – as it was before the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February."Michael Shure and David Cay Johnston will join to discuss the top stories. The Mark Thompson Show 7/14/26Today's Guests LinksGary Lucks https://www.garylucks.com/Prof. David Cay Johnston at RIT, Pulitzer Prize winning Author & Investigative Journalist  https://bsky.app/profile/davidcayjohnston.bsky.socialProf. David Cay Johnston at RIT, Pulitzer Prize winning Author & Investigative Journalist  https://bsky.app/profile/davidcayjohnston.bsky.socialMichael Shure https://twitter.com/michaelshureThe Rundown-Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

"President Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States was reinstating a naval blockade on Iran and would be reimbursed 20% on all cargo shipped through the Strait of Hormuz after ​Tehran claimed it had closed the vital waterway."The Hormuz Strait is OPEN, and will remain OPEN, ‌with or without Iran. We are reinstating THE IRANIAN BLOCKADE," Trump said on Truth Social.""Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Sunday in his first public statement since he was hospitalized nearly a month ago that he was “briefly unconscious” after he suffered a fall.In the statement, accompanied by a photo of McConnell smiling in a hospital chair alongside his wife, Elaine Chao, he said doctors have not yet cleared him to return to the Senate floor to vote.“But rest assured that, in the meantime, I'm not taking a break from the Senate business that matters to you,” McConnell said. “I've also been keeping in touch with my Senate colleagues on the appropriations process, midterm politics, and everything in between.”McConnell, 84, said he has “submitted to every test” doctors can think of to figure out what prompted the fall and has moved from the hospital to a rehabilitation center where, he said, he will “keep regaining my strength.”"Michael Shure, Gary Dietrich, and Sarah Kendzior will join to discuss the top stories. Looking for Sarah Kendzior's substack? https://sarahkendzior.substack.com/You can slso find links to Sarah's books at: https://sarahkendzior.com/The Mark Thompson Show 7/13/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT#News #Politics #TheMarkThompsonShow

"An erratic and at times irascible Donald Trump has said he felt a “tremendous love” from western leaders at the Nato summit, only hours after lambasting them over their defence spending and not helping the US in attacking Iran." "President Donald Trump on Wednesday blundered his way through a briefing with reporters during a crunch summit of the NATO military alliance in Ankara, Turkey. While sitting alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president bragged about the U.S. military's ability to resist attacks from Iran, specifically an assault on the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln." Mr. Mo'Kelly and David Katz will join us to discuss the top stories of the week. The Mark Thompson Show 7/9/26

CNN's Scott Jennings claims to have recently spoke to Mitch McConnell on the phone while he's been in the hospital. Unfortunately, Republican cable news analysts aren't the most trustworthy people in the world so who knows how much of his claim is true...Michael Shure, John Rothmann, and Jared Yates Sexton will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.The Mark Thompson Show 7/8/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

A major controversy has erupted in Maine's U.S. Senate race after a 41-year-old woman publicly accused Senate candidate Graham Platner of sexually assaulting her five years ago. The allegation has thrown his campaign into turmoil, with numerous Democratic voices calling on him to withdraw from the race.Donald Trump pretty much admitted on Monday he meddled in the World Cup over a red card given to a USA team player during Wednesday's game against Bosnia-Herzegovina.According to the rules, Folarin Balogun should've been suspended for Monday's game against Belgium, but FIFA lifted the suspension on Sunday after Trump asked officials to review the call ― despite the lack of an official appeals process for appealing the penalty.David Cay Johnston and Mo Kelly will join us to discuss the top stories of the week.The Mark Thompson Show 7/7/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

On the 250th anniversary of American independence, hundreds of masked members of Patriot Front, a neo-fascist, white supremacist organization, marched through Washington DC. To the horror of many onlookers, the group gathered at Union Station carrying banners, including the Confederate flag, before marching toward Capitol Hill.The group was also spotted riding the DC Metro, drawing concerned reactions from other passengers. We'll explore what this reveals about extremism in America and whether it's inflamed by Trump and his MAGA movement. iHeart Political Analyst Gary Dietrich will stop by to talk politics. The conversation continues with author and scholar Sarah Kendzior. The Mark Thompson Show 7/3/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

There is a Presidential package option for the wealthy to watch Trump's fireworks extravaganza. The Kennedy Center is offering a $25,000 VIP fireworks experience for the Fourth of July display in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, the mishaps continue with a big chunk of the stage at the Great American Fair crashing down and narrowly missing a group of dancers. Is Trump cutting corners on this celebration? We are following the indictment of three-time U.S. Olympian David Hearn over alleged damage to the National Mall reflecting pool, and the questions surrounding President Trump's reported $1.4 billion in cryptocurrency income and what it could mean for his tax bill. Michael Shure and Mo Kelly will join us to discuss the top stories of the week. We will check in on our friends in Florida for some Friday Fabulous Florida craziness. The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will wrap it up with a look at the latest theater and streaming options for the weekend ahead.

Tucker Carlson is now openly talking about helping build a new third party after breaking with the GOP over Trump's war with Iran — a major sign of fracture inside the MAGA/right-wing coalition. Once one of Trump's loudest media allies and a key voice pushing JD Vance into the VP slot, Carlson now says the Republican Party has abandoned “America First” principles and become indistinguishable from Democrats on war and finance. His proposed third-party push could expose a deeper rebellion inside Trump's base — one driven by anger over foreign wars, immigration, and distrust of both major parties. Controversial continues to follow President Trump's new presidential aircraft. In his first flight aboard the Boeing 747 donated by the Qatari royal family, Trump has acquired what he calls a plane "nobody's ever seen anything like it." This $400 million jumbo jet was anything but free though it was gifted by Qatar's royal family. Taxpayer-funded military and communications upgrade costs could total $1 billion, in addition to the legal questions surrounding foreign gifts to government officials. Considering that Trump plans to take the plane with him when he leaves office and it makes for a thick jungle full of government ethics, presidential perks, and the use of taxpayer money. This unprecedented acquisition represents one of the most extravagant presidential decisions in U.S. history, and we're breaking down everything you need to know about it. Former federal prosecutor and now defense attorney, the brilliant David Katz will join us to give us his take on the most recent Supreme Court decisions and more.

New financial disclosures show President Donald Trump reported more than $2.2 billion in income during 2025, a dramatic increase from the roughly $600 million he reported the previous year. The filings indicate that much of the surge came from cryptocurrency ventures, digital tokens, licensing agreements, and other business interests that expanded after his return to the White House. The disclosures are already fueling renewed debate over presidential ethics, conflicts of interest, and whether a sitting president should be able to profit from private business ventures while serving in office.A federal judge is dealing the Pentagon another legal setback, blocking a policy that required journalists from The New York Times to be escorted by government officials while reporting inside the Pentagon. The ruling found the restriction likely infringed on press freedoms and underscored the constitutional role of an independent press in holding government accountable. We we welcome  presidential historian John Rothmann, host of the podcast ‘Around the Political World With John Rothmann' to talk politics. The conversation continues with the wonderful author Jared Yates Sexton.The Mark Thompson Show 7/1/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

In a major victory for Donald Trump, the Supreme Court cleared the way for the president to remove members of independent federal agencies, marking one of the most significant expansions of presidential authority in decades. The ruling allows the administration to move forward with the firings of officials at agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission, while broader legal challenges continue, and it signals that longstanding protections designed to insulate independent regulators from political pressure may no longer hold. It's a double whammy powerhouse kind of show as we welcome Pulitzer Ptize winning author and investigative journalist David Cay Johnston and amazing author and scholar Sarah Kendzior. The Mark Thompson Show Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

The Supreme Court handed Donald Trump another major legal setback, delivering rulings that pack significant consequences.Underwhelming. That seems to be the consensus of attendees of The Great American State Fair. It's President Trump's official 250th-anniversary celebration on the National Mall  going on through July. The fair was organized by Freedom 250, that's the Trump administration-created group that seemed formed to compete with the congressionally established America250 organization. Most states participated,  but Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania refused to send delegations, citing costs, scheduling conflicts, and politicization concerns. Other states left their booths unstaffed, with visitors finding empty displays at Hawaii and Alaska. From the sparse crowds to the half-empty booths, the fair highlights a fractured nation struggling to celebrate together. iHeart political analyst Gary Dietrich will stop by to talk politics. *programming note: Sarah Kendzior will be on the show Tuesday this week instead of her usual Monday.The Mark Thompson Show 6/29/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT

Here we go again. Ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is at a standstill again. The United Nations International Maritime Organization halted its plan to evacuate stranded ships after a British military report confirmed a vessel was struck by a projectile off the coast of Oman. The attack occurred just hours after Iran threatened ships using the UN-backed evacuation route without Tehran's permission. Iran's newly established Persian Gulf strait authority has now warned that any transit outside its designated routes will not receive safe passage guarantees. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting the Gulf to reassure American allies, emphasized Washington's commitment to keeping the strait open saying "If that stops, then we're going to have a problem.” We'll talk about the back and forth nature of the Iran War negotiations and the complications of Trump's attempted exit ramp out of this conflict. Michael Shure and Mo Kelly join for ‘This Week in Politics.' A little love for our Florida friends and a trip to the movies with The Culture Blaster Michael Snyder and we are ready for the weekend.

For years, the Trump family organization cultivated lucrative relationships with Persian Gulf allies, but according to recent reporting, his decision to wage war on Iran and his unpredictable leadership have severely damaged his standing in the region. Now, major business figures and government officials, once friendly with Trump, are feeling betrayed. .Analysts say regional leaders that actively tried to prevent the war are angry over Trump's decision-making. That includes Emirati business leaders and government officials that say Trump's war reversed years of strategic cooperation. We'll examine the growing rift between Trump and his once-loyal Gulf supporters. Corey Brettschneider is a political science professor at Brown University. He will join us to talk politics. Former federal prosecutor, now defense attorney, David Katz will stop by the show to look at big cases and recent court rulings.

In a stunning political move this week, President Donald Trump cancelled a planned ceremonial signing of a major bipartisan housing affordability bill at the Capitol. The bill, which passed both chambers of Congress by overwhelming margins, would have addressed critical housing affordability challenges facing Americans.Trump is using the bill as leverage to force lawmakers to pass his proposed "SAVE AMERICA ACT," which would implement a radical overhaul of voting procedures. In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared the housing news conference and signing cancelled "until such time as we pass the desperately needed SAVE AMERICA ACT, which I consider to be a National Emergency."There has also been a significant legal setback for the Trump administration's immigration enforcement agenda comes from the ruling of a federal judge. U.S. District Judge P. Casey Potts ruled that ICE agents can no longer conduct arrests at immigration courthouses across the country. Judge Pitts, a Biden appointee, vacated the Trump administration's policies that were implemented via executive order last year, determining that the Department of Justice failed to provide adequate legal justification for the enforcement tactics. He called them "arbitrary and capricious," and said the Trump administration did not properly consider how arresting noncitizens at courthouses would impact people pursuing lawful immigration status. We welcome John Rothmann - presidential historian and the host of ‘Around the Political World with John Rothmann' to the show to discuss this and the latest on negotiations to end Trump‘s Iran war.The conversation continues as we welcome author and political commentator Jared Yates Sexton to the showThe Mark Thompson Show 6/24/26Patreon subscribers are the backbone of the show! If you'd like to help, here's our Patreon Link:https://www.patreon.com/themarkthompsonshowMaybe you're more into PayPal.  https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PVBS3R7KJXV24And you'll find everything on our website: https://www.themarkthompsonshow.comThe Mark Thompson Show has an official new Facebook page.  Please join! Here's the link: https://m.facebook.com/TheMarkThompsonShow/Show sponsors:coachellavalleycoffee.com  - use code MarkT at check out to save 10%Suite 106 Bakery use code MarkT to save 15%Here's a special link:https://suite106bakery.com/discount/MARKT