The Smerconish Podcast

Rahm Emanuel joins Michael for a wide-ranging conversation on ethics, aging leadership, and the future of American politics. The former congressman, Chicago mayor, White House chief of staff, and U.S. ambassador argues for mandatory retirement at 75, sweeping ethics reform, and what he calls a much-needed “power wash” of Washington. Emanuel also weighs in on the economy, consumer confidence, healthcare costs, immigration enforcement, and whether there's a path forward for his brand of politics in today's Democratic Party. Original air date 29 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should there be a mandatory retirement age of 75 for the president, cabinet officials, members of Congress, and federal judges? Inspired by comments from former congressman, White House chief of staff, Chicago mayor, and ambassador Rahm Emanuel, Michael Smerconish digs into America's growing discomfort with aging leadership. With some of the oldest elected officials in U.S. history still wielding power, is it time for age limits — or should voters decide at the ballot box? Michael examines polling data, constitutional hurdles, existing retirement rules in other professions, and historical examples of extraordinary leadership later in life — all while previewing today's Smerconish.com poll question - listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish is joined by political journalist Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation about the growing cost of refusing to take sides in today's polarized America. From Trump's evolving response to the Minnesota ICE shooting to the backlash faced by journalists who insist on nuance, Halperin and Smerconish explore why centrism now draws fire from both the left and the right. They also dig into Trump's political instincts, Democratic 2028 contenders like Rahm Emanuel, Gavin Newsom, and Josh Shapiro, and whether the political middle can still survive in an era of outrage. Original air date 28 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael unpacks today's poll question: "Should it be unlawful to conceal carry at a demonstration?" In the wake of the fatal Minneapolis shooting this past weekend, he examines gun laws at protests, Second Amendment contradictions within the GOP, and what the Supreme Court's Heller decision actually allows. With states split on whether firearms are permitted at demonstrations, this episode explores where constitutional rights collide with public safety — and why this debate is suddenly front and center. Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael takes a careful look at the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, pushing past slogans and snap judgments to examine what the law actually requires. Analyzing video evidence, use-of-force standards, and the “reasonable officer” test, Michael explains why this case may be fundamentally different from similar recent incidents—and why at least one officer could face serious legal exposure. A conversation about policing, protests, guns, and the cost of abandoning nuance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when social media design meets the courtroom? As a landmark trial begins in Los Angeles, Michael breaks down the case that could hold Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube legally responsible for teen screen addiction. Drawing on polling data, psychological research, and product-liability law, Michael explains why he's voting “yes” on today's poll—and why this jury's decision could reshape Big Tech's future. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the 2024 presidential election were rerun today? Michael revisits a familiar—but newly relevant—poll question, weighing Kamala Harris's post-election momentum against Donald Trump's declining approval ratings and fiercely loyal base. With fresh polling data, swing-state context, and a look at why voters got it wrong before, Michael games out whether a rematch would really change the outcome—or deliver the same surprise all over again. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, joins Michael to tackle the biggest global questions of the moment: Will NATO survive the Trump era? Why Greenland has become a strategic flashpoint in the Arctic—and how climate change is reshaping global power. Stavridis breaks down the roles of China, Russia, Canada, and Europe, weighs in on Trump's fixation with Greenland, and explains why the Arctic may define the next geopolitical era. Plus, an unforgettable behind-the-scenes story involving President Obama, Queen Elizabeth, and a very well-timed martini. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Which matters more: gun rights or property rights? Michael Smerconish breaks down today's Smerconish.com poll question through the lens of a major Supreme Court case challenging Hawaii's concealed-carry law. As the justices weigh whether gun owners need permission to carry firearms onto private property open to the public, the debate raises fundamental questions about the Second Amendment, property rights, and where the burden should fall. Cast your vote and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One year into President Trump's second term, all eyes are on the 2026 midterm elections. Michael Smerconish is joined by David Wasserman, senior editor and elections analyst at the Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, to break down what the numbers really say about the fight for Congress. From shrinking battleground districts and independent voter drift to inflation, immigration, and the limits of a potential Democratic wave, Wasserman explains why 2026 may look very different from past midterms—and why even a modest seat shift could change everything. Original air date 20 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As global temperatures rise, Greenland is becoming one of the most strategically important places on Earth—but will President Trump ever acknowledge why? Michael Smerconish explores the growing geopolitical and military significance of the Arctic, featuring expert insights on national security, NATO, and climate science. Listen here, then vote on today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Will President Trump ever admit that “climate change” is fueling the strategic value of Greenland?" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation sparked by President Trump's remarks at Davos. They unpack Trump's controversial comments on Greenland, NATO, and military force — separating rhetoric from strategy — and examine why the Arctic is becoming a flashpoint amid climate change, Russian and Chinese aggression, and missile defense concerns. The discussion also covers Trump 2.0 at the one-year mark, polling realities, midterm implications, and the evolving political landscape at home and abroad. Original air date 21 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Will NATO survive Trump? That's today's Smerconish.com poll — and it's no longer hypothetical. As President Trump ramps up pressure on allies, flirts with territorial expansion, and reshapes U.S. foreign policy, Michael Smerconish explores whether the NATO alliance can endure Trump 2.0. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What do Americans still have in common? Michael sits down with Wall Street Journal entertainment reporter Ben Fritz to explore the rise and fall of the American monoculture. From 'I Love Lucy' and 'Seinfeld' to streaming algorithms and TikTok feeds, they unpack how infinite choice fractured shared experience, weakened social glue, and may even be deepening political and cultural divides. Is sports the last thing left that unites us—or is the monoculture gone for good? Original air date 20 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Kamala Harris politically toxic—or still a force Democrats can't ignore? Is Josh Shapiro the party's future—or a candidate defined by his past? Michael Smerconish unpacks today's Smerconish.com poll question and the growing divide between Democratic insiders and voters as the 2028 race begins to take shape. Listen here and then cast your ballot: Who is more likely to be the 2028 Democratic nominee? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Broadcasting live from the nation's largest Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service at Temple University, Michael Smerconish explores what's really driving America's political divide — and how we might begin to heal it. In a wide-ranging conversation on polarization, media, technology, loneliness, and the loss of common experience, Michael argues that the real problem isn't red vs. blue, but our failure to mingle. Joined by MLK Day of Service founder Todd Bernstein, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, the discussion focuses on civic engagement, volunteerism, political violence, and restoring shared purpose in American life. A powerful reminder that service, connection, and showing up for one another may be the most effective antidotes to division. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is mandatory national service the key to rebuilding civic unity—or an unacceptable infringement on personal freedom? In this episode, Michael explains the thinking behind the Smerconish.com poll question and makes the case for national service as a remedy for polarization, loneliness, and civic disengagement. Broadcasting on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Michael connects volunteerism, shared experience, and the “Mingle Project” to a larger argument about what America has lost—and how service might help restore it. Listen, vote, and rate/review/share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are GLP-1 weight loss drugs changing America—for better or worse? Michael explores the surprising ripple effects of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy with PwC consumer markets leader Ali Furman. From gyms and grocery stores to travel, fashion, alcohol, gambling, and wellness, this conversation looks beyond weight loss to how these drugs may be reshaping consumer behavior, the economy, and even compulsive habits. Callers weigh in with real-world experiences that challenge assumptions about fitness, motivation, and what a “healthier society” really means. Original air date 15 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is it possible to call Donald Trump a successful president—even if you oppose him? In this episode Michael breaks down the provocative daily poll question at Smerconish.com, which is asking you: "Is Trump a successful president if he keeps Gaza peace, resolves Russia/Ukraine war, reforms Venezuela, purchases Greenland, and enables Iran regime change?" Drawing on criticism from The Atlantic, current betting markets, approval ratings, and his own mixed reactions to Trump's style and substance, Michael challenges listeners to confront their assumptions and test the limits of Trump Derangement Syndrome. It's a thought experiment designed to push buttons—and spark debate. Listen, then rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael talks with Congressman Bryan Steil (R-WI), chairman of the House Administration Committee, about a bipartisan push to crack down on congressional stock trading. Steil explains why existing insider-trading laws fall short, how his proposed Stop Insider Trading Act would ban lawmakers from buying individual stocks, and whether the reform could restore public trust in Congress. The conversation dives into ethics, accountability, wealth disparities on Capitol Hill, and whether Washington is finally ready to police itself. Original air date 15 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As GLP-1 weight loss drugs surge in popularity, Michael asks a big question: will they make society healthier — or undermine exercise and long-term wellness? A thoughtful look at health, behavior, and the future of weight loss. Listen here, then vote on today's poll question at smerconish.com, and please rate and review this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Halperin is Editor in Chief at 2WAY, and host of Next Up with Mark Halperin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should the United States buy Greenland? Michael explains today's Smerconish.com poll question sparked by Senator John Fetterman's provocative comment suggesting the U.S. could purchase Greenland — just as it once bought Alaska and Louisiana. With global tensions rising and renewed focus on the Arctic, Michael explores the strategic, political, and historical arguments behind the idea, including insights from former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis. Why does Greenland matter now? What role do China, Russia, climate change, and military strategy play? And are Americans open to expanding U.S. territory in the 21st century? Listen and rate/review this podcast, and cast your vote at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new Gallup survey reveals a political reality the media has long ignored: independents are now the largest group in American politics. Michael Smerconish breaks down the data showing a record 45% of Americans reject both major parties. He explains why past Gallup headlines missed the real story, why this shift matters for elections and governance, and whether younger voters will stay independent or eventually choose sides. Plus, listener calls from across the country on what it really means to be politically independent in today's polarized climate. Original air date 13 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, a new redesign of American coins has sparked a familiar national debate. Should commemorative coins focus solely on the founding year of 1776—or reflect a broader, more inclusive version of American history? In this episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael unpacks today's Smerconish.com Daily Poll, explores the controversy surrounding the Semiquincentennial coin designs, and explains how decisions about history, symbolism, and memory end up in our spare change. Thoughtful, timely, and guaranteed to get you thinking—and voting at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the wake of Bob Weir's passing, Michael Smerconish reflects on discovering the Grateful Dead later in life—and what that journey revealed about music, ritual, and our deep human need to belong. From missed concerts and chance encounters to live shows as modern-day ceremonies, this episode explores how shared experiences create community, meaning, and common purpose in an increasingly fragmented world. Original air date 12 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear a landmark case on transgender athletes in public school sports, Michael Smerconish explains today's Smerconish.com Daily Poll Question: "Should transgender women and girls be allowed to compete on women's sports teams at public schools?" Drawing on recent legal history, personal experience, and past Supreme Court rulings, Michael explores the tension between inclusion and competitive fairness—why he strongly supports transgender rights in the workplace, yet reaches a different conclusion when it comes to sports. A thoughtful, nuanced discussion of one of the most contentious cultural and constitutional debates facing the country today. Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Happy hour used to be where careers were shaped, friendships were formed, and mentors emerged. Now, it's disappearing. In this episode, Michael explores a Wall Street Journal report on the decline of workplace happy hours—and what that loss means for young professionals, workplace culture, mental health, and social connection. From listener stories to generational insights, Smerconish makes the case that mingling isn't just fun—it's essential. Are we trading human connection for convenience, and at what cost? Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael takes a deep dive into the Minneapolis ICE shooting that has ignited fierce debate across media and politics. Instead of partisan talking points, he examines the case through the actual federal standards governing use of deadly force — including ICE, CBP, and DHS policy memos spanning more than a decade. Today's Smerconish.com poll question asks: "Did the ICE agent reasonably believe the woman in the SUV posed to him a significant threat of death or serious physical harm?" Michael walks through the video evidence, explains what “reasonable belief” legally means, and breaks down when — and when not — law enforcement is authorized to shoot at a moving vehicle. If you want less outrage and more clarity, this episode is essential listening. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis reignites the national debate over immigration enforcement and police use of force. Michael Smerconish examines the video, the law, and the rarely discussed federal policies governing when ICE agents may fire their weapons. Joined by former Boston police lieutenant and DHS advisor Dr. Thomas Nolan, Smerconish breaks down why this case may fail the legal standard—and how a local sheriff's race in Pennsylvania foreshadowed this exact moment. Original air date 8 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish unpacks today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Is there less chaos and more purpose in the decision making process of President Trump than is commonly portrayed in the media?" Drawing on insights from political analyst Mark Halperin, Michael explores whether what looks like disorder may actually be “controlled chaos" - weigh in at Smerconish.com after listening, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Donald Trump finally “doomed,” or is that a familiar storyline playing on repeat? Michael Smerconish sits down with political analyst Mark Halperin to examine why predictions of Trump's political collapse keep falling short. From foreign policy flashpoints like Greenland, Ukraine, and Venezuela to tariffs, media bias, and what Halperin calls “controlled chaos,” the conversation explores whether Trump's leadership style is reckless—or deliberately disruptive. A sharp, candid discussion about power, perception, and why Trump continues to dominate American politics, for better or worse. Original air date 7 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Five years after January 6, Michael Smerconish tackles a deeply uncomfortable question: should Americans feel any empathy for the defendants who say they believed they were defending the country? Drawing on a new New York Times report, expert analysis on political violence, and firsthand conversations with Trump attorneys, Michael explains today's Smerconish.com poll and examines whether intent, belief, and misinformation complicate moral judgment—without excusing violence. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Robert Pape is a professor of political science at the University of Chicago and director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats. He is a leading expert on political violence, terrorism, and democratic stability, and has conducted extensive research on the January 6 defendants.Michael van der Veen is a Philadelphia-based trial attorney who served as lead defense counsel for President Donald Trump during his second impeachment trial. He has also represented multiple defendants charged in connection with January 6.William J. Brennan is a veteran criminal defense attorney with decades of experience handling complex federal cases. He has represented several January 6 defendants and frequently speaks on issues of criminal justice and prosecutorial overreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As protests spread across Iran amid soaring inflation and economic collapse, President Trump warns that the U.S. could respond “very hard” if Iranian authorities use deadly force against demonstrators. In this episode of The Smerconish Podcast, Michael breaks down today's Smerconish.com poll question: If Iran uses force against protesters, should the United States respond militarily? Michael examines the moral case for intervention, the real-world risks of escalation, and whether non-military options—like sanctions, communications support, and exposure of regime abuses—offer a better path forward. With global tensions rising and America already stretched abroad, where should the line be drawn?

The United States has captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a dramatic, highly coordinated military operation—but what happens next? in this episode, Michael examines the stunning takedown of Maduro, now facing sweeping narco-terrorism charges in a New York courtroom, and asks the question few seem prepared to answer: Was there a real plan for the day after? Michael breaks down the indictment, the potential life sentence Maduro faces, and the extraordinary military precision behind the operation—while weighing sharply divided reactions from The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Thomas Friedman. He also explores concerns about U.S. overreach, regime change, and whether America is now responsible for Venezuela's future. With calls from listeners across the U.S. and beyond, this episode captures the uncertainty, debate, and historical echoes surrounding one of the boldest foreign policy moves in decades. A tactical success—perhaps. A strategic gamble? Almost certainly. Original air date 5 January 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish breaks down today's Smerconish.com poll question: Is the Minnesota fraud the exception or the norm? From a viral video alleging widespread daycare fraud to the trillions of dollars rushed out during the COVID pandemic, Michael adds context, skepticism, and historical perspective. He explains why Minnesota may not be a one-off, how speed overtook security in federal relief programs, and why enforcement efforts later fell short. A timely conversation about government oversight, viral outrage, and the real cost of pandemic spending. Listen here, then cast your ballot at Smerconish.com, and please rate and review this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why are fewer Americans volunteering—and why does it matter? Michael digs into new data showing a long-term decline in volunteerism, echoing warnings first raised by Robert Putnam in Bowling Alone. Joined by Wall Street Journal opinion editor Mary Julia Koch, Michael explores how civic engagement has shifted toward episodic, virtual, and performative activism—and what we've lost as a result. They discuss generational trends, loneliness, the rise of online substitutes for real connection, and why volunteering doesn't just help communities—it strengthens the people who do it. From tutoring students to mentoring veterans, listeners across the country share how showing up has changed their lives. In a fragmented, self-sorted society, volunteering may be one of the last true “mingle” experiences left. Original air date 4 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can you really trust your smartphone to cast a secure vote? Michael Smerconish talks with venture capitalist and political strategist Bradley Tusk about a groundbreaking experiment in mobile voting, launching in Anchorage, Alaska. As smartphones already manage our money, medical records, and identities, Tusk argues it's time they handle our ballots too. They dive into how phone-based voting works, the security safeguards behind it, the criticism from election experts, and whether increased convenience could boost turnout and weaken political extremism. Plus, callers weigh in on trust, tradition, and whether voting should remain a communal civic ritual—or move fully into the digital age. Original air date 20 November 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Trump announces plans for a new class of massive U.S. Navy warships—but are battleships the future or a relic of the past? Michael Smerconish speaks with retired four-star Admiral James Stavridis, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, about America's shrinking fleet, China's rapid naval expansion, and why concentrating power in giant ships may create dangerous vulnerabilities in the age of drones, missiles, cyber warfare, and submarines. Original air date 23 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the United States a Christian nation — and should it be? Michael breaks down Vice President JD Vance's explosive comments at Turning Point USA, sparking a national debate over faith, identity, and the Constitution. He also examines the very public conservative infighting between Ben Shapiro, Tucker Carlson, and Steve Bannon, raising questions about whether the movement's biggest gathering is a political asset or liability. Plus: why CBS spiked a 60 Minutes segment, what that says about media power, major political and cultural headlines shaping the moment, and a year-end reflection on what truly unites America. Vote in today's poll and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What can bear hunting in rural Pennsylvania teach us about American politics? Michael speaks with Washington Post columnist and bestselling author Salena Zito about her immersive reporting from a Pennsylvania bear camp — a place where Democrats, Republicans, and independents come together without arguing politics. Zito explains why most Americans are far less politically obsessed than social media suggests, how community and tradition shape voter behavior, and why Pennsylvania remains the most misunderstood — and decisive — state in national elections. A timely conversation about culture, unity, and the real lives behind the headlines. Original air date 22 December 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.