The Weekend

While the spending bill aims to cut healthcare and food aid services, ICE is set to receive a historic boost in funding. Representative Robert Garcia joins The Weekend to warn how this increase can turn ICE into President Trump's “federal police force.” Plus, after weeks of condemning the bill, Elon Musk defies MAGA and announces a third political party.

President Donald Trump's tariff pause is set to expire in three days. Not only is the administration far from reaching its 90 deal target, but it has yet to finalize a single trade agreement. Rhode Island Rep. Gabe Amo and Jared Bernstein join The Weekend to discuss the impact President Trump's tariffs will have on the economy. Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO, also joins The Weekend to discuss the organization's cross-country bus tour, aimed at opposing White House priorities that they believe will hurt working Americans. And presidential historian Douglas Brinkley joins to discuss Trump's divisive rhetoric over this July 4th week and the state of our democracy.

Democrats slam President Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” and focus on a path forward to win back voters before the midterms. Former Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison joins The Weekend to discuss. Plus, the chilling effects of the Trump administration's military ban on transgender service members. U.S. Major Erica Vandal, one of the plaintiffs who challenged the executive order, joins The Weekend to talk about the impact of the ban.

Congress passed President Trump's budget bill despite weeks of concern raised by Republicans over the debt limit. A closer look suggests the megabill will add $3.3 trillion to the debt while cutting key services. "The Weekend" takes a deeper look at how that will impact low-income Americans. Then, Jodi Grant discusses the Trump administration's decision to withhold nearly $7 billion in school grants.

Critics are calling President Donald Trump's approach to immigration cruel after a new court filing by Kilmar Abrego Garcia's attorneys argued that during Garcia's time at the notorious CECOT prison in El Salvador he suffered psychological and physical torture. Also the first detainees have arrived at the Florida detention center dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz." Florida State Senator Shevrin Jones and Immigration Attorney Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg join The Weekend to discuss President Trump's immigration policy.

Some Republicans denounced President Trump's massive tax and spending bill, but eventually caved in and passed it. And now, Democrats are preparing to make this bill a key focus for the 2026 midterms. Minnesota Rep. Angie Craig, Arshi Siddiqui, and Eugene Craig join The Weekend to discuss.

President Donald Trump is feeling emboldened as he comes off a seismic win from this week's Supreme Court hearings and Congress moving forward with his One Big Beautiful Bill. So the question is, how do Democrats fight back as checks and balances on this president wither and die? Plus, Trump's effort to erode deportation due process. Rep. Pramila Jayapal joins The Weekend to share her thoughts on how the courts are enabling Trump's worst instincts on immigration.

Yesterday, President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris attended the funeral of Minnesota lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, following a targeted political attack. Political violence has been steadily rising across the country and party lines, with several incidents occurring in just the past two weeks. Joyce Vance and George Conway join The Weekend to examine this troubling pattern and explore what—and who—is missing from the national conversation. Later, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear weighs in on how proposed Medicaid cuts in the GOP's "Big Beautiful Bill," backed by President Trump, could affect hospitals across his state.

The U.S. Senate passed the first procedural vote on President Donald Trump's Big Beautiful Bill in a dramatic late-night vote. The vote was 51-49, with all Democrats voting no. Brendan Buck, Molly Jong-Fast, and Nicholas Wu join The Weekend to discuss what's next for the bill and what it means for Americans across the country. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia also joins The Weekend to discuss President Trump's insistence that U.S. strikes completely "obliterated," Iran's nuclear program despite widespread disputes over that claim.

Senate Republicans are scrambling to get their version of President Trump's “Big Beautiful Bill” ahead of the July 4th deadline. Former Senator Sherrod Brown joins The Weekend to share his take on the bill. Plus, Trump promised he'd deport the worst of the worst but new ICE data obtained by NBC shows almost half of undocumented immigrants in ICE custody lack criminal records.

Democratic New Yorkers went to the polls this week amid a heat wave and chose 33-year-old Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani as their mayoral candidate. The win has spawned meltdowns from both sides of the political aisle, but it raises an important question for Democrats. What does this upset mean for the future of the party? Then, Emergency Medicine Physician Dr. Dana Kass joins The Weekend to discuss Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s plan to walk back vaccine recommendations.

The U.S. Supreme Court handed  President Donald Trump a major victory, curbing court injunctions that halted his plans to end automatic birthright citizenship.  Michele Goodwin, Mark Joseph Stern, and NJ Attorney General Matt Platkin join The Weekend to discuss the SCOTUS ruling fallout. David Corn also joins The Weekend to discuss Senate Republicans' effort to get President Trump's massive agenda passed and get the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," to his desk by a self-imposed July 4th deadline. 

Vice President JD Vance attacked California's top Democrats during a visit to Los Angeles on Friday, accusing them of encouraging violent protesters, and even misnaming California Sen. Alex Padilla, calling him “Jose." made a whirlwind visit and left behind a political firestorm. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joins The Weekend to discuss the impact of the military's presence and the ICE raids being conducted throughout the city. California Congressman Ro Khanna also joins The Weekend to talk about how lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are working to limit Trump's authority to unilaterally involve the U.S. in the Middle-East conflict between Iran and Israel.

As the Trump Administration's immigration crackdown ramps up across the country, two of the Democratic officials ICE has targeted join "The Weekend." California Senator Alex Padilla reacts to the Vice President referring to him as "Jose' Padilla" – and NYC mayoral candidate Brad Lander recounts his recent arrest during an oversight visit at a New York City immigration court.

As the Middle-East conflict continues to escalate with missile strikes between Israel and Iran, President Donald Trump weighs U.S. military action against Iran, giving himself a timeline of two weeks to come to a decision. April Ryan and Alex Ward join The Weekend to discuss factors that may weigh in to the president's final decision. Ankush Khardori also joins The Weekend to discuss a federal judge's decision to release Pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil from federal custody.

It has been 10 years since Donald Trump announced his candidacy for President, but how do Americans feel today? Brand new NBC News Decision Desk polling gives insight into his current approval rating and the policies Americans care about the most. Plus, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries joins The Weekend to share his thoughts on the targeted political attacks in Minnesota, President Trump's policy agenda,  and the massive turnout for the nationwide “No Kings” protests.

A massive manhunt is underway in Minnesota for a murder suspect who targeted two Democratic state lawmakers and their spouses, killing two. New reports reveal the suspect had a kill list that included prominent pro-choice individuals and legislators. Minnesota Congresswoman Kelly Morrison, who was on that list, joins The Weekend to remember her friends and colleagues who were impacted by yesterday's horrible shooting.

President Donald Trump hosted a military parade on the Army's 250th anniversary, which happened to coincide with Trump's birthday, as massive crowds took to the streets to march against the Trump administration and to declare that America is no place for kings. The dramatic day also included a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a Minnesota state lawmaker and seriously injured another. Law enforcement called the shootings politically motivated. Reuters White House Correspondent Jeff Mason,  Retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Steve Anderson, Retired FBI agent Rob D'Amico, former CIA director John Brennan and former U.S. Attorney in Michigan, Barbara McQuade join The Weekend to discuss the dramatic events of the last 24 hours.

Critics are accusing President Donald Trump of assaulting America's democracy after he commandeered the National Guard and deployed Marines to California amid mostly peaceful protests against immigration raids. Democratic Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed from a cabinet member's press conference in his state of California and handcuffed after trying to ask a question. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History at New York University, joins The Weekend to discuss how similar actions played out in autocratic regimes throughout history.

Among the backdrop of Trump's military parade, thousands of "No Kings" protests are expected today -- two of the protest organizers slam Trump's threat of heavy force against protesters. Plus, there's growing concerns about the politicization of the U.S. military after uniformed soldiers cheered and booed in reaction to the President's political statements at a speech at Fort Bragg. Retired Army Lieutenant General Steff Twitty, Retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Rob D'Amico, and the WSJ's Nancy Youssef join The Weekend.

After a week of military escalation in Los Angeles, President Donald Trump prepares to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the U.S Army with a parade in Washington, D.C. Americans across the nation plan to counter this celebration with a “No Kings” protest. However, Trump warns that protesters in Washington “will be met with very heavy force”.  Representative Jamie Raskin joins The Weekend to discuss the importance of the nearly 2,000 protests that are scheduled today.

Preparations are underway for Donald Trump's military parade next week. It's billed as a celebration for the army's 250th anniversary, but as the tanks roll towards the nation's capital, thousands of veterans and their families rally in protest. Plus, Elon Musk joins Trump's ever-growing list of loyal friends turned foe. Trump's former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, joins The Weekend to share his take on the fallout.

President Donald Trump applied a rarely used law to deploy the National Guard as ICE protests erupted in Los Angeles. How was he able to bypass the governor, and how can this conflict escalate? Former Trump DHS official, Miles Taylor, breaks it down. Plus, Representative LaMonica McIver joins The Weekend ahead of her court appearance for charges of allegedly assaulting an officer during an ICE oversight visit in New Jersey.

President Donald Trump ordered 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles after clashes between protestors and immigration agents. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move saying "it will only escalate tensions. Max Boot and Anthony Coley join The Weekend to discuss the protests and the administration's response. 

President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's fallout is just the beginning. MSNBC political analyst Alexi McCammond and New York Times White House Correspondent Tyler Pager join The Weekend to look into the possible repercussions from the feud. Plus, presidents have used the autopen for decades, including Trump. But now, an investigation has been launched by Trump into former president Joe Biden's use of the pen, stating he used it to cover his “cognitive decline.” And, it's World Pride Day in Washington, DC.  As Americans join in on the celebration, the Trump administration is continuing its fight against LGBTQ+ communities. Laverne Cox joins The Weekend to share her thoughts.

President Donald Trump issued a flurry of executive actions this week, from a new travel ban to a renewed attack on President Biden. Could this be a distraction from his unpopular agenda? Additionally, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must restore AmeriCorps programs after DOGE slashed nearly $400M in grants. Three Democratic Attorneys General join The Weekend to discuss their recent legal win.

Elon Musk and President Donald Trump's relationship implodes publicly online in a very personal way. At the center of their dispute is President Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill," which Musk said was a "disgusting abomination." David Jolly and Yemisi Egbewole joins the Weekend to discuss what this could mean for the GOP in the midterms. Plus -- Kilmar Abrego Garcia's lawyer reacts to the federal charges filed against him.

Who are The Best People? They're the people who are the best at what they do and know how to bring out the best in others. On her new podcast, Nicolle Wallace speaks to the people who inspire her. As a mom. As an American. Or sometimes just as a super fan. In the first episode, she sits down with actor Jason Bateman. His show “Smartless,” which he co-hosts with Will Arnett and Sean Hayes, is the podcast that inspired her to do her own. On this special preview, Bateman shares his journey into podcasting and reflects on the political climate that gives him endless fodder for conversation. Search “The Best People with Nicolle Wallace” to listen to the full episode and to catch new episodes every Monday. Or sign up for MSNBC Premium on Apple Podcasts to get early access on Fridays. Signing up for Premium also includes ad-free listening and bonus content.

From Trump's promise of deporting millions falling short, to his sweeping tariffs not leading to economic prosperity, Trump's agenda is struggling. Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times, Peter Baker, joins The Weekend to share one area where Trump isn't struggling: cashing in on the presidency. Plus, all signs are pointing to a “blue wave.” The Democratic Party faces an uphill battle, but they are ready to push forward and win back Congress. Democratic strategist James Carville joins The Weekend to discuss Democrats' hope for the 2026 midterms.

The Trump agenda is facing pushback from all sides -- even from some Republican Senators -- on Trump's reconciliation bill and proposed budget. Rep. Brendan Boyle joins The Weekend to discuss the backlash and react to Sen. Joni Ernst's sarcastic apology for her comments on Medicaid cuts. Plus, deportation chaos. Rep. Yassamin Ansari joins The Weekend to share her recent surprise visit at an ICE detention center in Eloy, Arizona, where she described conditions as “sickening.” And the hosts showcase their spelling skills in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Scripps spelling bee

RFK Jr.'s recent “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) report required tweaks from the Trump administration after experts pointed out it cited studies that did not exist. Many are wondering: Was artificial intelligence used to create the report?  Plus, a dive into the influence big tech companies have on the rise of artificial intelligence in the workplace. A new report suggests that AI could slash half of entry-level white-collar jobs. Tech journalist Karen Hao joins The Weekend to discuss.

This week, Republican lawmakers held town halls where they faced jeers regarding the proposed budget cuts in the “big beautiful bill”. Representative Jasmine Crockett joins The Weekend to discuss. Plus, a look at Donald Trump's recent pardon and commutation recipients, which include popular reality TV stars, a former gang leader, and Republican politicians.

President Donald Trump continues to get a reality check from the judicial branch. Three major rulings this week halted tariffs, his attack on law firms, and the crackdown on Harvard University, but will he listen? Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield joins The Weekend to discuss. Plus, Harvard's bold message to the administration during its commencement ceremony.

Elon Musk officially leaves the Trump administration, but President Trump claims Musk is not really leaving. Eugene Robinson and Sam Stein join The Weekend to look back on Musk's time and DOGE's cuts since Trump took office. Plus, economic chaos. TACO or Trump Always Chickens Out is the new mantra on Wall Street as investors navigate the economic whiplash of Trump's global tariff chaos

The city of Chicago is currently under investigation by the DOJ for its "diversity" hiring practice. Mayor Brandon Johnson joins The Weekend to discuss the investigation and how the city plans to stand up to Trump. Rep. Joe Neguse also joins the show to express concerns over President Donald Trump's dinner for investors of his Trump Meme Coin.

Federal judges have now ordered the Trump administration to facilitate the return of wrongfully deported migrants, but they're continuing to disregard due process. Plus, six months after the 2024 election, Democrats finally show signs of fighting back. And, our friend and colleague Jonathan Capehart's new book “Yet Here I Am: Lessons from a Black Man's Search for Home” is officially out! He recounts stories from his life and finding his voice.

On Memorial Day weekend, Donald Trump addressed graduates at West Point with a campaign-style speech that celebrated his rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and signaled plans to expand the military's involvement in immigration enforcement. Plus, an analysis of the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which could add over $3 trillion to the deficit while slashing health care and food stamps. Then, Rev. Al Sharpton joins The Weekend to reflect on the fifth anniversary of George Floyd's murder.

Trump's ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill' passed in the House, but it's now facing an uphill battle in the Senate. Plus, Secretary of State and Acting National Security advisor Marco Rubio is facing backlash after he drastically scaled down the size of the National Security Council. Rep. Madeleine Dean of the House Foreign Affairs committee joins The Weekend to share her reaction.

President Donald Trump's ongoing battle with higher education is facing a dramatic escalation. Ankush Khardori joins The Weekend to discuss how a federal judge blocked the Trump administration's attempt to ban international students from enrolling at Harvard. Plus, no one is safe from Donald Trump weaponizing his Justice Department. The DOJ is opening investigations against Democrats and Trump's political rivals. And, Chasten Buttigieg, husband of former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, joins The Weekend to share his new children's book, “Papa's Coming Home”

President Donald Trump is under fire from critics who are accusing him of corruption after the president held a private dinner at his Golf club in Northern Virginia for crypto investors who bought into his meme coin. April Ryan and Daniel Koh join The Weekend to discuss how Trump is pushing the limits of the presidency like never seen before.

Donald Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” seeks to slash Medicaid and SNAP benefits, but it faces an uphill battle on Capitol Hill. Ultra-conservative House Republicans blocked it from seeing the House floor on Friday, and some Senate Republicans have already warned they won't accept the “megabill” without major changes. Former Governor John Kasich joins The Weekend to discuss. Plus, Trump accepts white South Africans into the U.S. despite mass deportation efforts.  

Attorney General Pam Bondi is facing criticism for what some see as her operating like President Donald Trump's personal attorney, despite pledging to be independent and vowing to never let politics factor into her decisions during her confirmation hearing. President Trump's tariffs and budget are causing alarm for many states,, forcing The House Budget Committee to try again to pass his "Big Beautiful Bill" after right wing Republicans helped sink it on Friday. Connecticut  Gov. Ned Lamont joins The Weekend to discuss the his concerns about the bill.