Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Smerconish

We give you all the best dirt from a slew of upcoming Trump books. How General Milley feared a Trump coup and stopped the former President from unleashing the military on civil rights protestors, bombing Iran, launching nuclear weapons and much, much more. Plus, a conversation with Michael Smerconish.To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policyLearn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Barkley joins Michael Smerconish for a wide-ranging, unfiltered conversation about America's political divide, the WNBA and transgender athletes, Caitlin Clark, race and sexuality in sports, and the 2028 presidential field. Sir Charles also weighs in on AI's threat to American workers, the value of the trades, his own political independence — and why he thinks both parties are failing ordinary Americans. Original air date 24 August 2026. 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 joins Michael Smerconish to assess the escalating confrontation with Iran, why he says the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed, Trump's approach to North Korea, and the extraordinary 260-plus-day deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln. Then, listeners who served at sea share firsthand stories of long Navy deployments, life aboard submarines and aircraft carriers, and what it takes to endure months away from home. Original air date 18 August 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 reacts to Luigi Mangione's guilty plea in the killing of UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson — and to what he says was notably missing: remorse. He examines Mangione's courtroom statement, his lawyers' double-jeopardy strategy, and the continuing public anger toward America's health insurance system. Then, listeners weigh in on a provocative question: Do Mangione's grievances with the health care system mitigate his crime in any way? The answers leave Michael stunned. Original air date 08-17-26 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join the conversation with Michael Smerconish! From courtroom dramas to racial dynamics in the WNBA, this episode tackles the big issues head-on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump's move to reduce the number of universally recommended childhood vaccines has put parental choice back at the center of the vaccine debate. Michael Smerconish asks where parental rights end when a child's health is at stake, and whether people's views on who should decide have changed along with the politics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNN's Michael Smerconish moderated a panel at the Promise of Democracy 250th Summit recently. It focused on how the country can overcome the widening divisions shaping American public life, and the cultural and community tensions that have resulted. 

Michael Cohen sits down with CNN political commentator and SiriusXM host Michael Smerconish for a candid conversation about Donald Trump, political lawfare and the growing concerns surrounding the use of America's justice system against political opponents.

Michael Smerconish talks with New York Times White House correspondents Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan about their book "Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump." Drawing on more than 1,000 interviews, they examine how Trump returned to the White House better prepared, more powerful and more willing to test the limits of presidential authority—and what makes his second term so different from his first. Original air date 27 July 2027. The book was published on 23 June 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 speaks with Princeton historian Dr. Julian Zelizer about "Burning Down the House: Newt Gingrich, the Fall of a Speaker, and the Rise of the New Republican Party." Zelizer explores how Gingrich used confrontation, cable television, and talk radio to transform Republican politics—and help set the stage for the Trump era. They also discuss Gingrich's rapid rise in Washington, his political and personal controversies, and the lasting impact of his no-holds-barred approach to partisan combat. Original air date 24 July 2020. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which is worse, continuing the war with Iran or cutting off the funding for it? Michael Smerconish examines one of the most difficult questions facing the United States: is the greater danger continuing the war with Iran, or ending congressional funding while American forces are already committed? He explores constitutional questions over presidential war powers, the lack of a clearly defined endgame, the risks of regional escalation, and the consequences of withdrawing support mid-conflict. Along the way, he also discusses new intelligence on Iran's nuclear program, the Trump administration's civilian nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia, and why both developments raise profound strategic questions for America's future in the Middle East. Listen here, and be sure to 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.

Did New Jersey just give President Trump a powerful new argument on election integrity? Michael Smerconish and Mark Halperin debate the facts, the politics and the future of the SAVE Act before turning to the increasingly unpredictable 2026 midterms. Plus: the political danger of the Iran war, JD Vance's comments about Israel, Susan Collins' fight for survival, and the clues suggesting Mark Kelly may be positioning himself for a 2028 presidential campaign. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Our friend Anonymous starts us off today with a reminder about communist/authoritarian propaganda and equates the TV networks' refusal to cover the President's speech last week to an insidious form of message control. Indeed - people cannot unite around a message they never receive. Even CNN's Michael Smerconish is slamming his own company for silencing Trump's message about China stealing the identities of 220 million Americans. Which reporters/anchors was the CCP paying to present negative stories about Trump? Don't miss hour 3 for the answer.  

What if everything Americans believe about youth sports is backwards? Michael Smerconish talks with Wall Street Journal columnist Ben Cohen about Norway's remarkably successful approach to developing young athletes—a system built on fun, participation, delayed specialization, and minimal parental pressure. Inspired by the hometown of soccer superstar Erling Haaland, they explore why Norway is producing elite talent while keeping kids engaged, and whether America's billion-dollar youth sports culture has lost its way. Michael also reflects on why he's changed his own views about participation trophies, competition, and what youth sports should really be about. Original air date 13 July 2026. 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 joins Michael Smerconish to unpack another whirlwind week in politics—from President Trump's shifting Iran strategy and foreign policy reversals to the political fallout from a fatal ICE operation in Maine. They also reflect on the legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, assess Susan Collins' reelection prospects, and examine how the Democrats' search for a new Senate candidate could reshape one of 2026's biggest races. Original air date 15 July 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 reflects on the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, examining the contradictions that defined his career—from bipartisan dealmaker and military veteran to outspoken Trump ally. Was Graham a principled pragmatist, an opportunist, or something more complicated? Michael explores how history should remember one of Washington's most polarizing political figures before opening the phones for a thoughtful and spirited conversation with listeners. Original air date 13 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tad Devine, chief strategist for Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign, joins Michael Smerconish to discuss his book, "How the Democrats Screwed Bernie." Devine argues that the Democratic establishment tilted the primary process against Sanders, examines the role of superdelegates and party leadership, and explains why he believes Bernie could have defeated Donald Trump. It's a candid conversation about the Democratic Party's past, present, and the lessons it must learn before the next presidential race. Original air date 13 July 2026. The book was published on 7 July 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 sits down with veteran pollster Douglas Schoen and political strategist Carly Cooperman to discuss their book, "America: Unite or Die: How to Save Our Democracy." They examine the growing political polarization threatening America's democratic institutions, debate the responsibilities of both the left and the right, and outline practical reforms—including ranked-choice voting, redistricting changes, and empowering political moderates—that they believe can help restore trust, compromise, and national unity. Original air date 25 October 2021. The book was published on 2 November 2021. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should President Trump have called FIFA to review the suspension of Flo Balogun? Michael Smerconish explains why one controversial World Cup decision has become a much larger debate about politics, sports, and presidential influence. After Team USA's Flo Balogun had his suspension overturned following President Trump's appeal to FIFA, Michael weighs whether the original red card was unjust—and whether a president should ever intervene in an international sporting decision, even for the right outcome. He also reflects on his newfound appreciation for soccer, the World Cup's global appeal, and why this controversy has sparked such a passionate response from fans around the world. Listen here, and 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.

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, Michael Smerconish sits down with Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and David McCormick for a rare bipartisan conversation overlooking Independence Hall in Philadelphia. The Democratic and Republican senators discuss patriotism, political polarization, their unlikely friendship, working across party lines, and why civility still matters in American politics. Then, Michael opens the phones to hear listeners' reactions to one of the most uplifting political conversations in recent memory. Original air date 2 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should a candidate's mental illness be judged the same as a physical illness? Congressman Tom Kean Jr. returns to Capitol Hill after months away and reveals he was hospitalized for depression, reigniting a national conversation about mental health, stigma, transparency, and public service. Michael Smerconish examines the powerful disclosure, the sharply divided reactions—including criticism from Rep. Lauren Boebert—and whether Americans truly treat mental illness the same way they treat physical illness. He also explores the legitimate questions about accountability after more than 100 missed House votes, asking where compassion ends, public responsibility begins, and how voters should weigh both. Listen here, then cast YOUR Vote on the poll question, and be sure to 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.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you agree with the Supreme Court that ballots postmarked by Election Day should count, even if they arrive later? In the wake of a landmark Supreme Court ruling, Michael Smerconish examines what the decision means for future elections, state authority, and public confidence in the voting process. While he disagrees with the policy outcome, he argues the Court reached the correct constitutional result by allowing states to determine how they administer mail ballots. Michael also breaks down the Court's other major decisions affecting executive power, looks ahead to the next wave of election cases—including proof-of-citizenship requirements—and explains why these rulings could shape both the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential election. 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 welcomes former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, the fragile ceasefire, President Trump's Middle East strategy, and America's standing in the world ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. Then, Michael turns to listeners with a provocative question: if preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon costs the average American household $1,000, would it be worth paying? The responses reveal just how divided Americans remain on war, diplomacy, and national security. Original air date 30 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doug Sosnik, former senior adviser to President Bill Clinton, joins Michael Smerconish to deliver what he calls the "real Democratic autopsy." Sosnik argues that Democrats lost the 2024 election long before Joe Biden's debate performance or Kamala Harris's 107-day campaign. He identifies three key factors—the decision for Biden to seek a second term, early immigration policy choices, and the party's misreading of the 2022 midterms—and explains what Democrats must learn before 2028. Original air date 17 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Will democratic socialism be the future of the Democratic Party? New polling data reveals a dramatic shift inside the Democratic Party: favorable views of socialism have surged while support for capitalism has declined. Michael Smerconish examines the numbers highlighted by CNN's Harry Enten, the growing influence of Democratic Socialists of America candidates, and the political rise of figures including Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Zohran Mamdani. Is this a temporary moment driven by activist energy and primary voters, or evidence of a lasting ideological realignment? Michael explores what the trend means for Democrats heading into future elections and asks listeners to make a prediction—not a value judgment—about where the party is headed next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Agree or Disagree: An athlete's choice to accept or reject a White House invitation shouldn't be judged. The New York Knicks' decision to accept a White House invitation from President Trump has reignited a long-running debate about sports, politics, and tradition. Michael Smerconish explores how White House visits evolved from largely nonpartisan championship celebrations into cultural flashpoints, tracing examples from Larry Bird and Michael Jordan to Steph Curry, the Eagles, and Saquon Barkley. Should athletes be free to attend—or decline—without public scrutiny? And what does it say about America when even a ceremonial visit becomes a political statement? Listen here, then vote, and be sure to 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.

In this archived conversation, Michael Smerconish sits down with renowned pediatric neurosurgeon and bestselling author Dr. Ben Carson to discuss his 2014 book "One Nation: What We Can All Do to Save America's Future". Carson reflects on his upbringing in Detroit, the influence of his mother, the power of education and reading, and his views on the American Dream. The discussion also explores government, fiscal policy, political polarization, higher education, and the major headlines of the day—including the Bowe Bergdahl prisoner exchange. A candid look at the ideas that helped make One Nation a national bestseller. Original air date 4 June 2014. The book was published on 20 May 2014. 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 sits down with Pew Research Center's Jocelyn Kiley to discuss the organization's newly released political typology, which divides Americans into nine distinct political groups. With nearly half of Americans now identifying as independents, what does the data reveal about the country's evolving political identity? Kiley explains how Pew's research goes beyond traditional Democrat-versus-Republican labels, why polarization continues to grow, and what these new political tribes tell us about the future of American politics. Plus, Michael shares his own surprising results from Pew's political quiz. Original air date 16 June 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 talks with Mark Halperin about the controversy surrounding Scott Pelley's exit from CBS News, questions of media bias at 60 Minutes, and President Trump's evolving strategy toward Iran. A timely discussion on journalism, politics, and international tensions. Original air date 10 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Does Congress limiting Trump's Iran war powers benefit the US or Iran? Michael Smerconish examines the House vote to limit President Trump's authority to continue military hostilities against Iran without explicit congressional approval. With four Republicans joining Democrats, the debate revives longstanding questions about the War Powers Act, presidential authority, and Congress's constitutional role in matters of war. Smerconish argues that while concerns about the administration's rationale for entering the conflict remain valid, the timing of the vote may send an unintended signal to Tehran. As the fragile ceasefire holds, costs mount, and political pressure grows at home, is Congress protecting constitutional balance—or giving Iran exactly what it wants: more time? Listen...ponder...vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mea Culpa welcomes back Michael Smerconish, the host of the TV program on CNN fittingly called "Smerconish." He is also the host of The Michael Smerconish Program on SiriusXM. He's been nationally syndicated in more than 100 markets and has authored seven books: two New York Times best sellers, and his novel TALK! was optioned for television by Warner Brothers. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Smerconish was about to embark on a new tour called "Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Talking," a one-man show commemorating his 30th anniversary in talk radio. A taped version of that presentation was aired worldwide as a one-hour CNN special in 2020. Nowadays he is focused on pointing out the foibles of the MAGA mob while trying to find a middle ground in our divisive nation; hoping somehow that this nation can find a way to come back together before the 250th Anniversary of this nation. 

Michael Cohen joins Michael Smerconish for a candid conversation about political tribalism, ideological purity tests, and what happens when independent thinkers refuse to stay in line. Cohen discusses his split with former allies on the left, why he says he was "canceled" for challenging anti-Trump narratives, and his reaction to ongoing questions about Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He also reveals that, despite years of conflict, he still seeks closure with the former president. A wide-ranging discussion about loyalty, truth, and the growing pressure to choose sides in American politics. Original air date 1 June 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 is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin to unpack Ken Paxton's decisive Texas primary victory, what it means for the 2026 Senate landscape, and whether Democrats truly have a shot at a statewide breakthrough. They also discuss President Trump's calculus in backing Paxton, the challenges facing Democrat James Talarico, and the growing uncertainty surrounding U.S.-Iran relations. Original air date 29 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which song best defines America? On this Memorial Day edition, Michael Smerconish explores a deeply personal and surprisingly revealing question inspired by President Obama's latest reflections on music and national identity: which song best captures the American experience? From “This Land Is Your Land” and “We Shall Overcome” to “Fortunate Son,” “What's Going On,” and “The Message,” Obama's selections highlight protest, struggle, and social change. But Michael makes the case for a different classic altogether — Frank Sinatra's “The House I Live In” — and uncovers the extraordinary backstory behind the song and its writers. A thoughtful conversation about patriotism, music, memory, and what binds Americans together. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to 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 Smerconish welcomes Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest political flashpoints: the controversy surrounding potential compensation for January 6 defendants, growing Republican resistance to Donald Trump, tensions with Iran, and Trump's public feud with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. Halperin explains why some GOP lawmakers may finally be willing to push back — and what it could mean heading into the midterms. Plus, Michael reflects on the legacy and final political warnings of the late Barney Frank. Original air date 21 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: When you vote, which matters more: character or policy? Michael Smerconish explores one of the oldest and most uncomfortable questions in American politics: should voters prioritize a candidate's personal character or the policies they promise to deliver? Drawing on the views of Colin Powell and James Madison, plus examples from JFK, Nixon, Clinton, and Trump, Michael examines the gap between what voters say matters and how they actually vote. If millions knowingly support candidates they view as dishonest or immoral, is policy ultimately what drives elections? Or does character still define leadership in a meaningful way? This episode unpacks the tradeoffs voters make in the privacy of the voting booth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Who do you want enforcing traffic laws, AI or cops? After receiving a $300 automated school bus violation notice tied to his own Jeep, Michael Smerconish dives into the growing role of artificial intelligence in policing everyday life. From AI-powered traffic cameras to license plate readers now operating in thousands of communities, this episode explores the tradeoff between efficiency, safety, privacy, and human judgment. Michael connects his personal experience to a much larger national debate: are Americans comfortable replacing police discretion with algorithms and automated enforcement systems? Plus, he reflects on yesterday's heated Iran poll results and why voters may be letting politics cloud national security judgment. 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 opens with an unexpected weekend golf win before diving into the CNN commentary that sparked major backlash online. He breaks down Trump's controversial Iran remarks, rising gas prices, strategic ambiguity over Taiwan, and whether Americans would accept pain at the pump to stop Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Plus, listener calls, angry social media reactions, and a debate that cuts across party lines. Original air date 18 May 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 sits down with George Washington University law professor Andrew Guthrie Ferguson, author of "Your Data Will Be Used Against You: Policing in the Age of Self-Surveillance," for a timely conversation about privacy, policing, and the rise of AI-powered surveillance. From license plate readers and facial recognition to Tesla “hurry up mode” and automated school bus tickets, they explore how technology is reshaping law enforcement — and what Americans may be sacrificing in the name of safety. Where should society draw the line between public security and personal privacy? Original Air Date 05/18/26, The book was published on 17 May 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 speaks with Princeton professor Robert P. George about the growing lack of conservative commencement speakers at America's top universities — and what that says about viewpoint diversity in higher education. They discuss political bias on campus, free speech, commencement controversies, AI in academia, and Princeton's decision to end its 133-year unproctored exam tradition amid concerns about cheating and artificial intelligence. Original air date 13 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Who's more likely to be elected president in 2028 — AOC or Marco Rubio? Michael Smerconish examines the surprising early signals emerging in the 2028 presidential race, including Marco Rubio's rapid rise among Republican voters and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's growing strength inside the Democratic Party. With new polling, prediction market data, and Donald Trump openly fueling speculation about the GOP succession battle between JD Vance and Rubio, the conversation turns to electability, coalition-building, and where both parties may be headed after Trump. Listen here, then vote! And be sure to 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 Smerconish is joined by Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation on President Trump's escalating standoff with Iran, the growing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, and whether the White House is running out of options. Could Trump expand the conflict? Is there an exit ramp? Michael and Mark debate the political, military, and economic stakes — and listeners weigh in on what happens next. Original air date 13 May 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 reacts to a provocative Axios piece arguing that America is becoming a modern “Sin Nation” — where gambling, marijuana, pornography, and digital vice are no longer hidden, but legalized, monetized, and normalized. From “It's a Wonderful Life” and Robert Putnam's "Bowling Alone" to declining faith, patriotism, and community involvement, Michael explores whether America is losing the social glue that once held it together — and whether technology, capitalism, and politics accelerated the shift. Listeners weigh in on everything from Vegas culture and junk food to loneliness, digital life, and the erosion of real-world relationships. Original air date 12 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Book Club with Michael Smerconish, Michael speaks with psychiatrist and author Dr. Nassir Ghaemi about the surprising connection between mental illness and exceptional leadership. Drawing from Dr. Ghaemi's books "A First-Rate Madness" and the newly published "Soul on Fire", the conversation explores how figures like Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ted Turner may have drawn strength from struggles with depression or bipolar disorder during times of crisis. It's a thought-provoking discussion about stigma, creativity, resilience, and the misunderstood realities of mental health. 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 and Mark Halperin break down the confusion, contradictions, and political fallout surrounding Trump's Iran strategy — from nuclear negotiations and the Strait of Hormuz to whether the president is heading toward a historic win or an Obama-style replay. Plus: midterm warning signs for Republicans, and key races in Texas, Ohio, and California. Original air date 6 May 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 sits down with independent Senate candidate Seth Bodnar to discuss his unconventional run in Montana, the controversy surrounding a last-minute GOP shake-up, and why he refuses to caucus with either party. From war powers and foreign policy to political polarization at home, the conversation explores what it means to govern from the center. Then, Montana listeners weigh in on the race, party dynamics, and life in Big Sky Country—culminating in a surprise call from one of Michael's longtime friends. Original air date 30 April 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 dives into a remarkable moment in U.S.–U.K. relations as King Charles III delivers a speech to Congress that may have carried more than just ceremonial weight. CNN's Stephen Collinson joins to unpack the “subtle but striking” message on democracy, executive power, and America's global role—plus the political theater behind the royal visit and its impact on President Trump. Then, political analyst Mark Halperin breaks down the latest headlines: Trump's legal strategy and “lawfare,” the real significance of the King's visit, tensions over Ukraine and Iran, and media flashpoints from late-night comedy to the White House Correspondents' Dinner. It's a wide-ranging conversation on power, politics, and perception in a week where symbolism and strategy collided. Original air date 29 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should Congress authorize the use of military force against Iran? As tensions escalate and a fragile ceasefire nears expiration, Michael Smerconish breaks down the legal, political, and strategic stakes behind a potential Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). With the War Powers deadline looming, Congress faces mounting pressure to act—or step aside. Michael examines recent military developments, inside-the-Beltway maneuvering, and why the timeline may be shaping Iran's strategy. 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.

Never Trump CNN host Michael Smerconish is either being red-pilled or he's suddenly telling the truth about Trump the Madman. Why democrats and even most establishment republicans don't understand Trump's temperament as he negotiates with Iran. A new poll shows a majority of Americans have strong support for the war in Iran and want Trump to finish the job. "Anonymous" tells us the new battle emerging isn't between Right and Left. It's between Right and Wrong.

Today we welcome back to the show, Michael Smerconish, the host of CNN's eponymously titled "Smerconish." When he's not dishing common sense on the small screen you can catch Smerconish on Sirius XM where his radio show airs daily. Make sure to check out his amazing newsletter which curates the top 20 stories of the day from a wide variety of sources. Check out he and Michael as they chop up the midterm results and see what's next for both parties.