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Elon Musk has built some of the most valuable companies on Earth, but how much of that success comes from innovation, and how much comes from a system that gives billionaires a different set of rules? As SpaceX's valuation soars and IPO speculation grows, we look at the regulations, government support, private market advantages, and exceptions that critics say helped fuel the Musk empire. Were the rules bent ? Here we go again with the back-and-forth on Trump's Iran War. Trump says a deal is imminent, but Iran says there's no final decision on that. It's contrary to what President Trump told reporters - that a settlement has been reached and a memorandum of understanding could be signed soon, likely in Europe. In keeping with that statement, Trump called off planned hard strikes on Iran. Meanwhile, there's word that Iran tried to strike commercial ships trying to get through the Strait of Hormuz and US officials shot down Iranian attack drones. The reports are conflicting from all angles. Is this part of Trump's strategy or does the Trump administration, once again, not really have a handle on what it's doing? We'll put the question to Michael Shure and Mo Kelly who join us for ‘This Week in Politics.' Then, it's all about weekend frivolity with a swing by the state of Florida to check in on the craziness and a look at movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder. Bring on the weekend! The Mark Thompson Show 6/12/26
A ceasefire broken. The U.S.launched “self-defense strikes” on Iranian air defense and radar sites last evening after a U.S. Apache helicopter was downed Monday near the Strait of Hormuz. The two pilots were rescued. This came after President Trump said the U.S. response “should be very strong, very powerful,” and earlier said talks with Iran were in their “final throes,” possibly concluding in “two or three days” though the status of those negotiations is now unclear. Sources say U.S. targets included Iranian air defenses and radar installations as part of the retaliation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Iran will not leave any attack "unanswered."Mo Kelly speaks with political analyst John Rothmann about what this escalation means for any potential deal to end Trump's Iran War. Mark welcomes the authors of ‘Notes of Deception.' Drs. Merryl Goldberg and Vince Houghton tell the story of a quartet of American musicians that outwitted the KGB. We also consider how much we as consumers really need and how we can benefit our own communities. Kate Assaraf, founder and CEO of DIP Haircare joins.The Mark Thompson Show 6/10/26Kate Assarafhttps://dipalready.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-assaraf-b25a741a7Patreon 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
Trump is using wartime presidential authority to hand $700 million to coal-fired power plants in the US to prop us what he calls “clean, beautiful coal”, despite it being the dirtiest of fossil fuels. The funds will be used to bring a new coal export terminal online in Oakland, California, and to restart an existing facility in Maryland. That's in addition to plants across 10 states: West Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Indiana, Tennessee, Arkansas, Arizona, Oklahoma, North Dakota and Wisconsin. Trump says "Each of those 10 states voted for Trump, We won them all.” The two new coal plants will be in Alaska and West Virginia. We welcome Mo Kelly & Michael Shure for This Week in Politics - a look at the biggest stories, including election results, a new "Trump Promenade" and more. Keep your hands in the car as we cruise into Friday Fabulous Florida - you never know who has a machete! Plus, The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder brings the details on all the good movies and shows to see this weekend.
The GOP-led House is behind a largely symbolic measure directing the president to remove U.S. forces from active hostilities with Iran unless Congress authorizes force or declares war. Four Republicans joined all Democrats in supporting it. The vote follows earlier attempts that stalled out. It also builds momentum for a related effort in the Senate. The White House is raising objections saying the move could weaken negotiations. The House also advanced a separate motion to bring Ukraine aid to the floor. Mo Kelly will discuss the idea that this vote signals growing congressional resistance, even within Trump's party. Former federal prosecutor and now defense attorney, David Katz will stop by the show to offer his legal expertise on whether Todd Blanche will be able to get confirmed as AG and whether Trump‘s immunity from IRS audits will withstand legal scrutiny.
Corruption Central has new address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. From Trump's Weaponization slush fund to international negotiations including Trump Towers and sketchy stock trades and Crypto deals, this next gift should come as no surprise: Dell wins a $9.7B Pentagon deal — weeks after Trump publicly urged people to “go out and buy a Dell” and after Michael Dell's family pledged $6.25B to seed the administration's “Trump accounts.” We'll check out the contract (a five‑year Core Enterprise Technology Agreement to supply Microsoft licensing, cloud subscriptions and on‑prem software). We'll drill down into the Pentagon's claim the award followed a competitive process and will save roughly $422M a year, and we'll examine why timing — stock purchases, public praise, and Dell's ties to the Trump administration are now prompting ethics and conflict‑of‑interest scrutiny. We'll roll this story past Michael Shure and Mo Kelly as we lay out the top Stories of the week in ‘This Week in Politics.' Fingers crossed Albert finds a good gator story this week but whether it's meth, machetes, or mayhem, Friday Fabulous Florida never disappoints. Quick set change… and ou tcomes the rainbow. The Culture Blaster Michael Snyder will slide right in to give us the best advice on movies and streaming options worth your time.
The $1.8B Trump–Blanche slush fund is even more corrupt than we first realized. Todd Blanche is reportedly offering to cut Republican senators in on payouts to buy their support. They will be able to apply for fund money too. This scheme threatens America's Constitutional Democracy. Please watch, share, and call your senators to demand an investigation and stop this. Mo Kelly will discuss this and more. We've got journalist Michael Shure, The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder and Friday Fabulous Florida too!
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is abruptly stopping a planned nine-month rotation of 4,000 U.S. troops bound for Poland. The move comes at a precarious time for Poland and is catching Pentagon staff and European allies off guard. Mo Kelly is in for Mark Thompson and he unpacks the timeline of the canceled deployment, contrasts official statements with anonymous Pentagon sourcing, and connects the move to recent U.S. troop shifts in Europe — including plans to withdraw forces from Germany. We examine why allies are worried about deterrence on NATO's eastern flank and what signals the decision might send to Russia and our NATO allies. Plus, This week in Politics brings Mo Kelly and Michael Shure together to recap the biggest stories. We'll take a spin through Florida with Friday Fabulous Florida and head over to the movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder. Happy Friday!
President Trump is in China with a delegation drawing scrutiny across Washington: family members, billionaire tech allies and business figures appear front and center, while longtime China experts and senior State Department voices are far less visible. Is Trump on the verge of a corrupt deal for himself and his family that won't serve U.S. or historic interests? Is he prioritizing dealmaking and optics over diplomacy and strategy? Where are experienced American diplomatic voices at this pivotal moment? Mo Kelly is in for Mark Thompson and will discuss this and more. We welcome former federal prosecutor and now defense attorney David Katz to talk about the impending Trump deal with the IRS, redistricting battles headed to court and criticism of the Supreme Court. Then, we pivot to marijuana. Mark welcomes Dr. Peter Grinspoon. He is a primary care physician and a board-certified addiction specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Grinspoon's upcoming book is titled “Aging Well with Cannabis: Feel Better, Sleep Better and Live Better with Marijuana and CBD.” It's a culmination of his hard work to help ‘canna-curious' seniors, family members, and caregivers by providing practical instructions, real-life case studies, and a balanced view of the benefits and risks of cannabis and CBS.
FBI Director Kash Patel faced a fiery Senate confrontation yesterday as lawmakers pressed him over allegations of excessive drinking, unexplained absences and possible misuse of FBI resources. Patel angrily denied the claims, calling them “a total farce.” Democrats questioned whether FBI personnel and assets were improperly used to go after critics and reporters covering the claims that Patel was, at times, so drunk he passed out behind locked doors and security had to break in to make sure he was okay. The hearing devolved into a shouting match, with Patel yelling at senators and accusing those speaking against him of politically motivated attacks.Mo Kelly is in for Mark Thompson. He looks at whether Patel's rocky Congressional hearing could put him in the same boat as his former colleague Kristi Noem and whether the allegations against Patel have become an embarrassment for Trump. Presidential historian and political analyst John Rothmann joins to talk politics. Paid protesters are a real thing, but the concept might be different than you imagine. Mark talks with Adam Swart, the CEO of Crowds on Demand, to find out more about how it works and whether ethics are considered in the game of optics.The Mark Thompson Show 5/13/26Patreon 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
Meghan McCain and Miranda Wilkins are joined by Rachel Campos-Duffy and Mo Kelly for a wide-ranging conversation on California politics, Los Angeles dysfunction, media narratives, and the growing frustration with both political parties. Rachel Campos-Duffy opens up about her family's cross-country road trip project celebrating America's 250th anniversary, her husband Sean Duffy's work as Transportation Secretary, and why she believes Pete Buttigieg left behind a transportation disaster. Plus, Mo Kelly breaks down why Spencer Pratt's surprising mayoral campaign is getting national attention, why Karen Bass is still politically viable despite criticism, and why Los Angeles voters may still stick with familiar leadership even as frustration grows. Also in this episode: • Virginia redistricting drama and gerrymandering fights • AOC and 2028 presidential speculation • California's homelessness crisis • Why national politics are reshaping local races • TMZ targeting politicians on vacation during the TSA mess • Grand Canyon family road trips and American nostalgia • Why Meghan says modern politics feels completely broken Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trump is blasting Iran's latest proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, calling Tehran's response “totally unacceptable” as tensions rise again across the Middle East. With drone attacks reported near Gulf shipping lanes, uncertainty surrounding Iran's leadership, and fears growing over oil prices and a wider regional conflict, the pressure is building on all sides. We will break down the collapsing negotiations, the strategic stakes in Hormuz, and whether the ceasefire momentum is already slipping away.IHeart television and radio political analyst Gary Dietrich will swing by. Should talk about the latest in Iran and the California governor's race.Mark speaks with Dr. Steven Bezruchka. He's the author David Cay Johnston recommended we have on the show. Dr. Bezruchka ust released “Born Sick in the USA: Improving the Health of a Nation.” The Mark Thompson Show 5/11/26Stephen Bezruchka - Born Sickhttps://stephenbezruchka.comPatreon 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 Virginia Supreme Court is blocking a voter-approved, Democratic-drawn congressional map, ruling the amendment process used to approve it violated state procedure. It's a decision that could blunt Democratic hopes and give Republicans a redistricting edge heading into the 2026 midterms. We'll look at the legal arguments over early voting and the constitutional amendment process and the likely impact on the balance of the U.S. House. A shaky ceasefire is compromised by an escalation between the U.S. and Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. We'll look at U.S. Defense Department and CENTCOM statements on self-defense strikes against missile, drone and small-boat threats and Iran's response accusing the U.S. of violating the ceasefire and attacking an Iranian tanker and coastal sites. We also examine the immediate impacts on maritime traffic and the implications for ongoing peace talks. This Week in Politics with Michael Shure & Mo Kelly brings a review of the top stories making an impact. The wild streets of Florida come to life with Friday Fabulous Florida. Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, takes us to the movies and right into the weekend.
As Trump's Iran War continues, the administration is running into yet another problem. According to the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the president has to remove military forces from conflict within 60 days if Congress doesn't authorize a war before the deadline. That has House Speaker Mike Johnson claiming this is not a war at all… “I don't think we have an active, kinetic military bombing, firing or anything like that. Right now, we are trying to broker a peace. I would be very reluctant to get in front of the administration in the midst of these very sensitive negotiations, so we'll have to see how that plays out.” Meanwhile, Senator Lisa Murkowski plans to introduce an authorization for use of military force when Congress returns, if there's still a “lack of a credible plan” on Iran. The move could mean an increase in congressional oversight. So is it a war or not? Mo Kelly, in for Mark today, will discuss. This Week in Politics brings journalist Michael Shure by the show to discuss the biggest stories of the week. A spin by Florida and a check in with the Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, brings us rolling into the weekend.
Donald Trump and Richard Nixon have more in common than being president. They now share the dubious distinction of having almost the same numbers when it comes to Americans supporting their impeachment. Anew Strength in Numbers/Verasight poll shows a majority of U.S. adults, or 55%, support a House impeachment vote. The poll shows 37% are opposed and 8% said they are unsure. Pollsters calculated a net “verdict” of +18, by subtracting the number of those who oppose a third Trump impeachment ftom those who approve it. The resullt has Trump very near Richard Nixon's numbers at the height of the Watergate scandal. We'll explore what it means and whether an impeachment is realistic as we welcome, Michael Shure and Mo Kelly for ‘This Week in Politics.' Then we hit pure Friday mode as we slide into the weekend with a swing through Florida and a look at new movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder.
For a man who won the presidency seemingly based on the high cost of living. Including rising grocery store prices, Trump appears to have forgotten that, “It's the Economy, Stupid!” With Americans growing more frustrated by the day about the price of gas, Trump brushed it off yesterday saying prices are "not very high.” He said, gas is “not as high as what was expected from the war” and higher prices are worth it to keep Iran from having a nuclear weapon. By ignoring the economy in favor of war, is Trump pushing Americans away with the midterm elections coming up? We'll discuss. From religion and the Pope to Iran and Hegseth's impeachment charges being filed, we will cover the top stories of the week with Michael Shure and Mo Kelly. Then it's off to swing by Suite 106 bakery to check out the new flavors on tap for Mother's Day! We'll roll through Florida for some Friday fabulousness. Finally, our Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will stop through to share his thoughts on the best movies and streaming options to watch. Happy Friday!
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is forcing the Army's top general out. It's a move fueling new scrutiny over who is driving decisions inside the Pentagon. With no clear explanation for General Randy George's early removal, critics are pointing to the growing influence of outside political voices, including far-right activist Laura Loomer, and raising alarms about possible ideological or loyalty tests shaping military leadership. General George isn't the only experienced, educated leader being forced out. Chief of Chaplains, Major General William Green Jr. and Commander of Army Transformation and Training, General David Hodne, are also being shown the door. The shakeup is intensifying concerns about politicization at the highest levels of command—and who might be next. It's going to be a great Friday show. We'll recap ‘This Week in Politics' with Michael Shure and Mo Kelly. It's been a doozy with Trump admitting he'd rather pay for a war than daycare, threatening to bomb Iran back into the Stone Age, showing up at a Supreme Court hearing and then firing Attorney General Pam Bondi. We switching to Friday fun mode with a stop by Florida to look at the locals and a visit with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, to discover the best movie streaming options for this weekend. Grab a cup of Coachella Valley Coffee and a Suite 106 Bakery cupcake and settle in for the ride.
Amid another massive No Kings national day of protest tomorrow, comes word that Trump will insert himself into American currency. This summer, money will begin bearing Trump's signature along with that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, dropping the name of the U.S. Treasurer. It's a first for a sitting President. The first Trump money is set to print in June. In addition, the U.S. will release a golden dollar coin with Trump's likeness. Instant MAGA collector's item or instant symbol of a wanna-be King? We will discuss. A huge Friday Mark Thompson Show is in store. We'll visit with comdian/attorney J-L Cauvin, discuss ‘This Week in Politics' with Michael Shure and Mo Kelly, peek in on the wild spectacle Floridians provide every week and check out new movies with The Culture Blaster Michael Snyder.
According to the Wall Street Journal, more U.S. Marines are headed to the Middle East. They are from the Okinawa-based 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. They are a rapid-response force of 2,200 Marines. The President is said to be considering whether to send even more troops to Operation Epic Fury. As of today, US Central Command says there are about 50,000 US troops already in the Middle East as part of Trump's war with Iran. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is looking to get $200-Billion to fund Trump's so called “excursion.” We'll talk about it with Michael Shure and Mo Kelly as we recap the biggest stories of the week with This Week in Politics. Doctor of Physical Therapy, Adam James, returns to shed more light on Trump's faltering health. A quick stop by Florida and a check of the latest movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, sweeps us right into a beautiful weekend.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard evaded and stonewalled facing intense questioning on Capitol Hill as senators pressed her on the true state of Iran's regime, what intelligence President Trump is receiving during the escalating conflict, and her role in the controversial Fulton County ballot seizure. Gabbard described Iran as “degraded but intact,” while sidestepping key details about internal briefings and omitting parts of her written testimony on Iran's nuclear program—raising fresh concerns about transparency and political pressure inside the intelligence community. The hearing also exposed deeper tensions over how the war is being framed, what the public is being told, and whether intelligence is being shaped to fit the administration's narrative.Political analyst John Rothmann joins Mo Kelly to discuss. Mark Thompson has a discussion with attorney Ryan Clarkson about a class action lawsuit against Meta.The Mark Thompson Show 3/18/26Patreon 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%Zelmins.com - use code MarkT to save a 15% off your first orderSuite106bakery.com use code MarkT to save 15%
The fund for Trump's presidential library appears to be gone. What happened to some $63 million that was promised to the fund by companies like ABC, Meta, Paramount and X after settling legal cases with Trump? Trump‘s library fund was dissolved last year. Now Democratic senators are demanding answers. Was it another grift? Did the money get used for something else or did it go into someone's pocket? Is there a reasonable explanation? We'll discuss. ‘This Week in Politics' brings Michael Shure and Mo Kelly to the show. Whether you've been following Trump‘s war in Iran closely or whether you've had to look away, we've got you with in depth analysis of this week's important events.We will take a little taste of Florida and then we'll talk movies with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, as we dive into the weekend. Perfection.The Mark Thompson Show 3/13/26Patreon 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%Zelmins.com - use code MarkT to save a 15% off your first orderSuite106bakery.com use code MarkT to save 15%
There is wide reporting about the 7 members of the U.S. military who have died in Trump's war against Iran. It turns out many others have been hurt. We are now learning that about 140 United States troops have been injured in the 10 days since the start of this conflict. Of those, 8 are hospitalized with severe injuries and 108 have returned to duty. How much of a toll will American's accept as Trump's war continues?Mo Kelly will be in to discuss it all. Presidential historian and political analyst John Rothmann will also drop by to weigh in.The Mark Thompson Show 3/11/26Today's Guests LinksJohn Rothmann https://www.spreaker.com/show/around-the-political-world https://www.youtube.com/@aroundthepoliticalworld_Cindy Cohn https://www.eff.org/Privacys-DefenderPatreon 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%Zelmins.com - use code MarkT to save a 15% off your first orderSuite106bakery.com use code MarkT to save 15%
Miranda Wilkins is filling in while Meghan McCain remains out on maternity leave, and she's joined by Mo Kelly and Daily Mail Chief Campaign Correspondent Nikki Schwab to break down a chaotic week in politics. They start with the confusing messaging around the U.S. strikes on Iran. Officials say the threat was imminent, but the administration still hasn't clearly explained the endgame. The panel discusses the political risks if the conflict drags on, the split reaction among voters, and whether the White House is intentionally keeping its strategy vague. Next, they dig into the wild results from the Texas primaries. Dan Crenshaw is out, Tony Gonzalez heads to a runoff despite major scandal, and the Democratic race between James Tallarico and Jasmine Crockett reveals a lot about where both parties' bases are heading as the midterms approach. Finally, they tackle the latest twists in the Epstein investigation. Newly circulating deposition clips from Bill Clinton, congressional leaks, and a chaotic rollout of documents have raised even more questions about whether the investigation will produce real accountability. And because the internet always delivers a bizarre moment of comic relief, the show wraps with the funniest corporate feud of the week: Burger King trolling McDonald's after the company's CEO posted a painfully awkward burger taste test video. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Paramount's blockbuster hostile acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery isn't just a Hollywood deal — it's a seismic shift in who holds influence over some of the most powerful media brands in the world, including CNN and CBS. With existing online platforms like Meta, TikTok and X already widely seen as operating in ways that benefit or align with Trump-world allies, this latest consolidation raises urgent questions about the concentration of narrative power in American politics. Calling for election integrity, the Department of Justice is suing another five states for access to their voter rolls. With the addition of New Jersey, Utah, Oklahoma, Kentucky and West Virginia, there are now more than two dozen states where the Trump administration wants detailed information about voters. From control of the media to federal involvement in state elections, we will examine the impact. The show is packed full of politics and wonderful guests today. “This Week in Politics” brings Michael Shure and Mo Kelly to the show. Pulitzer Prize winning author Dr. Heather Ann Thompson will stop by to share details of her new book “Fear and Fury: The Reagan 80s, the Bernie Goetz Shootings, and the Rebirth of White Rage.” We look to the skies with Astronomy Professor Andrew Fraknoi. Then turn toward the stars of Hollywood with The Culture Blaster Michael Snyder. Throw in Friday Fabulous Florida and it's a show!
Donald Trump suffers a major legal setback as the Supreme Court rules 6–3 that he exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping global tariffs under emergency powers, delivering a significant blow to his second-term trade agenda. The decision raises major questions about presidential power, congressional authority over taxation, and the future of U.S. trade policy — with potential ripple effects for markets, consumers, and international negotiations. We break down what the justices actually said, why even conservative members of the court pushed back, what happens next for Trump's tariff strategy, and how this ruling could reshape the balance of power between the White House and Congress. We'll run it past Michael Shure and Mo Kelly. They join us on Fridays to analyze the biggest stories of the week. Friday Fabulous Florida and The Cultue Blaster, Michael Snyder, kick off some levity for the weekend ahead.
A classified intelligence fight is breaking into public view. A whistleblower complaint centered on a secret NSA intercept has brought scrutiny to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, with allegations that intelligence tied to a foreign conversation referencing Jared Kushner may have been restricted from wider review. The details remain heavily redacted and sharply disputed, but it reveals a deeper struggle over oversight, accountability, and the role of political pressure in America's national security apparatus. This Week in Politics brings Michael Shure & Mo Kelly to the show to review this NSA Whistleblower scandal along with the top stories of the week. We lighten things up for the perfect entry to the weekend ahead. Friday Fabulous Florida celebrated our wildest state. The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder brings movie and streaming reviews to help guide you toward the good things.
Trump's ego is on full display. In order to release more infrastructure funding for the Gateway Tunnels between New York and New Jersey, Trump is demanding that two major transportation hubs be named after him. Politico reports that Trump indicated to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer that he'd release funds if both Washington-Dulles International Airport and Penn Station were renamed in honor of Trump. It's the latest scheme that highlights the importance of Trump's self aggrandizement instead of prioritizing what's best for the country. Immigration attorney Michael Foote will stop by to talk about ICE tactics, Trump's Immigration policies and how he's seeing it all play out in real life. “This Week in Politics” includes Michael Shure and Mo Kelly breaking down the biggest stories of the week. We'll wrap it up with Friday Fabulous Florida and our Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder who will steer us toward all the good things on screens large and small.
Miranda hosts solo while Meghan remains on maternity leave, joined by Mo Kelly and Kristen “Colonel Kurtz” Lacefield for a wide ranging conversation about power, trust, and the chaos cycle dominating the news. They break down the massive Epstein document release and what millions of pages actually tell us about elite accountability, public transparency, and why powerful people rarely face consequences. The discussion turns to outrage fatigue, conspiracy spirals, and whether constant information drops are making Americans informed or simply exhausted. Then the panel tackles the escalating situation in Minneapolis, ICE enforcement tactics, civil liberties concerns, and how immigration politics collide with public perception. They also dig into new polling showing economic anxiety shaping voter attitudes ahead of the midterms and why perception often matters more than the data. To close, the mood lightens with the coming Super Bowl culture clash, from Bad Bunny and Green Day to the rival conservative halftime event and why entertainment has become inseparable from politics. It is a conversation about power, media, and the modern American attention span. Many thanks to our advertiser, QUINCE! Use code "MCCAIN" to get free shipping and 365-day returns. #ad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A big dump of Epstein files came this morning. The DOJ posted the documents on its website. Reports indicate the fresh release includes some of the millions records that officials said were withheld from the initial release of documents last month. Trump is suing the IRS over leaks of his tax documents. He wants $10-billion for the breach. Trump and Senate Democrats managed to reach a deal to avert another government shutdown. The deal funds all of the government except the Department of Homeland Security through September. DHS would operate on a two-week stopgap bill while negotiations on its funding continue. We will talk about it with political analysts, Michael Shure and Mo Kelly. They consider the top stories of the week in “ This Week in Politics.” Florida's always wild news brings levity to wrap up a long week. After “Friday Fabulous Florida,” our movie critic, The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder will lay out weekend viewing options. The Mark Thompson Show 1/30/26
Funding for the Department of Homeland Security and ICE gets a green light from the House. Despite ICE having disturbing and increasingly violent confrontations with the public, seven Democrats voted with all but one Republican to approve the funding bill, which now heads to Senate for consideration. The legislation includes $10 billion for ICE and $18 billion for Customs and Border Protection, on top of the $75 billion increase ICE received from Trump's so-called Big Beautiful Bill. Democrats tried and failed to include changes to ICE's procedures by requiring agents to have warrants before detaining immigrants and use a standard use-of-force policy. We will put it to Michael Shure and Mo Kelly in "This Week in Politics". We'll also talk about Trump's offensive and strange speech in Greenland and today's spending boycott in Minnesota. Friday Fabulous Florida shines a light on our fun loving friends in America's craziest state. The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder stops in to talk movies, streaming and more.
A deadly ICE shooting in Minnesota ignites protests, national outrage, and a political firestorm as Donald Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act. Federal immigration agents fatally shot a woman during an enforcement operation, sparking clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Now the White House is signaling possible troop deployment, raising urgent questions about civil liberties, federal authority, and the growing militarization of immigration enforcement. We welcome our favorite Britisher, Anthony Davis, to talk about the possibility of using the military against civilians in Minnesota. Our friend, comedian, lawyer and now congressional candidate J-L Cauvin will stop by to check in from the campaign trail. We will ask him about Trump‘s comment on canceling the midterm elections that the White House claims is just a joke. J-L has a digital fundraiser “J-L YouTube Telethon 2” set for Jan 21st from 7pm-11pm Eastern. The political conversation continuous with ‘This Week in Politics' featuring Michael Shure and Mo Kelly weighing in on the biggest stories of the week. Friday on The Mark Thompson Show brings ‘Friday Fabulous Florida' and a visit with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, to check out upcoming movie releases. This is gonna be a great show…you've never seen anything like it!
Trump is going after Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Trump's Department of Justice is opening a criminal investigation involving Powell — an unprecedented move threatening the Fed's independence.The issue concerns Powell's congressional testimony and a Federal Reserve renovation project, but critics say the bigger problem is political pressure on an institution designed to operate free from partisan control.On The Mark Thompson Show, we break down what this investigation really means — for markets, for the economy, and for the future of independent governance in the United States.iHeart radio and television political analyst Gary Dietrich will join to talk politics.The brilliant scholar and author Sarah Kendzior will stop by to look deeper into Trump's actions. …and Mo Kelly is in the Captain's Chair.The Mark Thompson Show 1/12/26Patreon 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.com
If you're wondering how far Trump will go when it comes to taking over other states and countries with a military show of power, he's laid it out in a New York Times interview. Trump told the NYT the only constraint to his power as president of the US is “my own morality, my own mind”…“It's the only thing that can stop me,” “I'm not looking to hurt people.” As far as following International Law, Trump said, “It depends on what your definition of international law is.” With the recent takeover of Venezuela and threats he's made against Cuba, Columbia, Mexico, and Greenland, his moral compass is already in question. We welcome LA Times columnist Gustavo Arellano to the show. This week in politics brings Michael Shure and Mo Kelly back to the Mark Thompson show to talk about the biggest stories of the week. It would not be Friday in Mark Thompson land without a stop by Florida and a look at the best movies and streaming entertainment with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder.
Political activists are being put on notice. The Trump administration is going to try to squash what they are calling "left-wing domestic terrorism. Attorney General Pam Bondi is ordering all federal law enforcement agencies to share intelligence on “Antifa” and “Antifa-related” activities with the FBI. Bondi wants agencies to come up with lists of Americans and foreigners to investigate. Is it the end of free speech in America? We will talk about it with Michael Shure & Mo Kelly on This Week in Politics. Friday Fabulous Florida brings a crazy road rage story! Plus, The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will stop by to talk movies and streaming options for the weekend ahead. Happy Friday!
Even Republican senators are growing wary of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. From Signalgate to allegations of war crimes in the killing of two people already in distress on an alleged drug boat, Hegseth is getting harder to support. We run though the latest developments on This Week in Politics with Michael Shure & Mo Kelly. A check in with J-L Cauvin to see how his congressional bid is going brings a big announcement. Comedian Mark Malkoff joins to talk about late night television and his new book Love Johnny Carson. We”ve got Friday Fabulous Florida and a look at movies with The Culture Blaster Michael Snyder.
Meghan and Miranda soldier on — decorations half-up, vibes fully chaotic — as they round out a wild week in politics and pop culture. They kick off with Quentin Tarantino's very weird (and very personal?) attack on Paul Dano, run through Tarantino's surprise Top Films of the 21st Century list, and then hit the hard stuff: the explosive Somali fraud scandal in Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz's growing problems, and why both hosts think this could reshape 2026. Ben Ferguson jumps in to break down Tennessee's special election, what the numbers really mean for the midterms, and how Nashville voters are signaling a shift. Then political commentator Mo Kelly joins for a raw conversation on rising “woke-right” extremism, Kash Patel's messy leadership at the FBI, and why 2026 is too chaotic too predict, but impossible to ignore. Plus: movie bombs of 2025, the kids-movie takeover at the box office, what everyone's watching this weekend, why cozy sheets matter (seriously), and Meghan + Miranda's weekly *Douchebag & Darling* segment featuring Tim Walz truthers and unsolicited tree-shamers. It's politics, pop culture, holiday chaos, and absolutely zero tolerance for conspiracy weirdos... just another week on Citizen McCain. Ben Ferguson jumps in to break down Tennessee's special election, what the numbers really mean for the midterms, and how Nashville voters are signaling a shift. Then political commentator Mo Kelly joins for a raw conversation on rising “woke-right” extremism, Kash Patel's messy leadership at the FBI, and why 2026 is too chaotic to predict — but impossible to ignore. Plus: movie bombs of 2025, the kids-movie takeover at the box office, what everyone's watching this weekend, why cozy sheets matter (seriously), and Meghan + Miranda's weekly Douchebag & Darling segment featuring Tim Walz truthers and unsolicited tree-shamers. It's politics, pop culture, holiday chaos, and absolutely zero tolerance for conspiracy weirdos — just another week on Citizen McCain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fresh off finger pointing at Democrats for so called violent political rhetoric, President Trump is calling for the hanging of lawmakers who made a video reminding military troops not follow unlawful orders. When asked about the President calling for the deaths of other lawmakers, House Seaker Mike Johnson dropped the word unlawful from the story and agreed that any lawmaker calling for the military not to follow orders should be punished. We'll discuss. We've got Michael Shure & Mo Kelly for This Week in Politics. A little Florida news is always a Friday bright spot. Plus, The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, is here with movies and streaming options for the chilly weekend ahead. 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
Trump & his White House team were already having a bad week with indications from the Supreme Court that the president‘s tariffs might not pass muster with justices. Trump has to contend with a public increasingly frustrated over the unaffordability of everything from food to housing. Add the Epstein emails to the mix, a mad dash to try to convince Congresswoman Lauren Boebert and other Republicans not to support releasing the Epstein files and you have White House staffers flailing. They have tried the age old tactic of blaming the media, blaming Democrats and calling the Epstein matter a hoax. With a vote to release the files set for the house next week, it doesn't seem like any of this will be dying down. Mo Kelly returns to the mic for Mark. He welcomes journalist Michael Shure to talk about the top political stories of the week. We'll stop in Florida to check in on the wild goings on before turning to the best entertainment the weekend has to offer with The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder.
Our favorite Britisher, Anthony Davis, will stop by to talk politics. Will ask him about the man formally known as Prince Andrew being stripped of his title and his house. “This Week in Politics” brings Mo ‘Kelly by the show to talk about the shutdown, the takeovers and word that ICE is keeping people they've detained in secret rooms. We'll take a virtual trip to Florida and check out entertainment options for the Halloween weekend ahead.
Trump is losing his mind over an advertisement featuring the real voice of Ronald Reagan, not AI, that obliterates Trump's tariff policy. Doug Ford, the Premier of Ontario, is among those behind the ad. He says “We're going to repeat that message to every Republican district there is right across the entire country.” It's a one minute video with excerpts from a radio address by Reagan warning of the long-term economic issues brought on by tariffs on foreign imports sold to Americans. Trump seems to understand that it makes him look incredibly foolish and he's lashing out bigly, blasting Canada in a social media tirade:“They only did this to interfere with the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, and other courts. TARIFFS ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE NATIONAL SECURITY, AND ECONOMY, OF THE U.S.A. Based on their egregious behavior, ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.”We'll talk about it with Mo Kelly on This Week in Politics. Albert put together quite the Friday Fabulous Florida offerings and “The Culture Blaster” Michael Snyder will set us straight on good entertainment for the weekend ahead. The Mark Thompson Show 10/24/25Patreon 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.com
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Trump and his administration will be using the IRS to go after the left. The report indicates that Trump is “overhauling the Internal Revenue Service's crime investigation unit to better target left-leaning groups and donors.” It comes on the heels of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threating to go after dissenting political groups, calling the murder of Charlie Kirk a domestic 9/11. He intends to use the Treasury Department to track political opponents like Treasury followed terrorist financial networks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Economics expert Dr. Bill Black will join the show to discuss the weaponization of the IRS and the pending case in front of the US Supreme Court regarding Trump's tariffs. “This Week in Politics” brings political analysts Michael Shure and Mo Kelly to the show to highlight and discuss key stories. We'll drive past Florida and look out the window to see what our southern friends have been up to. The Culture Blaster, Michael Snyder, will wrap up the show with a look at all the entertainment options you could ever want for the weekend, including sports, art, streaming and movies. Happy Friday!
We know that serious discussions are underway in the White House about possibility of Trump invoking the IInsurrection Act. If it happened this weekend, Pulitzer Prize winning author and journalist David Cay Johnston, who joins us today, says it could run up against the “No Kings” protests. Because of the shutdown, federal court are expected to run out of money by Friday. If courts close, demonstrators who get arrested might be stuck with little recourse. We'll explore the possibilities. We will check in with Mo Kelly, talk a little politics and welcome him into the Mark Thompson Show fold as a regular contributor.
ICYMI: ‘Later, with Mo'Kelly' Presents – A look ‘Beyond the Box Score' with regular guest contributor Jackie Rae, host of ‘The Jackie Rae Show,' weighing in on the Mark Sanchez assault controversy AND the hubbub surrounding Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny performing at the 2026 Superbowl halftime - on KFI AM 640…Live everywhere on the iHeartRadio app & YouTube @MrMoKelly
(Sept 18,2025)Host of ‘How to Money' on KFI Joel Larsgaard opens the hour talking about ________. Ben and Jerry's co-founder Jerry Greenfield quits, saying brand ‘silenced' on social issues. The show closes with host of ‘Later with Mo Kelly' speaking on ____.
(Sept 04, 2025)Host of ‘How to Money' Joel Larsgaard joins the show to talk about customer loyalty, frequency of gambling ads, and what ETF options might be best for you. Far-right Israel minister calls West Bank to be annexed. The host of ‘Later with Mo Kelly' here on KFI joins the show to discuss Paris Jackson distancing herself from Michael Jackson biopic.
ICYMI: Hour One of ‘Later, with Mo'Kelly' Presents – A recap of Mo's vacation; first stopping in Rome before embarking on a 7-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the ‘Royal Caribbean: Odyssey of the Seas,' taking in everything from Mykonos, Greece to Ephesus/Kusadasi, Turkey and MORE - on KFI AM 640…Live everywhere on the iHeartRadio app & YouTube @MrMoKelly
Andy Riesmeyer is filling in for Mo Kelly and he is covering a car chase/kidnapping that ended in an accident and rescue PLUS a celeb is selling his house and Andy wants it. He's a huge fan. It's all on KFIAM-640!
Andy Riesmeyer is filling in for Mo Kelly and he is talking to KTLA Reporter John Fenolgio about the car chase, PLUS we are covering issues with AI, and what you would do with $1 billion. It's all on KFIAM-640!
Andy Riesmeyer is filling in for Mo Kelly and he is talking taco bell AI drama and we are talking to Bob “TV Bob” Boden about game shows and game show rules. We are also getting into his new book, The Creative Leader: What Every Leader Should Know About The Art & Science of Creative Intelligence. It's all on KFIAM-640!
(August 14, 2025)Host of ‘How to Money' Joel Larsgaard joins the show to talk about a new Harvard study finding that where we grow up influences our credit score, Gen Z's knowledge about credit, Hertz using AI to access car damage, and private assets in retirement accounts. Are you being quiet fired? 5 signs to watch out for at work. The host of ‘Later with Mo Kelly' joins Bill to talk about Taylor Sheridan's ‘Landman' season 2 premiere being announced.
(August 07, 2025)Host of ‘How to Money' Joel Larsgaard joins the show to talk about Amazon jacking up prices, reigning in on spending, and whether AI will be used to set prices in the future. The future of American politics might be decided by young voters who get most of their news through TikTok. The host of ‘Later with Mo Kelly' joins Bill to talk about AMC Theatres' decision to book more ads before each movie showtime.