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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Does the value of transparency from release of the Epstein files outweigh the risks of spreading unverified accusations?" As new revelations surface — including missing FBI interview summaries tied to allegations involving President Trump — the debate intensifies over what the public deserves to see. With Bill and Hillary Clinton testifying, selective document releases raising eyebrows, and legal scholars warning about the dangers of dumping raw investigative material, Michael examines the tension between transparency and reputational harm. 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.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should Democrats have stood in agreement at the State of the Union when President Trump said the first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens?" Michael revisits the most buzzed-about moment of the State of the Union — when President Trump challenged lawmakers to stand if they agreed with that principle, and Democrats largely remained seated. Was it smart politics, calculated stagecraft, or an obvious trap? Michael examines whether Democrats made a political misstep — and whether the exchange will matter with independents heading into the midterms. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com, and 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: "Should an individual's Google searches be private?" A Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling says you may not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in your general Google searches—especially if you haven't taken steps like using a VPN. Michael breaks down the controversial “reverse keyword warrant” that allows police to ask Google who searched for specific terms tied to a crime. Is typing into a search bar the same as voluntarily sharing information with a third party? Or does this decision erode a fundamental privacy right in the digital age? Listen in, then vote at Smerconish.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Where would you like to see the USA gold medal winning men's and women's hockey teams present at tonight's State of the Union?" Fresh off Olympic gold in Milan, Team USA hockey is riding a rare wave of national unity—but should that moment take center stage at a deeply partisan State of the Union? Michael explores whether inviting the men's and women's teams honors a shared American triumph or risks turning sports into political theater. With protests already planned and memories of past SOTU disruptions still fresh, this episode examines decorum, tradition, and the enduring power of sports to bring Americans together—even when politics pulls them apart. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should licensed broadcast radio and television stations have to give equal time to competing political candidates?" A Stephen Colbert interview with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico has reignited debate over the FCC's nearly century-old equal time rule. After CBS lawyers raised concerns about triggering the regulation, Colbert cried foul — and the controversy exploded online. Michael breaks down what the rule actually says, how it differs from the Fairness Doctrine, and whether “spectrum scarcity” still justifies government oversight in today's media landscape. Is this selective enforcement, political pressure, or simply the law being applied? And in an era of unlimited media choices, should balanced coverage be the government's job — or ours? Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Is the use of profanity in politics refreshing or overdone?" From a new Illinois Senate ad repeating “F Trump” to a long list of Democrats and Republicans casually dropping f-bombs, political language has undeniably shifted. Michael examines whether this trend reflects authenticity in an unfiltered era—or a calculated attempt to seem relatable. Listen here, then vote - and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "The U.S. should strike Iran: a) To eliminate its nuclear capability, b) To change its leadership, c) Both, d) Neither." With U.S. aircraft carriers deployed and reports of escalating military positioning in the Middle East, Michael asks whether America is closer to striking Iran than most realize. If Iranian nuclear facilities were previously described as “obliterated,” why is new action on the table? And what would regime change actually look like — especially given lessons from Iraq and Afghanistan? Featuring insights from Admiral James Stavridis and a look at Iranian public sentiment, Michael questions whether the case for military action has truly been made — and whether the public is paying attention. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you agree with President Obama who says "The odds are good that there's life out there...but... the chances we've been visited by aliens is low"? After former President Obama reignites curiosity about extraterrestrial life in a recent podcast interview, Michael revisits the alien question through the lens of skepticism, science, and personal experience. Featuring insights from skeptic Michael Shermer and a personal, memorable Oval Office moment involving the “Book of Secrets,” this episode separates the probability of life elsewhere in the universe from claims of UFO visits and government cover-ups. Is believing in alien life reasonable—and is believing they've been here a bridge too far? Cast your vote and join the conversation, 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.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should American Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?" As the Winter Games unfold in Milan-Cortina, several Team USA athletes are speaking out about U.S. politics—from immigration enforcement to LGBTQ rights—prompting a sharp response from former President Trump. Michael examines whether Olympic competition should remain a politics-free zone or whether athletes have every right to use their global platform. With reactions from Lindsey Vonn, Chloe Kim, Mikaela Shiffrin and others, plus a look back at historic Olympic protests, this episode asks whether national unity is still possible in an age of constant partisanship—or if even the Games are now part of America's culture wars. 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: "Like him or not, is Donald Trump the most consequential president of the last hundred years?" On Presidents Day, Michael steps back from partisanship to examine “consequential” in its purest sense—having great meaning or lasting effect. From FDR's New Deal and Reagan's Cold War legacy to Obama's Affordable Care Act and Biden's Ukraine coalition, how does Trump compare? With three Supreme Court appointments, two impeachments, sweeping tax cuts, trade shifts, border crackdowns, NATO tensions, and the ongoing impact of Trump 2.0, has any modern president left a deeper imprint on American politics and institutions? Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate and review this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should Gallup continue to track presidential approval ratings? Gallup is ending a 90-year tradition of measuring presidential approval, stepping away from the very metric that has defined modern political accountability—from FDR to Trump and Biden. Michael explores why the polling giant is exiting both horse-race election surveys and now approval ratings, whether political pressure or business strategy is driving the shift, and what it means in an era of historic polarization. Do approval ratings still serve a vital civic purpose, or have they become little more than partisan ammunition? Your vote at Smerconish.com frames the debate. Cast your ballot, 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.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should proof of citizenship be required when registering to vote?" The House has passed the SAVE Act, legislation that would require Americans to provide physical proof of citizenship—such as a passport or certified birth certificate—when registering to vote in federal elections. Supporters argue it's a necessary safeguard for election integrity. Critics warn it could disenfranchise millions who lack ready access to qualifying documents, including low-income, rural, and elderly voters. Michael breaks down what the bill would actually require, why a Real ID may not be enough, and the bigger question at the heart of the debate: Is the risk of fraud greater than the risk of blocking eligible voters? Listen, vote at the website, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Michael confronts a rare polling flop after a question about the Savannah Guthrie story draws the lowest turnout in months at Smerconish.com. Was it poorly worded? Too speculative? Or is the media overestimating public interest? TC and Dan offer their blunt opinions, and listeners weigh in on empathy, news fatigue, and whether some stories simply don't resonate. Plus, Michael previews a new poll on Gallup's decision to discontinue presidential approval ratings — and what that means for democracy and the media. A candid, behind-the-scenes look at polling, public opinion, and what really drives engagement. Original air date 12 February 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: Do you believe that Jeffrey Epstein was running a sex trafficking ring for powerful men? Michael Smerconish urges listeners not to rush to judgment before voting on this question, unpacking a recent Associated Press investigation based on internal Justice Department and FBI records. While the evidence of Epstein's repeated sexual abuse of underage girls is overwhelming and disturbing, the AP reports that investigators found scant proof he operated a trafficking ring on behalf of powerful men. Michael walks through the findings, the graphic nature of the memo, and the frustration surrounding heavily redacted sections dealing with possible co-conspirators. It's a careful, unsettling discussion about evidence, assumptions, and what the public still doesn't know. Listen to this episode, then cast your vote at Smerconish. 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.
In the 9am hour, we play audio of Rob Thomson talking about Zack Wheeler's potential return. Poll Question results—what grade do you give the Phillies for their offseason? And Time's Yours to end the show.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "How many stars for Bad Bunny's half time show?" Michael reflects on the Super Bowl as one of the last shared cultural experiences in America, which is the basis for his thinking behind today's poll question. He explains why Bad Bunny's halftime performance was less about politics and more about global market forces, the NFL's international ambitions, and shifting cultural norms. Listen as Michael explores the idea of monoculture, unity, and whether it's fair to want the Super Bowl to remain linguistically and culturally familiar. He also shares his own rating of the show—and why he landed where he did. Listen, and then rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Should Jeff Bezos be held to a higher standard of financial commitment to the Washington Post because of his personal wealth?" After the Washington Post announced newsroom cuts affecting more than a third of its journalists, Michael Smerconish examines whether criticism of Jeff Bezos is fair—or misplaced. Drawing on commentary from Hanna Rosin and Glenn Kessler, Michael explores the economics of modern journalism, the consequences of editorial decisions, and whether a billionaire owner has a special obligation to sustain a legacy newsroom. Is this about mismanagement, market realities, or expectations that only apply to the ultra-wealthy? Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Are major tech companies an appropriate target for those protesting ICE policies?" Michael examines a growing protest strategy urged by NYU Professor Scott Galloway: a coordinated, month-long boycott of dominant tech companies to pressure the Trump administration over immigration enforcement. The episode explores the logic behind targeting market leaders like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft—even when they have no direct ties to ICE—versus companies that actively contract with the agency. Smerconish weighs the effectiveness, fairness, and consequences of using economic leverage as political protest, while revisiting the dangers of overheated rhetoric in the immigration debate and asking whether market disruption is a meaningful path to change. Listen here, then cast your ballot! 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 right: Philly DA Larry Krasner who called ICE 'wannabe Nazis,' or Gov. Josh Shapiro who said that comment was 'abhorrent'?" Michael looks at the explosive rhetoric surrounding Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner's remarks comparing ICE agents to Nazis — and the swift backlash from Democratic leaders including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Senator John Fetterman. Is invoking Nazism ever appropriate in modern political debate, or does it dangerously dilute historical reality? Drawing on history, media reactions, and cultural comparisons, Michael explains why this controversy strikes a deeper nerve — and why today's poll question matters. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should states ban the use of food assistance benefits for purchasing candy and soda? A growing number of states are reconsidering what SNAP benefits should — and shouldn't — cover, with Oklahoma now banning the purchase of candy and sugary drinks using food assistance. Michael breaks down the arguments on both sides: public health advocates who say taxpayers shouldn't subsidize chronic disease, and critics who warn of stigma, slippery slopes, and government overreach into personal choices. With data, real-world examples, and a sharp look at unintended consequences, this episode asks whether limiting SNAP purchases promotes nutrition — or simply polices poverty. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com! And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: “Is it ever acceptable to disrupt a religious service to express political views?” Michael Smerconish breaks down the real-world controversy that inspired today's poll, exploring the legal, moral, and constitutional tensions between religious freedom and political expression. From a high-profile church disruption to questions about protest, journalism, and sacred spaces, Michael explains why this issue strikes at the heart of First Amendment debate — and where he ultimately comes down. Cast your vote and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today at Smerconish.com, Michael asks you: Was your opinion about Alex Pretti altered by video showing him protesting just 11 days before he was killed? Listen in as Michael examines what the footage reveals, what it doesn't change legally, and why video evidence so powerfully shapes public opinion — even when it shouldn't. A thoughtful discussion on reasonableness, law enforcement standards, and the difference between the courtroom and the court of public opinion. 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.
Embiid, PG, & Maxey are SCARY ⭐️ The Rest of the East is Officially on NoticeThe Philadelphia 76ers' Big 3 just put the entire NBA on notice. In this episode, we break down why the trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey looks like the most dangerous core in the league after a Statement Win over the Milwaukee Bucks. We also dive into the latest Eagles coaching rumors and Phillies off-season moves.Poll Question of the DayPerformances like last night from the Big 3 make you believe this is the year the Sixers get over the hump.Use #Agree or #Disagree in the comments to join the debate!Sixers Big 3 Dominate BucksAnalyzing the elite chemistry between Embiid, PG, and Maxey.How the Sixers defensive rotations neutralized Giannis and the Bucks.Breaking down the scoring efficiency of the new-look starting five.Is This the Sixers' Year?Comparing the Sixers' current trajectory to other Eastern Conference contenders.Why the health of the Big 3 remains the only "if" for a deep playoff run.Assessing the bench depth and trade deadline needs to solidify a title run.Eagles OC Search UpdatesThe latest names surfacing in the search for a new Offensive Coordinator.How the new hire will impact Jalen Hurts' development and the run game.Timeline expectations for an official announcement from the front office.Phillies Hot Stove: Harrison Bader Signs with GiantsBreaking down the impact of Bader heading to San Francisco.What this means for the Phillies' remaining outfield targets.Latest rumors regarding Dave Dombrowski's next move in free agency.Follow & SubscribeHit the notification bell so you never miss a Philly sports update.Follow us on all social platforms for breaking news alerts.Share this video with a friend who thinks the Sixers are finally winning it all!
2026 economics: People weigh less so airline costs go down. Conspiracy Theorists = narcissist? Things people that were raised by single moms are better at doing. Strange Highmark Stadium memorabilia. And the Poll Question of the Day: Which NFC West has the biggest rivalry?
Chois Woodman, Rob Breaux and Jamie Lent look forward to the premier matchup for the Red Raider men's basketball vs Houston Cougars at the USA with College Gameday back in town. The guys brace for anticipated bad winter weather hitting the 806 this weekend. It's championship weekend in the NFL plus the Cowboys have a new defensive coordinator, the guys have it all in their NFL takes. The final College Football coaches poll is out and the guys breakdown Texas Tech head coach's Joey McGuire final votes. Jamie's Question of the Day asks what must this Texas Tech men's basketball team do to pick up the home win over Houston? The guys also run through the Texas Tech Red Raider football players who finished in the top 100 for 2025.
Poll Question: if my doctor told me I had 30 days left to live I would...New bit: Ain't no fart sounds anymore... played many times! baby gets a gun permit! New question: The day Neil croaks, my reaction will be...
SKID STOPPED! Eagles Offense Efficient, Defense Delivers 31-0 Shutout vs Raiders (12/14/25)The SKID IS STOPPED! The Eagles delivered the definitive statement win the fanbase desperately needed with a dominant 31-0 shutout victory against the Raiders. This historic performance marked the team's first shutout win since 2018, and the defense was otherworldly, holding the Raiders to a staggering 75 total yards of offense! We dissect the massive turnaround, review the efficiency of the offense, and ask which unit deserves the most credit.
The Eagles' Freefall has reached critical mass following the embarrassing MNF Disaster. Now facing the Raiders in Week 15, this is the moment of truth. We break down what went wrong on Monday night and demand answers: Is this team too broken to recover, or can they deliver a statement win and Stop The Skid?
December 5, 2025 Hour 2 Lee Sterling. Lee makes his picks against the number and lobbies for Miami to make the playoff. Poll Question, what kind of a shot do you give Indiana. Miller and Moulton make their picks against the number.
Birds Must Avoid Extending Disastrous Losing Streak! Eagles vs Chargers Week 14 Game PreviewIt is officially Crisis Mode. The Eagles have suffered two straight devastating losses, making this Week 14 matchup against the Chargers an absolute must-win. This is a battle for the team's mental toughness and survival. We dive into the Eagles vs Chargers Game Preview and ask the toughest question: Is the most dependable unit—the Offensive Line—the biggest problem right now?
Black Friday Blackout Gone Wrong! Birds Lose 2nd Straight, Pathetic Offense! Game RecapThe nightmare continues. The Eagles dropped their second straight game, suffering an embarrassing loss to the Bears on Black Friday. Instead of redemption, the offense delivered a pathetic performance, leading to the most difficult question of the season: Has the team officially lost its Super Bowl ceiling? We break down the Eagles vs Bears Recap and try to find answers in the wreckage.
We can't sugarcoat this one. The Eagles suffered an absolutely devastating defeat to the Cowboys, blowing a massive 21-point lead and losing 24-21 in the most painful fashion possible. The Super Bowl conversation has shifted to accountability. We break down the Eagles vs Cowboys Postgame chaos, analyze the exact moments the wheels came off, and ask: Who is to blame for the choke job?
Can Birds Offense Give High Flying Defense Some Help? Dallas Week! Eagles vs Cowboys Game PreviewIt's finally Dallas Week, and the stakes couldn't be higher! The Eagles' defense is playing lights-out, but the big question looming over the team is the sputtering offense. We break down the biggest rivalry matchup of the year: Eagles vs Cowboys Game Preview. We ask if the Birds' recent struggles on the offensive side of the ball are enough to sink their title hopes, or if they can find their rhythm just in time for the Dallas Cowboys.
November 18, 2025 Hour 2. Poll Question. The Heisman, will the Indiana QB win it? Big Ten and Private Equity, what does it all mean.
The Drive had a poll question. Do you believe the Chiefs, Ravens and Lions will all make the postseason this upcoming year.
Michael breaks down a new data point from the National Association of Realtors: the median age of U.S. home buyers has climbed to 59. He explores what's driving the shift—from affordability crises to shifting priorities—and examines new proposals like 50-year mortgages and portable home loans. Plus, how America's housing shortage ties into mental health, generational trends, and global comparisons. It's all the basis for today's Smerconish.com Poll Question, which asks "Why has the median age for U.S. homebuyers risen to 59 - Affordability, or Shifting Priorities?" Listen here, and then vote! And, please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Birds Defense Dominates Packers in Lambeau! Eagles vs Lions Week 11 SNF Game PreviewThe Eagles defense made an undeniable statement by dominating the Packers in Lambeau on Monday Night Football! With the recent additions to the roster, this unit looks transformed. We celebrate the huge road win and immediately pivot to the massive SNF showdown against the Detroit Lions in Week 11. Is this defense truly superior now?
Holiday decorations, popular names, Korean skin care and whether it's uncool to have a boyfriend – join me!
Birds Acquire Phillips, Alexander & Carter II To Bolster Defense! Eagles vs Packers Week 10 PreviewThe Eagles are not messing around! Coming off the bye, the front office made a massive statement, acquiring three key defensive players: Phillips, Alexander, and Carter II. We break down what this haul means for a unit that has struggled and whether these additions officially make the Eagles the team to beat in the NFC. It's all leading up to the Week 10 showdown against the Green Bay Packers!
Maxey & Edgecombe Drive Sixers to Perfect 4-0 Start! Are They LEGIT?The Sixers are off to a perfect 4-0 start, and the buzz around the NBA is deafening! Thanks to the sensational play of Tyrese Maxey and rookie phenom VJ Edgecombe, Philly is looking dominant. We break down the hot start and ask the biggest question: are the Sixers truly LEGIT Eastern Conference contenders? Plus, we dive into the latest surprise news out of the Eagles camp!
Barkley/Birds Rushing Attack Dominate Giants 38-20! Eagles FLY High into Bye Week! Game RecapThe Eagles are FLYING HIGH into the bye week! After an absolute domination of the Giants, led by a historic performance from the rushing attack and Saquon Barkley, the Birds cruise into their break with a massive 38-20 victory. We break down how the offense finally fixed its biggest weakness and what the team must do to stay hot.
The referee complaining has begun already after the Chiefs had one game with 0 accepted penalties.
October 3, 2025 Hour 1. Great day of baseball. Baseball ratings are way up. Poll Question, Canes or Noles. The starting five.
Birds Soar South Looking to Stay Undefeated! Eagles vs Bucs Week 3 Preview & PredictionsThe Eagles are heading to Tampa Bay to take on the Buccaneers! We're breaking down everything you need to know about the matchup in our Eagles vs Bucs Week 3 Game Preview & Predictions as the Birds look to stay undefeated.We're getting into the biggest news of the week with our poll question:Poll Question & Call to ActionAgree or Disagree: Nolan Smith's injury is a huge blow to the Eagles' defense, and they will struggle to create pressure on the edge without him. Drop your vote in the comments below!
We look at some stats to guage how truly dominant Mahomes is vs the elite QB's in the league and we agree with Jerry Jones for once.
Birds Offense Aims to Soar High at Home! Eagles vs Rams Week 3 Game Preview & PredictionsThe Eagles are back at home and ready to take on the Rams! We're breaking down everything you need to know about the matchup and giving our Eagles vs Rams Week 3 Game Preview & Predictions.Our poll question is focused on the man at the center of the offense. We want to know what you think:Poll Question & Call to Action#Agree or #Disagree: Jalen Hurts will throw at least 2 Touchdown passes this Sunday against the Rams. Drop your vote in the comments below!
September 11, 2025 Hour 2. Poll Question, which playoff team from 2024 do you trust the least to make the playoffs in 2025? Pressure on the Gators. NBA problems.
September 9, 2025 Hour 1. MNF recap. Poll Question results. The Starting Five.
August 27, 2025 Hour 2. Which sport is better now than it was 20 years ago? The texters have answered. How long does the Trevor/Taylor marriage last? Poll Question
August 25, 2025 Hour 2 Chris Easterling. Poll Question. Training Camp hold ins, which player will hurt his team the most? Chris Easterling talks Browns.