Podcasts about smerconish

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.

What really goes into a presidential visit? In this episode of Book Club, Michael sits down with Jean Becker and Tom Collamore to discuss their new book, "Don't Tell the President: The Best, Worst, and Mostly Untold Stories from Presidential Advance." From George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, Becker and Collamore pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of “advance” work — the behind-the-scenes operatives who plan every detail of a president's public appearances. The conversation features unforgettable stories, including the controversy over a papal backdrop, the infamous Dukakis tank photo, assassination attempts on President Ford, a royal riser mishap with Queen Elizabeth II, and even Smerconish's own unexpected detour into a Brussels brothel while advancing Vice President Bush. It's a candid, entertaining, and revealing look at the moments that shaped presidential history — and the unsung professionals who made (and sometimes nearly broke) them. Original air date 11 February 2026. The book was published on 3 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: "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.

Listen and vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michael Smerconish (host, SiriusXM's The Michael Smerconish Program, and CNN's Smerconish) joins Chris Cuomo to break down why American politics no longer reflects where most voters actually are. Cuomo examines how outrage-driven media, closed primaries, and algorithmic incentives reward the loudest fringe voices while sidelining the practical concerns of independents and moderates — from affordability and health care to trust in institutions.Cuomo and Smerconish dig into why nearly half the country now identifies as independent, why that reality is ignored by both parties, and how modern media economics make moderation a losing strategy. They also discuss whether shared civic spaces can still exist, how the “middle” gets erased by rage-based incentives, and what it would take to realign politics with how Americans actually live and think. Follow and subscribe to The Chris Cuomo Project on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday: https://linktr.ee/cuomoproject Join Chris Ad-Free On Substack: http://thechriscuomoproject.substack.com Support our sponsors: Get 25% off Cowboy Colostrum with code CUOMO https://www.cowboycolostrum.com/CUOMO Head to https://Superpower.com and use code CUOMO at checkout for $20 off your membership. Support the Freedom From Religion Foundation and protect the separation of church and state—visit https://ffrf.us/newyear or text CHRIS to 511511. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, Michael dives deep into the chaos at Turning Point USA's America Fest. With more than 30,000 attendees, the event revealed a growing rift within the GOP. From Ben Shapiro's scathing critique of fellow conservatives to the controversial presence of rapper Nicki Minaj, the conference exposed the future direction of the Republican Party. Is Turning Point USA a political asset or a liability for the GOP? 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.

Michael breaks down today's poll question at Smerconish.com: Will the Friday release of Epstein materials be of any great consequence? With the DOJ racing to meet a congressional deadline, Smerconish explains why massive redactions, prior disclosures, and political realities may leave the public disappointed — and why this story is far from over. Listen here, then vote at smerconish.com, and please rate and 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 breaks down today's Smerconish.com Daily Poll Question: Are President Trump's comments about Rob Reiner a new low? After Trump issued a controversial Truth Social post in the wake of the Reiner family tragedy, even some usual allies spoke out against him. Michael reviews the reactions, compares this moment to past Trump controversies—from McCain to Kovaleski—and asks listeners to decide where this one ranks. Vote now at Smerconish.com 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.

Antisemitic incidents are rising across the U.S. and around the world. Michael's answer to today's Smerconish.com poll question, "Is antisemitism becoming normalized in our society today?" is, sadly, "Yes." Listen here to hear his take, 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.

In this episode, Michael Smerconish confronts a deeply troubling question: Are mass shootings a permanent part of American life? Following a devastating weekend—from the Brown University shooting to tragedies abroad—Michael unpacks today's poll question at Smerconish.com and shares why he's grown pessimistic about meaningful change. In a prepared statement he reads from each time there is a mass shooting, he revisits the Second Amendment, the Heller decision, and the political realities that keep America stuck. A candid, sobering reflection on a crisis that shows no signs of slowing. 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.

Australia just logged out more than a million under-16 social media accounts — an unprecedented national ban aimed at protecting kids from the harms of Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and more. Today, Michael Smerconish breaks down the sweeping new law, the public reaction, and why figures like Rahm Emanuel say the U.S. should follow Australia's lead. Michael revisits the data, insights from Dr. Jean Twenge's research on youth mental health, and today's Smerconish.com poll question: Should America adopt the same ban? Tune in, 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.