The Smerconish Podcast

Latest Episodes:

"This Is a Turning Point": Mark Halperin on Trump's Growing GOP Problem Jun 03, 2026

Show notes

Mark Halperin is editor-in-chief at 2WAY, publisher of The Wide World of News Newsletter, and a host on SiriusXM's Megyn Kelly Channel.

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: Is The GOP Revolt Against Trump's Slush Fund A One-Off or A Turning Point? Jun 03, 2026

Show notes

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is the Republican fight against Trump's $1.8 billion fund a one-off or a turning point? Michael examines the collapse of a proposed $1.8 billion Justice Department compensation fund tied to claims of government “weaponization” and asks whether Republican opposition marks a meaningful shift in Trump-era politics. While acknowledging Trump’s legitimate grievance over the illegal leak of his tax returns, Michael explores why many GOP lawmakers viewed the fund as a bridge too far. Featuring remarks from Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and analysis of the behind-the-scenes pressure campaign that killed the proposal, this episode considers whether Republicans have finally found a willingness to challenge their own president—or whether this was simply an isolated exception. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Death of the White Picket Fence—and What It Says About America Jun 02, 2026

Show notes

"Good Fences Make Good Neighbors" - but a "good fence" isn't necessarily a tall one. Why are white picket fences disappearing across America? Michael explores a surprising cultural shift with Washington Post reporter Danielle Paquette. As privacy fences replace open yards, what are we gaining—and what might we be losing when it comes to community, trust, and neighborly connection? Original air date 2 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question: Do You Stand With Trump or Netanyahu? ('Neither' Is Not An Option) Jun 02, 2026

Show notes

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Trump versus Netanyahu - If you had to stand with one and neither is not an option, who do you stand with? Michael examines reports of a heated phone call between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a dramatic turn for two leaders long seen as close political allies. Drawing on reporting about tensions over Iran negotiations, Israel’s actions in Lebanon, and the broader geopolitical stakes, Michael explores how the relationship may be changing—and why both men are facing political challenges at home. The result is one of the most difficult daily poll questions yet: if forced to choose between Trump and Netanyahu, where would you stand? 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 Cohen Wants Closure With Trump Jun 01, 2026

Show notes

Michael Cohen joins Michael Smerconish for a candid conversation about political tribalism, ideological purity tests, and what happens when independent thinkers refuse to stay in line. Cohen discusses his split with former allies on the left, why he says he was "canceled" for challenging anti-Trump narratives, and his reaction to ongoing questions about Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He also reveals that, despite years of conflict, he still seeks closure with the former president. A wide-ranging discussion about loyalty, truth, and the growing pressure to choose sides in American politics. Original air date 1 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question: Graham Platner's wife says his sexting is nobody's business. Agree? Jun 01, 2026

Show notes

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Graham Platner’s wife says his sexting other women is nobody’s business. Do you agree with that? Michael examines the growing controversy surrounding the Maine Senate candidate whose campaign has been rocked by revelations about past conduct, including allegations of sexting during his marriage. After Platner’s wife publicly defended him and argued that their marriage is a private matter, Michael asks where voters should draw the line between personal behavior and public accountability. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Halperin: Why Ken Paxton’s Texas Victory Could Reshape the 2026 Senate Map May 29, 2026

Show notes

Michael Smerconish is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin to unpack Ken Paxton’s decisive Texas primary victory, what it means for the 2026 Senate landscape, and whether Democrats truly have a shot at a statewide breakthrough. They also discuss President Trump’s calculus in backing Paxton, the challenges facing Democrat James Talarico, and the growing uncertainty surrounding U.S.-Iran relations. Original air date 29 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question: Is Graham Platner's Nazi tattoo disqualifying? May 29, 2026

Show notes

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is Graham Platner's Nazi tattoo disqualifying? As Democrats search for four Senate seats to reclaim the majority, Maine has emerged as one of the most important battlegrounds in the country. Michael examines the high-stakes race between longtime Republican Senator Susan Collins and Democratic challenger Graham Platner, a Marine Corps veteran whose campaign has been rocked by revelations about controversial Reddit posts and a tattoo resembling a Nazi-era symbol. Platner says he was unaware of its meaning when he got it and has since covered it up, but critics argue that explanation strains credibility. Does the controversy end the conversation—or should voters weigh the full context before deciding? Listen in, 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.

The Collapse of Jury Neutrality in America: Are Political Biases Destroying The System? May 28, 2026

Show notes

Michael explores how America’s political polarization is spilling into the jury room. Expert jury consultant Dr. Laurie Kuslansky joins the program to discuss rising mistrials, partisan bias among jurors, the impact of Trump-era politics on the justice system, and whether fair and impartial juries are becoming harder to find. Plus, listeners share their own surprising jury duty experiences. Original air date 28 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question: Was Jill Biden Really Blindsided by Joe's Debate Disaster? May 28, 2026

Show notes

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you believe Jill Biden was blindsided by Joe's debate performance? Michael revisits Joe Biden’s disastrous 2024 debate performance in light of Jill Biden’s new comments that she was “frightened” and had never seen him that way before OR since. He walks through the warning signs that came before the debate—from the Robert Hur report to the Hollywood fundraiser with Barack Obama and George Clooney—and asks whether the former first lady’s claim is credible. Michael also addresses concerns about Donald Trump’s health, drawing a contrast between fair scrutiny and political weaponization. Listen here, then 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.

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