The Smerconish Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Democratic Socialism: Could It Win Over America? Nov 06, 2025

Show notes

Michael dives into a thought-provoking question: Could America embrace democratic socialism if its principles were better understood? With a focus on Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral victory, the rising interest in socialism (and many learning how it actually works), and shifting public opinions, Michael explores whether democratic socialism can be sold to a wider audience. Listen here, 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.

Mark Halperin Breaks Down the Blue Surge...With a Caveat on Gavin Newsom Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

Michael sits down with political analyst Mark Halperin the morning after a pivotal Election Day. They unpack the surprising demographic shifts in Virginia and New Jersey, the widening gender gap among young voters, and what the results mean for both parties heading into 2026 and beyond. From Trump’s influence to Gavin Newsom’s rising profile, this episode dives deep into how the political landscape is reshaping in real time. Original air date 5 November 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Fork In The Democrats' Road: Mamdani, or Spanberger & Sherrill Nov 05, 2025

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Michael Smerconish breaks down the Democrats’ big question after Election Day: Which path forward makes the most sense — the moderate model of Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill, or the progressive momentum behind Zohran Mamdani? He also reflects on key election results, shifting voter dynamics, and what it all means for 2026 and beyond. Listen here and vote on today's poll question 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.

How David Wasserman Reads Elections Before Anyone Else — A Masterclass in Data and Democracy Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

Election Day takes center stage as Michael welcomes David Wasserman, Senior Editor and Elections Analyst for The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter. From his role on NBC’s Decision Desk, Wasserman shares how he models races, what signals he’s watching in Virginia, New Jersey, and California, and what tonight could mean for Trump, the Democrats, and the country’s political future. A smart, fast-moving conversation about data, demographics, and democracy — from inside the engine room of Election Night. Original Air date 4 November 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inside Election Day: NYC’s Choice Between Experience and Idealism Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

It’s Election Day in New York City — and Michael Smerconish has thoughts. He dives into the high-stakes mayoral race that pits experience against youth, pragmatism against progressivism, and Cuomo against Mandani. From The New York Times’ editorial retreat to what this race says about the future of the Democratic Party, Michael offers his sharp insight and signature wit here. Listen in, and then vote on today's poll question at smerconish.com, which asks: "If you resided in NYC, for whom would you be voting for Mayor?" 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.

NYC Election Shock? A Conversation With NYC Councilman Frank Morano Nov 03, 2025

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On the eve of a pivotal election in the Big Apple, Michael talks with Frank Morano—radio veteran and newly-minted member of the New York City Council. Together they dissect the fierce mayoral contest in New York City: Why are the polls so unpredictable? What role does talk radio play in shaping public perception and turnout? And crucially — which three levers of power (policing, rent regulation and zoning) could give the next mayor an outsized impact from day one? A must-listen for anyone tracking urban politics, voter behavior and how one race could ripple far beyond the five boroughs. Original air date 3 November 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Morning Light or Sunset Glow: The Daylight Saving Dilemma Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

Do you want more daylight in the morning or in the evening? Michael dives into the deceptively simple question behind today’s smerconish.com poll — unpacking the history, science, and strong opinions surrounding daylight saving time. Plus, he recaps recent poll results, from AI fears to anthem preferences, and explains why the daylight debate never seems to end. Listen here and 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.

How Stranger Danger and SUVs Changed Halloween Forever Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

Has trick-or-treating lost its magic? Michael Smerconish talks with Halloween historian Lesley Bannatyne about how America’s favorite spooky tradition has changed—from door-to-door adventures to church parking lots and “trunk-or-treats.” They explore what this says about our communities, our fears, and how Halloween mirrors who we’ve become. A nostalgic and insightful look at the holiday that once brought every neighborhood together. Original air date 31 October 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shutdown Showdown: What Will Finally Break the Government Stalemate? Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

Day 31 of the shutdown — and no end in sight. Trump’s calling to end the filibuster, Manchin’s standing firm, and millions are starting to feel the pain. Michael asks today’s poll question: What will finally break the stalemate? Food stamps running out? Open enrollment? The coming elections? Federal worker frustration? Or will nothing move the needle? Tune in here, then cast your 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.

Shutdown Politics Meets the Obamacare Crisis - ACA Premiums Surge 26% Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

As open enrollment begins, Affordable Care Act premiums are set to rise by an average of 26%. Michael Smerconish speaks with Alex Wayne, Executive Editor at KFF Health News, about what’s driving the surge, which states will be hit hardest, and how the ongoing government shutdown may finally shift the political pressure in Washington. A smart, fast-paced conversation on health policy, politics, and what it means for millions of Americans. Please rate, review, and share this podcast! Original air date 30 October 2025. 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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