The Smerconish Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Is Trump About to Bomb Iran? Mark Halperin Says 75% Likelihood Yes Jun 18, 2025

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Political analyst Mark Halperin joins Michael to break down an explosive New York Times piece on Trump, Netanyahu, and a possible U.S. airstrike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. With Halperin putting the odds of military action at 75%, the conversation turns to what’s motivating Trump, how Israel’s intelligence influence is shaping American policy, and whether the U.S. is inching toward another Middle East conflict. Plus, listener reactions from across the political spectrum. Is America on the brink of war—or just posturing? Original air date 18 June 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Should We Bomb Iran? Smerconish Digs In Jun 18, 2025

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Michael Smerconish tackles today's high-stakes poll question at Smerconish.com: Should the U.S. use a B-2 bomber to drop a bunker buster bomb on Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility? With historical context, recent intel contradictions, and looking at reactions from leaders like JD Vance and Tulsi Gabbard, Michael examines the risks, politics, and precedent behind a potential strike — and what might come the day after. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Escalator Ride That Changed America: 10 Years of Trump Dominance Jun 17, 2025

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Michael marks 10 years since Donald Trump's infamous Trump Tower escalator ride launched his political career. From media circus to political dominance, how did it happen—and would any of it have happened without him? A candid reflection on a decade of disruption, spectacle, and transformation. Original air date 17 June 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 Left’s Missing Leader: Is It Time for Obama to Return? Jun 17, 2025

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This week marks the 10th anniversary of Donald Trump’s infamous escalator ride that began his run for the presidency and command of the headlines over the past ten years. Michael asks you this provocative question: Does Barack Obama have any obligation to be more visible in his opposition to Donald Trump? As political violence escalates and leadership on the left feels absent, is Obama’s silence a problem—or is it the former President’s right? Hear Michael’s take, and more reflections on recent violence against lawmakers. A must-listen for anyone following the 2025 (and even 2028) political drama. 👉 Vote on today’s poll: “Does Barack Obama have any obligation to be more visible in his opposition to Donald Trump?” at Smerconish.com after listening, 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.

The Case for A Pathway To Citizenship Jun 16, 2025

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Michael Smerconish tackles the immigration issue head-on in this compelling commentary. From undocumented workers at diners and car washes to shifting Trump-era policies, he makes the case for a pathway to citizenship — and challenges political leaders on both sides to act. Original air date 16 June 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Political Rage, or, Easy Access To Data: What’s Fueling Attacks at Leaders' Homes? Jun 16, 2025

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Drawing from front-page headlines, federal intelligence memos, and expert insights, this episode explores the deeper roots of political extremism and the implications for American democracy.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Go Forth and Mingle: Michael Smerconish’s Commencement Legacy Jun 14, 2025

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Michael Smerconish closes out the 2024–25 graduation season by looking back on the commencement addresses he’s delivered over the years—and the one that got canceled. From standing in a downpour at Widener University to confronting cancellation at Dickinson, Michael shares the messages of perseverance, citizenship, and civility he’s brought to graduates across the country. It’s a personal, powerful look at what he’s learned and what he still hopes to say. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

India Plane Crash: How to Survive the Unthinkable Jun 13, 2025

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When a plane crashes in India, killing over 240 people and sparing just one, Michael Smerconish turns to survival expert and author Ben Sherwood. The former ABC News President, now Publisher/CEO of The Daily Beast is the bestselling author of "The Survivors Club: The Secrets and Science that Could Save Your Life." Together they explore the science, strategy, and even spirituality behind surviving catastrophe—from airplane disasters to life’s worst moments. This conversation reveals what truly separates those who live from those who don’t—and what you can do to prepare. Original air date 13 June 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sorry, Senator Padilla, You Crossed The Line Jun 13, 2025

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Michael and TC talk about California Senator Alex Padilla's (D) appearance at a press conference that HHS Secretary Kristi Noem was holding, where he was forcibly removed and detained for a short time. Michael takes note of the partisan silos everyone is falling in to when analyzing this incident - but his take is more nuanced, and he makes it clear that Secretary Noem is not to blame in this situation. Original air date 13 June 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael’s Take: Why I Oppose Israel's Strike on Iran (With a Caveat) Jun 13, 2025

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Michael offers a nuanced take on Israel attacking Iran last night. He unpacks today’s Smerconish.com poll question, which asks "Do you favor or oppose Israel’s attack against Iran?" Listen to him talk about what it means for U.S.-Israel relations, and the looming risk of a wider war. Plus, thoughts on immigration protests, political optics, and why this moment may change everything. 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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