Doug Sosnik: America’s Real Political Divide Isn’t Red vs. Blue—It’s College vs. No College
Veteran political strategist Doug Sosnik joins Michael to dissect the deepening educational divide in American politics. Why are Republicans dominating among non-college voters? Can Democrats win back the working class? And is Trump a cause—or a symptom—of something much bigger? From voting patterns to shifting political power in the South and West, this episode offers a critical look at the structural forces shaping the future of U.S. elections. Original air date 5 September 2025.
5 Syys 33min
Killing Drug Traffickers at Sea: Legal Strike or Dangerous Precedent?
In today’s episode, Michael tackles the explosive story of a U.S. military strike on suspected drug traffickers in international waters. It is the subject of today's poll question at Smerconish.com: Should the U.S. military conduct lethal strikes against suspected drug traffickers in international waters without a formal declaration of war? Plus, new developments in the Epstein investigation stir strange political alliances: hear how yesterday's poll turned out as well.
5 Syys 15min
Admiral Stavridis on Trump’s "Drug Boat" Strike: Show Me the Evidence
Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis joins Michael to unpack China’s military parade, Russia’s escalating aggression, and Trump’s explosive claim of a deadly drug boat strike in the Caribbean. Was it justified—or just political theater? Get expert insight on global power plays in this dynamic conversation with a former four-star Navy Admiral. Original air date 4 September 2025.
4 Syys 25min
Trump Says 'Hoax,' But GOP Rebels Want Epstein Docs Out — Will It Happen?
Strange bedfellows in Congress are teamed up in asking for the full release of the Epstein files, with four Republicans joining all Democratic representatives in that push. Michael dives in to today's poll question at Smerconsih.com: Will two more Republicans join Reps. Massie, Mace, Boebert, and Greene in supporting the Democrats to release the DOJ's Epstein-Maxwell investigation files? With these unusual alliances forming and the White House calling it a "hostile act," Michael breaks down what’s at stake — and why political momentum may be shifting. Listen here, then rate, review, and share this podcast!
4 Syys 10min
From Rioters to Victims? The Shocking Push for January 6 Payouts
Michael Smerconish reacts to a jaw-dropping development: January 6 rioters, already pardoned by President Trump, are now seeking financial compensation from the U.S. government — drawing comparisons to 9/11 victim funds. Is this a rewriting of history or political theater at its peak? Then, political analyst Mark Halperin joins for a wide-ranging conversation on Trump’s crime messaging, the role of the National Guard in major cities, and what both parties are getting wrong heading into the 2026 midterms. Original air date 3 September 2025.
3 Syys 26min
Nearly 60 Shot in Chicago — Is the National Guard the Answer?
A violent Labor Day weekend in Chicago leaves nearly 60 shot and 8 dead — should the National Guard be sent in? Michael Smerconish explores Trump’s controversial proposal and its shaky legal footing. That's the basis for today's Smerconish.com poll question. Plus, on yesterday's poll question, a heated debate over tax-free tips for certain workers, and the shocking possibility of January 6 rioters receiving government compensation.
3 Syys 13min
Thoughts and Prayers with Jonah Goldberg
After a tragic school shooting in Minneapolis reignites the national debate, Michael sits down with Jonah Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of The Dispatch, to unpack the fierce backlash against offering “thoughts and prayers.” Is it a hollow gesture or a necessary human response? They explore how political polarization and social media have turned even grief into a culture war — and what needs to happen after the prayers. Plus, hear Michael's "standard response" that he has written and reads every time there is a mass shooting. It is the same thing...every time.A powerful, timely conversation about compassion, cynicism, and constructive action. Original air date 2 September 2025.
2 Syys 30min
From Maine to Mayhem: Michael’s Vacation Sparks a Tip Tax Debate
Michael returns from vacation in Maine and dives into today's Smerconish.com poll question on this hot topic: should tips be tax-free? From golf caddies to DJs, he unpacks the 68 jobs newly exempt under Trump’s proposed “no tax on tips” plan. Michael shares his own tipping experiences and explains why he thinks this policy might do more harm than good. A must-listen debate on fairness, wages, and the future of tipping in America. Listen here, then vote on today's poll question at Smerconish.com!
2 Syys 12min
