From Tragedy to Escapism: Politics, Cartoons, and Movies

From Tragedy to Escapism: Politics, Cartoons, and Movies

Michael reflects on a powerful and unsettling political cartoon drawn in the aftermath of the killing of Charlie Kirk (by Scott Stantis, exclusively for the Smerconish.com Daily Newsletter) — a piece that captures the intensity of America’s overheated political climate. After wrestling with the heaviness of the moment, he shifts gears to lighten things up with a conversation on film. Joined by Daniel Fienberg, chief TV critic of The Hollywood Reporter, Michael dives into their list of the 25 greatest sports movies of all time. From Rocky to Slapshot, Hoosiers to Caddyshack, they debate the classics, defend the surprises, and argue over what really belongs in the top tier. It’s an episode that moves from sobering reflection to cinematic joy — capturing both the weight of our times and the relief of a good escape. Original air date 12 September 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episoder(1769)

The Truth About SNAP: Who Decides What Low-Income Families Can Eat?

The Truth About SNAP: Who Decides What Low-Income Families Can Eat?

Five states have begun banning soda and candy purchases through SNAP — with 18 states seeking similar waivers. Is this smart public health policy or government overreach? Michael speaks with Dr. Juli...

17 Feb 26min

Today's Poll Question: Should Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?

Today's Poll Question: Should Olympic athletes make political statements during the games?

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 speak...

17 Feb 14min

Today's Poll Question: Is Donald Trump the Most Consequential President in 100 Years?

Today's Poll Question: Is Donald Trump the Most Consequential President in 100 Years?

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 exami...

16 Feb 15min

The SAVE Act Explained: Voting Security or Voter Suppression?

The SAVE Act Explained: Voting Security or Voter Suppression?

The House has passed the SAVE Act — a sweeping election reform bill that would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. But what does that really mean? Michael Smerc...

13 Feb 28min

Today's Poll Question: Should Gallup Continue Tracking Presidential Approval Ratings?

Today's Poll Question: Should Gallup Continue Tracking Presidential Approval Ratings?

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 ...

13 Feb 10min

It Was A Sh*tty Poll Question

It Was A Sh*tty Poll Question

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 ove...

12 Feb 25min

Today's Poll Question: Should You Have to Prove Citizenship to Vote?

Today's Poll Question: Should You Have to Prove Citizenship to Vote?

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 phys...

12 Feb 13min

Epstein Fallout Meets Midterm Fire: Mark Halperin On Trump Allies Under Pressure

Epstein Fallout Meets Midterm Fire: Mark Halperin On Trump Allies Under Pressure

Michael sits down with 2WAY/Next Up host Mark Halperin to unpack the latest developments in the Jeffrey Epstein saga—including new document releases, testimony fallout, and fresh scrutiny surrounding ...

11 Feb 32min

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