The Playbook Podcast

Stephen A. Smith is best known for sports commentary. But now, he’s weighing in on the direction of both political parties — and even considering a potential 2028 presidential run.

In a wide-ranging conversation with Dasha, the outspoken analyst explains why he believes he could win the presidency but won’t give up his career to campaign. He also discusses what he thinks is wrong with today’s political class, his criticism of the direction of the Democratic Party, Donald Trump’s appeal to voters, his interviews with controversial figures and the 2028 contenders he’s watching — including a MAGA Republican he could consider voting for.

Have thoughts for the show? Text or leave us a voicemail at 202-643-1536.

Sen. Susan Collins joins POLITICO’s Jonathan Martin at Perry’s Lobster Shack in coastal Maine for a wide-ranging conversation about her reelection fight in the senate, President Trump’s second administration and the future of the Republican Party.



The Maine Republican also discusses Canadian tariffs, immigration enforcement, her independent record and the challenge of appealing to voters in an increasingly nationalized political environment. Collins makes the case for bipartisan governing — and argues that there is still room for a political middle.



Plus, Jonathan and Collins dig into a classic Maine meal of lobster, steamers and clam chowder.

In a Friday roundup, White House reporter Sophia Cai and Playbook’s Ali Bianco unpack three stories animating Washington this morning. They break down what yesterday’s White House press briefing reveals about cracks in Trump’s coalition, the implications of a private phone call between President Donald Trump and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and why Democrats are celebrating two major redistricting rulings. Plus, Washington may be welcoming a new addition to its skyline: a 250-foot monument.

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Democrats campaigning in red states are divided on Kamala Harris – some going as far as to reject a Harris endorsement. So,what is the Harris strategy barreling ahead towards the midterms? Then polling and campaigns reporter Erin Doherty joins Playbook co-authors Dasha Burns and Adam Wren to discuss the other stories animating Washington: the potential political ambitions of ESPN host Stephen A. Smith and what a POLITICO poll reveals about voters both parties are missing. Plus, a first in Playbook ad for a GOP congressional candidate in Michigan.

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President Donald Trump called data centers the “Golden Goose,” even as they hang like an albatross around the necks of Republicans facing a tough election season. So Playbook's Megan Messerly found out why. Later, Dasha Burns joins alongside JMart to discuss his latest excursion to Vacationland for a sit-down with Sen. Susan Collins, before digging into the moderate Democrats clapping back at Sen. Bernie Sanders. Plus, Playbook looks ahead to the first ever Republican Midterm Convention.

For more news and analysis, subscribe to the Playbook newsletter: politico.com/playbook