The Smerconish Podcast

Michael Smerconish asks a provocative question: Is Donald Trump the most consequential president of the last 100 years? To explore it, he’s joined by presidential scholar Dr. Michael Genovese, author of more than 50 books on leadership and American politics. Together they examine Trump’s impact on the presidency, executive power, immigration, the courts, and America’s role in the world—while comparing his legacy to presidents like FDR, LBJ, Reagan, and Obama. Is Trump a transformational figure who reshaped politics—or a disruptor whose changes could be undone? And what actually defines a consequential presidency? Listen here, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Original air date 19 February 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Who will be the 2028 GOP nominee—Rubio, Vance, or neither?"
The 2028 race may be years away, but the jockeying has clearly begun. Michael breaks down fresh reporting from The Wall Street Journal detailing how President Trump is privately sizing up Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential heirs to the MAGA movement. Betting markets show Rubio rapidly closing the gap with Vance for the nomination—and even rating Rubio as more electable in a general election. Is Vance still the favorite? Is Rubio the smarter political bet? Or could the GOP surprise everyone? Cast your vote and join the conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The Justice Department released millions of pages tied to Jeffrey Epstein — but weeks later, no new charges have followed. Why? Michael Smerconish sits down with former federal prosecutor and Politico senior writer Ankush Khardori to unpack what the Epstein files actually reveal — and what they don’t. Was there evidence of a broader international child sex trafficking ring? Did the DOJ cover anything up? And why haven’t powerful associates been charged? Khardori breaks down a pivotal 86-page memo written after Epstein’s death, addresses the credibility questions surrounding key allegations, and explains why prosecutors may have concluded there simply wasn’t a viable criminal case against others. Plus, Michael takes calls from listeners who aren’t convinced — raising questions about power, accountability, and whether justice was truly served. Listen, and please rate, review, and share this podcast. Original Air Date 12 March 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Which is more irrational: Trump Derangement Syndrome or Trump Devotion Syndrome?"
Michael Smerconish explores whether intense opposition to Donald Trump is more irrational than reflexive support for him. Prompted by a caller’s phrase “Trump Devotion Syndrome,” Michael uncovers a peer-reviewed academic study examining whether political bias toward Trump is symmetrical—or not. The findings suggest supporters may be more likely to shift policy views when Trump’s name is attached, while detractors judge issues more on substance. Is that conclusion convincing? And what does it say about today’s political climate? Cast your vote and hear the evidence behind one of the most provocative poll questions yet - and be sure to rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Find Mark Halperin at 2WAY, The Next Up Podcast, and on SiriusXM's Megyn Kelly Channel.

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