The Smerconish Podcast

A shocking security scare rocked the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, raising urgent questions about how a gunman got so close—and whether disaster was narrowly avoided. Michael breaks down the incident, asking: was it a security success or a failure? With firsthand insight from SiriusXM colleague, veteran journalist and former WHCA president Steve Scully, this episode takes you inside the room—from the early warning signs to the chaotic moments when shots were reported and guests were told to take cover. Plus, new details about vulnerabilities at the venue, the role of pre-event access, and what this means for the future of one of Washington’s most high-profile gatherings. Original air date 27 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Was Saturday's assassination attempt a security success or security failure? Michael examines the alarming incident at the Washington Hilton, where a gunman was stopped before reaching his target—but not before raising serious concerns. Was this a case of security doing exactly what it was designed to do, or did systemic vulnerabilities allow a dangerous situation to unfold in the first place? Listen in, then vote. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should SNAP recipients be able to use their benefits to buy hot rotisserie chicken? Michael revisits the debate over food assistance rules as a bipartisan group of senators pushes to carve out a narrow exception to the long-standing ban on hot foods. The issue highlights a quirky regulatory gap—where a cold rotisserie chicken is allowed, but a hot one is not—raising questions about practicality, dignity, and intent. Supporters argue it’s a common-sense fix for families, seniors, and those without cooking access, while critics warn it could open the door to broader changes. Is this smart reform or the start of a slippery slope? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Hear Michael's 2016 interview with Reggie Love on The Book Club with Michael Smerconish Podcast, on his book "Power Forward: My Presidential Education"

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Britain just banned tobacco sales to anyone born in 2009 or later, forever. Should the U.S. do the same? Michael breaks down the UK’s unprecedented “smoke-free generation” policy, which phases out tobacco access by birth year rather than banning it outright. The approach aims to stop addiction before it starts, citing data that most smokers begin young—but critics call it discriminatory and overly paternalistic. With similar efforts attempted (and reversed) in places like New Zealand, the debate raises fundamental questions about public health, personal freedom, and whether such a policy could—or should—ever take hold in the United States. Listen here, then vote! And please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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