The Smerconish Podcast

Mark Halperin joins Michael Smerconish to unpack another whirlwind week in politics—from President Trump's shifting Iran strategy and foreign policy reversals to the political fallout from a fatal ICE operation in Maine. They also reflect on the legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, assess Susan Collins' reelection prospects, and examine how the Democrats' search for a new Senate candidate could reshape one of 2026's biggest races. Original air date 15 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which of these is the greatest sports rivalry? England-Argentina, Yankees-Red Sox, Ohio State-Michigan, Army-Navy, Duke-North Carolina, Real Madrid-Barcelona, Ali-Frazier, Celtics-Lakers, Palmer-Nicklaus, India-Pakistan, Lehigh-Lafayette, or Harvard-Yale?
As England and Argentina prepare for another high-stakes World Cup showdown, Michael explores why The Wall Street Journal calls it the greatest rivalry in sports, tracing its roots through World Cup history, the Falklands War, Maradona's "Hand of God," and decades of national pride. He also makes the case for legendary American and international rivalries - and asks you to weigh in and vote at Smerconish.com. Be sure to then rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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A groundbreaking new study challenges the idea that America is hopelessly divided. Michael speaks with Tufts political scientist Brian Schaffner about research involving more than 700,000 Americans that found Trump and Harris voters share remarkably similar life experiences and concerns. Then, listeners weigh in on whether our common humanity is enough to bridge today's political divide. Original air date 14 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Would a 2028 Democratic contender benefit from taking on the socialist wing now?
Michael revisits Bill Clinton's famous "Sister Souljah moment" from 1992, and asks whether today's Democratic Party is approaching a similar political crossroads. As Democratic Socialists gain momentum in key primaries, is there an opening for a 2028 presidential hopeful to draw a clear ideological line—or would that fracture the party before the general election? Featuring analysis of Josh Shapiro, Rahm Emanuel, Bernie Sanders' influence, and Bill Daley's warning about a potential "Tea Party trap," this episode explores the strategic debate shaping the Democrats' future. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com - 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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Michael Smerconish reflects on the life and legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, examining the contradictions that defined his career—from bipartisan dealmaker and military veteran to outspoken Trump ally. Was Graham a principled pragmatist, an opportunist, or something more complicated? Michael explores how history should remember one of Washington's most polarizing political figures before opening the phones for a thoughtful and spirited conversation with listeners. Original air date 13 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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