The Smerconish Podcast

Michael Smerconish dives into a remarkable moment in U.S.–U.K. relations as King Charles III delivers a speech to Congress that may have carried more than just ceremonial weight. CNN’s Stephen Collinson joins to unpack the “subtle but striking” message on democracy, executive power, and America’s global role—plus the political theater behind the royal visit and its impact on President Trump.
Then, political analyst Mark Halperin breaks down the latest headlines: Trump’s legal strategy and “lawfare,” the real significance of the King’s visit, tensions over Ukraine and Iran, and media flashpoints from late-night comedy to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
It’s a wide-ranging conversation on power, politics, and perception in a week where symbolism and strategy collided. Original air date 29 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "On a scale of 1 to 10, rate the Biden presidency." Michael invites listeners to render a retrospective judgment on Joe Biden’s time in office, as a new scholarly book offers the first historical assessment of his presidency. With discussion of legislative wins like the CHIPS Act and infrastructure bill, alongside challenges including inflation, Afghanistan, and border policy, the episode explores how timing, perception, and political aftermath shape legacy. Drawing on polling data and historical context, Smerconish asks whether Biden’s final chapter altered the way his presidency will be remembered—and how you would score it today. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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In the aftermath of a shocking incident at the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner where a shooter - potentially trying to assassinate the President - was apprehended at a security checkpoint, conspiracy theories spread at lightning speed online—raising questions about security, misinformation, and public trust. Michael examines what actually happened, looks at the psychology behind viral conspiracies, and opens the phones to listeners divided on what to believe. From the WHCD scare to broader debates about “false flag” thinking and the role of social media, this episode explores why so many Americans are questioning reality—and what that means for the future of political discourse. Original air date 28 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Are geofence warrants - which sweep up the location data of everybody in an area - worth the risk to our privacy? Michael unpacks a pivotal Supreme Court case testing the limits of law enforcement in the digital age. After a Virginia bank robbery was solved using geofence data, the Court must now weigh public safety against constitutional protections. With unusual alliances emerging among the justices, the debate highlights broader concerns about surveillance, personal data, and the future of policing. Is this a necessary tool to catch criminals—or a dangerous precedent for privacy? 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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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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