The Smerconish Podcast

Media titan John Malone joins Michael for a deeply personal conversation about his lifelong friendship with CNN founder Ted Turner, who passed away this week at age 87. Malone shares behind-the-scenes stories about Turner’s rise, his relationships with Jane Fonda and Rupert Murdoch, the birth of CNN, and Turner’s concerns about the future of cable news. The discussion also explores polarization in America, the evolution of 24/7 media, and whether news has become entertainment. Original air date 7 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Has the 24/7 news cycle done more public good or harm? Michael reflects on the life and legacy of CNN founder Ted Turner while examining the profound impact of round-the-clock news coverage on American society. From the Gulf War and 9/11 to O.J., political polarization, and “doomscrolling,” Michael explores how cable news transformed journalism, public awareness, and national discourse. Did real-time reporting democratize information and strengthen accountability — or create ideological silos, anxiety, and a nonstop demand for outrage? 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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Michael Smerconish and Mark Halperin break down the confusion, contradictions, and political fallout surrounding Trump’s Iran strategy — from nuclear negotiations and the Strait of Hormuz to whether the president is heading toward a historic win or an Obama-style replay. Plus: midterm warning signs for Republicans, and key races in Texas, Ohio, and California. Original air date 6 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is Donald Trump more a consequence or the cause of our political polarization? Michael argues that most voters will instinctively blame Donald Trump for America’s deep political divide — but says the more accurate answer is that Trump is a consequence of forces decades in the making. Drawing on conversations with Axios co-founder Jim VandeHei and Harvard political scientist Robert Putnam, author of "Bowling Alone", Michael explores how social isolation, declining civic engagement, and the collapse of shared community life created fertile ground for populism long before Trump arrived. The episode also previews Smerconish’s new Mingle Project interview with Putnam and examines why Americans may actually have more in common than today’s media environment suggests. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Listen to Michael's recent interview with Senator Fetterman in episode #1831.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.