The Smerconish Podcast

Are these markets more accurate than traditional polling?

Do they invite insider trading and corruption?

Should Congress ban wagering tied to government decisions?

And is betting on regime change ethically different from betting on the Super Bowl?

From Iran to Texas Senate races to the Oscars, this conversation explores the explosive rise of prediction markets — and whether they’re a powerful forecasting tool or a dystopian step too far.

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: On balance, is it good or bad news that the Pentagon is using artificial intelligence?
As the U.S. military deploys advanced AI tools like Palantir’s Maven Smart System to process battlefield intelligence and assist in real-time targeting, a political and ethical firestorm is brewing. After a reported fallout between the Pentagon and AI firm Anthropic, questions swirl about mass surveillance, autonomous weapons, and who controls the future of warfare—the military or Silicon Valley. Michael is clear about where he stands, but what do you think? Is AI a necessary strategic edge in a dangerous world—or a line we shouldn’t cross? Cast your vote and join the debate. And please rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Former Nebraska Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey joins Michael for a candid, wide-ranging conversation. Kerrey addresses his past meeting with Jeffrey Epstein and the fallout that led him to resign from a corporate board, weighs in on cancel culture and free speech on campus, and shares blunt thoughts on Iran, war powers, and whether Congress should vote before military action. The Medal of Honor recipient also opens up about his recent medical struggles, recovery, and why he credits “socialized medicine” at the VA for saving him from financial ruin. At 82, Kerrey is as sharp — and unfiltered — as ever. Original air date 5 March 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Who should determine media access to the dignified transfer of remains at Dover? Families of the fallen or the press?" As six U.S. service members are returned home, Michael revisits the long-running debate over the “Dover Test” — who gets to witness the consequences of war and who gets to document it. A tense exchange between the White House's Karoline Leavitt and CNN's Kaitlan Collins reignites questions about press freedom, privacy, and accountability. Plus, a startling real-world example of how AI-generated misinformation nearly made it into the broadcast underscores the stakes of accuracy in wartime. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Find Mark Halperin at 2WAY

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