The Smerconish Podcast

After Team USA's World Cup exit against Belgium, Michael offers a surprising reaction: disappointment, yes—but also relief. He unpacks the match, Matt Freese's heartbreaking night, the controversy surrounding Flo Balogun's reinstatement after President Trump's intervention with FIFA, and why he believes a U.S. victory might have overshadowed something even bigger. Plus, Michael explains why the real success story may be America's role as host of the World Cup—and why that matters long after the final whistle. Original air date 7 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Graham Platner Nazi tattoo should have been the end of his campaign.... Agree or disagree?
Michael reacts to the rapid unraveling of Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner's campaign amid explosive new allegations and argues that the warning signs were visible long before the latest controversy. He revisits the longstanding controversy surrounding Platner's Nazi tattoo, questions why prominent Democrats and voters overlooked it, and examines what the fallout could mean for the battle to control the U.S. Senate. Plus, Michael reflects on Team USA's World Cup exit, the Flo Balogun controversy, and why America's successful hosting of the tournament matters beyond politics. 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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Are Americans too pessimistic about America? After the July 4th holiday, Michael examines why patriotism appears to be declining despite evidence that the country continues to lead in innovation, opportunity, and generosity. He explores whether we've become conditioned to expect the worst—and takes calls from listeners on pride, politics, and what it really means to love your country. Original air date 6 July 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should President Trump have called FIFA to review the suspension of Flo Balogun?
Michael Smerconish explains why one controversial World Cup decision has become a much larger debate about politics, sports, and presidential influence. After Team USA's Flo Balogun had his suspension overturned following President Trump's appeal to FIFA, Michael weighs whether the original red card was unjust—and whether a president should ever intervene in an international sporting decision, even for the right outcome. He also reflects on his newfound appreciation for soccer, the World Cup's global appeal, and why this controversy has sparked such a passionate response from fans around the world. Listen here, and 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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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should U.S. citizenship require allegiance or just being born here? The Supreme Court reaffirmed birthright citizenship, but Michael argues the legal ruling doesn't end the policy debate. He explains why he believes the Court correctly interpreted the Fourteenth Amendment while asking whether automatic citizenship based solely on birthplace remains the right approach. Drawing on international comparisons, Justice Samuel Alito's dissent, the naturalization process, and his own experience speaking at a citizenship ceremony, Michael explores whether American citizenship should be rooted in allegiance, consent, and commitment—or continue to be granted simply by birth on U.S. soil. Listen here, then vote! 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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