The Smerconish Podcast

Michael Smerconish welcomes Mark Halperin for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest political flashpoints: the controversy surrounding potential compensation for January 6 defendants, growing Republican resistance to Donald Trump, tensions with Iran, and Trump’s public feud with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. Halperin explains why some GOP lawmakers may finally be willing to push back — and what it could mean heading into the midterms. Plus, Michael reflects on the legacy and final political warnings of the late Barney Frank. Original air date 21 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Before his death, Barney Frank said overreach by the left is alienating moderates and setting back Democrats. Do you agree? Michael reflects on the life and political legacy of Barney Frank, the pioneering congressman and liberal icon who, in his final interviews, warned that Democrats risk alienating mainstream voters through ideological overreach and rigid litmus tests. Drawing from past conversations with Frank, Michael explores the late lawmaker’s argument that successful political movements require strategy, sequencing, and coalition-building — not purity tests. The episode also revisits Frank’s wit, groundbreaking role in Congress, and his candid assessment of today’s Democratic Party at a pivotal political moment. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Michael and TC revisit some of the most memorable commencement speeches from both this year and years past — from Roger Federer, Steve Jobs, Shonda Rhimes, Steve Carell, Eric Church, Arthur Brooks, and more. From lessons on resilience and rejection to purpose, kindness, ambition, and community, they break down the advice that resonated most with graduates — and why these messages matter far beyond campus. Plus: AI gets booed at graduations, universities navigate speech controversies, and Michael reflects on the power of rejection in his own commencement addresses. A thoughtful, funny, and surprisingly emotional conversation about success, failure, and what actually makes a meaningful life. Original air date 19 May 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: When you vote, which matters more: character or policy?

Michael Smerconish explores one of the oldest and most uncomfortable questions in American politics: should voters prioritize a candidate’s personal character or the policies they promise to deliver? Drawing on the views of Colin Powell and James Madison, plus examples from JFK, Nixon, Clinton, and Trump, Michael examines the gap between what voters say matters and how they actually vote. If millions knowingly support candidates they view as dishonest or immoral, is policy ultimately what drives elections? Or does character still define leadership in a meaningful way? This episode unpacks the tradeoffs voters make in the privacy of the voting booth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The John Kasich Show debuts on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 124 on Saturday May 23 at 11AM East.

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