The Smerconish Podcast

ndependent voters helped deliver a Democratic wave in the 2026 midterms, but why couldn't independent candidates win? Michael sits down with Heather Manchin, daughter of former Senator Joe Manchin and co-founder of the Independent Leadership Council, to examine the power of independent voters and the obstacles keeping them out of office. From open primaries and election reform to the future of third-party candidates, could independents finally break America's two-party stranglehold before 2028? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Is the push to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about actual wrongdoing—or just political disagreements? After a narrow House vote stalls the impeachment effort, Michael examines the eight articles against Hegseth, including the controversial Iran war and alleged extrajudicial drug boat killings. Are Democrats pursuing legitimate high crimes and misdemeanors, or weaponizing impeachment over policy differences? Michael breaks down the controversy and asks listeners to weigh in at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should states join a compact to give their electoral votes to the national popular vote winner, even when their own voters didn't?
Michael explains the "National Popular Vote Interstate Compact", which would direct participating states' electoral votes to the nationwide popular vote winner—even if that candidate loses the state. With renewed momentum after the midterms, supporters see a path to making the popular vote decisive, while critics see an end run around the Constitution. Michael examines the compact's 270-vote threshold, unresolved legal questions, and a shifting electoral map that could reshape the debate. Should your state sign on? Listen here, cast your vote at Smerconish.com, 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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A political earthquake in Nevada—and a preview of the battle for the White House in 2028. Michael broadcasts from Las Vegas and sits down with Jon Ralston, founder and CEO of The Nevada Independent, to dissect the Democrats' stunning midterm sweep, including the shocking flip of a congressional district Donald Trump carried by 14 points.
Was this a lasting shift among working-class voters or simply a repudiation of Trump? And what does it mean for the next presidential election?
With Nevada poised to play a pivotal early role in the 2028 Democratic primaries, Ralston assesses potential contenders including Mark Kelly, Andy Beshear, Ro Khanna, and Rahm Emanuel, along with the emerging Republican rivalry between JD Vance and Marco Rubio. Plus, the power of Nevada's Culinary Union, the state's changing demographics, and why Democrats shouldn't get too comfortable after their big victory. Original air date 9 November 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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