Next Up with Mark Halperin
Next Up with Mark Halperin delivers unique political insight and reporting, with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.
Episodes
How the 2026 Midterms Will ACTUALLY Unfold for Republicans
Mark’s reported monologue takes a fresh look at the 2026 midterms and reveals a totally different pair of scenarios from the current pundit mushy convention wisdom. Could we be headed for either a Blue tsunami or a death-defying Republican tactical win?The Federalist Contributor Evita Duffy-Alfonso joins to discuss issues really weighing on families, her political clan, and her husband Micha
Why the 2028 White House Race Just Completely Changed
Mark Halperin’s recorded monologue unveils his new September "8 for '28" Democratic presidential leaderboard, with insight from sources at the highest level of American politics, breaking down the latest information on the most likely Democrats to lead the party’s quest to return to the Oval Office.Then, Professor Richard Werner, who coined the term “quantitative easing,” joins Mark to discuss the
What We REALLY Learned From Trump's Midterm Convention
In this bonus episode - Mark breaks down the biggest takeaways from the Republican midterm convention in Dallas — including Elon Musk putting big money into Texas, Donald Trump’s going for broke, and JD Vance’s big 2028 splash.Mark also examines the Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s strong reception and growing Democratic concerns that polling may be underestimating Republicans heading into the 2026 midterm
Charlie Kirk: A Special Friend & Generational Inspiration
Mark’s reported monologue reflects on the life, legacy, and lasting impact of Charlie Kirk, one year after his death.Mark Halperin speaks with Tucker Carlson about Charlie’s influence on American society, culture, politics, and faith — and the mark he left on a generation. Mark is also joined by Bryan Solomon, who shares a more personal side of Charlie through stories from their friendship and exp
9/11: Modern America's Most Important Day
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue reflects on September 11, 2001 — the attacks that took nearly 3,000 American lives, the extraordinary courage of first responders, unprecedented demonstrations of leadership, and the remarkable sense of unity that followed.Former Governor George Pataki shares his firsthand memories of leading New York alongside Mayor Rudy Giuliani and President George W. Bush thr
Why Republicans May Have Already Lost the Midterms
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue reveals what political insiders in both parties say about the state of the 2026 midterm elections, asking whether Republicans have waited too long for the political environment to turn in their favor, and what it will take to change the trajectory. Then, Michael Knowles joins to give his preview of the midterms and look ahead to the next Republican presidential r
How Legacy Media is Killing Itself
Mark Halperin sits down with media entrepreneur and Complex founder Rich Antoniello for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of the media business. Antoniello explains why legacy brands are losing their hold on audiences, what separates successful new media companies from the rest, and how Fort Nash is betting on the growing influence of country music and Southern culture. Plus, he breaks
Will AI Take Control of America Before It’s Too Late?
Mark Halperin sits down with MIT professor and Future of Life Institute co-founder Max Tegmark to examine the enormous promise — and potentially existential risks — of artificial intelligence. Tegmark explains why he believes AI needs stronger government guardrails, why the race with China shouldn’t be used as an excuse for unchecked development, and what it will take to keep increasingly powerful
The Secrets, Crime, & Media that May Swing The Midterms
Mark Halperin is joined by Steve Robinson, the Editor-in-Chief of The Maine Wire and Leland Vittert, host of the “On Balance with Leland Vittert” to examine the political, economic, and media forces reshaping the country. Robinson breaks down the surprising changes unfolding in Maine, exposing organized crime, massive fraud, and cultural shifts hitting the state. Vittert explains why midterm
Inside the Culture War Transforming Corporate America
Mark Halperin's reported monologue features the ultimate insider’s guide to how the political landscape will change in the final weeks before Election Day, with the key known unknowns laid out based on the secret plans of both parties. Then, Robby Starbuck explains why corporate America is abandoning DEI and assesses Republicans’ chances of holding the both chambers of Congress. Plus, Drew Holden
Who will be Trump’s Next Press Secretary?
Mark Halperin sits down with former Trump White House Deputy Press Secretary Hogan Gidley to break down what President Trump will be looking for in his next press secretary. Gidley explains why trust, loyalty, toughness, star power, and chemistry with Trump are essential — and weighs in on the names being floated to fill the role.
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Why Trump is Facing a Critical Moment for His Legacy
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue explores why the fate of President Donald Trump’s legacy hangs in the balance, from the economy and AI to China and foreign policy. He’s joined by Larry O’Connor and Kevin Walling to debate the controversy surrounding Natalie Harp and the media’s treatment of prominent women in the Trump administration compared with their Democratic counterparts. Plus, in "Mark t
Is He the Next Obama?!
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue shares his latest reporting on Jon Ossoff’s rising profile and whether the Georgia senator could emerge as the next leader of the Democratic Party. Then, Evan Barker joins Mark to explain why she defected from the Left and why she says they're betraying the party. Plus, Robby Soave explains how Democrats could still squander their opportunity in the 2026 midterms
The Truth About Mamdani's NYC No One's Saying
In this bonus episode of Next Up, Mark Halperin sits down with New York Post writers Lydia Moynihan and Rikki Schlott for a wide-ranging conversation about AOC’s political strategy, the debate over freezing her eggs, and whether distancing herself from the excesses of the progressive left could strengthen her national ambitions. They also examine the growing populist backlash against Flock cameras
Why the Economy Could Cost Republicans the Midterms
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue reveals both parties’ ultimate midterm messaging strategies on the main terrain: the economy. Fierce South Carolina Democratic Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews joins to make her case, laying out her views on health care, gun control, her Democratic counterparts — and Taylor Swift. Katie Pavlich then weighs in on AOC’s future and Professor Robert Pape explains
Who Will Win the Democrats’ Bitter Civil War?
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down the civil war between the Democratic establishment and the progressive left, and why the divide could reshape the party’s future. Michael Smerconish joins to discuss the rise of democratic socialism among younger voters and questions media scrutiny of Dr. Anthony Fauci. Curt Mills then joins to argue why Gavin Newsom remains the leading contender for
Can a Jew Actually Become U.S. President?
Mark's reported monologue confronts a vital and controversial question: Will the Democratic Party nominate a Jewish candidate for president in 2028? With Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro atop Mark’s new “8 for ’28” rankings, Mark explores why Shapiro has the skills to defuse hostility to Israel within his party on the way to the White House. Then, Sen. Rand Paul weighs in on Dr. Anthony Fauci's
The New Name Leading the 2028 Presidential Race
Mark Halperin's reported monologue unveils his latest “8 for ’28” Democratic presidential nominee rankings, explaining why Josh Shapiro has overtaken Gavin Newsom for the top spot and what the new primary calendar means for the 2028 race. Plus, former Sen. Cory Gardner breaks down Colorado's political transformation and Justine Brooke Murray examines progressive candidates with big midterm hopes.
How Dr. Fauci's Media Pals Covered for Him
Mark Halperin's reported monologue serves as a critique of the Dominant Media’s coverage of the face-off between Dr. Anthony Fauci and Senator Rand Paul at this week’s epic Senate hearing, calling out the press’s obsession with saying Republicans have an “obsession” with Fauci, rather than focusing on the tens of millions of Americans who are desperate for answers about the COVID-19 pandemic. Then
What Dr. Fauci's Diary Reveals About Who He Really Is
Mark Halperin's reported monologue examines the newly revealed diary entries from Dr. Anthony Fauci, exploring his desperate need for celebrity and how the Dominant Media protected him — and, with echoes of the Biden mental acuity press scandal, continues to coddle and champion him to this very day. Then, Larry O'Connor and Kevin Walling join Mark to break down the biggest political stories shapin
Is the Republican Establishment Trying to Politically Kill JD Vance?
Are the deep state and Republican establishment engaged in an op to take down JD Vance? In today's episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark's reported monologue analyzes Vance's headline-making interview with Joe Rogan, examining what the reaction reveals about the vice president's political standing and his relationship with the Republican old guard. Mark also shares his latest reporting o
The Senate Races That Will Decide Who Controls Congress
Mark Halperin's reported monologue takes you inside the latest state of play on the midterm landscape, explaining why the battle for control of Congress is becoming more competitive and the new emerging issues that could decide the outcome. Mark examines the growing backlash against Big AI, why so many Democratic candidates are running against the "establishment", and which party has the financial
What The Media Blackout of Trump's Election Speech Reveals
In this bonus episode, Mark Halperin gives a master class on the White House and the media, breaking down the broad news media blackout of President Trump's primetime address on election security, explaining why he believes the controversy is more complicated than accusations of simple bias. Drawing on decades of experience covering both politics and the press, Mark examines how today's fractured
The Most Influential Issue Shaking Up Elections
Mark Halperin's reported monologue explains the split Democratic House vote on aid to Israel that saw Nancy Pelosi and AOC team up, as the Democrats and Republicans grapple with a radically changed landscape. Former Bernie Sanders political adviser Tad Devine joins to discuss Sanders' growing socialist movement, how the Democratic Party establishment “screwed” Sanders in the 2016 presidential rac
Inside the New York Times' Failures Covering Graham Platner
Mark Halperin's reported monologue examines the New York Times' coverage of Graham Platner, breaking down their reporting failures, their public response, and why he believes key questions about accountability remain unanswered. Then, Mary Margaret Olohan joins to discuss the latest from inside the White House as the Iran conflict intensifies, her recent interview with Vice President JD Vance, and
The Fate of Maine's Critical Senate Seat
Mark Halperin breaks down the political fallout surrounding Graham Platner, examining the Democrats' frenzied effort to replace him while holding onto the campaign success he built.... explaining why replacing Platner may be far more difficult than many expect. Mark also takes a closer look at the media's role in his rise and fall, plus Susan Collins' reelection hopes in one of the most contested
Why Bernie Sanders Could Be the Next President, with Megyn Kelly
Mark Halperin's reported monologue takes on the biggest and most under-covered 2028 presidential campaign question: can Bernie Sanders overcome questions about his age and win the nomination? What would he need to do to silence the doubters, even as his movement continues to dominate the Democratic Party. Then, Mark is joined by Megyn Kelly to discuss the rise of socialism in America, anti-Israel
The Massive Shift in the 2028 Presidential Race
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue unveils his new July 8 for '28 Democratic presidential nominee rankings, explaining why Bernie Sanders is rising as the party's progressive wing gains momentum. He also examines why many of the party's potential 2028 contenders have been reluctant to challenge the socialist movement and what that could mean for the Democrats in 2026 and beyond. Plus, Melissa DeRo
What America 250 is Really All About
In this special America 250 episode, Mark Halperin draws on his many decades covering politics all across the U.S.A. to deliver his reported monologue on the enduring strengths that have made the country exceptional for two and a half centuries, arguing that America's openness to ideas, opportunity, and innovation remains its greatest competitive advantage. He is joined by Victor Davis Hanson, to
How Justice Barrett & the Supreme Court Just Changed Everything, with Benny Johnson & Tim Rice
In the newest edition of “Next Up,” Mark’s reported monologue examines how Hakeem Jeffries is losing control of the Democratic Party as socialists gain influence and reshape the party's direction. Benny Johnson joins the show to discuss why many conservatives feel betrayed by Justice Amy Coney Barrett and which Democratic presidential candidates he believes Republicans should fear most in 2028. Pl
Why Socialists Are Rising Within the Democratic Party
In this special bonus episode, Mark Halperin's reported monologue takes a deeper look at one of the biggest stories reshaping American politics: the rise of Democratic Socialists inside the Democratic Party. Mark explores why this movement is gaining momentum, what it wants, and why the party establishment is struggling to respond. Is this simply a New York story—or the beginning of a much larger
How Politicians Ignored the TRUTH about COVID
In today’s episode, Mark Halperin’s reported monologue examines the political fallout from Tuesday’s New York City’s primaries and what the rise of Democratic Socialists could mean for the future of the Democratic Party in 2026 and beyond. Wise Democratic strategist Doug Sosnik joins to explain how decades of economic change have reshaped American politics, while Drew Holden discusses the lasting
The 5 Biggest Threats to Donald Trump
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue steps back to break down the five biggest threats facing Donald Trump and his presidency beyond the Iran situation. He also examines what Keir Starmer’s resignation reveals about immigration, populism, and the changing political landscape in Europe. Then, Cabot Phillips and Hyma Moore join the conversation to discuss why healthcare is becoming a decisive voting i
What Maine Voters Really Think About Graham Platner and Susan Collins
In this special bonus episode, Mark Halperin sits down with a focus group of Maine voters to get beyond the polls and hear how they are really thinking about one of the most critical midterm races in the country. Voters share their candid views on Susan Collins, Graham Platner, and the issues shaping their decisions as the race increasingly draws national attention. Their answers are often surpris
Why These Men Are So Special
Join Mark Halperin for a special Father's Day episode. He sits down with his father, Morton Halperin, and his son, James, for a candid conversation about how fatherhood has evolved across generations and the lessons that endure. Then, NewsNation's Leland Vittert shares the powerful story behind his bestselling book “Born Lucky” and explains how his father's love and determination helped him overco
Is Trump's Iran Deal Really "America First", with Glenn Beck
Mark Halperin's reported monologue tells the story you won’t hear anywhere else: what’s really going on with the Trump administration’s negotiations with Iran — and the key questions that will determine if the deal succeeds. Then, Glenn Beck explains why the deal is “America First”, why he believes JD Vance could be one of the most consequential political figures of the next generation, which Demo
The Truth Behind Graham Platner's Sudden Political Rise
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue reveals the Graham Platner story almost everyone else is missing. Then best-in-class political strategist Doug Sosnik explains why Democrats have the midterm edge — along with one big caveat. And Robby Soave joins to discuss which party is winning over young male voters and how that matters now and for 2028
Chapter: For free and unbiased Medicare help, dial (2
What You’re Not Being Told about Scott Pelley’s CBS Firing
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue examines the twin political outrages over the L.A. mayoral race and CBS News drama. He explains why the right is hurting its own cause by reflexively alleging voter fraud as the culprit for Spencer Pratt's loss. Mark also breaks down Scott Pelley's firing from "60 Minutes", what the ousted newsman’s "evidence" actually proves about CBS News chief Bari Weiss, and
Spencer Pratt’s National Implications + Democrats’ Contempt for America’s Innovators.
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue explains the significance of a Spencer Pratt general election campaign regardless of the outcome — and what his success reveals about the current state of our politics. The New York Post’s Lydia Moynihan joins to discuss the billionaire backlash, the growing data center challenge, and the contempt for America's innovators. Plus, Mark answers your questions about
Mark Halperin's New 8 for ’28 Rankings and the Debate Over Democrats' Future
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue unveils his latest “8 for ’28” Democratic presidential nomination rankings, explaining who’s rising, who’s falling, and why he now believes for the first time that a surprise candidate could shake up the race. Plus, Mark and Yemisi Egbewole kick around Kamala Harris’s 2028 prospects and whether Graham Platner’s past could derail his political future. Also, former
Texas Senate Revelations + New 2028 Presidential Polling
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue delivers the truth about the Texas Senate race, including the actual factors that will determine if Ken Paxton or James Talarico wins. Plus, pollster Spencer Kimball joins the program with shocking new data on state of the 2028 presidential fields for both parties, while Steve Maltepes discusses the political bet Mark says voters and strategists should avoid maki
What's really happening in Iran, Plus Buck Sexton's & Clay Travis' Predictions
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down his new information on how limited President Trump’s options on Iran now are. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton join with their predictions on how Trump could end the conflict and the potential fallout. Plus, they explain how AI and social media are fueling conspiracy theories. Also: Buck plays the “Next Up” version of “The Newlywed Game” to test how well
Trump's GOP Grip Costing the Midterms + "Paralyzed" Democrats
Mark Halperin’s new reported monologue breaks down how Tuesday’s campaign and election developments have shaken up the midterm landscape. Former Congressman Joe Cunningham and strategist Beverly Hallberg kicked around the president's choices, wins, and loses, plus new voting alignments, and growing concerns inside the Republican Party. Plus, Cunningham discusses his new book, “Life of the Party: H
The New Trends Reshaping America’s Voters
Mark Halperin's reported monologue breaks down why Spencer Pratt’s mayoral campaign is resonating with frustrated voters, while Cabot Phillips discusses Trump’s polling challenges, growing concerns among Republicans, and why many young men are losing faith in America. Plus, former SEAL Team Six Operator Robert O’Neill reveals who really has control of the Stair of Hormuz and what he says the media
Midterm Mania! New Insight & Reporting into the 2026 Races
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue debuts "Midterm Mania", giving new insight into the redistricting fights, political strategies, and messaging battles that will determine who wins in November. Plus, Larry O’Connor and Kevin Walling join Mark to discuss what it's like co-hosting "The Morning Meeting” together, sharing the personal journeys that brought them to the national stage.
Bank On Yourse
Why Democrats Refuse to Embrace Angel Moms, the True Health of the Economy, and Trump’s China Strategy
Mark Halperin uses his reported monologue to explore how Democrats have let support for victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants become a damaging issue and moral failure, even as Angel Moms have been central to Donald Trump’s immigration message and mission for more than a decade. Mitch Modell joins to share his take on the state of the economy and an innovative solution to the housing s
Why Marco Rubio Is Suddenly a 2028 Frontrunner, Vance’s GOP Challenge and Iran’s Real Story
On today’s “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark’s reported monologue reveals why Marco Rubio is enjoying an extraordinary golden moment in the political sun and what it means for 2028. Beyond Rubio’s love affair with the Dominant Media and the favorable comparisons to JD Vance. Mark looks at some of the Secretary of State’s past bumps in the road and lays out what his sources say are the most likely
May “8 for ’28” Democratic Nominee Rankings, Plus: Megyn Kelly on Tucker Carlson’s NYT Interview
On this episode of “Next Up,” Mark Halperin’s reported monologue unveils his updated May “8 for ’28” Democratic presidential nominee rankings, breaking down the biggest shakeups, rising contenders, and surprising additions shaping the race for 2028. Spoiler alert: Bernie Sanders??!!!!???
Megyn Kelly joins Mark to discuss Tucker Carlson’s surprising New York Times interview and what it reveals abou
The Media and DC's Dangerous Path of Demonizing, Plus NBC’s Morgan Radford on the Future of News and Her New Novel
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue tackles one of the most urgent questions in American life today: can the country overcome its deepening culture of political dehumanization? In a powerful presentation, Mark examines the rhetoric, tribalism, and condemnation fueling division across both sides of the aisle, while Katie Pavlich weighs in on political violence, media double standards, and what it w
The TRUTH About WHCD Security Failures, How Iran War Ends, and the Democratic Party’s Biggest Divide
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down the facts, misinformation, and conspiracy theories surrounding the gunman at the White House Correspondents Association dinner, including why some false narratives continue to gain traction. He also reveals the major security failures at the event that exposed vulnerabilities far beyond what many are acknowledging.
Plus, Dan Senor explores how deeply
Trump’s High-Stakes WHCA Return, Key Texas Senate Battle, and an Inside Look at Iran Negotiations
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down Donald Trump’s high-stakes return to the White House Correspondents Association dinner, his first appearance at the event as president. He explains why the event is a rite of passage, how past presidents have handled the comedy pressure, and what to watch for as Trump faces one of the toughest rooms in Washington.
Plus, Ben Ferguson breaks down the cr
Keys to America's Deal with Iran, and Inside MS NOW, with Joe Scarborough, Plus 2028 Politics, with Neera Tanden
Mark Halperin delivers a reported monologue on the growing uncertainty surrounding a potential U.S.–Iran deal, breaking down what’s actually on the table, the competing perspectives, and the high-stakes risks that could shape the outcome. “Morning Joe” host Joe Scarborough joins, questioning who is really advising President Trump, raising concerns about the structure and effectiveness of the curre
The 2026 Political Scandal Survival Guide and Why 2028 Contenders May Sit Out Entirely, Plus Larry Wilmore on the Comedy Renaissance
Mark Halperin delivers his reported monologue on what it really takes to survive a presidential campaign, drawing on decades of experience covering politics at the highest level. He breaks down how Bill Clinton navigated major scandals during the 1992 race and why his approach to crisis management still stands apart today, then broadens the lens to 2028 to explain why many potential candidates may
The TRUTH About Iran's Propaganda Battle and Biggest Unknowns, Plus Marc Short on the GOP's 2026 Chances
Mark Halperin delivers his reported monologue on the new uncertainty surrounding the war in Iran, breaking down the key unknowns and why China’s role could ultimately determine the outcome. He also examines Iran’s stepped up use of AI and viral content to influence perception during the conflict, explaining why tracking the real impact of this information warfare is nearly impossible and where the
Iran Ceasefire “Fog of Peace," Debating the "8 For 28," and The AI Revolution, with Jonathan Turley
This episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin” tackles the growing uncertainty shaping today’s biggest geopolitical story, as Mark uses his reported monologue to unpack the “fog of peace” surrounding the Iran ceasefire and why even top officials can’t fully explain what’s happening behind the scenes. He also takes on tough criticism of his April “8 for ’28” rankings of the Democrats top presidential
Why Rahm is on the Rise in April's "8 for ’28" Rankings, Plus Iranian Journalist Reveals Trump Strategy Next Steps
Who will the Democrats nominate for president next? Mark’s “8 for ’28” is back with his April rankings. In his reported monologue, he breaks down the current state of the evolving 2028 Democratic field. He highlights what he sees as the biggest weakness facing many of the contenders: a lack of clear messaging and modern media strategy, and explains why campaigns must now operate like full-time con
Mark Halperin Opens Up About His Career and Political Views, Plus the Truth About Media Bias, with Drew Holden
This episode of Next Up with Mark Halperin puts Mark in the hot seat. In a rare role reversal, he reflects on the personal and professional forces that shaped his career, from his father Morton Halperin and a childhood surrounded by politics to the lasting influence of ABC News Legend Peter Jennings, whose mentorship helped define his approach to journalism and life.
Mark is then joined by Drew
The FULL 2026 Senate Map Breakdown - Which Seats GOP and Dems Will Pick Up, Plus the Battle For the Key Seventh Seat
In this special episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark uses his unparalleled sources to deliver a full-length reported monologue demonstrating that Democrats still have an extremely steep hill to climb to take back the Senate majority in November. Shattering the conventional wisdom, Mark breaks down in detail the nine races that will decide control of the chamber. He starts by analyzing the
Iran War and Midterms Strategy, Plus Ro Khanna on a Potential 2028 Presidential Run
Mark Halperin speaks with Congressman Ro Khanna of California about the real impact of the Iran war, weighing military gains against rising costs and making the case for diplomacy. Khanna also opens up about a potential 2028 presidential run and the personal and political factors, including family, shaping his decision. Then, the Economist’s James Bennet joins to examine President Trump’s motives
Why the Iran Conflict Is More Complicated Than It Looks, Plus: Jonathan Freedland on Diplomacy vs War and Ralph Reed on Charlie Kirk
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down the latest developments in the U.S. conflict with Iran, explaining why recent U.S. and Israel strikes are delivering meaningful tactical wins, while the broader strategy remains uncertain. He outlines what’s going well, what’s not, and why reopening the Strait of Hormuz is the single most critical factor in determining how this conflict unfolds, with
Truth About War Polling, and Sen. Rand Paul on Inflation, Gas Prices, and How Iran Could Go "Endless"
Tensions with Iran are escalating, and new risks are emerging that could make the mission far more difficult than the Trump administration expected. Mark uses his reported monologue to break down the military, strategic, and public perception challenges now facing the United States, including, most immediately, the zero-sum fight to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the role of drones and asymmetric w
Trump’s Chaos Messaging Strategy on Iran, Biggest "8 for ’28" Dem Contenders, and Biggest SCOTUS Cases to Watch, with Josh Gerstein
Mark Halperin opens the show with a reported monologue on the rapidly evolving Iran conflict and the role messaging plays in shaping global expectations. He explains how Donald Trump’s communication style can quickly shift market sentiment, influence oil prices, and alter the narrative around the war. Mark also examines why Trump’s seemingly inconsistent public statements may actually be part of a
Trump’s Iran Strategy Explained, the Mystery Behind Biden’s Health, and John Quincy Adams’ Remarkable Second Act
In this episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark uses his reported monologue to put to rest the debates over the “why?” and “why now?” questions about President Trump’s decision to use military force in Iran. By looking at nearly half a century of statements from Trump himself and from his immediate predecessors, Mark illustrates how clear Trump’s rationale and reasons are for the historic d
Gavin Newsom Opens Up About Dyslexia, 2028 "Veto" Power, and Past Marriage, Plus Trump's Strategic Iran Victory
This episode features an update on the latest in Iran and a revealing interview with California Governor Gavin Newsom. Mark opens with his reported monologue featuring an in-depth analysis of President Trump’s escalating conflict with Iran, scorecarding what appears to be early strategic and tactical wins while separating battlefield gains from political complexities. He breaks down what seems to
Dominant Media’s Massive Blind Spots, the Key Midterm Ground Game, and James Rosen on Trump, Obama, and Scalia
In this episode, Mark Halperin argues in his reported monologue that too many journalists cover “politics” instead of “campaigns, leaving their audiences largely unaware of what really wins and loses elections. The vast majority of news coverage focuses on surface narratives and political gossip, leaving consumers in the dark about the asymmetrical campaign advantages that are the obsession of the
Trump's Crucial State of the Union, the Key Difference Between 2016 and 2026, and AI and China Challenges
In this episode, Mark Halperin uses his reported monologue to reflect on how Donald Trump’s path from 2016 to today reshaped American politics — and why the country remains deeply divided in his second term. Drawing on signature moments with Stephen Colbert and Tucker Carlson, he looks at why what once felt to some like a shocking political moment has now become a defining era, and why millions o
How to Stay Ahead of the AI Revolution and What It Means for the Future of America, with Jeremy Jones
On a new episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark’s reported monologue breaks down why the AI revolution is bigger than most people realize and why millions risk falling behind if they don’t adapt now. He also breaks down AI pioneer Matt Shumer's rules for staying competitive in a rapidly changing economy, explaining how shifts in how people use AI today will determine if they succeed in the
8 for ’28 Is Back with Newsom Still on Top and Mark Kelly Added to the List, Plus Alfonso and Jashinsky
“8 for ’28” is back. Mark Halperin debuts his February rankings of the most likely next Democratic presidential nominee, breaking down why Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro remain alone at the top of the list and why some major names are still on the outside looking in. He explains what’s driving movement early in the 2028 field, and what to watch for as the jockeying intensifies.Plus, Republican Wisc
Political Scandal Double Standards, the "Epstein Class" Divide, and Trump’s Cultural Impact, with Andrew Sullivan
Mark Halperin opens the episode with a deep dive into the changing standards of political scandal, from Bill Clinton in 1992 to today’s Epstein fallout. In what he calls a political “Wild West,” Mark explores why some public figures survive controversy while others are taken down, and what 2028 presidential hopefuls should be quietly worried about right now.Then Andrew Sullivan joins for a candid
How China is Weaponizing America's Immigration System, with Peter Schweizer, PLUS Why Ossoff Has Democrats Buzzing
In this episode of Next Up, Mark Halperin opens with his reported monologue on how a recent speech by Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff has Democrats energized and Republicans quietly concerned. Mark breaks down how Ossoff skillfully fused outrage at Donald Trump with economic populism, optimism, and disciplined messaging in a way many Democrats now see as a potential template for the 2026 midterms and b
Trump's Media War Strategy, the 2028 Dem Calendar, Immigration Narratives, with Jaime Harrison and Emma-Jo Morris
Mark Halperin opens the latest episode of "Next Up" with his reported monologue on how President Trump’s decade-long war against the Dominant Media remains one of his most effective political tools. Mark highlights Trump’s unparalleled understanding of the news business, which, unbelievably, he gets better than journalists themselves do. Trump’s critique of the industry's flaws is as muscular as i
How the GOP Plans to Stop a Blue Wave, and the Inside Story of Hollywood's Biggest Legal Drama, with Maureen Callahan
Mark Halperin opens a new episode with a reported monologue on the shifting midterm landscape, explaining why Republicans are increasingly worried about a potential Blue Wave. He walks through new polling, historical patterns, and insider conversations that suggest what felt possible to sophisticated Republican strategists just weeks ago — keeping the House majority — for now has gone out of reach
How Minnesota Sparked a National Immigration Debate, and Intra-GOP "War" Fight, with Rep. Dingell and Rich Lowry
Mark Halperin opens with his reported monologue arguing that America is losing sight of what matters by obsessing over elites, gossip, and political theater instead of grappling with the serious policy questions that matter. He makes the case that the media and political class are crowding out first-principles debates at a moment when the stakes could not be higher.
Mark then turns to foreign poli
The REAL Story of Why Trump Changed Course on Minnesota, and How Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Took Over After Limbaugh
On today’s episode of Next Up, Mark Halperin uses his reported monologue to go inside what really drove Donald Trump to change course on Minnesota. He lays out the specific voices that matter when Trump rethinks a decision and explains why media optics, internal pressure, and shifting political narratives pushed a rapid reversal — all informed by Trump insiders who really understand how he made th
The Truth About Trump's Second Term Foreign Policy Strategy, and the Charlie Kirk Void, with Michael Knowles, DeRosa and Bednar
President Trump is leaning hard into foreign policy and national security, even as voters keep signaling they want answers on costs, security, and everyday life at home. In today’s reported monologue, Mark explains why second term presidents so often focus overseas and why that instinct can collide with midterm politics. Davos isn’t Dayton, but the president just spent time in Davos dealing with
What's Really Behind Trump’s Greenland and Iran Strategy, and the Truth About the Economy, with Doug Sosnik
Mark Halperin kicks off today’s episode with a sweeping reported monologue on Donald Trump’s escalating pressure campaign over Greenland and what it reveals about his broader foreign policy theory of the case and about his unique decision making style. Mark lays out five fundamentals about the president and this international controversy, from Europe’s dependence on U.S. power and Trump’s obsessio
Trump’s Greenland End Game and His Showdown with Europe and NATO, Plus Iran’s Next Chapter Revealed, with Ben Ferguson, Yemisi Egbewole, and Morton Halperin
Mark kicks off today’s episode with his reported monologue on the white-hot fight over Greenland — and why Donald Trump’s push to bring the island under U.S. control is no longer just a provocative headline, but a brewing transatlantic clash with Denmark, Europe, NATO, and many of the 56,000 Greenlanders . He walks through the high-stakes national security argument, the political pressure buildin
Why Pritzker Is Rising and Buttigieg Is Slipping in the "8 for '28" Dem Nomination Rankings, with Dem Party Experts
Mark kicks off today’s episode with the January return of his signature “8 for ’28” reported monologue, revealing how the Democratic field is already shifting just months into the invisible primary. He walks through the latest shakeups in his rankings, why Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro remain firmly at the top, which candidates are gaining ground, and why others are slipping. Mark also lays out th
How America’s Red-Blue Divide Plays Into the ICE Shooting in MN, and Trump’s Global Power Plays Explained
Mark Halperin opens the episode with his reported monologue examining what the Minnesota shooting reveals about America’s deep Red–Blue divide — and why the national reaction to the tragedy says as much about our political culture as the violence itself. From the language used by leaders to the moral certitude on both sides, Mark breaks down how polarization is shaping conversations about grief, b
Rubio’s Political Resurrection and Power in Trumpworld, and Jessica Reed Kraus Spills Political Tea
From the "Little Marco" insults of 2016 to the most powerful foreign policy seat in Washington, how did Marco Rubio pull off the ultimate political reversal?In a new episode, Mark’s signature reported monologue looks at the strategic reinvention of Marco Rubio inside Trump World. While many rivals faded into the background, Rubio played a disciplined long game, with a self-styled roadmap to build
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