Smerconish on CNN
Michael Smerconish offers his unique non-ideological take on the American political and news stories of the week. The podcast features analysis and commentary on current events, providing a perspective that aims to transcend partisan divides.
Episodes
Redefining the Political Map: South Carolina Takes the Lead
Does the order of primaries really shape the future of elections? Dive into our latest discussion where political heavyweights debate the impact of South Carolina's primary lead.
Also, what's the future of independent candidates in Congress? Join us as we explore Joe Manchin's bold strategy to shift the balance of power in Washington
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Democratic Electability: Study History
Do establishment democrats need to have A 'Sister Souljah moment' – when taking the on democratic socialist wing of the party? Smerconish discusses this with Bill Daley, former White House Chief of Staff under Obama.
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The Dividing Line: Democratic Socialists vs. Establishment Democrats
Is being a Democratic socialist an asset or liability? Dive into today's explosive discussion with insider Tad Devine and uncover what this means for the Democrats in 2028.
From Senate races to the future of the Democratic Party, explore the heated dialogues dividing progressives and centrists.
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America at 250: Reflections and Realities
Celebrate America's 250th with a fresh perspective! Dive into how the world sees us, straight from 36 countries, and the surprising truth visitors discover when they touch American soil. Let's embrace the wonders around us.
Global perceptions vs. local experiences – which tells the true story? Explore this Fourth of July narrative as survey data meets the voices of World Cup fans. Are we really
The Democratic Divide: Future of the Party
Is the Democratic Party at a crossroads? Dive into the primary wins that could reshape its future.
Could your smartphone be the real reason behind the dropping birth rates? Discover how tech is influencing demographics.
"Kidnapping or hoax? The Nancy Guthrie case twists continue with new insider info. Join the discussion on the latest developments.
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Navigating Uncertainty: The Iran Deal Debate
Why Trump's Iran deal might be the worst possible outcome except for all the others. Tune in as we break down the complexities behind this controversial agreement with expert insights from Admiral James Stavridis and David Sanger.
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The Mingle Project: Restoring America's Common Experience
"America, we've never been more connected, yet never more alone." Join me as we explore the growing societal disconnect and the mission to restore common experiences. Featuring insights from Robert Putnam, Scott Galloway & more. Let's bridge the divide. - MS
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Navigating Political Divides and War Power Resolutions
Is the political landscape shifting from neighborly charm to privacy walls? Explore the symbolism of the disappearing white picket fence and what it says about today's America. Plus, dive into the controversial war resolutions in Congress with Smerconish and guests.
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Democratic Dilemmas: Blind Spots and Controversies
Breaking down the controversies this week with Michael Smerconish: From a provocative Nazi tattoo revelation to political drama at the Great American State Fair, and Trump's escalation issues in Iran. Dive into the nuances with us.
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Reimagining American Primaries: A Call for Inclusivity
Did you know 45% of US adults identify as Independents? Michael Smerconish tackles the growing trend of political independence and why the primary system might be due for a change. Find out more about his personal stake in the movement.
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The Power of Perception: Presidents and Public Opinion
Curious about how strategic ambiguity plays out in international relations? Check out the latest insights from Michael Smerconish on the US-China-Iran dynamics and more.
From dissecting Trump's foreign policy to exploring the rise of lazy conspiracism, Michael Smerconish examines today's hot-button issues.
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Taxing the Rich: Asset or Liability?
Is 'Tax the Rich' an effective strategy or a liability for Democrats on a national scale? Dive into the debate with Councilman Frank Morano as we unpack New York City's newest tax policy. Take a deeper look at political implications on today's show.
Plus, exploring the legacy of Ted Turner: his monumental impact on media, and the struggles he faced with mental health. How do leaders thrive under
Artificial Intelligence on Trial: Musk vs. Altman"
Dive into the intense courtroom drama as Elon Musk and Sam Altman battle over the future of OpenAI. From explosive testimonies to AI ethics, this is a saga you can't miss. Who's your pick?
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Iran's Nuclear Debate: Risks, Polls, and Political Divides
From mentalism to monarchy, dive into a fascinating conversation on world affairs, the White House Correspondent's Dinner, and more.
Does the risk of Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon justify the military and economic costs? Senator Fetterman weighs in with a bold stance.
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Trump's Executive Order and the Strait of Hormuz Tensions
President Trump signs an executive order on groundbreaking treatments for mental health. Join us as we delve into how this could revolutionize care for PTSD and depression.
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The Madman Method: Understanding Trump's Decision-Making
In our latest show, I dive into the depths of President Trump's decision-making process. Is it all madness, or is there method to the madness? Hear insights from leadership expert Jeffrey Sonnenfeld and much more. Tune in now.
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Conflicted Paths: Navigating Global Politics and Local Faith
Caught in the chaos of global politics? Tune in for a gripping analysis of US-Iran tensions and the unclear path forward. Unpack the complexities with Michael Smerconish in the latest broadcast.
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Strategic Ambiguity or Bluff: The Geopolitical Chess Game
As the Iran conflict enters week 4, global tensions rise with new fronts and troop movements. Is the unpredictability of tactics strategic ambiguity or chaos? Join the discussion with experts on foreign policy and the Middle East.
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Balancing Global Power: Military Moves and Political Fallout
Mixed messages in the war with Iran and a clash between US responses and potential outcomes. Deep dive with Admiral James Stavridis and Smerconish as we unravel the complexities behind military maneuvers and global politics. Tune in for insights.
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The Iran Conflict: Partisanship vs. National Interest
How does the US strategy in Iran impact global security? Explore the ongoing conflict's challenges and the debate on partisanship in times of war.
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Operation Epic Fury: The US-Iran Conflict Unfolds
From U.S. military operations in the Middle East to the politics steering these actions, our latest episode dives deep into the intricate web of international diplomacy and conflict. Don't miss expert insights and exclusive analysis!
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At the Crossroads: Trump's Strategic Decisions on Iran
What's President Trump's next move at the crossroads? Tune in to my latest analysis on his high-stakes decision between negotiation and conflict with Iran. Plus, a deep dive into the US military buildup and global reactions. Don't miss it!
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The Guthrie Kidnapping: Breaking News and Privacy Concerns
Breaking down the role of technology in criminal investigations: Can it help solve the Nancy Guthrie case? Join us as we explore privacy concerns in today's tech-savvy world. Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Tell us what you think!
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Unraveling the Abduction: The Search for Nancy Guthrie
The search for Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie, intensifies with mysterious notes, expert insights, and new leads. Dive into the latest developments and join the discussion on this gripping investigation.
The Super Bowl isn't just about touchdowns this year. Will Bad Bunny make a political statement during the halftime show? Vote on my poll and share your thoughts on this hot debate. L
Legal Standards and Public Perception: A Double-Edged Sword
How do we determine what's 'reasonable' in deadly force cases involving law enforcement? Dive into Michael Smerconish's in-depth discussion on current events and legal standards.
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Predictive Markets and Political Shifts: The Rise of Independents
Michael discusses the potential future of predictive markets in political forecasting and their comparison to traditional polling.
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Reasonable Force or Reckless Action? The Debate on Police Standards
Michael discusses the recent viral video concerning a Minnesota ICE agent's use of lethal force against a fleeing vehicle, questioning the lack of critical thinking and bipartisan analysis. He emphasizes the need for a transparent, independent investigation and details relevant guidelines and policies from various government publications on the use of deadly force. Additionally, the episode examin
Operation Venezuela: A Day with Global Ramifications
CNN Breaking News: US Captures Venezuelan President Nicolas MaduroIn this CNN breaking news segment, it is reported that the United States, under President Trump's orders, conducted a large-scale strike against Venezuela that led to the capture and removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The Venezuelan government condemned the strikes as grave military aggression, and explosio
The Unraveling of the Epstein Files
Former federal prosecutor Anush Kori joins to discuss five rules for reading the Epstein files and the challenges faced in the redaction process. The episode further explores the divisive nature of the topic, the social media reactions, and the broader implications on public trust and accountability.
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The Great Wealth Transfer: A Tide of Change
This episode delves into the socio-economic and political implications of the upcoming Great Wealth Transfer, which predicts that up to $124 trillion will be handed down from Baby Boomers and older generations to Gen X and Millennials. Additionally, the episode discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on job markets and the importance of federal regulations.
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Justice and Inequality: The Impact of Fame on Drug Prosecution
Michael Smerconish discusses the disparity in how drug-related deaths are treated depending on the fame of the victim, highlighting cases like Matthew Perry and Michael K. Williams, where the suppliers were severely punished. He contrasts this with the relative lack of action for the vast majority of Americans who die from drug overdoses each year. The segment also covers the legal and moral impli
There’s Nothing Artificial About Job Loss
Michael Smerconish talks about AI and job loss with former presidential candidate Andrew Yang and Roman Yampolskiy, Assoc. Professor of Computer Science & Engineering at University of Louisville. Then, Smerconish has a conversation with former Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel on crime and policing cities, especially in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard troops, this past week in Washingt
Thanksgiving Unity: Bridging Political Divides at the Table
Michael Smerconish explores the idea of finding common ground during Thanksgiving amid political polarization. He rejects the conventional advice to avoid sensitive topics, suggesting instead that Americans are united by core democratic values. Citing a Kettering Foundation and Gallup survey, he emphasizes areas of overwhelming consensus among U.S. adults, such as the importance of compromise and
Unveiling the Epstein Saga: Speculation and Resistance
Ongoing investigations and controversies related to Jeffrey Epstein and his associations, particularly with Donald Trump. The DOJ has agreed to Trump's demand to investigate powerful men mentioned in Epstein's emails, though Trump's name is absent from those to be investigated. A House vote to release government records on Epstein is imminent, supported by several key Republican figures. Trump has
Socialism, Capitalism, and Young Men
In this episode, Michael Smerconish discusses the political and social landscape in America, focusing on the varying definitions and acceptability of socialism. He explores the recent Democratic victories in major states and the differing approaches within the party, emphasizing the need for policies that appeal beyond urban areas. Smerconish interviews political consultant Frank Luntz on framing
SNAP, Healthcare, and Political Dynamics
Michael Smerconish discusses the tangible impacts of the extended government shutdown on millions of Americans, including the cessation of SNAP benefits, rising health insurance premiums, and unpaid federal workers. He emphasizes the urgency to reopen the government and address policy issues such as ACA subsidies separately. The discussion broadens to include a conversation with Senator Joe Manchi
The Battle for the Political Center with Rahm Emanuel
Michael Smerconish discusses the political landscape, focusing on the need for moderation within the Democratic Party to win elections. He references a New York Times analysis suggesting that Democrats are seen as too liberal, judgmental, and focused on cultural issues. Smerconish highlights the importance of appealing to the political center to gain credibility and win governing majorities. The s
Under Siege: A Conversation with Eric Trump
Michael Smerconish interviews Eric Trump, author of the book 'Under Siege,' discussing President Trump's foreign policy successes, particularly in the Middle East, and his efforts to address issues such as the national deficit and government shutdown. The interview highlights Trump's strategic approaches abroad and the need for similar tenacity in addressing domestic challenges like healthcare ref
Ceasefire in Gaza: The Road to Peace?
A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, now in its second day, which involves the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops and the exchange of hostages and prisoners. Michael Smerconish reports from the Philadelphia suburbs and provides updates from CNN's Jeremy Diamond in Tel Aviv. The script mentions President Trump's upcoming visit to the region to monitor the situation and the complex pol
Navigating Political Turbulence: From Shutdowns to Shifts in Voter Alignment
Michael Smerconish discusses the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on federal workers, and the political dynamics underpinning the conflict. He critiques both parties, though his sympathies lie with the Democrats, arguing that the current timing to leverage health policy changes is inappropriate. The script also highlights historical shifts in U.S. political moderation and cooperation, contr
Decoding the Patterns of Violence: Beyond Left and Right
Michael Smerconish investigates the roots of political violence in the USA, highlighting that age and mental health, rather than ideology, are the primary factors. Citing historical and contemporary cases, the script correlates young men's mental health and their propensity for violence, exacerbated by technology and societal factors. It then shifts focus to a new poll question on whether ideology
The Male Dilemma: Social Shifts and Their Impact on Young Men
Michael Smerconish hosts a discussion exploring the crisis facing young men today, citing declining educational outcomes, rising behavioral issues, increasing loneliness, and alarming suicide rates. The program highlights the negative impact of social media, video games, and pornography on young men’s development and the lack of male role models. Guests include Richard Reeves, Rahm Emanuel, and Sc
Finding Common Ground: Steps Towards National Unity
Michael Smerconish discusses the decline of political discourse in America, illustrated through editorial cartoons and recent violent events. The script focuses on the depiction of violence and fragmentation within the nation, exacerbated by social media and political radicalization. Serash examines specific instances of political violence affecting both Democrats and Republicans and criticizes Pr
Perception, Reality, and Resilience: Navigating Today's Challenges
Michael Smerconish delivers a commentary from the Philadelphia suburbs discussing the gap between life perception and reality, particularly in the context of college education and the American Dream. He explores the realities most American college students face, emphasizing that a majority do not experience the 'traditional' four-year residential college experience. Smerconish connects this theme
Some Choices, Once made, Can't easily be undone: Gerrymandering, California Politics, and Social Trends
In this episode, Michael Smerconish discusses the implications of California possibly following Texas in mid-decade redistricting, challenging the state's independent redistricting commission. He examines the polarization driven by gerrymandering and self-sorting, and the potential consequences for the 2026 midterms. Smerconish also hosts election analyst David Wasserman to analyze the political l
No Questions Were Taken …But So Many Remain
Continuing coverage of Trump and Putin's summit in Alaska. What did President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's body language tell us during their high-stakes summit? Behavioral Analyst and Body Language Expert Chris Ulrich, weighs in.
Plus, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan on why Trump doesn't talk about Detroit they way he talks about other big cities and crime.
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Civility in Crisis: Running for Office Shouldn’t Require a Flak Jacket
CNN’s Michael Smerconish says, Democracy should not be a contact sport and public service shouldn’t require kevlar. If we want good people to step forward, we have to make sure they can serve without fearing for their lives.
Plus, the rise in Political Violence with Robert Pape Professor of Political Science, University of Chicago, Trump ups redistricting war with call for new census with Davi
Smerconish: Criticism Against Trump Can't Be Blind
CNN Michael Smerconish gives Democrats some advice on how to respond to Trump's recent accomplishments. Then, Rahm Emanuel, the former Ambassador to Japan and Chicago Mayor, weighs in on how Democrats should attack President Trump's policies.
Also on the show, Washington Post National Health Reporter Paige Winfield Cunningham joins Michael Smerconish to discuss how the Trump administration is
Trump: "Never Briefed" on Name Being in Epstein Files
CNN Michael Smerconish gives President Trump some free advice on how to address the Epstein files. Plus, Lanny Davis joins Michael Smerconish to discuss how the Trump administration is mishandling the Epstein files.
Also on the show, Michael Smerconish delivers his commentary on Hunter Biden and his criticism towards Democrats. Tara Setmayer, a resident scholar at the University of Virginia Ce
Smerconish: Art of the Denial
CNN Michael Smerconish unpacks the bombshell Wall Street Journal reporting on the alleged birthday letter President Trump sent to Jeffrey Epstein. And, CNN Senior Legal Analyst Elie Honig weighs in on President Trump's latest legal battle with The Wall Street Journal. Then, Political Science Professor Seth Masket and Senior Vice-President of Open Primaries Jeremy Gruber join Michael Smerconish to
Smerconish: Should Racial and Ethnic Identity Categories Be Eliminated?
CNN Michael Smerconish examines the latest revelation from Zohran Mamdani's Columbia University admissions application and argues that it's time to end classification by race and ethnicity. Then, Atlantic staff writer Thomas Chatterton Williams joins Michael Smerconish to discuss his latest piece called "Zohran Mamdani reveals the absurdity of affirmative action." And, Washington Examiner National
Smerconish: America Faces a Crisis of Nostalgia
CNN Michael Smerconish describes the best decade in America from his childhood and explains why nostalgia plays a critical role in American politics. And, a breakthrough in genetic editing allows IVF parents to select traits for their embryo. But some experts are warning this new approach may lead to irreversible consequences. Also, a part of Trump's mega bill includes a national "baby bonds" prog
Smerconish: Trump is on a Roll
CNN Michael Smerconish weighs in on the recent victories for the Trump administration this week. Then, David Urban, a former Trump Campaign adviser, and Xochitl Hinojosa, a former DNC communications director, join Smerconish to discuss how the American public is reacting to Trump's latest wins. Plus, Andrew Daniller, a Pew Research Associate, shares his latest research on how non-voters would ha
Smerconish: Where's the Evidence on Iran's Nuclear Weapons?
CNN Michael Smerconish dives into the conflicting messages from the Trump administration about Iran's nuclear weapon capabilities. Then, Retired Admiral James Stavridis and New York Times National Security Correspondent David Sanger join Smerconish to weigh on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. After that, Retired Lt. General David Deptula discusses U.S. military capabilities in cas
Israel, Iran Trade Attacks After Israel Targets Nuclear Sites
Retired Adm. James Stavridis and New York Times National Security Correspondent David Sanger join CNN Michael Smerconish to weigh in on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Then, Smerconish argues why it's impractical and morally wrong to deport the roughly 10 million undocumented immigrants who work hard, pay taxes, committed no violent crimes, and became productive members of societ
Democrats Set Out to Study Male Voters With "Sam Project”
Ilyse Hogue, co-founder of Speaking with American Men Project, argues that men support progressive policies but feel abandoned by the Democratic Party.
And, CNN Michael Smerconish breaks down the battle royale between two of the most powerful men on the planet. Plus, Jeffrey Sonnefeld, founder of Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute, predicts the recent clash between Trump and Musk will hu
Smerconish Commentary: I'm Not Thrilled That Elon Musk is Out
Michael Smerconish delves into why he's willing to give Musk and President Trump some credit for sparking a conversation about waste, fraud and abuse.
Plus, Michael Smerconish speaks with entrepreneur and investor Kevin O’Leary about Elon Musk’s influence on U.S. industry and politics, the future of Tesla, and DOGE.
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Smerconish: The Secret Path to Wealth No One Talks About
It's commencement season. This year's speakers include military leaders, politicians, sports stars, celebrities, even a famous frog. They'll all be addressing many young graduates saddled with college debt and aspirations of making money. Smerconish talks with Owen Zidar, professor of economics at Princeton regarding the secret path to wealth that no one talks about.
And, President Biden's
Politico Reporter on Backlash Writing About Biden's Decline
Holly Otterbein, Politico's National Political reporter who covered President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign, discusses her latest article, "The Biden Question Hanging Over The 2028 Field." She explains the potential impact to Democratic lawmakers based on how they dealt with Biden's fitness in 2024, and how it could affect them moving forward in their own elections.
Plus, CNN Senior Legal Ana
Global Push for Peace: 30-day Ceasefire Urged in Ukraine
India and Pakistan agree to an immediate ceasefire, as European leaders join Ukraine in calling for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. Michael Smerconish speaks with Ret. Admiral James Stavridis, author of “The Admiral's Bookshelf,” on the growing international pressure for Putin to stand down.
Plus, as artificial intelligence reshapes how students learn and perform, Smerconish explores whether trad
Belichick's 'Creative Muse' Makes Waves at UNC
Commentary about Bill Belichick's girlfriend Jordon Hudson and how she has been injecting herself in his UNC coaching job. Is our obsession with this story a matter of public concern? Sports journalists Charlotte Wilder and Madeline Hill weigh in.
Plus, The Supreme Court on religious charter schools with Kristen Waggoner of Alliance Defending Freedom and conversation with small business owner,
Smerconish: Are Hitler Comparisons to Modern Politicians Ever Appropriate?
CNN Michael Smerconish shares his take on the public dispute between comedian Bill Maher and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" creator Larry David. Then, would society start crumbling once our global population reaches a sharp decline? Darrell Bricker, CEO of IPSOS Public Affairs and co-author of "Empty Planet: The Shock of Global Population Decline," warns about the ramifications of an aging and shrinking p
Smerconish: Trump is Picking Fights He Relishes
CNN Michael Smerconish delivers his commentary on three key issues the Trump administration wants to take on: Harvard University, Abrego Garcia, and scaling back the IRS. CNN Senior Analyst Elie Honig weighs in on the Supreme Court temporarily pausing deportations under Alien Enemies Act. Then Texas Tech University law professor Bryan Camp addresses how audit rates and tax revenues will drop if th
Smerconish: If You Build It, Will They Come?
CNN Michael Smerconish argues the biggest problem in the labor market is not a shortage of manufacturing jobs, but the unwillingness for young men to fill them. NYU Professor Scott Galloway & Anthony Scaramucci, a former White House Communications Director, discuss their new podcast called "Lost Boys." The limited series dives into the mental health struggles and social disconnect young men are fa
Smerconish: Lawyers Are the Backbone of a Stable Society
CNN Michael Smerconish shares his take on how the Trump administration is going over law firms that filed lawsuits against him. Then, Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of UC Berkeley School of Law, weighs in on why law firms and universities targeted by the Trump administration aren't speaking up.
After that Peter Navarro, Trump's senior counselor for trade and manufacturing, vows for a market boom fr
Will Trump's Administration Survive "Signalgate?"
CNN Michael Smerconish addresses previous White House scandals and questions whether the recent signal group chat controversy will impact Trump's administration in the long run. Then Richard Clarke, the nation's first cyber czar and former White House Counterterrorism Coordinator, warns how foreign adversaries are easily capable of hacking the Signal app. After that, Laura Delano, author of "Unshr
Smerconish: Should Attacks Against Tesla Be Prosecuted as a Hate Crime?
The latest attacks against Tesla appear to be targeted towards CEO Elon Musk and his alignment with President Trump. While the Department of Justice is investigating these attacks as domestic terrorism, CNN Michael Smerconish argues this type of vandalism should be investigated as a hate crime. Then, Elie Honig, a former assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York explains why po
Smerconish: Will More Republicans Buy Tesla?
Republicans are rallying behind Tesla as the electric car company faces consumer backlash geared towards CEO Elon Musk. Can President Trump encourage more of his supporters to buy EVs after slamming Biden's clean energy proposals? Next, Wall Street Tech analyst Dan Ives raises concerns from Tesla investors and why Elon Musk's venture into politics may damage the company's brand. After that, free s
Smerconish: I've Got a Prescription for Progressives
CNN Michael Smerconish gives his take on the signs and attention-grabbing stunts pulled by Democratic members of Congress during Trump's speech. Then, New York Democratic Congresswoman Laura Gillen joins Michael Smerconish to explain why she chose to censure her Democratic colleague and why she stood up for a 13-year-old brain cancer survivor. After that, Admiral James Stavridis details the fallou
Smerconish: Zelensky Didn't Start This Fight Either
CNN Michael Smerconish shares his take on the contentions Oval Office showdown between President Trump, Vice-President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Then, Admiral James Stavridis joins Smerconish to explain how Ukraine can move forward without U.S. support. Later, a former Zelensky Cabinet Member says he believes the shouting match inside the Oval Office was triggered by a
Smerconish: Don't Spend That Doge Dividend Just Yet
The Department of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk claims it saved American taxpayers about $55 billion through cost-cutting measures. But where will those extra savings go to? James Fishbank, a CEO, investor, and creator of the DOGE dividend joins CNN Michael Smerconish to explain how Americans could get a $5,000 tax refund check based off the money Elon Musk claims he saved. Then, Tymofiy
Civil War at the DOJ
The Department of Justice is in turmoil over President Trump's desire to dismiss corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. CNN Michael Smerconish shares his take on the slew of recent DOJ resignations. Elie Honig, CNN Senior Legal Analyst and former Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, says U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has a management and leadership p
Cloudy Day for Sesame Street?
The U.S. Agency for International Development is on the brink of being dismantled by the Trump administration. Should U.S. Taxpayers be funding humanitarian programing for things like Sesame Street in foreign countries? CNN's Michael Smerconish breaks down the different between 'soft power,' and 'hard power,' taking a deeper look into which one historically has been most effective. And later, Holl
Trans Army Pilot: "I Was Not Surprised by the Hate. This is My Reality."
Jo Ellis, a transgender Black Hawk pilot with 15 years of U.S. military service, addresses the hate and threats she received online after she was wrongfully accused of flying the helicopter in the fatal DC plane crash. This comes after President Trump blamed Democrats and DEI policies for the crash that killed 67 people on board a commercial flight and Black Hawk helicopter. Then, Florida Republic
Will Trump's January 6th Pardons Backfire?
CNN's Michael Smerconish examines the potential political risk behind President Trump's pardon for all defendants in the January 6th insurrection. Then, David Urban and Paul Begala join Smerconish to breakdown President Trump's first week back in office and his response to the nation's recent natural disasters. After that, Brad Meltzer, co-author of the New York Times Best Seller "The JFK Conspira
Smerconish: Biden's Low Approval Rating May Bounce Back
CNN's Michael Smerconish makes the case on why President Joe Biden's approval ratings may rise after he leaves office. Then, New York Times Congressional Correspondent Annie Karni reports on how Obama, Schumer, and Jeffries worked behind closed doors to urge President Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race. After that, Richard Clarke, a former White House Counterterrorism Coordinator, exp
Sen. Whitehouse: Effects of Climate Change Could Plummet the U.S. Economy
As the California wildfires continue to rage, CNN's Michael Smerconish breaks down how the climate crisis affects the insurance industry. Rhode Island Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse joins the program to warn about how the effects of climate change could potentially lead to another U.S. economic downfall. Kate Klonick, an associate professor at St. John's University School of Law gives her t
Tragedies Demand Transparency, Not a Troupe
CNN Michael Smerconish shares his take on why the press conferences that followed the New Orleans terrorist attack were in poor taste and counterproductive. Bruce Hoffman, a senior fellow for counterterrorism and homeland security at the Council on Foreign Relations, explains the indirect connection between the New Orleans terrorist attack and the Tesla Cyber truck explosion in Las Vegas. Legendar
Book Club With Michael Smerconish
2024 was a banner year for CNN's Michael Smerconish's personal reading. We revisit interviews he did here on CNN with 11 authors of books that he found impactful in 2024. Just for a day, welcome back to Book Club. Featuring Scott Galloway, Hillary Clinton, Jonathan Haidt, Admiral James Stavridis & Charlamagne tha God.
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Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Trump agree on this issue
CNN's Michael Smerconish shares his take on how Congress averted a shutdown and where Democrats align with President-elect Trump. Then, White House Wall Street Journal Reporter Annie Linskey says President Biden did not speak regularly with key cabinet members and high-ranking officials, a claim the White House denies. Followed by University of Chicago Political Science professor Robert Pape says
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