Claim OwnershipThe Smerconish Podcast
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Spirited discussions of government, politics, and current events without predictable left/right bias. The Smerconish Podcast is for Independent Minds.
The Michael Smerconish Program airs live on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 9AM-12PM ET and replays 9PM-12AM East, Monday-Friday.
The Michael Smerconish Program airs live on SiriusXM's POTUS Channel 9AM-12PM ET and replays 9PM-12AM East, Monday-Friday.
1837 Episodes
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Michael takes a deep dive into the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) with peace and conflict expert Dr. David Cortright of Cornell and Notre Dame Universities, breaking down how the agreement came together, what it accomplished, and why it ultimately unraveled. They explore the role of the Obama administration, the arguments from critics, and the consequences of the U.S. withdrawal under President Trump. Then, listeners weigh in with passionate and wide-ranging perspectives—from military strategy and oil politics to trust, diplomacy, and the risk of nuclear escalation. Original air date 9 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today’s Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is President Trump a rational actor? Michael Smerconish unpacks a provocative debate sparked by Yale professor Jeffrey Sonnenfeld’s analysis of Donald Trump’s leadership style, on yesterday's radio program. Rather than dismissing Trump as chaotic or impulsive, Sonnenfeld argues there’s a deliberate strategy at work—one rooted in leverage, distraction, and constant motion. Smerconish explores whether Trump’s actions reflect calculated decision-making or pure instinct, and why the framing of the question matters. Is this a case of misunderstood strategy, or something else entirely? Cast your vote and consider what “rational” really means in today’s political landscape. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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What happens when you go back and check your predictions against reality? In this episode, after touching on the latest on what's happening in Iran, Michael revisits years of Smerconish.com daily poll questions—from elections and political figures to global conflicts—and asks a simple question: Did we get it right? The results are surprising. Some predictions feel spot-on, others… not so much. From early takes on Biden and Trump to reactions after major global events, this episode is a fascinating look at collective wisdom, hindsight, and how public opinion evolves over time. Plus: one poll result that was wildly off the mark. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: If necessary to open the Strait of Hormuz, should the U.S. use military force? Michael unpacks a rapidly escalating geopolitical crisis as a fragile ceasefire appears to unravel and tensions spike across the Middle East. With Iran, Israel, and the U.S. trading accusations—and the critical Strait of Hormuz potentially closed—what’s at stake for global oil supply and international law? Featuring insights from Admiral James Stavridis, this episode breaks down why the strait matters, what “freedom of navigation” really means, and whether military action could be justified—or disastrous. Plus, a look back at past poll predictions and how often they’ve gotten it right. Listen, vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Michael tackles the rapidly evolving Iran crisis with two expert voices offering sharply different lenses. First, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis explains why Iran’s push to control the Strait of Hormuz is a “fantasy,” what real risks exist for global shipping, and why the war’s biggest issues—like enriched uranium—remain unresolved. Then, political analyst Mark Halperin breaks down the media narrative surrounding Trump’s ceasefire decision, the confusion over Iran’s nuclear program, and what the conflict signals to global powers like China and Russia. Is this a path to peace—or just a pause before the next escalation? And did the U.S. gain leverage, or lose ground? A fast-moving, fact-driven conversation on war, diplomacy, and what comes next. Original air date 8 April 2026 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is the two week ceasefire a prelude to a lasting peace? Michael Smerconish examines the fragile and confusing pause between the U.S. and Iran, unpacking conflicting media narratives, disputed statements from Iranian leadership, and the high-stakes diplomacy behind the scenes. Drawing on new reporting tied to Trump-era decision-making and current negotiations, he questions whether both sides even agree on the terms—let alone the outcome. With Iran’s sweeping demands and unresolved nuclear concerns, Michael explains why skepticism is warranted and why this moment may be less about peace than a temporary reset in a volatile standoff. Listen here, then cast your ballot! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Former National Security Advisor John Bolton joins Michael to break down the escalating U.S.–Iran crisis as President Trump issues a dramatic ultimatum. Will the U.S. strike Iranian infrastructure—and what would that mean for regime change, global oil markets, and the risk of wider war? Bolton argues the stakes go far beyond nuclear weapons, warning that control of the Strait of Hormuz could reshape the global economy and shift power toward Iran, Russia, and China. Then, listeners weigh in with sharp—and often conflicting—takes: Is this necessary strategy or a dangerous overreach? Could strikes on infrastructure backfire? And what does “victory” even look like
A high-stakes conversation on war, diplomacy, and America’s role in the Middle East. Original air date 7 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should college athletes be paid? Michael Smerconish dives into the rapidly evolving world of college athletics in the NIL era, where multimillion-dollar deals, transfer portal chaos, and shifting power dynamics are redefining amateur sports. He reflects on Michigan’s championship run, the rise of athlete compensation, and the unintended consequences for smaller programs. With political lines beginning to form and legal precedent already set, is this the least-worst system—or one in need of serious reform? Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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When a U.S. F-15 is shot down deep inside Iran, what follows is a high-risk, high-stakes rescue mission that showcases the full power—and complexity—of the American military. Michael is joined by Lt. General David Deptula (Ret.) to break down how elite SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training prepares pilots for the unthinkable—and how those skills played a critical role in this real-world crisis. From CIA deception tactics to massive coordinated airpower, the operation raises big questions: How much should the public know about sensitive missions? And does sharing these details strengthen—or weaken—national security? Plus, callers weigh in with firsthand SERE training experiences and debate the cost, risks, and ethics behind America’s “leave no one behind” doctrine. A gripping look inside modern warfare, survival training, and the stories we tell about both. Listen in, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Original air date 6 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should the U.S. target Iran's power generating facilities and bridges if they help support its war machine? As tensions escalate and a presidential deadline looms, Michael examines whether striking Iran’s infrastructure would be a legitimate military tactic or a dangerous escalation with humanitarian consequences. He breaks down the legal gray areas under international law, including when dual-use targets like power plants and bridges become fair game. With voters already split on prior Iran-related questions, this latest poll probes the line between strategic necessity and potential war crimes—while raising concerns about unintended consequences. Listen here, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Michael sits down with Dr. Brian Rosenwald, author of "Talk Radio’s America", to break down the rapidly evolving world of conservative media. Rosenwald—whose work was once praised by Rush Limbaugh himself—explains how talk radio helped pave the way for Donald Trump’s 2016 victory. But today’s media landscape looks nothing like it did then. From legacy voices like Sean Hannity to the rise of Joe Rogan and the “manosphere,” Rosenwald maps out eight distinct factions shaping conservative media in 2026. He explores the influence of viral social media personalities, MAGA loyalists, conspiracy-driven figures, and a new wave of lifestyle influencers targeting younger audiences. The conversation also tackles a key question: Has conservative media become too fragmented for any single voice to dominate—and what does that mean for future elections? If you want to understand the forces driving political discourse today—and where it’s headed next—this is a must-listen. Original air date 3 April 2026 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Do you feel more drawn to organized religion, less drawn, or about the same? As Easter, Passover, and Ramadan converge, Michael explores whether America is experiencing a quiet return to organized faith—or continuing its long secular drift. New data shows declining religious affiliation overall, yet a surprising increase in Catholic and Orthodox conversions. What’s driving this contradiction? From post-COVID isolation to technology’s grip on daily life, Michael examines whether a hunger for community, structure, and human connection is pulling people back toward churches, synagogues, and mosques—and asks listeners where they stand. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Is organized religion making a comeback? Michael explores a surprising trend: growing interest in faith—especially among Gen Z men. Joined by SiriusXM Catholic Channel 129 host Katie McGrady, the conversation dives into why young people are returning to church after decades of decline. Is it a search for community in an increasingly isolated, screen-driven world? A response to anxiety, uncertainty, and global instability? Or something deeper? From rising conversion numbers to the role of technology, this episode examines the cultural forces reshaping faith in America. Original air date 2 April 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which comes next in the war with Iran—escalation or an ending? Michael Smerconish breaks down President Trump’s latest address outlining the rationale for U.S. strikes and what may lie ahead. With questions lingering over intelligence, military objectives, and public tolerance for prolonged conflict, Michael examines whether the administration has made a compelling case—or missed its moment. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Admiral James Stavridis
Mark Halperin's Morning Meeting Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which should determine US citizenship, the place of birth or the citizenship of one's parents? Michael Smerconish breaks down the high-stakes legal and political battle over birthright citizenship as the Supreme Court prepares to hear arguments tied to Donald Trump’s executive order. With history stretching from Dred Scott to Wong Kim Ark, the episode explores whether the 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all born on U.S. soil—or if that interpretation could shift. Smerconish also examines how the U.S. compares globally and why this issue cuts to the core of national identity, law, and constitutional limits. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Visit SCOTUSblog here.
In this episode, Michael and Amy unpack:
-The origins of birthright citizenship (Dred Scott → 14th Amendment → Wong Kim Ark)
-What “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” really means
-How the current Supreme Court might rule
-Whether the U.S. is an outlier globally
Then, Michael turns to listeners for a wide-ranging and candid debate: Should being born on U.S. soil automatically make you a citizen? This is a timely, nonpartisan conversation about law, policy, and identity—right at the center of today’s political and constitutional crossroads. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is the Democratic Party's best chance of winning the White House in 2028 a straight, white Christian man? Michael Smerconish examines a quietly intensifying debate among Democratic strategists about electability, identity, and voter bias after recent presidential losses. Drawing on reporting from Axios and insights from Mark Halperin’s early 2028 rankings, he weighs which potential candidates could actually win a general election—and whether party values are colliding with political reality. Listen in as Michael connects today's tensions with the Democratic Party's uncertain path forward, and cast your vote at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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Visit Michael's Mingle Project Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: After a month of watching this war, based on Iran's actions, do you now believe they'd be more or less likely to use a nuke if they had one? Michael Smerconish examines how recent Iranian missile and drone strikes—targeting both military installations and civilian areas—are shaping public perception of nuclear risk. He also explores a provocative debate: whether a U.S. victory in Iran could have unintended global consequences, and how partisan reactions to war complicate national interests. The result is a sobering conversation about deterrence, escalation, and what recent events reveal about Iran’s potential nuclear posture. Listen in, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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The poll questions were all devised by financial organizations or researchers. What if the studies were more comprehensive and looked at the happiness increases associated with friends or creativity or family or meaning or health? Would 30% more friends make people happier? Would 20% more exercise? 10% more creative pursuits? A larger family? What about time?
Ramaswamy? What a Nazi, he wants to disenfrancise millions of voters?? Between Trump and this guy, it is disturbing that CNN is giving the oxygen of publicity to fascist extremists.
Until this interview I considered Smerconish knowledgeable of history. Liberation of what? Man this was disappointing.
6 headlines crammed between 60 commercials in under 25 minutes. Thanks, but no thanks.
Hi.. my opinion is that the government should issue at the age of adulthood to every citizen.. 1 rifle 1 shotgun 1 pistol any other firearms are may not be used or sold.. getting rid of current stock beguns now
The 13% that said "no" should be deported to an island of nazis.
How the fuck does an Admiral and scholar like this have the absolute poorest audio quality ever. Get a microphone folks. A real one.