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Next Up with Mark Halperin delivers unique political insight and reporting, with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.
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Mark Halperin opens the show with his reported monologue on the viral “Trump is dead” rumors and how they mirror the 1969 “Paul is dead” controversy about Paul McCartney. Just as conspiracy theories around McCartney’s supposed death only strengthened his legend, Mark argues that Democrats’ public wish-casting of Trump’s obituary reveals more about their own anxieties than Trump’s future. Far from weakening him, those fueling speculation about Trump’s health only reinforce his larger-than-life presence in American politics.Then, Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri joins for a wide-ranging interview on the Republican agenda heading into 2028. Schmitt details his new best-selling book, and why the courts are the GOP’s “Last Line of Defense” against progressive policies. He also weighs in on Section 230, federal overreach, lessons from COVID, and the role of government in protecting children online. Plus, Schmitt offers an inside look at how Senate Republicans are preparing to fast-track confirmations for Trump’s nominees.Finally, Politico’s Rachael Bade shares her reporting on Trump’s evolving relationship with congressional Republicans, including how Senate GOP leader John Thune has quietly built a working partnership with the president. She explains why that alliance matters, what it signals for power dynamics on Capitol Hill, and how Democrats are positioning their next generation of leaders for 2028. Plus, Rachael takes us behind the scenes of Washington’s social circuit, and where to find Trump-era power players. Grasshopper Escapement: Go to https://amazon.com and buy your copy of CAPITALIST BABY!Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold
Mark Halperin opens today’s show with his reported monologue on the ten biggest stories of the summer and what they signal for a busy fall news cycle. From Trump’s crime push and the Democratic response, to the Capitol Hill fight over the Epstein files, Mark lays out the stakes ahead. He also explains how the Ukraine stalemate and Gaza escalation shape Trump’s foreign policy, and how the New York mayor’s race, Kamala Harris’s book tour, and Wes Moore’s national scrutiny frame the Democrats’ future. Plus, Mark (admitted Swiftie) reacts to the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce engagement news!Then, Mark is joined by his 2WAY co-host and longtime Democratic strategist Dan Turrentine, for a deep dive into why Trump keeps winning daily fights while Democrats stumble. They unpack the Left’s struggles on crime, messaging, and fundraising – and what they can fix now in order to effectively compete with the GOP campaign machine in 2026 and 2028. Finally, Politico’s senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein breaks down the legal landscape reshaping presidential power. From the “weak links” on the 6-3 conservative Supreme Court, to Trump’s White House counsel strategy, they explore upcoming fights over tariffs, the Fed, and the limits the Court may place on executive authority.Grasshopper Escapement: Go to https://amazon.com and buy your copy of CAPITALIST BABY!Delta Rescue: Visit https://DeltaRescue.org to learn more
Mark opens the show with his reported monologue on why and how Gavin Newsom is so misunderstood. He explains why Newsom stands alone in the Democratic Party’s top tier of potential presidential candidates for 2028 due to his focus on the “Three As”: action, attention-getting, and authenticity. Mark also corrects four myths about Newsom, including the possibility that the California governor may never actually run for president.Then former Senator Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas) joins the program to assess the Democratic Party’s structural challenges. From donor defections and the rise of billionaires and Super PACs on the Republican side to declining voter registration, Pryor warns that Democrats must engage with the grassroots. He argues the party must urgently refocus on organizing, messaging, and turnout if it hopes to compete in 2028. Plus, his candid advice on what it will take to reverse the Democratic Party’s downward slide.Finally, Michael Caputo shares a deeply personal account of battling cancer and cancellation at the same time — and how it fuels his support for the MAHA movement. He stresses the importance of President Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prioritizing childhood cancer, chronic disease, and the use of AI in medical breakthroughs. Caputo also explains why early-onset cancer is rising at alarming rates – and why he believes this fight must be at the center of America’s health agenda.American Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.orgBirch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold
1Mark opens today’s show with his patented reported monologue on Donald Trump’s strategy for Ukraine and Russia, laying out five pillars that sharply diverge from Joe Biden’s policies. From shifting the burden to Europe and aggressively driving peace talks, to accepting territorial compromise, wielding sanctions, and using high-pressure diplomacy, Mark explains why Trump’s approach could reset America’s role in the conflict and remake the global power map.Former chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence, Marc Short, then joins to discuss the balance between loyalty to Trump and staying true to conservative principles. He reflects on how many traditional Republicans have navigating the Trump years and offers his take on foreign policy, the economy, and the party’s challenges heading into 2028. He also addresses Pence’s comments on President Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard in Washington, D.C.Finally, Hillary Clinton’s former campaign manager, Patti Solis Doyle, explains why running for president is far more grueling than most candidates and advisers anticipate. She also shares her assessment of the Democratic field for 2028, with Gavin Newsom in the first tier by himself and a trio of governors and a surprise pick making up the second batch.Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Mark opens today’s show with his reported monologue on the Democrats’ ten-year failure to answer a basic question: how to beat Donald Trump at politics. He begins with Trump’s gambit to address Washington, D.C.’s crime troubles, then examines the counterargument from Trump’s opponents – which exposes a major weakness for Democrats and the corporate media: the absence of a clear, consistent “theory of the case” for taking him on. While Trump dominates headlines and shapes the conversation, Mark argues that Democrats still lack a strategy that can counter his media mastery and his connection with voters on many of the issues that matter most. Then, Joe Scarborough joins the program for a wide-ranging conversation on his strong views about how to grapple with the President, including the political fight over crime, higher education, and the future of American elections. He explains how Democrats have erred in the crime debate against Trump, why pointing to statistics is “maddening” when people don’t feel safe, and how an anti-crime message resonates with Black and working-class voters in D.C. The two also discuss the Trump administration’s crackdown on American universities and Scarborough’s plan for Democrats to turn it into a winning issue. Plus, why Scarborough says running against Republican candidates on their individual records is a far better strategy than making every race about Trump.Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Mark kicks off today’s show with a new reported monologue on the shakeup at The Washington Post. He reviews the record of the paper’s most notorious anti-Trump propagandists masquerading as news reporters and explains why their recent departures have yet to boost credibility or alter its biased reporting. Mark explains that Donald Trump is not the main cause of the Dominant Media’s troubles, and why his leaving office at the end of his term won’t be the change that restores public faith in the press. Plus, an update on the overwhelming reaction to Mark’s buzzy sit-down with former Post fact checker Glenn Kessler.Then, Steve Krakauer and Drew Holden join the show to discuss how the media lost credibility over many years and why employing far-left media critics like Brian Stelter has only helped networks alienate half the country. The three offer their thoughts on how to rebuild faith in once-trusted legacy media institutions — or whether or not they can be fixed at all.Finally, Mark’s interview with Harmeet Dhillon, head of the Civil Rights Division in the Trump administration Department of Justice. She explains how she is working to remake the DOJ in Trump 2.0 and redefine the term “civil rights,” using a race-blind, discrimination-free approach to law enforcement. They discuss the most consequential cases the division is handling, and the real-world impact of Title IX, gerrymandering, and free speech.Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Today, Mark Halperin sits down for an unmissable conversation with Glenn Kessler, former Editor and Chief Writer of The Washington Post’s influential “The Fact Checker.” They revisit some of Kessler’s most famous – and infamous – Pinocchio ratings, unpack his recent admission about the paper’s addiction to its liberal readers, and debate the paper’s failure to engage a broader audience. The discussion dives into the media’s mishandling of coverage of Joe Biden’s decline and how it fueled the ongoing media reckoning. Plus, Kessler offers a stunning justification for his controversial Biden “deepfake” report and completely denies that the Post’s newsroom is biased against Donald Trump. But first, Mark’s reported monologue examining the case of a high-profile media veteran finally admitting what he wouldn’t say while inside his legacy newsroom: that liberal media bias and ignorance of Trump’s America are real.Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Mark Halperin kicks off today’s show by breaking down what Kamala Harris has — and hasn’t — done since losing the 2024 election. While Donald Trump has used his second term to reshape the political landscape, Harris has largely receded from the stage. Mark explores her indecision, lack of public engagement, and what her next chapter might reveal about the Democratic Party’s future. Harris says the system is broken — but Mark argues it’s not. The system is intact, and if she wants to lead, she’ll need to put in the work… because changing America takes more than 107 days.Then, Corey Lewandowski joins Mark to chart the evolution of Donald Trump’s political life — from before the golden escalator ride to today. The longtime confidant shares insights on Trump’s inner circle, who might win Trump’s 2028 backing, and what could be next for the 45th president. It’s a rare behind-the-scenes look at Trump past, present, and future from someone who’s been there since the beginning.Plus, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan joins Mark to discuss his bid for Michigan governor as an independent — and why he believes breaking free from partisan politics is the only way forward. Duggan explains how he helped lead Detroit out of bankruptcy, from restoring basic services to doubling property values and adding tens of thousands of jobs. He makes the case for pragmatic, results-driven leadership — and lays out what it will take to win Michigan.American Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.orgBirch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold
Mark Halperin officially kicks off the 2028 presidential race with the debut of his “Invisible Primary Rankings” in his reported monologue. Who’s really ahead to lead the Democratic Party next? It’s not just about early voting states anymore. Mark ranks the contenders across categories that matter — from who owns the digital space to who passes the “hang test.” Buttigieg or Shapiro? AOC or Newsom? Who’s connecting with the base — and who’s falling flat? This is your early, essential guide to the nomination campaign that’s already begun (even if no one’s admitting it yet).Then, it’s hot topics with Meghan McCain — starting with the rumored Katy Perry–Justin Trudeau romance and the “Trump trauma bond” that might explain it. Meghan also goes off on Sen. Cory Booker’s latest floor gambit, and why it is the perfect example of a man still auditioning for Hamilton. She and Mark debate the Sydney Sweeney/American Eagle backlash, and Mark shares why Meghan’s genes make her a “Gorgeous Maverick.” Plus: the one question Meghan would ask Trump about Epstein — and it’s not what you think.Finally, David Bahnsen joins with news you can actually use. Is the economy booming or busting? Mark and David cut through the noise to explain what’s really happening — and what the Trump administration is doing about housing, education, and other costs hitting your wallet.
Mark Halperin opens today’s show with his new signature reported monologue on the implications of the Democrats’ refusal to acknowledge the major accomplishments of the Trump presidency. He explains why these wins are still shaping the political landscape, and how the left’s continued denial of what’s ruined the party’s brand could cost them in the midterms and heading into 2028. Then, Rich Lowry and Emily Jashinsky join to break down the latest culture war flashpoints—from the viral backlash to Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad to the bizarre trend of branding denim ads as fascist. The panel unpacks what these online meltdowns reveal about Gen Z, media influence, and the risks Democrats face by letting social media outrage steer their message. Also, Michael Smerconish joins the show and examines the Democratic Party’s deepening identity crisis. He and Mark explore why the party struggles to define itself beyond opposition to Trump, how cultural fear has replaced moral clarity, and what it will take to rebuild a broader, more coherent coalition before 2028.
Today, Mark Halperin breaks down why the Trump–Epstein scandal won’t go away—and why it may be more politically dangerous than any controversy Trump has faced before. He unpacks what to watch for in Trump’s social media posts and what might be driving his cryptic responses to questions about Ghislaine Maxwell.Then, Rep. Ro Khanna explains why Epstein has become the defining symbol of government transparency—and why Congress must act now to stop the conspiracy spiral. He lays out the bipartisan push for a new investigation and why the pressure for answers is hitting a breaking point.Plus, Dan Turrentine and Batya Ungar-Sargon join Mark to debate what the media is missing while the Trump–Epstein story dominates the headlines—from Tulsi Gabbard’s explosive “deep state” allegations to whether Hillary Clinton lost in 2016 because of Russia… or her own campaign.
Mark kicks off today’s show breaking down the five biggest hot political wars dominating American politics—from Rahm Emanuel’s escalating battle with the progressive left to Trump’s ongoing feud with The Wall Street Journal and the Murdoch empire. Mark unpacks how these high-stakes fights are reshaping the parties, the media, and more. Then, new NYC mayoral polling sparks a fierce debate: can Andrew Cuomo actually beat Zohran Mamdani? Mark is joined by David Burrelland John Podhoretz to analyze the numbers, dissect the only path left for Cuomo to win, and explore why Mamdani’s support surge among young, childless voters. Meanwhile, James Carville warns Democrats they cannot let Mamdani define the party —and he’s not alone in raising alarms about the left’sinfluence. Also, Ben Ferguson joins to react to Hunter Biden’s extraordinary new claims involving Ambien, crack, and George Clooney. He and Mark discuss what the revelations say about the president’s state of mind during the debate. They also take a hard look at the deeper identity crisis inside the Democratic Party and ask whether it’s become too fractured to lead. Plus, celebrating the surprise return of Ted Lasso!
Today, Mark Halperin sits down exclusively with Megyn Kelly for a deep dive on Epstein, why the scandal hits Trump’s base in a uniquely personal way, and why it’s not the political deal breaker the left might hope. Megyn reveals the unanswered questions that still matter to MAGA, why firing Comey’s daughter isn't the "scalp" that will satisfy the need for accountability, and why Pam Bondi might be the story's next casualty. She also explains why this may be the closest Trump has come to his “shoot someone on Fifth Avenue” moment.Then, Mark’s report on how Jeffrey Epstein came to embody the populist revolt against elite power and institutional failure. He traces how the saga evolved from a lurid scandal into a potent political metaphor—and shares what Trump told him back in 2016 about Epstein as a looming problem long before it exploded into the mainstream. But did Trump see the scandal coming for him? Mark has the inside story.Done with Debt: https://www.DoneWithDebt.comAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next . NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.orgPaleo Valley: Visit https://paleovalley.com and use code NEXTUP at checkout to get 15% off your first order
Mark opens with a sharp look at the latest in media malpractice—the press’ increasingly absurd cover-up of its own cover-up of Joe Biden’s cognitive decline. Rather than taking responsibility for their role in downplaying the president’s condition, reporters like CNN’s Jake Tapper are now spinning a new narrative: blame it all on “Trump-ness.” Plus, Hugh Hewitt’s enabling interview with the Original Sin authors raises tough questions about accountability in journalism—and whether the truth will ever be acknowledged by the co-conspirators.Then, a can’t-miss conversation with legendary newsman Brit Hume, Chief Political Analyst for Fox News. Mark and Brit break down the skewed priorities of major newsrooms, NBC’s embarrassing auto-pen “scoop,” and why Brit believes the Epstein files are “startlingly unimportant.”From there, it’s all things politics: Brit on why Trump 2.0 is a very different presidency, the meteoric rise of JD Vance, and an early look at the 2028 Democratic field—can Kamala Harris or Gavin Newsom lead the Left into the future?PLUS: Mark Halperin unveils the official name for his loyal audience.Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldPaleo Valley: Visit https://paleovalley.com and use code NEXTUP at checkout to get 15% off your first orderAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next . NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Mark Halperin kicks off today’s show with an in-depth analysis of Donald Trump’s decision-making process, breaking down the seven rules that guide his leadership. Mark explores how Trump’s instinct-driven choices, strategic use of chaos, and mastery of controlling the narrative have set him apart from past presidents—and allow him to effectively make choices and shape how his decisions are perceived.Then, Mark is joined by Batya Ungar-Sargon and Eric Bolling for an in-depth discussion on the changing landscape of immigration politics. The trio unpacks the real sentiments of Americans, exploring the complexities behind issues like mass deportation and the various stances within the MAGA movement.Plus, Michael Knowles from The Daily Wire traces JD Vance’s rapid rise within the GOP, from his Hollywood-blessed memoir to becoming one of the party’s most influential figures—perhaps even its future leader. Michael reveals to Mark the secret behind Ben Shapiro’s success, and the two try to answer a tough question: can Republicans be Swifties, too?
Mark Halperin kicks off today’s show with a hard look at the political and media fallout still unfolding as the one-year anniversary of the Trump assassination attempt draws near. In his reported monologue, Mark dissects how key Democrats and corporate media figures blamed Trump for the attempt on his own life—and how that narrative helped ignite the media credibility crisis now reaching a breaking point. And one year later, a central question remains: Who was the would-be assassin, and why do we still know almost nothing about him? Journalist Salena Zito joins Mark to discuss her explosive new book, “Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination Attempt of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland.” She recounts the moment the shots rang out in front of her, the chaos that followed, and how one small town became the unlikely epicenter of a national political shift. Plus, Emily Jashinsky and Dan Turrentine on Elon Musk’s third-party playbook, the media’s quiet retreat from the Epstein story, and what America’s appetite for conspiracy theories says about where the country is headed.
Mark Halperin is off of Next Up this week, but he joined Emily Jashinsky on her new MK Media show "After Party" - which you can subscribe to and join the party. They discuss the settlement between CBS News parent company Paramount and President Trump, the real reason CBS caved and paid Trump millions, the "dirty secret" about the corporate media, the state of the BBB, and more. Plus Emily on the way the Diddy verdict intersects with the end of the MeToo Era, and why Charlize Theron may look great but isn't as cool as she thinks she is, and is in fact part of the problem that led to the failures of the libertine lifestyle that has fallen out of favor with today's culture.Subscribe to After Party with Emily Jashinsky:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/after-party-with-emily-jashinsky/id1821493726Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0szVa30NjGYsyIzzBoBCtJSocial: https://afterpartyemily.com/
Mark Halperin kicks off today’s show by breaking down why Democratic rising star Zohran Mamdani may have more in common with Donald Trump than meets the eye. From his underdog victory over Andrew Cuomo to his working-class message about affordability in New York City, Halperin explains how Mamdani is reshaping the political conversation—and why some Democrats are uneasy about it.Then, Meghan McCain joins the show to share her exclusive interview with Second Lady Usha Vance. From parenting advice to personal politics, McCain reveals how she landed the rare sit-down and what the media-shy wife of the Vice President really thinks about life in the spotlight—and the MAGA movement.
Mark Halperin opens today’s show with his reported monologue breaking down the Left’s partisanship on an issue that should transcend politics: stopping Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. While Democrat Senator Chris Coons praises NATO’s new funding commitments and agrees Iran must be stopped, he—like many on the Left—refuses to credit Trump’s role in those efforts. Plus, Mark explains why national unity is essential in times of war, how partisan divisions only serve America’s enemies, and how both parties are guilty parties. Then, Politico Capitol Bureau Chief Rachael Bade joins with a behind-the-scenes look at Trump’s decision to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities. She also unpacks Speaker Johnson’s careful balancing act with Trump and how J.D. Vance is winning over the GOP.Finally, Sage Steele sits down with Mark for a candid conversation about walking away from her dream job at ESPN, finding her voice in politics, and leading with kindness in the face of public criticism.
Mark kicks off the show with a deep dive into the four truths about Trump and Iran, and the fundamentals about his biggest foreign policy decision yet. He breaks down the underreported dynamics inside the White House, how U.S.-Israel relations are shaping global responses, why the real divide goes far beyond MAGA, and what Trump has—and hasn’t—decided. Plus, a historical parallel to JFK’s handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis, and why Trump’s critics may be misunderstanding both his instincts and strategy. Then, Dan Senor, host of the “Call Me Back” podcast, joins the show to break down the U.S.–Israel relationship in the context of the Iran crisis. He and Mark explore Netanyahu’s strained history with American presidents, whether it’s already too late to reach a diplomatic resolution with Iran, and why comparisons between Bibi and figures like Churchill or Kissinger may be more complicated than they seem—especially when it comes to Trump. Later, Democratic strategist Patti Solis Doyle weighs in on the Democratic Party’s post-2024 meltdown and why the party has yet to rebound from the election “massacre.” The former Hillary Clinton campaign manager reacts to scathing new reports about dysfunction at the DNC, offers a blunt assessment of the Democrats’ attempt to cover up Joe Biden’s cognitive decline, and explains why the party remains rudderless heading into 2026 and 2028. Plus, Mark and Patti discuss the future of the party: is anyone on the Democratic team capable of leading the party out of what she calls a “messageless” and “leaderless” spiral?
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interesting opening- the elephant in the room is one is a charlatan and the other is a mogul. Achievement is the difference. intelligent voters look past the facade and look at what is on the resume. Democrats have alot of college to govt service people. GOP public servants have real world accomplishments.
I am SOOOOO disappointed and SHOCKED that this is your take on this RADICAL SOCIALIST. I am conservative, but listen to all sides as long as it's a serious and honest take. I really like listening to you because although you lean left, typically you are sane and honest in your takes. The candidate for NYC mayor is a socialist! That disqualifies him immediately. We are all Republic...we DO NOT want socialist anything in this country. This man is radical and your gushing praise sickens me.
Nexters, yes 👍
patti doyle saying hillary was set up to fail..... are you effin kidding???? ask Jim Webb his thoughts on that.
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Spirit of Geraldo spoke during the Tom Cotton interview- dont ask how we are going to attack an enemy.... lol come on man! 🤦🏻♂️