The Smerconish Podcast

Find R.m. Schneiderman's work on Substack. Hear Michael's book club podcast episode with Marcus Luttrell here. 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: Should Congress ban betting on government actions, terrorism and war? Michael examines a wave of suspicious trading activity that appears to anticipate major geopolitical decisions—from U.S. strikes abroad to sudden policy reversals—raising questions about who knows what, and when. With new legislation proposed to prohibit wagering on sensitive events, the debate pits national security and ethics against free markets and predictive insight. Are these platforms valuable forecasting tools, or dangerous incentives that could invite manipulation and undermine public trust? Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Find Holly Peterson's work here. 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: Do you agree with the California jury verdict, blaming Meta and YouTube for designing features that cause mental health distress? Michael Smerconish breaks down a landmark Los Angeles verdict holding Meta and Google liable for millions in damages tied to a young woman’s mental health harms. Is this Big Tech’s “Big Tobacco moment,” or an overreach by trial lawyers? He explores the product liability theory behind the case, why Section 230 didn’t apply, and how cultural and legal trends often start in California. Plus, the broader implications for regulation, future lawsuits, and what it all means for social media users and companies alike. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Halperin, political journalist and editor of Wide World of News, joins to unpack Trump's Iran strategy in plain terms. He contrasts the drive for a big deal with willingness to use force. Discussion covers military buildup, coordination with Israel, political risks and what would count as success. Halperin also explains using satirical writing to reveal strategic intent.

Michael dives into two major debates shaping today’s headlines: a Supreme Court case that could redefine when mail-in ballots count, and a critical question about the war with Iran—should it end before the country’s enriched uranium is secured? With new polling data, political fallout, and sharp analysis, Michael challenges listeners to weigh in on where they stand. Vote at Smerconish.com, and then be sure to rate, review, and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Also, listeners from across the country weigh in with passionate opinions, real-world experiences, and sharp disagreements on fairness, trust, and access in American elections. Is a strict deadline the key to confidence—or a barrier to participation? This is a conversation at the heart of democracy heading into the next election cycle. 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: Should mail in ballots have to be received by Election Day to be counted? A Supreme Court case out of Mississippi could reshape how votes are counted nationwide, with justices appearing ready to reject laws allowing ballots to arrive after Election Day. Michael Smerconish breaks down the legal arguments, the role of federalism, and what’s at stake for voter access versus election finality. With millions of ballots potentially affected and states divided on the rules, this debate cuts to the core of election integrity and participation. Should deadlines be strict—or flexible enough to ensure every valid vote counts? Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to rate, review, and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish reflects on the life and legacy of former FBI Director Robert Mueller following his passing — and reacts to the controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s shocking public response. Joined by journalist and historian Garrett Graff, author of "The Threat Matrix," the conversation explores Mueller’s decades of public service, from Vietnam War hero to the man who reshaped the FBI after 9/11. Graff offers a behind-the-scenes look at Mueller’s character, leadership, and why he was once seen as one of the most trusted figures in Washington. The discussion also revisits the Mueller Report — breaking down its key findings on Russian interference, obstruction of justice, and the political fallout that still resonates today. In the second half, listeners weigh in on Trump’s reaction and what it says about today’s political climate, leadership, and public discourse. Original air date 23 March 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Will the new U.S. - Iran talks be successful?" Michael begins with a dramatic 48-hour ultimatum to Iran and a looming military deadline, then adds a critical postscript near the end of this episode: an early-morning reversal from President Trump delaying strikes for five days amid “productive” talks. That late-breaking addendum forces a complete reset of the poll question—AND the stakes! Is this strategic de-escalation, political necessity, or something else entirely? With markets jittery, public support slipping, and no clear endgame, Michael walks through the fast-moving developments and what they signal about whether diplomacy can succeed where threats have not. Listen here, cast your vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.