The Smerconish Podcast

Michael dives into today’s poll question: Should Maine voters reject Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner over a tattoo resembling a Nazi SS emblem? After Platner claimed he got it “while drunk in the Marines” and only recently covered it, Smerconish asks — is redemption possible, or does this defy logic? Plus, a call for consistency from both parties when confronting extremists in their ranks. Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com, and thank you for rating and reviewing this podcast on your favorite podcast platform! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael goes in-depth on President Trump’s surprise demolition and reconstruction project on the White House grounds — a massive 90,000-square-foot ballroom reportedly funded by private donors including major tech firms. Washington Post White House reporter Dan Diamond joins Michael to unpack the story, from historic preservation loopholes to questions about donor influence and design excess. Then, the conversation turns to the audience,m with reactions ranging from outrage to apathy. One former White House butler calls in with a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to host a presidential-level event at America's most famous address. Is this project an act of presidential hubris or a long-overdue modernization? Listen here, then decide. And, please rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast app. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael takes listeners on a spontaneous walking tour outside the White House, where demolition of the East Wing is making way for what’s being called the “Trump Ballroom.” From firsthand observations to reflections on history, tradition, and presidential legacy, Michael asks today’s poll question: Decades from now, will presidents be hosting parties there—or pretending it never happened? Place your vote at Smerconish.com. 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 is Editor-in-Chief at 2WAY, and host of Next Up with Mark Halperin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael tackles a provocative poll question at Smerconish.com today: "Is it better for the national Democratic Party if Zohran Mamdani wins or loses in NYC?" Michael explores how the Mamdani campaign embodies the tug-of-war between progressives and centrists, and what that tension means for Democrats trying to win across swing districts. He adds commentary from The New York Times and Wall Street Journal about the party’s ideological crossroads, from Joe Manchin’s centrism to AOC-style activism. It’s a smart, spirited look at what is really at stake in one city’s election. Listen here and please rate and review this podcast! Then, vote on the question at smerconish.com. 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 sits down with Indivisible co-founder Ezra Levin, one of the organizers behind the nationwide “No Kings” rallies that drew millions around the globe. They discuss how humor and ridicule have become tools of resistance, the logistics of coordinating thousands of peaceful protests, and whether demonstrations can truly lead to political change. Then, Michael gets reaction from the audience, sparking a lively debate over protest effectiveness. Listen to this conversation that blends politics, strategy, and satire — and asks: Can laughter really challenge power? Original air date 21 October 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A brutal poll question at Smerconish.com today: Should the Russia–Ukraine conflict be settled by accepting the current front lines as permanent? Michael breaks down why this option—awful for Ukraine—might still be the only “practical” endgame if the alternatives are endless attrition or dangerous escalation. Listen in for the case for a territorial “freeze” vs. the risks of arming Ukraine with long-range missiles and more. Please rate and review this podcast, thanks for listening! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Michael Smerconish dives into the explosive debate over the nationwide “No Kings” rallies, which drew millions across America this past weekend. Two excellent voices join the conversation with very different takes: Colby Hall, founding editor of Mediaite, questions whether these protests accomplish anything beyond social media posts and self-satisfaction. Will Bunch, national opinion columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer, argues that the movement’s true power lies in restoring community, courage, and hope in a divided democracy. From the power of collective action to the pitfalls of performative protest, this conversation asks: Can massive marches really make meaningful change—or are we mistaking hashtags for history? Original air date 20 October 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Over 7 million protesters participated in "No Kings" protests across 2,600+ locations nationwide. Michael talks about this here and is asking you in today's Smerconish.com poll question: "Will the “No Kings” rallies lead to meaningful change? Listen to Michael offer dueling views from Colby Hall (Mediaite) and Will Bunch (Philly Inquirer), and then cast your ballot at Smerconish.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) joins Michael Smerconish to discuss their recent joint appearance on HBO's 'Real Time with Bill Maher', the government shutdown, President Trump, and foreign policy — until a fiery exchange over transgender service members derails the conversation. After Mace abruptly ends the call, Jo Ellis, the decorated National Guard veteran and black hawk pilot at the center of the debate, joins Michael to respond — offering a deeply personal perspective on service, identity, and respect. A powerful episode exploring free speech, empathy, and where civil discourse breaks down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.