The Warning with Steve Schmidt
iHeartPodcasts
There is a very significant, “exhausted majority” of Americans looking to move past this rotten moment in American life. They have lost trust and faith in government, business, media and not-for-profit institutions at a moment of technological, cultural and economic upheaval. Fascism did not rise in the 1930s because it was strong, but rather, because democracy was weak. The cycle is repeating itself with a new extremism rising in 2020s America. On the podcast – consistent with the mission of The Warning newsletter offered on Substack and The Warning YouTube channel – I will be joined by interesting guests – some familiar, and some you may never have heard of – to discuss the political and cultural currents that are shaping our times, as well as the unseen forces driving politics that are rarely discussed on cable news. It's important for you to hear from a diverse range of voices – not just me – about the issues facing America today.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Feb 23, 2026 • 8min
Steve Schmidt: Trump Cannot Be Saved
Sharp dissection of a pro-Trump interview and the distortions used to defend his behavior. Nuclear posture with Iran and agency missteps get blunt attention. Fraud, charity scams, and family crypto schemes are called out. Political rhetoric is examined as revealing admission rather than defense.
Feb 22, 2026 • 1h 7min
Steve Schmidt WARNS: Every Congressional Race Counts To Vote Out MAGA
Terry Virts, former Air Force colonel, F-16 pilot and NASA astronaut who commanded the ISS, is running for Congress in Texas. He talks about why this redistricted seat matters, the urgency of flipping the House, threats from authoritarianism, space-informed views on inequality, regulating tech and AI, and local infrastructure and immigration concerns.
Feb 22, 2026 • 1h 18min
Steve Schmidt - On the brink of war with Iran with Malcolm Vance and Ken Harbaugh
Ken Harbaugh, former Navy pilot and veteran advocate, offers aviator perspective and warns about carrier risks and moral injury. Malcolm Nance, retired Navy senior chief cryptologist and intelligence veteran, analyzes Iran’s capabilities, strike timing, and escalation hazards. They discuss carrier vulnerability, Strait of Hormuz dynamics, asymmetric Iranian tactics, and the dangers of unclear objectives.
6 snips
Feb 21, 2026 • 41min
Steve Schmidt & Jim Acosta - Kristi Noem's Air F*ck One, Trump's dictator banners and more
Steve Schmidt, political strategist and sharp critic of contemporary power, weighs in with urgent analysis. He breaks down the Supreme Court tariff ruling and alleged corruption around it. He reacts to photos of a government jet tied to Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski. He issues stark warnings about military moves near Iran and the human cost if conflict escalates.
5 snips
Feb 20, 2026 • 8min
Steve Schmidt: Trump Has Chosen His Fate
A blistering critique of a so-called peace initiative that praises dictators and sidelines allies. Examination of self-promotion, commercial motives, and worrying involvement by Jared Kushner. A stark warning that current rhetoric and planning could push the country toward armed conflict with Iran.
Feb 19, 2026 • 11min
Steve Schmidt: The Epstein Class Is Finished
Discussion of Prince Andrew's arrest and the unraveling of the Epstein-connected elite. Exploration of other powerful figures tied to the network and predictions of accountability. Critique of high-level corruption within the Trump era and DOJ protections for the powerful. Warnings about escalating US involvement in the Middle East and threats posed by a movement placing itself above the law.
5 snips
Feb 18, 2026 • 10min
Steve Schmidt and George Conway: This Is Our Last Chance to Save America
George Conway, retired lawyer and anti-Trump activist running for Congress, explains why he entered the race. They debate Elon Musk’s power and whether nationalizing SpaceX is needed. Discussion covers concentrated corporate influence, dispersing authority, and why this moment matters for democracy.
14 snips
Feb 17, 2026 • 8min
Steve Schmidt: Trump Has Betrayed His Oath
A fierce critique of a president’s conduct and its threat to democratic norms. Comparisons to past leaders highlight contrasts in oath, duty, and respect for institutions. Arguments frame a political movement as an existential challenge to American democracy. Historical quotes on free press and civic restraint are woven throughout.
10 snips
Feb 16, 2026 • 9min
Steve Schmidt: Kristi Noem Will Answer to America
Sharp critique of claims about stolen elections and the lack of evidence behind them. Warnings about potential use of federal agents to intimidate voters and questions about policing near polling places. Examination of rhetoric that frames certain voters as the "right" ones and calls for public accountability. Urgent focus on threats to democratic norms and the need for political renewal.
Feb 15, 2026 • 10min
Steve Schmidt & Rep. Jason Crow: Trump Doesn't See A Problem He Thinks He Can't Bomb His Way Out Of
Jason Crow, U.S. Representative and former Army Ranger with a Bronze Star, joins to discuss the risk of military action being used as political distraction. He warns about leaders who think force solves problems. They also talk about public responses to grand jury decisions and what that means for constitutional checks.
