Next Up with Mark Halperin Mark Halperin Talks James Comey, Washington Post, and Charlie Kirk on "After Party"
Oct 4, 2025
Mark Halperin, a seasoned political commentator and host, dives into pressing issues alongside Emily Jashinsky. They dissect the legal implications of the James Comey indictment and critique Ta-Nehisi Coates’ controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk, defending Kirk’s humanity in a heated landscape. Halperin also scrutinizes the Washington Post's strategic shifts under Jeff Bezos, analyzing how they aim to broaden readership. Their discussion spans Trump’s aspirations for recognition, Kamala Harris's book tour, and media self-awareness in today's climate.
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Trump's Diplomacy Mixes Old Skills And Self-Interest
- Mark Halperin argues Trump-era diplomacy sometimes mirrors old-fashioned shuttle diplomacy rather than pure spectacle.
- He says Trump uses the presidency to maximize power, treating office as not to be "sucker"-used.
Policy Wins Complicate Political Aversion
- Halperin says Trump-era achievements like the Abraham Accords force critics to reconcile policy wins with distaste for Trump.
- He notes such diplomacy often follows traditional shuttle work despite Trump's unorthodox style.
Comey: Ethical Failings Vs. Weak Prosecution
- Halperin says Comey is morally flawed despite media hero-worship and likely acted unethically leaking information.
- He warns the indictment is thin and may be dismissed without a more detailed superseding indictment.