The Smerconish Podcast The ‘Trump Is Finished’ Narrative Returns—Why Mark Halperin Isn’t Buying It
Jan 7, 2026
Mark Halperin, a political analyst and commentator, joins to dissect the enduring narrative of Donald Trump's political demise. They discuss why predictions of Trump’s collapse often miss the mark. Halperin dives into foreign policy tensions, like Ukraine and Venezuela, and contrasts Trump’s disruptive style with traditional diplomacy. He introduces the concept of 'controlled chaos' to explain Trump's strategies. The duo examines public perception and how economic metrics could reshape voter views, all while navigating the tumultuous landscape of American politics.
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Trump's Durability Defies Doom Narratives
- Donald Trump remains politically resilient despite repeated predictions of doom.
- Mark Halperin argues Trump's dominance persists because removal, death, or resignation appear unlikely now.
Split‑Screen Foreign Policy
- Trump's foreign policy shows split-screen actions that confound observers.
- Halperin points to simultaneous European coordination on Ukraine and Trumpian saber-rattling on Greenland as an example.
Uncertain Russia Posture
- Trump’s posture toward Putin has shifted recently and remains unpredictable.
- Halperin notes contradictory statements and evolving U.S. messaging about Russia and Venezuela influence.