The Dispatch Podcast The Last Centrist | Interview: Michael Smerconish
21 snips
Jul 21, 2025 
Michael Smerconish, host of SiriusXM’s program and CNN’s Smerconish, dives into the evolving state of centrism and the future of the Republican Party. He examines the potential for a viable centrist party and the complexities of political identities in today's polarized landscape. Smerconish discusses media's role in political division, reflects on Trump's influence, and the disconnect affecting youth and community engagement. The conversation is both insightful and humor-filled, shedding light on the challenges of moderating voices in American politics.
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Defining Centrism Today
- Michael Smerconish sees himself as representative of most Americans politically, neither comfortably Republican nor Democrat.
- Centrism for him means not fitting neatly into the ideological extremes of either party.
Centrist Apathy Limits Change
- A significant number identify as politically independent but lack passion to activate change.
- Political extremes dominate because centrists often avoid involvement in party politics.
Oval Office Meeting with Trump
- Michael Smerconish met Donald Trump multiple times, including a spontaneous Oval Office meeting.
- That encounter revealed Trump's candidness and his unique personality traits firsthand.
