Smerconish on CNN

Michael discusses the potential future of predictive markets in political forecasting and their comparison to traditional polling.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael discusses the recent viral video concerning a Minnesota ICE agent's use of lethal force against a fleeing vehicle, questioning the lack of critical thinking and bipartisan analysis. He emphasizes the need for a transparent, independent investigation and details relevant guidelines and policies from various government publications on the use of deadly force. Additionally, the episode examines widespread fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the massive scale of government assistance fraud across all states, not just Minnesota. Expert insights from Kevin Davis, a former police officer, and Haywood Tal Cove from LexisNexis Risk Solutions, enrich the discussion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CNN Breaking News: US Captures Venezuelan President Nicolas MaduroIn this CNN breaking news segment, it is reported that the United States, under President Trump's orders, conducted a large-scale strike against Venezuela that led to the capture and removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. The Venezuelan government condemned the strikes as grave military aggression, and explosions were reported in multiple regions. Expert commentary includes a military analysis by Admiral James Stavridis, discussions on the potential legal outcomes for Maduro in US courts, and insights into the geopolitical and regional reactions. The segment also explores the potential aftermath for Venezuela and the broader implications of the operation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former federal prosecutor Anush Kori joins to discuss five rules for reading the Epstein files and the challenges faced in the redaction process. The episode further explores the divisive nature of the topic, the social media reactions, and the broader implications on public trust and accountability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode delves into the socio-economic and political implications of the upcoming Great Wealth Transfer, which predicts that up to $124 trillion will be handed down from Baby Boomers and older generations to Gen X and Millennials. Additionally, the episode discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on job markets and the importance of federal regulations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Smerconish discusses the disparity in how drug-related deaths are treated depending on the fame of the victim, highlighting cases like Matthew Perry and Michael K. Williams, where the suppliers were severely punished. He contrasts this with the relative lack of action for the vast majority of Americans who die from drug overdoses each year. The segment also covers the legal and moral implications of using military force against drug traffickers, referencing a controversial September 2nd attack on a drug trafficking vessel. Smerconish advocates for transparency and full investigation of the incident. Admiral James Stavridis joins to discuss the potential misuse of lethal force and the importance of adhering to legal and moral standards. The latter part of the show shifts to the concept of wealth and poverty in America, questioning what constitutes wealth in today's economy, especially as inflation and living costs rise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Smerconish talks about AI and job loss with former presidential candidate Andrew Yang and Roman Yampolskiy, Assoc. Professor of Computer Science & Engineering at University of Louisville. Then, Smerconish has a conversation with former Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel on crime and policing cities, especially in the wake of the shooting of two National Guard troops, this past week in Washington, DC. Finally, Dave Lawler, the National Security Editor for Axios on whether Andrii Yermak's resignation make Zelensky stronger or weaker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Smerconish explores the idea of finding common ground during Thanksgiving amid political polarization. He rejects the conventional advice to avoid sensitive topics, suggesting instead that Americans are united by core democratic values. Citing a Kettering Foundation and Gallup survey, he emphasizes areas of overwhelming consensus among U.S. adults, such as the importance of compromise and political leaders acting against violence and money influence in politics. Additionally, NYU's Susie Welch discusses a Wall Street Journal analysis showing that only 11% of Americans prioritize family as their top value, with personal well-being and self-expression ranking higher. Later, Smerconish touches on Democratic Socialism in the context of New York City’s newly elected mayor Zoran Momani and the broader implications of AI on employment and society. The episode ends with social media interactions and further discussions about the future under advanced AI technologies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ongoing investigations and controversies related to Jeffrey Epstein and his associations, particularly with Donald Trump. The DOJ has agreed to Trump's demand to investigate powerful men mentioned in Epstein's emails, though Trump's name is absent from those to be investigated. A House vote to release government records on Epstein is imminent, supported by several key Republican figures. Trump has distanced himself from Marjorie Taylor Greene over her advocacy for releasing Epstein materials, calling her 'wacky' and supporting her primary opponent. The script explores the implications of released emails, Trump's past relationship with Epstein, and speculations about Trump's knowledge of Epstein's activities. Additionally, the script includes an interview with Barry Levine, author of 'The Spider Inside the Criminal Web of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell,' discussing various emails and their potential meanings. The latter part of the script shifts to housing market issues, discussing the rising median age of home buyers, economic implications, and potential solutions. Cody Sanchez, author of 'Main Street Millionaire,' provides insights on the affordability crisis. The script concludes with a discussion on retail giant Target facing backlash for rolling back DEI initiatives, and an interview with Reverend Jamal Bryant advocating for a boycott. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Michael Smerconish discusses the political and social landscape in America, focusing on the varying definitions and acceptability of socialism. He explores the recent Democratic victories in major states and the differing approaches within the party, emphasizing the need for policies that appeal beyond urban areas. Smerconish interviews political consultant Frank Luntz on framing socialism to Middle America and delves into changing perceptions between capitalism and socialism. Additionally, he examines economic pressures and the impact of AI on the workforce, highlighting rising pessimism and comparisons with Nordic social democracies. The episode also addresses issues faced by young men today, featuring a conversation with Scott Galloway on their struggles and a call for male role models. Finally, it touches on the costs and benefits of weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, suggesting broader access could save money and lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices