

Next Up with Mark Halperin
MK Media
Next Up with Mark Halperin delivers unique political insight and reporting, with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
Political Fallout From Paramount-Netflix War Over Warner, Trump’s Ukraine Talks & Putin’s Endgame
The battle between Netflix and Paramount over Warner Bros. reveals deeper political implications that could impact future elections. Mark Halperin discusses how control of media aligns with electoral influence, while guests explore President Trump's potential impact and antitrust concerns. The conversation then shifts to Ukraine, with insights on America's role and European fears of a U.S. withdrawal. David Ignatius assesses military capabilities and Putin's strategies, highlighting the complexities of future negotiations and Europe's security.

15 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 10min
Ted Cruz Eyes 2028 Challenge to JD Vance, First Look at Mark Halperin’s “8 for 2028” Dem Rankings
Melissa DeRosa, a Democratic strategist, and Ben Ferguson, a conservative commentator, dive into the evolving political landscape for 2028. They debate the potential of Ted Cruz as a challenger to J.D. Vance and explore Trump's economic messaging amidst voter concerns. The discussion reveals the struggle both parties face in generating fresh ideas, particularly regarding antisemitism responses. They also assess contenders' strengths, with a rapid-fire round on key Democrats' electability, making for a lively and insightful conversation.

5 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 25min
Katie Miller Fires Back at Media Attackers, Boat Strike Constitutional Crisis, Trump's Comeback Plan
Jed Rubenfeld, a Yale Law professor and expert on constitutional law, discusses the constitutional implications of U.S. drone strikes in the Caribbean, questioning both presidential authority and legal boundaries. Katie Miller, a former administration communications pro, opens up about media scrutiny and personal threats against her family, including a dramatic relocation for safety. She also shares insights about her podcast and her husband Stephen's approach to navigating media attacks.

15 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 1h 16min
Pundits Prematurely Say Trump is Done, Plus 2028 Dem Forecast with Hillary’s Former Campaign Manager
Patti Solis Doyle, a seasoned Democratic strategist and Hillary Clinton's former campaign manager, shares insights on Trump’s declining support among independents and the dynamics of the 2028 Democratic race, including Gavin Newsom's strong position and AOC's challenges. Education leader Erika Donalds discusses the transformative role of AI in schools, the decline of teachers' unions, and how school choice can enhance competition and innovation in education. Both guests tackle critical issues shaping American politics and education.

13 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 1h 24min
The Real Epstein Elite Narrative That Matters, Trump's Files Power Play, Plus Dems' 2028 Forecast
In this discussion, guests Steve Israel, a former congressman and author, Ashley Etienne, a Democratic strategist and former senior advisor, and Amber Duke, a conservative commentator, dive into the revelations surrounding the Epstein files. They explore the political ramifications of the documents, contrasting elite perspectives with those of everyday Americans. They also tackle the impact on the upcoming elections and the future of healthcare policy, while pondering deep questions about transparency and accountability in politics.

Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 15min
The J.D. Vance "Phony" Debate Shaking Up 2028, and Who Lost the Shutdown, with GOP Whip Tom Emmer
Tom Emmer, the House Majority Whip and Republican U.S. Representative from Minnesota, reveals the inside scoop on ending the recent government shutdown and discusses healthcare reform priorities. Rich Lowry, Editor-in-chief of National Review, and Yemisi Egbewole, a former Biden White House staffer, join to explore the political aftermath of recent elections, immigration tensions, and the authenticity debate surrounding J.D. Vance as he steps into the 2028 race, questioning his genuine appeal to voters.

15 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 1h 2min
Megyn Kelly on Dems’ Shutdown Deal Meltdown and Schumer’s Fall, Plus Inside the Rise of Nick Fuentes
In this discussion, Megyn Kelly, a prominent television and radio journalist, dives into the chaos surrounding the recent government shutdown. She analyzes the internal struggles within the Democratic Party and Chuck Schumer's precarious position. The conversation shifts to the alarming rise of figures like Nick Fuentes, highlighting the crisis facing young men in America and the failure of leaders to engage them effectively. Together, they explore the challenges of cultural alienation and the urgent need for new pathways to connect with today's youth.

28 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 1h 25min
The Real Story About the Nationwide Political Power Shift, and Inside the Dem 2025 Winning Playbook
Political strategist Doug Sosnik, a former advisor to President Clinton, and Kristen Davidson, a seasoned Republican strategist, unpack recent election outcomes and their implications for future campaigns. They dive into how Democrats are regaining momentum, highlighting figures like AOC and Newsom. The duo also analyzes the evolving GOP landscape and Trump’s enduring influence. Expect insights on potential 2028 candidates and the strategic recalibrations both parties must undertake to appeal to the changing electorate.

6 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 32min
2026 Starts NOW: California Governor Candidate Debate Between Steve Hilton and Stephen Cloobeck
Join Stephen Cloobeck, a self-made hospitality billionaire and Democratic candidate, and Steve Hilton, a British-born businessman and Republican contender, as they engage in a groundbreaking debate about California's future. They tackle pressing issues like the economy and education, compare energy strategies, and propose reforms for insurance and transportation. Their candid dialogue reveals innovative ideas and their unique approaches to crime policy and immigration, offering a fresh perspective on governance in the Golden State.

17 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 15min
New Details on Biden Decline Cover Up, Final Mamdani NYC Election Forecast, Plus: Ro Khanna 2028?
Ro Khanna, a progressive Congressman from California, discusses the economic challenges faced by working-class voters and hints at his ambitions for 2028. He advocates for extending SNAP benefits and highlights the need for a fresh political approach. Meanwhile, Alex Seitz-Wald talks about the importance of local journalism in holding power accountable, detailing the rise of candidates like Graham Plowman in Maine and the significance of community-focused news initiatives. Together, they explore how local narratives shape the broader political landscape.


