Morning Joe

In this discussion, Eugene Daniels, a senior Washington correspondent, dives into the political landscape shaped by Trump's influence. He addresses the Senate's passage of a controversial bill amid intra-party strain. Meanwhile, investigative reporter Andy Blankstein recounts a tragic shooting involving firefighters, drawing connections to the ongoing investigation into the shooter's motives. The guests explore the intersection of tragedy and politics, reflecting on the implications for both legislation and community safety.

Guest Lisa Rubin, an MSNBC legal correspondent and former litigator, dives into the recent Senate challenges faced by Republicans over crucial health care cuts. The ruling that disqualified these provisions has intensified political divisions. Rubin highlights the urgency behind the budget bill and the struggle for party unity versus the needs of constituents relying on Medicaid. Additionally, discussion unfolds about the implications of national security intelligence sharing and ongoing legal battles over birthright citizenship, showcasing the complex intertwining of law and politics.

CIA says Iran’s nuclear program ‘severely damaged’ by U.S. strikes

Jim VandeHei, co-founder of Axios, and David Ignatius, columnist for The Washington Post, dive into the unexpected rise of Zohran Mamdani, a progressive candidate winning the NYC mayoral primary against Andrew Cuomo. They discuss the implications of this shift towards progressive ideals in the Democratic Party. The conversation also touches on the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program, and the pressing need for effective AI regulation as technology rapidly evolves.

In this discussion, David Ignatius, a seasoned Washington Post columnist, offers a deep dive into the rising tensions between Israel and Iran. He analyzes Iran's alleged ceasefire violations and the implications of its missile capabilities. Ignatius highlights the precariousness of U.S. foreign policy under Trump and the complex narrative developing in the Middle East post-Hamas attack. The talk underscores the challenges of diplomatic solutions and the need for new approaches to achieve lasting peace in a historically volatile region.

Mark Hurtling, a seasoned retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General, brings his expertise to a riveting discussion on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He highlights the U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the complex diplomatic landscape that accompanies them. Hurtling delves into the shifting public opinion on military actions and the constitutional implications of these operations. The episode also covers the repercussions for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy, providing insights into modern warfare and strategic decision-making.

Ed Luce, U.S. national editor and columnist for the Financial Times, joins Joe Scarborough to discuss his biography of Zbigniew Brzezinski, highlighting his strategic brilliance and character complexities. Luce elaborates on Brzezinski's influential role in U.S. foreign policy and his evolution from a hardline strategist to a respected voice critiquing the Iraq War. The conversation touches on Brzezinski's accurate Cold War predictions and the vital lessons contemporary leaders can learn about effective statecraft and political communication.

The podcast dives into President Trump's upcoming decision on U.S. military engagement in the Iran conflict, with critical insights from the White House. It unpacks the complex geopolitical tensions involving the U.S., Iran, and Israel, stressing the urgency for a long-term strategy. Legal battles over immigration and presidential powers add another layer to the discussion, highlighting potential impacts on state funding. The dialogue also touches on the global refugee crisis and the importance of compassionate diplomacy amid ongoing humanitarian crises.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was still considering a U.S. military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites. “I may do it. I may not do it,” he said. “Nobody knows what I’m going to do.” The Morning Joe panel discusses the president's options in the region. This episode aired June 19, 2025, from 6-10 AM 

Jonathan Lemire, a political analyst from NBC News, joins Ed Luce, national editor at The Financial Times, and investigative reporter Mark Mazzetti of The New York Times to dissect the escalating tensions surrounding Trump’s potential military actions in Iran. They explore the complexities of U.S. involvement, the divided opinions within Trump's MAGA base, and the possible repercussions of military strategies. The conversation also highlights Trump's inner conflicts and the implications of political violence in contemporary America.