The Smerconish Podcast

New Gallup data shows U.S. alcohol consumption has hit a record low—and Republicans are leading the trend. Michael digs into the numbers, which reveal a surprising 20-point drop in drinking among GOP'ers. He explores the cultural and political factors at play, and takes calls from listeners on whether it’s weed, wellness, or something deeper driving Americans to drink less. Original air date 13 August 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is America actually under-policed and over-incarcerated? Michael breaks down today's Smerconish.com poll question—and the surprising research behind it. From Trump’s National Guard plan in DC to a groundbreaking academic paper, this episode dives deep into whether our justice system is prioritizing the wrong solutions. With insights from the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and scholarly work you’ve probably never heard of, this is one you don’t want to miss. Listen here, then rate and review the podcast, and vote at smerconish.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Crime is down — so why is President Trump sending the National Guard to DC? Michael digs into the President's surprising decision to deploy 800 National Guard troops to our nation's capital — despite data showing crime is at a 30-year low. Listen to his sharp commentary, and what our audience has to say about it. Original air date 12 August 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael unpacks today's poll question: Should Trump reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug? He explains his "yes" vote, the surprising politics behind the shift, and how cannabis is becoming an 80/20 issue. Plus, reflections on Trump-Putin peace talks and the strategic optics behind Zelensky’s possible absence. Don’t miss this blend of politics, polling, and pot. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Psychoanalyst and author Erica Komisar joins Michael to discuss the rise of FAFO (“F*** Around and Find Out”) parenting — a viral, consequence-driven style gaining popularity as a backlash to gentle parenting. Komisar explains why she believes both extremes miss the mark, and why the real solution lies in combining empathy with firm limits. What went wrong in raising Gen Z? Are we too sensitive — or not sensitive enough? This episode dives deep into the parenting pendulum, resilience, and what kids really need to thrive. Original air date 11 August 2025. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Smerconish dives into today's poll question that he asks at Smerconish.com: Should Ukraine reject any peace deal that does not require Russia to return all the territory it has seized since the 2022 invasion? With peace talks possibly on the horizon, he explores the harsh realities behind public sentiment, Gallup polling, and what Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. may have to compromise. Plus, thoughts on Trump, Zelensky, and whether a “win” is even possible. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, known for revitalizing Detroit, shares insights on his unexpected independent run for Michigan governor. He discusses the city's remarkable comeback and his reasons for stepping away from the Democratic Party. Duggan challenges the political status quo and explores the potential of displacing traditional party dynamics. The conversation dives into the importance of bipartisan collaboration and how independent voters are transforming Michigan's political landscape, prompting listeners to reconsider the future of governance.

Learn more about The Mingle Project. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Penske truck. Disguised border agents. Day laborers at an L.A. Home Depot. In this episode, Michael unpacks the controversial “Operation Trojan Horse” immigration sting in Los Angeles—and asks if it was an ingenious enforcement tactic or a violation of civil rights. Plus, poll results on Hiroshima/Nagasaki, Peggy Noonan’s emotional plea, and the deeper debate over immigration, labor, and legality in America. Listen here, then head over to Smerconish.com and let us know your thoughts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Learn more about Michael's Mingle Project here.Diana Lind is author of the New Urban Order Substack and a recent visiting fellow at the Center for Economy and Society at Johns Hopkins University. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.