The Smerconish Podcast

Michael is joined by political analyst Mark Halperin to dissect Donald Trump’s fiery new Truth Social post dismissing the Jeffrey Epstein scandal as a “hoax.” With Trump lashing out at his own supporters and MAGA influencers continuing to press for full Epstein disclosure, is a rift forming within his base? Plus, discussion on the role of transparency and shifting GOP dynamics. Later, a pivot to Ukraine—what does Trump’s recent stance on missile use say about his foreign policy instincts? A fast-moving conversation that cuts through the noise. Original air date 16 July 2025.

Michael explains why he is one of the lead plaintiffs in a Pennsylvania lawsuit that could (and should) shake up elections moving forward, and lays out the legal, personal, and political case. The filing urges the PA state Supreme Court to overturn the commonwealth’s closed primary system, arguing it unconstitutionally denies nearly 1.4 million unaffiliated voters a voice in critical elections. Michael's answer to today's Smerconish.com poll question is "HELL YES": Should the nation's millions of registered Independent voters be able to vote in primary elections? Listen here, then vote!

When Zohran Mamdani, now a rising political figure, checked both “Asian” and “Black” on a Columbia University application over a decade ago, he never imagined it would be headline news during his mayoral run. Michael dives into the ethics of race reporting, the relevance of affirmative action post-SCOTUS, and whether racial and ethnic categories still serve a purpose in America’s evolving demographic landscape. Thought-provoking calls and personal stories round out this must-hear episode. Original air date 10 July 2025.

Michael dives deep into today's fiery poll question: Will Jeffrey Epstein cause a significant and permanent rupture in Donald Trump's standing with his base? With insight from powerful essays by Jonathan Chait and Philip Bump, Michael explores how conspiracy thinking, political loyalty, and Trump's own ties to Epstein are colliding in a way that even MAGA may not ignore. Is this finally a tipping point — or just another flash in the pan? Tune in for analysis, context, and your chance to weigh in at Smerconish.com when you go and vote after listening! Also, please rate, review, and share this podcast.

Listen to Michael's conversation with Salena Zito about her book Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America’s Heartland on the Book Club with Michael Smerconish Podcast.

Michael Smerconish dives into today's sizzling poll question: Do you believe Jeffrey Epstein had a list of powerful men involved in his alleged sex trafficking operations? With MAGA influencers turning on President Trump and the DOJ after them saying no list exists, Michael unpacks the media spin, David French’s NYT piece ("MAGA Tears Itself Apart Over Jeffrey Epstein" Jul. 13), and Tina Brown's eyebrow-raising commentary at the Free Press ("MAGA is Right About Jeffrey Epstein" Jul. 11). Was there ever a black book — or is this just political theater? Listen here, then vote at Smerconish.com. And please rate and review this podcast!

Former NATO Supreme Commander Admiral James Stavridis joins Michael to discuss President Trump’s shift on arming Ukraine and whether we’re seeing the beginning of the end for Vladimir Putin. Plus, Stavridis shares his thoughts on what it would really take to eliminate Iran’s nuclear capabilities—and why neither Trump’s nor Netanyahu’s current approaches are likely to work. Original air date 11 July 2025.

Today’s Smerconish.com Daily Poll asks: “Russia vs. Ukraine: Is this the beginning of the end—or the end of the beginning?” Michael dives into this critical moment in the war, examining Trump’s evolving position on arming Ukraine, the political risks he’s navigating, and what Putin’s long game might really be. From shifting GOP views to NATO backchannels, it's a moment that may redefine the conflict. Plus, a quick look back at yesterday’s hot-button poll on the $1000 Trump Accounts for babies. Listen here, then vote, and please rate and review AND share this podcast!

Michael is joined by New York Times reporter German Lopez to discuss his jaw-dropping report on America’s crime clearance rates — and the results will stun you. Nearly half of murders in the U.S. go unsolved. Why? From outdated priorities to resource shortages and a lack of public trust, they explore how America stacks up globally and why more technology isn’t translating into more justice. Then, Michael takes audience calls to hear their personal crime stories and reactions. Original air date 10 July 2025.

Should every child born in the U.S. receive a $1,000 government contribution into a tax-free investment account? Michael dives into the new “Trump Account” policy and unpacks its roots in the progressive “baby bonds” idea. With insights from economist Derek Hamilton—who helped originate the concept—Michael explores whether this version helps close the wealth gap or actually makes it worse. A thought-provoking look at wealth inequality, public policy, and how political branding may shape our financial future. Listen to his thoughts here, then go vote at smerconish.com!