The Warning with Steve Schmidt
Steve Schmidt
There is a very significant, “exhausted majority” of Americans looking to move past this rotten moment in American life. They have lost trust and faith in government, business, media and not-for-profit institutions at a moment of technological, cultural and economic upheaval. Fascism did not rise in the 1930s because it was strong, but rather, because democracy was weak. The cycle is repeating itself with a new extremism rising in 2020s America. On the podcast – consistent with the mission of The Warning newsletter offered on Substack and The Warning YouTube channel – I will be joined by interesting guests – some familiar, and some you may never have heard of – to discuss the political and cultural currents that are shaping our times, as well as the unseen forces driving politics that are rarely discussed on cable news. It's important for you to hear from a diverse range of voices – not just me – about the issues facing America today.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 7, 2025 • 56min
How Money and Corruption Obstruct Criminal Justice | A Conversation with Vicky Ward
Vicky Ward, an investigative journalist and author known for her work on corruption and power, joins the discussion to dissect the Epstein case's chilling implications. She highlights how money can shield even the worst offenders from justice and stresses the significance of narrative control in shaping public perception. The dialogue expands to include the tragic Idaho murders, examining community impacts and the dangerous intersections of wealth, power, and accountability in the criminal justice system.
Aug 6, 2025 • 9min
Trump & MAGA Want To CONTROL American Votes
The podcast dives into the alarming attempts by Trump and his allies to manipulate voting rights, particularly in Texas. It highlights a coalition of Democratic governors uniting to safeguard democracy against these threats. The conversation critiques the paradox of Trump's fading popularity yet growing power, underscoring the risks of one-party rule. Redistricting reforms are emphasized as essential for equitable representation, advocating for a proactive approach to protect democratic engagement and ensure every vote counts.
5 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 10min
Trump Wants To Steal Our Elections
A deep dive into the alarming effects of gerrymandering in Texas reveals how political manipulation threatens democracy. The host critiques both political elites and conservative factions, urging a stronger defense of electoral rights. Discussions highlight the erosion of moderate voices and call for citizens to hold leaders accountable. Emphasizing the need for unity and integrity, the conversation inspires a collective response to safeguard the Constitution during these turbulent times.
Aug 4, 2025 • 9min
Trump's Narcissism and Deception ENDANGERING Human Lives
The podcast dives into Trump's self-centered approach as millions suffer in Gaza. It critiques Karoline Leavitt's misleading press conferences. The discussion touches on the human cost of leadership illusions and the manipulation within the White House. The podcast also explores Trump's troubled relationship with truth and authority, drawing alarming parallels to past leaders and pondering the societal repercussions of his governance. It's a thought-provoking examination of current events and the integrity of American leadership.
Aug 2, 2025 • 59min
A NASA Hero’s Plan to Bring Ethics Back to Washington | A Conversation with Terry Virts
In a compelling discussion, Terry Virts, a retired Air Force colonel and NASA astronaut, shares his journey from pilot to politician as he runs for the U.S. Senate. He emphasizes the need for new leadership in Texas, advocating for middle-class issues while reconnecting the Democratic Party with rural voters. Virts reflects on the transformative experience of viewing Earth from space, critiquing political ethics and the importance of sound judgment in leadership. He calls for reforms to combat corruption and enhance accountability in governance.
Aug 1, 2025 • 8min
Trump's Planned Ballroom Addition is a DISGRACE to the White House
The podcast dives into Donald Trump's contentious plan for a lavish $200 million ballroom at the White House. Critics question the necessity of such extravagance amid widespread financial struggles. The discussion highlights the stark contrast between elite luxury and the daily hardships faced by Americans. It calls for a renewed commitment to democratic values and critiques the disconnect between political leadership and the people's reality. Expect a blend of skepticism and sharp commentary on the implications for the presidency.
Jul 31, 2025 • 8min
America's Political Parties Are FAILING Us
Current political trends reveal a troubling decline in democracy as Trump’s approval ratings plummet. Both major parties are struggling to effectively represent the American people, particularly independents. The podcast highlights the dangers of unchecked power and one-party dominance, warning that these dynamics threaten fundamental freedoms and equality. There’s an urgent call to reclaim American values and liberty amid a rising tide of political extremism.
Jul 30, 2025 • 9min
Trump Using Fear Tactics To Distract From Epstein Scandal
As Donald Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein surfaces, he resorts to fear tactics and violent rhetoric to divert attention. The discussion reveals the troubling indifference of powerful figures toward Epstein's actions and scrutinizes Trump's role. The podcast critiques the ineffectiveness of national security agencies and the moral dilemmas tied to political corruption, highlighting the potential fallout from these scandals.
Jul 29, 2025 • 8min
Trump's Homeland Security Department Is Releasing Violent Propaganda
The discussion dives into a controversial video released by the Homeland Security Department, showcasing alarming propaganda that dehumanizes immigrants. It critiques the alarming rhetoric from figures like Tom Homan and Stephen Miller, emphasizing the dangerous implications for immigrant communities. The portrayal of federal law enforcement as divine enforcers of violence raises serious concerns about the rhetoric used by the government against ordinary citizens. These topics reveal an unsettling trajectory in immigration policy and public perception.
Jul 28, 2025 • 8min
Trump's Latest Comments Prove Close Ties To Epstein
Trump's recent trip to Scotland draws attention as he makes headlines for his armored golf cart and comments on Ghislaine Maxwell. The discussion dives into the disturbing connections between Maxwell, Epstein, and powerful figures, raising questions about societal indifference toward exploitation. There's a critical look at how political authority intertwines with corruption and the ongoing threat to civil liberties amid polarization. The media's role in perpetuating these narratives is also explored, revealing the complexities of public perception.
