The Warning with Steve Schmidt
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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
Nov 1, 2025 • 13min
How MAGA Destroyed The Republican Party | A Conversation with Adam Kinzinger
In this conversation, Adam Kinzinger, a former U.S. Representative known for his critiques of Trump and insights on national security, dives deep into how MAGA has reshaped the Republican Party. He critiques Trump's trade dealings with China, labeling them a capitulation. Kinzinger highlights the party's purging of traditional Republicans and discusses the urgent need for rebuilding GOP institutions. He also emphasizes the importance of accountability and strategic reform, urging a more responsible use of power within both parties.
Oct 31, 2025 • 9min
The Need for Americans to Fight Back | A Conversation with Miles Taylor
Miles Taylor, a former senior Department of Homeland Security official and a vocal critic of the Trump administration, dives into the urgent need for Americans to reclaim democratic principles. He discusses his decision to speak out against oppression, emphasizing that staying silent equates to submission. Taylor introduces Defiance.org, aiming to mobilize civic action and support organizations fighting for democracy. The conversation also touches on reforms to combat political dysfunction and enhance accountability in government.
Oct 29, 2025 • 11min
Trump Literally Selling Off America's Democracy | A Conversation with Ryan Lizza
Ryan Lizza, a veteran political journalist, joins Steve Schmidt to delve into the troubling intertwining of money and politics during Trump's presidency. They discuss how campaign finance and corporate interests have corrupted governance, contributing to a culture where America's democracy seems for sale. The conversation highlights the consequences of Trump's actions on everyday Americans and the urgent need for restoring dignity to the White House in the face of ongoing political corruption.
Oct 28, 2025 • 9min
Donald Trump's Speech to Troops in Japan was HORRIFYING
In a recent address to US troops in Japan, Donald Trump blamed fellow Americans for the nation’s problems while showcasing a troubling tone. Steve Schmidt criticizes the speech as partisan and misleading, warning that it risks dividing military unity. He highlights a disturbing perception of the US as a greater threat than China, reflecting the country’s decline since Trump’s leadership. Schmidt emphasizes the importance of taking Trump’s words seriously, calling for vigilance in these dangerous times.
Oct 27, 2025 • 9min
Trump Treasury Secretary Poses Biggest Threat to America's Economy
The podcast dives into the controversy of Trump's tariffs and the implications for America's economy. Steve Schmidt critiques Scott Bessent's dubious claims as a soybean farmer and his defense of failing economic policies. Highlighting a $75 million Ontario ad campaign, he discusses the dangers of tariffs and recalls Reagan's free-trade principles. Schmidt also points out the alarming trend of criminalizing dissent under the Trump administration and calls for voters to act against this political regime.
4 snips
Oct 25, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Policies Are Destroying America's Foundation | A Conversation with Corbin Trent
Join journalist Corbin Trent, known for his sharp insights on political and economic issues, as he dives into America's pressing challenges. He discusses the harsh realities of immigration enforcement and how tax policies favor the wealthy. Trent also highlights the alarming state of infrastructure, pointing out the long-term decline stemming from deindustrialization and neoliberalism. The conversation reveals how broken systems fuel resentment and extremism, urging a shift from mere promises to tangible outcomes.
Oct 24, 2025 • 10min
Trump Tarnishes Reagan's Legacy in Trade War with Canada
Donald Trump's tariffs are wrecking the U.S.-Canada relationship, stirring economic fears and impacting working-class Americans. Steve Schmidt critiques the destructive nature of these trade policies, drawing sharp contrasts between Trump's actions and Ronald Reagan's values. An Ontario ad quoting Reagan highlights the historical opposition to tariffs, while Schmidt discusses the implications for American households. He also tackles the worrying military tensions near Venezuela, reflecting on the broader ramifications of current policies.
Oct 23, 2025 • 8min
Trump's Justice Department Shows True Corruption
The podcast dives into the alleged corruption within Trump's Justice Department, especially concerning Ghislaine Maxwell's treatment and potential pardon. It examines disturbing interactions between DOJ officials and Maxwell. Steve Schmidt highlights how Trump's policies are linked to rising prices, characterizing tariffs as extortion schemes benefiting the Trump family. He warns about corrupt foreign dealings and the authoritarian drift of the administration. The discussion also critiques media complicity and calls for political engagement from listeners.
Oct 22, 2025 • 9min
Karoline Leavitt's Response to a Journalist Question Was REPREHENSIBLE
While she's normally aggressive with the media, Karoline Leavitt took things to a new level when she levied a playground-level response at a reporter. Steve Schmidt reacts to the "Your Mom" comment and explains exactly what type of person Leavitt is. Subscribe for more and follow me here:Substack: https://steveschmidt.substack.com/subscribeStore: https://thewarningwithsteveschmidt.com/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thewarningses.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SteveSchmidtSES/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewarningsesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewarningses/X: https://x.com/SteveSchmidtSESSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 21, 2025 • 11min
Why Trump's Response to the "No Kings" Protests is Important | A Conversation with Ryan Lizza
The conversation dives into the inspiring, peaceful protests against fascism across America. Steve shares his firsthand experience at one in Iowa City, celebrating collective joy. The duo critiques MAGA leaders and their aggressive rhetoric, while highlighting alarming abuses of power and the militarization of local agencies. Trump's bizarre AI video sparks a discussion on authoritarian tactics and the troubling silence from Republicans, framing a stark contrast to how the international community would react if similar actions happened elsewhere.
