Iran Is Playing the Long Game. The U.S. Isn’t. Michael Smerconish 2026-09-27 | Iran Is Playing the Long Game. The U.S. Isn’t.
Catholic Conversions Just Hit a 21-Year High - Heres Why Michael Smerconish 2026-04-05 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Iran Crisis Escalates: Trump’s 48-Hour Warning, Strait Threats, and Rising War Risks Michael Smerconish 2026-04-05 | The latest Iran developments from Monday, March 30 through April 4, as tensions sharply escalate and new warnings raise the stakes in an already volatile standoff.This week’s coverage centers on Donald Trump issuing a reported 48-hour warning tied to Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints—and what that could mean for global markets and military escalation.At the same time, new reports point to internal crackdowns inside Iran, raising fresh questions about stability within the regime and how that could impact its posture abroad.Hosted and narrated by Michael Smerconish, this extended Iran Update brings together analysis and reporting from the past week, including separate segments featuring James Stavridis and Mark Halperin.At the center of this week’s discussion:• Trump’s 48-hour warning and whether it signals imminent action• The ongoing strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz• Rising concerns about broader regional escalation• Internal developments inside Iran and what they may indicate• Whether the current trajectory points toward deterrence—or something largerAs the situation evolves, the key question remains: is this brinkmanship, or the early stages of a wider conflict?Vote in today’s poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
950 Pounds of Bomb-Grade Uranium Is Unaccounted For Michael Smerconish 2026-04-04 | We’re in Iran. The question now isn’t how we got here—it’s what we do next. If nearly bomb-grade uranium is unaccounted for, can we really walk away? We Can't Leave Without the Nuclear Material. Watch now: (YT LINK)YouTube Thumbnail: Still Shot of You from Your Show.The YouTube Title:We Can't Leave Without the Nuclear MaterialYouTube Description:Should the U.S. stay in Iran until that uranium is secured?Michael Smerconish examines the growing U.S. involvement in Iran—and the shifting rationale behind it.From claims of imminent threat to conflicting explanations from Donald Trump’s administration, the justification for war has been anything but consistent. But one reality now looms above all else: roughly 950 pounds of near bomb-grade enriched uranium remains unaccounted for.So what happens next?Smerconish argues that regardless of how the U.S. got here, the mission may now be unavoidable—secure the uranium, or risk far greater consequences. With military objectives evolving and public patience already strained, the stakes couldn’t be higher.Watch and decide.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Apples Secret Third Founder Walked Away from 10% of the Company Michael Smerconish 2026-04-03 | What if you walked away from 10% of Apple… before it became Apple?Michael Smerconish sits down with tech journalist and author David Pogue to unpack one of Silicon Valley’s most fascinating “what if” stories — the forgotten third founder of Apple, and the decision that changed everything.Based on Pogue’s book Apple: The First 10 Years, this conversation dives into the early days of Apple, the personalities behind the company, and the stunning missed fortune that still sparks debate today.👉 Who was the third founder?👉 Why did he walk away?👉 And what does this story reveal about risk, vision, and timing?Join our community of over 140,000 independent minds for conversations that challenge conventional thinking.Subscribe for more interviews, analysis, and thought-provoking discussions.
BREAKING: 5 Major Takeaways From Trump’s Iran Address Michael Smerconish 2026-04-02 | Michael Smerconish breaks down Donald Trump’s address on Iran, pulling key moments from both the speech and earlier remarks—including Trump floating the idea of “taking the oil,” declaring Iran’s military “destroyed,” and promising intensified strikes ahead. Michael shares his top five takeaways, questioning the certainty of victory, the historical comparisons, and what the real endgame might be.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
BREAKING: Trump Threatens To Leave NATO As Iran War Escalates Michael Smerconish 2026-04-01 | Michael Smerconish speaks with Adm. James G. Stavridis (Ret.) and Mark Halperin in two wide-ranging conversations examining the rapidly evolving Iran conflict and its political fallout. As Donald Trump prepares a high-stakes primetime address, the discussions explore the risks of escalation, the strategic importance of oil and the Strait of Hormuz, and whether “regime change” is an outcome - or a goal - of the war.Adm. Stavridis offers a military lens on the limits of declaring victory, warning that Trump may claim victory in his 9:00 PM address, while Halperin breaks down the political implications - from Trump’s Supreme Court optics to tensions with NATO and the possibility of a U.S. withdrawal. Together, the interviews assess whether the administration can balance war aims, global alliances, and domestic pressure as the conflict reshapes U.S. strategy abroad.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Major update! The Smerconish.com Newsletter Is Getting A Brand New Look. Michael Smerconish 2026-04-01 | Dear Readers,Over the past several years, the Smerconish.com Daily Newsletter has become a morning ritual for many of you — a place to catch up on the most important stories of the day, take part in our daily poll, and support balanced, independent journalism.In the coming weeks, the newsletter will debut a fresh new look.While the design will be updated, the core of the newsletter will remain exactly what you expect: Michael Smerconish’s hand-selected top news stories, the daily poll, political cartoons, the YouTube video of the day, Michael’s personal commentary on current events, and the Ground News Blindspot feature.Behind the scenes, we are also moving the newsletter to a new publishing platform called Beehiiv. The email will now be arriving from smerconish@newsletter.smerconish.com.To make sure you continue receiving the newsletter without interruption, we recommend adding smerconish@newsletter.smerconish.com to your contacts or approved sender list. You can find step-by-step instructions for adding contacts to your approved senders list on your email platform here:•Outlook Safe Senders List or Contact List•Gmail Contact List•Yahoo Contact ListThis upgrade allows us to improve the newsletter experience while continuing the mission that has always guided Smerconish.com: delivering thoughtful, fact-based reporting and commentary that helps readers understand the full picture.Thank you for reading — and we look forward to sharing the new edition with you soon.Best regards,The Smerconish.com Team
Why Conservative Media Will Never Be the Same Michael Smerconish 2026-03-31 | Dr. Brian Rosenwald unpacks the evolution of conservative media - from the dominance of talk radio and cable news to today’s fragmented, “Wild West” ecosystem of influencers, podcasters, and digital personalities. Rosenwald explains how no single voice controls the narrative anymore, why outrage now drives engagement, and how these competing factions still wield significant influence over Republican politics and voters.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Tiger Woods DUI Update: Everything We Know Michael Smerconish 2026-03-30 | Michael Smerconish examines the latest developments surrounding Tiger Woods following his recent car accident, in two insightful conversations that approach the story from very different angles.Criminal defense attorney William J. Brennan breaks down the legal implications that can follow a high-profile crash - what investigators look for, how liability is determined, and whether Woods could face any legal exposure based on the available facts. Brennan offers a clear-eyed look at how cases like this typically unfold behind the scenes.Veteran golf writer Michael Bamberger - known for his long tenure at Sports Illustrated and current work with GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com - provides deeper context on Woods’ career, legacy, and the recurring challenges that have defined his life off the course. Drawing from his article, Bamberger reflects on why incidents like this continue to raise familiar concerns about Woods’ well-being and future.The interviews offer both legal analysis and personal perspective on one of sports’ most iconic figures, exploring not just what happened - but what it means for Tiger Woods moving forward.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Is Trump Bluffing? The Poll Results are In Michael Smerconish 2026-03-30 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Military Secrets Revealed: The Truth They Didnt Want You To Know Michael Smerconish 2026-03-29 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Lone Survivor Revisited: A Closer Look at the True Story Michael Smerconish 2026-03-29 | Most people know the story behind “Lone Survivor”: After a small Navy SEAL team on a post 9/11 reconnaissance mission in the Hindu Kush of eastern Afghanistan was happened upon by goat herders, the SEAL team faced the terrible choice of killing or releasing them, knowing they might reveal the mission to the Taliban. Now, more than 20 years after Operation Red Wings, the tragic mission that inspired Marcus Luttrell’s book and the film adaptation directed by Peter Berg and starring Mark Wahlberg, some of the military participants are finally speaking about what happened for the first time. Michael Smerconish speaks with R.M. Schneiderman, who along with Ed Darack, recently authored a detailed account for Politico Magazine revealing new facts. While not questioning the bravery nor service of any of those involved, the conversation nevertheless raises questions as to the accuracy of the popularly accepted account and how much got lost in the fog of war. Listen also: Marcus Luttrell: "Lone Survivor" Podcast with Michael Smerconish in 2008 - podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marcus-luttrell-lone-survivor/id1573812448?i=1000713141417Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Shocking New Iran Updates: Drone Strikes, Oil Prices Surge, and Ground Troops Deploying Michael Smerconish 2026-03-29 | The latest developments in the Iran conflict, including Trump’s changing deadlines, the fight over the Strait of Hormuz, and the growing question of whether the U.S. is moving closer to a larger military escalation. Reuters reports the conflict has entered its fifth week, with U.S. Marines already sent to the region and plans under consideration to deploy thousands more troops from the 82nd Airborne Division. At the center of the discussion:• Trump’s ultimatum over reopening the Strait of Hormuz• Why Hormuz matters so much for oil, shipping, and global markets• Whether Iran is actually weakening—or simply surviving long enough to outlast U.S. pressure• The debate over ground troops, Kharg Island, and what “success” would look like• Why Iran’s nuclear material remains one of the biggest unresolved issuesThe episode also looks at whether Trump is bluffing, buying time, or preparing for a broader escalation. Iran previously warned it would completely close the Strait of Hormuz if Trump followed through on threats to hit Iranian energy infrastructure, while Trump later said Iran had allowed 10 oil tankers through as a goodwill gesture during talks.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
BREAKING: The Verdict That Could Destroy Big Tech Michael Smerconish 2026-03-28 | California has always been ahead of the curve—from cultural movements to groundbreaking laws. But it also leads in another way: holding powerful industries accountable when regulators fall short.Now, a landmark California verdict may signal a major shift.A jury found Meta and Google liable for damages tied to the addictive design of their social media platforms, awarding $6 million to a young woman who argued these features harmed her mental health.At the center of the case: • Claims that infinite scroll, autoplay, and algorithms were designed to hook young users • Evidence that tech executives knew about potential harms • A legal strategy that sidestepped Section 230 protections by focusing on product designWhile the financial penalty is small for Big Tech, the implications are massive. With similar cases building nationwide—and growing research linking social media to youth mental health issues—this could be the start of something much bigger.:point_right: Is this Big Tech’s “Big Tobacco” moment?Plus: Your reaction to the commentary—and a look at how prediction markets are tracking the Iran war.#BigTech #SocialMedia #California #Meta #Google #MentalHealth #TechNews
Is Trump Bluffing? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-28 | Four weeks into the war with Iran, tensions are escalating fast.In the past 24 hours: • Iran-backed Houthi forces launched a missile toward Israel, opening a new front • U.S. troops were wounded in an attack on a base in Saudi Arabia • Markets are reacting as the Dow drops and oil prices surgeAt the same time, the U.S. is ramping up its military presence, deploying additional troops including the 82nd Airborne Division and Marine units—despite continued claims that ground troops won’t be necessary.President Trump’s shifting deadlines for Iran are adding another layer of uncertainty. Is this strategic ambiguity—or something else?:point_right: Is Trump bluffing about sending ground troops?Join the conversation as CNN’s Michael Smerconish breaks it all down, with analysis from Admiral James Stavridis & David Sanger#Iran #Israel #Trump #MiddleEast #BreakingNews #Military #Geopolitics
Im surprised by this! 32,688 voted yesterday on the Smerconish.com Daily Poll Question Michael Smerconish 2026-03-28 | Should Congress ban betting on government actions, terrorism, and war?
Agree with the CA jury verdict blaming Meta, YT for features that cause mental health distress? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-28 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Shocking New Poll: Democratic Voters Arent Who You Think Michael Smerconish 2026-03-27 | Michael Smerconish speaks with Lanae Erickson of Third Way about what Democratic primary voters actually want heading into 2028. Drawing on new polling, Erickson explains why voters prioritize electability, economic concerns, and broad appeal over ideological purity - and how misreading the electorate could shape the next presidential race.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
BREAKING: WSJ Journalist Reveals What Really Drove Elites to Epstein Michael Smerconish 2026-03-26 | Holly Peterson discusses the deeper question behind the Jeffrey Epstein scandal: how so many powerful, accomplished people were drawn into his orbit. Drawing on her recent WSJ article, Peterson argues that Epstein’s real currency wasn’t just wealth - it was access. His elite guest lists, exclusive gatherings, and carefully curated network created a sense of opportunity that many found irresistible.The conversation explores how ambition, social climbing, and fear of missing out blurred moral judgment, as even seasoned leaders rationalized proximity to Epstein in exchange for connections and influence. Peterson explains how credibility was reinforced by the presence of other high-profile figures, creating a feedback loop that made participation feel acceptable.This interview goes beyond the headlines, examining the psychology of power, status, and human vulnerability - and what the Epstein case reveals about the trade-offs people are willing to make in pursuit of access.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
My Thoughts on Yesterdays Poll Results and Todays Poll Question: VOTE @ Smerconish.com Michael Smerconish 2026-03-26 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Trump’s Two Paths for Iran - Negotiate or Face Invasion Michael Smerconish 2026-03-25 | Mark Halperin discusses rising tensions with Iran, the risks of regime change, and the realities of Iran's military capabilities - from ballistic missiles to its navy. Halperin examines nuclear concerns, enriched uranium, and the global oil stakes, while also breaking down how the conflict could shape Trump’s approval ratings and the 2026 midterms.PLUS: Special guest @Shawn_Farash makes an appearance.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
BREAKING: Supreme Court Likely To Change Mail-In Ballots Forever Michael Smerconish 2026-03-24 | Former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker discusses the high-stakes Supreme Court case over mail-in ballots and whether states should control their own election rules. At the center is Watson v. RNC, which asks whether ballots mailed by Election Day can still be counted if they arrive later- a practice used in many states.Schweiker weighs in on the balance between election integrity and voter access, as the Court considers arguments that late-arriving ballots could undermine confidence versus concerns that stricter deadlines could disenfranchise voters, including military and overseas voters.With a decision expected before the next election cycle, the outcome could reshape how mail-in voting works nationwide - and redefine the role states play in running federal elections.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
CNNs Michael Smerconish sits down for an exclusive interview with Sam Bankman-Frieds parents. Michael Smerconish 2026-03-24 | @CNN's Michael Smerconish sits down for an exclusive interview with Sam Bankman-Fried's @SBF_FTX parents to talk about their son's trial two years after he was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for defrauding customers and investors.Watch the full interview here: cnn.com/videos/title-2598549
BREAKING: Iran Ignores Trumps 48-Hour Ultimatum - President Extends Deadline Michael Smerconish 2026-03-23 | David Sanger, Chief Washington correspondent for The New York Times, discusses President Trump’s evolving strategy in Iran. As strikes on energy infrastructure escalate and tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz, Sanger explains how shifting goals, mixed messaging on Truth Social, and global oil disruptions are shaping the conflict.Drawing from his latest reporting, Sanger details the risks of escalation, the impact on energy markets, and whether the U.S. is truly nearing an exit - or just entering a more dangerous phase.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Gen Z Gave Up on Dating - And It’s Changing Everything Michael Smerconish 2026-03-22 | Christine Emba to discusses her thought-provoking New York Times essay on why Gen Z isn’t dating. She explores how social media, dating apps, and pandemic-era isolation have reshaped relationships leading to a generation more focused on self-optimization and online discourse than real-world connection. Emba breaks down the rise of “looksmaxxing,” the growing divide between men and women, and the deeper cultural forces driving loneliness, fear of vulnerability, and the decline of modern romance.
Face-Off: Voter ID vs Masked Police Michael Smerconish 2026-03-21 | Michael Smerconish explores a political “face-off” between voter ID laws and masked law enforcement. As strong public support grows for photo ID to vote, debates intensify over requiring proof of citizenship and whether officers should be allowed to conceal their identities. With concerns over both accountability and safety - and real-world impacts like TSA disruptions - Smerconish argues for a balanced approach in an increasingly polarized environment.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
U.S. Sends Troops as Trump Signals Exit Michael Smerconish 2026-03-21 | Admiral James G. Stavridis (Ret.) joins Michael Smerconish to discuss the mixed messages in the U.S. approach to Iran - sending thousands of Marines and naval forces to the Middle East while President Trump signals he may “wind down” operations. The deployments include a rapid-response Marine Expeditionary Unit, even as tensions rise following Iran’s attempted missile strike near a U.S.-U.K. base and reports of potential new targets.A divide is emerging between Washington and Israel over objectives. Oil prices are surging, and the Pentagon is weighing next steps - including the possibility of ground forces. Admiral James G. Stavridis (Ret.), former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, breaks down what these conflicting signals mean and where the situation could be headed.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
AI Is Coming for Jobs - Is Yours One of Them? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-20 | Shira Ovide discusses the growing impact of AI on the workforce, breaking down which jobs are most at risk - and which workers are best positioned to adapt. Drawing from her Washington Post analysis, they explore the uncertainty surrounding AI’s future, the surprising resilience of some roles, and why white-collar jobs (and women in clerical positions) may face the biggest disruption.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Why America’s Tech Advantage Wont Work Against Iran Michael Smerconish 2026-03-19 | Dr. Jacquelyn Schneider discusses whether America’s high-tech, precision-based “way of war” can actually succeed against Iran. Drawing from her recent analysis, Dr. Schneider explains how U.S. strategy has long relied on overwhelming airpower, elite technology, and minimal troop risk - but warns that this model may struggle in modern conflicts shaped by resilience, decentralization, and prolonged engagement.Their conversation explores the critical difference between war of maneuver and war of attrition, with Iran emerging as a real-world test case. Schneider cautions that even a dominant opening campaign could evolve into a costly, drawn-out conflict - raising broader questions about U.S. military doctrine, the lessons of Ukraine, and what future wars in the Middle East might actually look like.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Senior Counterterror Official Leaves Over Iran: White House Fires Back Michael Smerconish 2026-03-18 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
The Strait That Decides Everything: Ex-White House Security Official Explains Michael Smerconish 2026-03-17 | Former White House counterterrorism advisor Richard Clarke explains why the Strait of Hormuz could decide the future of global oil markets - and the risk of war with Iran. As tensions rise under Trump, Clarke breaks down Iran’s nuclear capabilities, the influence of the IRGC, and the reality of regime change. He also explores Israel’s role, broader Middle East dynamics, and what escalating conflict could mean for both the Iranian people and global stability.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Why a Leading Attorney Backs Trumps Military Action Against Iran Michael Smerconish 2026-03-16 | Michael Smerconish sits down with renowned attorney David Boies to discuss his recent Wall Street Journal opinion piece arguing that partisan politics should not dictate America’s response to Iran.The conversation explores the history of U.S. presidents confronting the Iranian threat, the debate over the current military conflict, and whether opposition to policy is sometimes driven more by politics than national security concerns. Boies reflects on past administrations, the role of bipartisan foreign policy, and what Americans should consider as tensions with Iran continue.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
The Iran War vs Trump: Can People Separate Them? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-14 | Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.comMichael Smerconish examines whether Americans can separate their views of President Donald Trump from their views on the war with Iran.Polling suggests the country is deeply divided. According to a New York Times analysis of CNN polling, only 41% of Americans supported the initial U.S. attack on Iran — far lower than public support for previous military actions like World War II after Pearl Harbor or the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11.Smerconish explores whether this lack of national unity is simply the result of political polarization, or something deeper. Emmy-winning journalist Jeff Greenfield has argued that Americans rarely “rally around the flag” unless the United States itself has been attacked. From the Civil War draft riots to Vietnam and Iraq, domestic division during wartime has historically been common.The discussion also highlights an essay by prominent trial lawyer David Boies in the Wall Street Journal, arguing that partisanship around Iran could be dangerous for the United States. Boies contends that Americans who oppose Trump politically should still support military action against Iran if they believe the threat is real.Smerconish acknowledges that the Trump administration has not clearly articulated the rationale for military action. But he raises a larger question: are Americans judging the policy itself — or the president who ordered it?
A Researcher Studied “Trump Derangement Syndrome” — Here’s What He Found Michael Smerconish 2026-03-13 | Conservatives and internet trolls have been mocking Trump opponents for years, accusing them of "Trump derangement syndrome." Whatever Trump says, they argue, die-hard anti-Trumpers will blindly oppose him, regardless of what they believe.But a listener recently suggested to Michael Smerconish that the real disorder is "Trump devotion syndrome"—Trump supporters who will bend what they believe to make sure they don't disagree with the president. And it sparked a thought: is there truth to that argument?It turns out a professor of experimental psychology had the same thought almost 5 years ago. The Michigan School of Psychology's Dr. Andrew Franks ran a study comparing the biases of Trump supporters and Trump opponents, and he found that while there's no evidence for blind Trump opposition ("derangement"), there's plenty that suggests devotional Trump supporters will change their own opinions if they think it echoes the president.Franks joins Michael to discuss the study, and Michael takes calls from listeners about their own experiences with TDS—both kinds.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
Everything That Happened in Iran This Week Michael Smerconish 2026-03-13 | In this weekly recap, Michael Smerconish breaks down the biggest stories of the week and expands on ideas from his exclusive Smerconish.com daily newsletters (March 9–13). He examines the escalating conflict involving Iran and President Donald Trump, the partisan divide over how Americans view the war, and whether the U.S. should rally behind the president on national security despite deep political disagreements.Drawing on his daily newsletter commentary - from Monday Musings to Friday Focus - Michael reflects on how the week’s headlines reveal deeper divisions in American politics, media narratives, and public opinion. The result is a wide-ranging look at the week’s news, the arguments shaping it, and the questions that still remain.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.Smerconish.com
No New Epstein Charges Coming—Why Not? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-12 | President Trump’s promised transparency over the Epstein files turned out to be a bit of a dud. Instead of releasing every file the Justice Department had immediately, as he and several senior appointees had promised, the process of releasing millions of pages of documents has been a slow trickle over the more than a year he’s been in office.But as conspiracy theorists and the general public get their hands on file after file tying prominent businessmen, politicians and academics to Epstein, it’s still a surprise to many that no one besides Epstein and his longtime confidant Ghislaine Maxwell have been charged with anything related to the supposed cabal. Surely if massive sex parties involving powerful men and underage girls were as common as we believe, there would be a host of complicit parties ready to face charges.Not so, says POLITICO senior writer Ankoush Khardori. In a new piece for POLITICO Magazine, Khardori lays out exactly why no one else has been charged. In truth, he says, there’s simply not enough evidence to support the existence of a massive conspiracy nor to convict anyone they may indict.Watch more on Michael's channel: youtu.be/yBzQJnOS_Qo
Don’t Expect Any More Epstein Arrests - Here’s Why Michael Smerconish 2026-03-12 | President Trump’s promised transparency over the Epstein files turned out to be a bit of a dud. Instead of releasing every file the Justice Department had immediately, as he and several senior appointees had promised, the process of releasing millions of pages of documents has been a slow trickle over the more than a year he’s been in office.But as conspiracy theorists and the general public get their hands on file after file tying prominent businessmen, politicians and academics to Epstein, it’s still a surprise to many that no one besides Epstein and his longtime confidant Ghislaine Maxwell have been charged with anything related to the supposed cabal. Surely if massive sex parties involving powerful men and underage girls were as common as we believe, there would be a host of complicit parties ready to face charges.Not so, says POLITICO senior writer Ankoush Khardori. In a new piece for POLITICO Magazine, Khardori lays out exactly why no one else has been charged. In truth, he says, there’s simply not enough evidence to support the existence of a massive conspiracy nor to convict anyone they may indict.Khardori joins Michael Smerconish to talk about his new reporting and what, if anything, we’ve learned from the files.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Whos Running for 28 Dems? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-11 | New list, old faces: will Kamala Harris run for president again in 2028? What about AOC? And if she doesn't, where will progressives turn?2WAY's Mark Halperin has his monthly rankings of potential Democratic candidates for the '28 election, and there's some familiar faces at the top: California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, in particular. But former Vice President Harris and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have fallen, and Halperin explains why his sources think so.Plus, an in-depth explanation of why the war in Iran is about to rear its head in domestic politics. With gas prices up more than 10% since last week and more than 20% from a month ago, President Trump has difficult choices to make about the future of the war if he's going to protect consumers from pain at the pump.Watch more on Michael's channel: youtu.be/zaqSlcjhzn0Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
The Iran War Just Changed Everything Michael Smerconish 2026-03-11 | Gas prices are up more than 10% from a week ago, and more than 20% from a month ago. And for President Trump, who often criticized President Biden for high costs to fill your car, that's self-inflicted damage.After all, the reason prices have spiked is simple: Iran controls the valuable Strait of Hormuz, which carries about 20 to 21 million barrels of oil daily—a fifth of the world's oil every day. The strait typically sees more than 130 ships pass through it daily; in the nearly two weeks since the U.S. attacked Iran, it hasn't had more than five successful transits in a day, and now Iran is laying mines in the region.The tension over the crucial waterway has global ramifications, and could be a major thorn in the side to President Trump as he seeks to rebuild his popularity. And it could be a nasty issue for Republicans, who have been unwilling to clash with Trump, as they face a difficult midterm election.2WAY's Mark Halperin joins Michael Smerconish to discuss the new issues surrounding the Iran war, plus his monthly ranking of potential Democratic candidates in the 2028 election.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
You Break it, You Buy It in Iran Michael Smerconish 2026-03-10 | The day after President Trump declared that the war in Iran could be over “very soon,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that Tuesday would be the “most intense day” of U.S. attacks. Trump’s own words have alternated between calling the attacks a “short excursion” and threatening to show even more force if Iran tries to close the valuable Strait of Hormuz.With Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dead and his son Mojtaba Khamenei selected as Iran’s next supreme leader, the U.S. may have made a statement to Iranian leaders: come to the table, negotiate the terms we want, and we won’t hurt you anymore. But Mojtaba Khamenei is suspected to take an even harder line than his father, and reports suggest that Trump may be unhappy with his appointment.Adm. James Stavridis joins Michael Smerconish to reflect on the military’s successes so far, the future of the war, and the questions that will still need to be answered before we know what Trump’s plans will be.Watch more on Michael's YouTube: youtu.be/3SsJRTE05D4
“Very Soon”: Is the War in Iran Already Winding Down? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-10 | The day after President Trump declared that the war in Iran could be over “very soon,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that Tuesday would be the “most intense day” of U.S. attacks. Trump’s own words have alternated between calling the attacks a “short excursion” and threatening to show even more force if Iran tries to close the valuable Strait of Hormuz.With Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dead and his son Mojtaba Khamenei selected as Iran’s next supreme leader, the U.S. may have made a statement to Iranian leaders: come to the table, negotiate the terms we want, and we won’t hurt you anymore. But Mojtaba Khamenei is suspected to take an even harder line than his father, and reports suggest that Trump may be unhappy with his appointment.Adm. James Stavridis joins Michael Smerconish to reflect on the military’s successes so far, the future of the war, and the questions that will still need to be answered before we know what Trump’s plans will be.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
How Long Will the U.S. Back Israel in Iran? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-09 | In early statements after the U.S. first attacked Iran, officials pointed at Israel as the impetus for an immediate attack—effectively arguing that Israel was going to attack with or without U.S. involvement, and the U.S. had to get involved in order to mitigate retaliatory attacks against U.S. targets. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the action was done "proactively, in a defensive way."But as the war goes on, Israeli and U.S. goals may not be fully aligned. That was the subject of Brookings Institution senior fellow Thomas Wright's piece in The Atlantic, "America’s and Israel’s Goals Are Already Colliding," in which he explains that Trump and U.S. leaders may be content with a quick change of leadership, but that Israeli leaders will instead prefer a total teardown of the Iranian ruling class.Will the temporary alignment of objectives hold? Or can Iran wait out a famously impatient President Trump as oil prices spike?Watch more on Michael's channel: youtu.be/mSrERbI_KDE
Who Decides Iran’s Fate: U.S. or Israel — Can They Agree? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-09 | In early statements after the U.S. first attacked Iran, officials pointed at Israel as the impetus for an immediate attack—effectively arguing that Israel was going to attack with or without U.S. involvement, and the U.S. had to get involved in order to mitigate retaliatory attacks against U.S. targets. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the action was done "proactively, in a defensive way."But as the war goes on, Israeli and U.S. goals may not be fully aligned. That was the subject of Brookings Institution senior fellow Thomas Wright's piece in The Atlantic, "America’s and Israel’s Goals Are Already Colliding," in which he explains that Trump and U.S. leaders may be content with a quick change of leadership, but that Israeli leaders will instead prefer a total teardown of the Iranian ruling class.Will the temporary alignment of objectives hold? Or can Iran wait out a famously impatient President Trump as oil prices spike?Wright joins Michael Smerconish to talk about the uncertain future in Iran and which country is likely to see their goals realized before the flash war reaches its conclusion.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
22: Are You Having Enough Sex? Probably Not! Michael Smerconish 2026-03-08 | "There’s a strange paradox in today’s developed world: society has never been more sexualized, but people across all age groups and demographics are having less sex than ever before."So begins the description of Dr. Debra Soh's new book "Sextinction: The Decline of Sex and the Future of Intimacy," in which she outlines her case that everyone is having less sex, and that's fueling discontent and even division.Soh admits there are biological differences between men and women, but the cultural shift over the last decade surrounding sexual harassment and assault has left men unsure how to make connections with women they're interested in. As a result, she says, more are turning to online porn, leaving them disinterested in human connection at all.Michael Smerconish talks with Soh about her book and what can be done to bring people back together and get us back in bed.Learn more about Debra W. Soh, Ph.Dsimonandschuster.com/books/Sextinctiondrdebrasoh.com Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
Trump Demands Iran’s “Unconditional Surrender” — What Happens Next? | Smerconish Michael Smerconish 2026-03-07 | Explosions rocked Tehran overnight as Israel launched pre-dawn strikes using more than 80 fighter jets targeting Iranian military infrastructure.Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is demanding “unconditional surrender” from Iran — warning that areas previously not considered for targeting could now face “complete destruction.” Iran’s president responded defiantly, saying surrender is “a dream they should take to their grave.”As the conflict escalates, six U.S. service members killed in the fighting are being returned to Dover Air Force Base, where President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance are expected to attend the dignified transfer. At the same time, new reporting suggests Russia may be providing Iran with intelligence on U.S. military assets, raising concerns about the conflict widening beyond the region.In this episode of Smerconish, Michael examines the biggest unanswered questions:• Can Israel and the U.S. win the war militarily but lose the peace? • What happens if the Iranian regime collapses? • Will Washington and Jerusalem ultimately want the same outcome? • Could Iran close the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global energy supplies?Featuring insights from Admiral James Stavridis, Jeremy Diamond, Nic Robertson, and David Sanger, this discussion explores the geopolitical stakes and the uncertain path ahead.
Insider Trading on the War in Iran?? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-06 | On Friday, Polymarket took in more than $800,000 in wagers that the U.S. would strike Iran within the next day.On Saturday, the U.S. attacked Iran, and one person made half a million dollars.Both of those numbers are so unusual that it's immediately raised red flags among these "predictive markets" that allow people to bet on real-life events and among government officials who are concerned that this new platform is proceeding without sufficient regulation. Polymarket's competitor Kalshi even tried to reverse $54 million in bets on the ousting of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, citing a platform policy to avoid wagers on a person's death.But Rutgers University professor Harry Crane says it's not so straightforward. For one, he said, it's difficult to know who even qualifies as an "insider" in an unstratified world, as compared to the top-down financial markets. And the fundamental nature of predictive markets means it's impossible to tell if something is suspicious until after the fact—by which point it's mixed in with all the random noise from the market.Crane joins Michael Smerconish to talk predictive markets and what they say about our understanding of the future and probability and the challenges that regulators will face if they want to bring this new concept to heel.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
War Hero in the Epstein Files? Michael Smerconish 2026-03-05 | In the popular imagination, everyone who appears in the Epstein files is a party to the conspiracy that countless rich and powerful men orchestrated to protect a secret cabal of pedophiles. It's easy enough to believe when the people in the files are the wealthiest people on earth, like Bill Gates and Elon Musk, or two Presidents, Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. But what about when it's a war hero in there?That's what happened to former Sen. Bob Kerrey, an ex-Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient. The former senator, who also served as governor of Nebraska in the 1980s, appeared in the files for an email exchange he had with Epstein almost 15 years ago, when he says he was soliciting donations from the financier. In light of the revelation, Kerrey resigned from the Nebraska clean energy nonprofit Monolith, on whose board he served.Kerrey has been largely gracious in the aftermath of his public cancellation, reluctant to cast himself as a victim. But that doesn't mean he feels that his ouster was fair—especially since he says he didn't even know he would be in the files.Watch more on Michael's channel: youtu.be/J-6qg0FA_Ik
War Hero. Governor. Senator. UNCANCELLED. Michael Smerconish 2026-03-05 | In the popular imagination, everyone who appears in the Epstein files is a party to the conspiracy that countless rich and powerful men orchestrated to protect a secret cabal of pedophiles. It's easy enough to believe when the people in the files are the wealthiest people on earth, like Bill Gates and Elon Musk, or two Presidents, Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. But what about when it's a war hero in there?That's what happened to former Sen. Bob Kerrey, an ex-Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient. The former senator, who also served as governor of Nebraska in the 1980s, appeared in the files for an email exchange he had with Epstein almost 15 years ago, when he says he was soliciting donations from the financier. In light of the revelation, Kerrey resigned from the Nebraska clean energy nonprofit Monolith, on whose board he served.Kerrey has been largely gracious in the aftermath of his public cancellation, reluctant to cast himself as a victim. But that doesn't mean he feels that his ouster was fair.Michael Smerconish sits down with Kerrey to talk the Epstein files, cancellation, and a Medal of Honor recipient's point of view on the new war in Iran and the echoes of 9/11.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
The Next Iranian Regime Could Be Short-Lived Michael Smerconish 2026-03-04 | The unpopular conflict in Iran shows no sign of abating after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In fact, reports suggest that his son Mojtaba Khamenei is already on track to replace him without any major regime change—and observers say that he could bring even harsher Islamist rule. Back home, domestic eyes turned to Texas, where hotly contested primaries for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. John Cornyn got underway.On the Democratic side, State Rep. James Talarico emerged victorious over U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, cementing his place in November's general election. But a bitterly contested Republican primary will see a runoff in May between the two top candidates, Cornyn and the firebrand state attorney general Ken Paxton.2WAY's Mark Halperin breaks down both stories, including why the younger Khamenei's reign is unlikely to last long.Watch more on Michael's channel: youtu.be/48DFgfUiIno
Texas and Iran: Two Hotspots in Politics Michael Smerconish 2026-03-04 | It seems as though only two things are happening this week in U.S. politics. As hostilities wear on between U.S.–Israeli forces and Iran, domestic eyes turned back to Texas, where hotly contested primaries for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. John Cornyn got underway.On the Democratic side, State Rep. James Talarico emerged victorious over U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, cementing his place in November's general election. But a bitterly contested Republican primary will see a runoff in May between the two top candidates, Cornyn and the firebrand state attorney general Ken Paxton.Overseas, the unpopular conflict in Iran shows no sign of abating after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In fact, reports suggest that his son Mojtaba Khamenei is already on track to replace him without any major regime change—and observers say that he could bring even harsher Islamist rule.2WAY's Mark Halperin joins Michael Smerconish to analyze the state of affairs at home and abroad.Vote on today's poll and subscribe to the daily newsletter at www.smerconish.com
