Michael Smerconish discusses the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on federal workers, and the political dynamics underpinning the conflict. He critiques both parties, though his sympathies lie with the Democrats, arguing that the current timing to leverage health policy changes is inappropriate. The script also highlights historical shifts in U.S. political moderation and cooperation, contrasting it with today's polarized environment. Featuring Democratic Senator Chris Coons and analyst David Wasserman, discussions include the evolution of bipartisan efforts and the potential realignment of Hispanic voters. Susie Welch presents data and a critical perspective on Gen Z's workplace values, emphasizing a mismatch between what young workers prioritize and what employers seek, which may pose employment challenges given the rapid adoption of AI and economic changes.

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Michael Smerconish investigates the roots of political violence in the USA, highlighting that age and mental health, rather than ideology, are the primary factors. Citing historical and contemporary cases, the script correlates young men's mental health and their propensity for violence, exacerbated by technology and societal factors. It then shifts focus to a new poll question on whether ideology or mental health is the predominant cause of political violence among young men. The script features Glin Yang from The New York Times, who agrees that despair among these individuals is a key driver of violence. The conversation transitions to political affiliations and educational backgrounds of US lawmakers, illustrating a growing divide tied to educational attainment. Finally, Jeffrey Selingo discusses the 'rigged' nature of the college admissions process, criticizing the unattainable standards set by prestige-driven schools and advocating for a more balanced approach for students and parents.

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Michael Smerconish hosts a discussion exploring the crisis facing young men today, citing declining educational outcomes, rising behavioral issues, increasing loneliness, and alarming suicide rates. The program highlights the negative impact of social media, video games, and pornography on young men’s development and the lack of male role models. Guests include Richard Reeves, Rahm Emanuel, and Scott Galloway, who offer insights into economic challenges, the decline of male participation in education, and the biological disadvantages faced by young boys. The discussion also touches on the importance of mentorship, community support, and potential government intervention to address these issues.

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Michael Smerconish discusses the decline of political discourse in America, illustrated through editorial cartoons and recent violent events. The script focuses on the depiction of violence and fragmentation within the nation, exacerbated by social media and political radicalization. Serash examines specific instances of political violence affecting both Democrats and Republicans and criticizes President Trump's recent comments blaming the left exclusively. Experts Robert Pape and Shannon Hiller provide insights into the rising tide of radicalization and political violence. The program also includes a memorial for Charlie Kirk, detailing his passion for debate and conservative activism. Serash concludes with a call for societal reconciliation through shared experiences and community engagement. The importance of an impartial special counsel within the DOJ to handle politically charged investigations is also discussed, referencing Ellie Honig's new book on the topic.

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Michael Smerconish delivers a commentary from the Philadelphia suburbs discussing the gap between life perception and reality, particularly in the context of college education and the American Dream. He explores the realities most American college students face, emphasizing that a majority do not experience the 'traditional' four-year residential college experience. Smerconish connects this theme to political divides, noting how educational backgrounds correlate with political affiliations. Smerconish incorporates views from professionals like economist Neil Mahoney and politicians like Doug Sosnick, highlighting economic concerns and shifts in voter demographics. The narrative also brings in perspectives on America's strengths and optimism as expressed by figures like Jim Van Dehi and Tim Warrens, advocating that the American Dream, while challenged, is still alive. The script transitions into a conversation on modern childhood, discussing 'helicopter parenting' and advocating for greater childhood independence via insights from Lenore Skenazy, who promotes the 'Free Range Kids' movement. Finally, the segment touches on the poll question of whether the American Dream still holds true, revealing a more optimistic view from Smerconish's audience compared to a national survey.

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In this episode, Michael Smerconish discusses the implications of California possibly following Texas in mid-decade redistricting, challenging the state's independent redistricting commission. He examines the polarization driven by gerrymandering and self-sorting, and the potential consequences for the 2026 midterms. Smerconish also hosts election analyst David Wasserman to analyze the political landscape if California's initiative to abandon its independent commission succeeds. The show shifts to a discussion on social trends, including Americans' declining party culture, reduced alcohol consumption, and the impact of isolating behaviors. Randy Carter shares his experience from the 1965 A-TEAM program, highlighting the tough realities of manual labor and its modern implications. The episode wraps up with a contentious debate over Jeffrey Epstein's death and a call for more social mingling to address increasing societal polarization.

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Continuing coverage of Trump and Putin's summit in Alaska. What did President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin's body language tell us during their high-stakes summit? Behavioral Analyst and Body Language Expert Chris Ulrich, weighs in.

Plus, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan on why Trump doesn't talk about Detroit they way he talks about other big cities and crime.

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CNN’s Michael Smerconish says, Democracy should not be a contact sport and public service shouldn’t require kevlar.  If we want good people to step forward, we have to make sure they can serve without fearing for their lives.

Plus,  the rise in Political Violence with Robert Pape Professor of Political Science, University of Chicago,  Trump ups redistricting war with call for new census with David Wasserman, Senior Editor and Elections Analyst for the Cook Political Report. 

And Operation Trojan Horse and Trump urging SCOTUS to allow ICE Patrols in California with Gregory Bovino Chief Border Patrol Agent.

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CNN Michael Smerconish gives Democrats some advice on how to respond to Trump's recent accomplishments. Then, Rahm Emanuel, the former Ambassador to Japan and Chicago Mayor, weighs in on how Democrats should attack President Trump's policies. 

Also on the show,  Washington Post National Health Reporter Paige Winfield Cunningham joins Michael Smerconish to discuss how the Trump administration is considering expanding healthcare coverage for weight loss drugs. And, Free Press Reporter Maya Sulkin shares new reporting about hateful comments the late Blackstone director is receiving online. 

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CNN Michael Smerconish gives President Trump some free advice on how to address the Epstein files. Plus, Lanny Davis joins Michael Smerconish to discuss how the Trump administration is mishandling the Epstein files. 

Also on the show, Michael Smerconish delivers his commentary on Hunter Biden and his criticism towards Democrats. Tara Setmayer, a resident scholar at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, weighs in on the matter. And, CNN Senior Legal Analyst Elie Honig answers the poll question and dives into what a possible pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell may look like.

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