The Smerconish Podcast

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Did JD Vance help or hurt his chances of winning the 2028 GOP nomination by defending Ramaswamy's ad?

Vice President JD Vance is standing behind Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial attack ad targeting Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton, even as prominent Republicans condemn its deeply personal content. President Trump has doubled down in support, but Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and other GOP leaders are pushing back. Michael examines whether Vance's unwavering loyalty to Trump and Ramaswamy strengthens his standing with MAGA voters or risks alienating Republicans looking for a different direction after the midterms. Could this controversy open the door for Marco Rubio or another 2028 contender? Cast your vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Are the kids alright? After joining former RNC Chairman Michael Steele for a conversation with 600 students at Pennsylvania's Hill School, Michael shares his message to America's next generation. Are Americans truly more divided than ever, or have we simply forgotten how to disagree? From political polarization and social media misinformation to the dangers of living in ideological bubbles, Michael challenges young people to think independently, question their assumptions, and engage in democracy. Callers weigh in on the greatest threats to America's future, while Michael makes the case that what unites us is still far more important than what divides us. Original air date 22 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Ramaswamy's ad using his rival's mother will: a) help him, b) hurt him, or c) make no difference.

Vivek Ramaswamy's latest attack ad in the Ohio governor's race features Amy Acton's estranged mother calling her own daughter a liar. But there's a stunning detail the commercial leaves out: mother and daughter reportedly haven't seen each other in 47 years, and troubling court records tell a very different story. Michael examines whether the ad is political hardball or a spectacular miscalculation. Vice President J.D. Vance tells critics to "stop whining," while President Trump weighs in with his own reaction. Will this controversial tactic persuade Ohio voters, or will it backfire on Ramaswamy just days before the election? Listen here and rate, review and share this podcast - and vote at Smerconish.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Will JD Vance run for president in 2028, and would Donald Trump immediately endorse him? 2WAY Editor-in-Chief Mark Halperin joins Michael with exclusive insights from his interview with the Vice President aboard Air Force Two. Plus, could John Fetterman switch parties and cost Democrats control of the Senate? Halperin also reveals his latest 2028 Democratic presidential rankings, with Gavin Newsom, Pete Buttigieg and Josh Shapiro leading the pack. Michael takes listener calls on the future of both parties and what voters really want in their next president. Original air date 21 October 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Will Europe's wave of violent protests reach America soon?

France is experiencing a wave of unrest, with protests spreading across Europe and political tensions rising on both sides of the Atlantic. Could America be next? Michael examines the competing explanations for the violence—from President Trump's warnings about immigration to economic pressures, government debt, and young people's frustration over an uncertain future. Is Europe's upheaval is a warning sign for the United States—or whether America's democratic institutions and elections offer a different path. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com and rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Subscribe to the Smerconish YouTube channel to never miss an episode of Can We Agree here.

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Listen to Michael's conversation with Dr. Peter Gray on his new book "Restoring Childhood" here.

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Could a Democratic Congress rein in President Trump?

The 2026 midterm election 'concludes' two weeks from tomorrow. Michael examines what Democrats could actually accomplish if they reclaim control of the House, Senate, or both. From investigations and subpoenas to healthcare, tariffs, and judicial confirmations, Democrats have an ambitious agenda—but Trump's veto power and Senate rules present formidable obstacles. Drawing a provocative New York Times analysis by Jeffrey Toobin, Michael explores whether a blue wave would meaningfully constrain Trump's presidency—or simply set the stage for 2028. Cast your vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to RATE, REVIEW, and SHARE this podcast on your favorite podcast app! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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