Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: UFC: Sport or Spectacle? With UFC preparing for an unprecedented event on the White House South Lawn, Michael examines the evolution of mixed martial arts from a once-marginalized attraction derided as “human cockfighting” to a global entertainment powerhouse. He reflects on Dana White’s role in building the UFC brand, the organization’s long relationship with Donald Trump, and the growing mainstream acceptance of MMA. Are UFC fighters elite athletes competing in a demanding sport, or is the appeal rooted primarily in spectacle? Listen here then cast your ballot. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is here, and the United States is hosting the largest sporting event on the planet. Michael speaks with Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House FIFA World Cup Task Force, about security, logistics, President Trump's involvement, and why he believes Team USA could make a historic run. Then, Philadelphia World Cup host committee co-chair Dan Hilferty joins the conversation to discuss the economic impact, fan experience, and what visitors can expect when the tournament arrives. A wide-ranging discussion about soccer's growth in America, global sports, and the opportunities—and challenges—of hosting the world's game. Original air date 11 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: When attacked, should the U.S. respond proportionally or overwhelmingly? As tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, Michael examines one of the oldest and most consequential questions in foreign policy: when America is attacked, should it strike back in kind or with overwhelming force? Drawing on recent developments in the Gulf, President Trump’s response strategy, a memorable scene from The West Wing, and a provocative Wall Street Journal editorial, Michael explores the competing arguments for restraint and escalation. Listen here, then vote. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Michael Smerconish talks with Mark Halperin about the controversy surrounding Scott Pelley's exit from CBS News, questions of media bias at 60 Minutes, and President Trump's evolving strategy toward Iran. A timely discussion on journalism, politics, and international tensions. Original air date 10 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Which would you rather watch: baseball or soccer? As the FIFA World Cup kicks off across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Michael explores how dramatically soccer’s standing has changed in America. Once dismissed as a niche sport, soccer has climbed to become one of the nation’s most popular spectator sports—according to recent data, even edging past baseball. Michael shares fascinating World Cup logistics, from team base camps and travel challenges to Philadelphia’s role as a host city, while revisiting a memorable 1986 speech from Jack Kemp that captured America’s former skepticism toward the game. Has soccer truly surpassed the national pastime? Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis joins Michael to break down the increasingly complicated dynamics between Israel, Iran, Hezbollah, and the Trump administration. Are President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu pursuing different goals? Can a U.S.-Iran deal still happen? And what role does Hezbollah play in the growing tensions across the region?

Then, Michael talks with listeners on whether the U.S. and Israel are drifting apart, the challenges of Middle East diplomacy, and a provocative question from listeners: who’s the tougher partner—Trump or Netanyahu? Original air date 9 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Are America's best days ahead or behind us? Michael examines a deceptively simple question that cuts to the heart of America’s national mood. Drawing on new Quinnipiac and AP-NORC polling, he explores a striking contradiction: most Americans believe the country is falling short of its founding ideals, yet more say America’s best days are still ahead than behind. Why do so many remain proud to be American while expressing deep concerns about the nation’s direction? Michael breaks down the numbers, the partisan divide, and what these results reveal about optimism, patriotism, and the future of the United States as it approaches its 250th anniversary. Listen here, then vote - and please rate, review and share this podcast! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Can sharing a meal bring people together in an increasingly divided America? Michael sits down with Anuj Gupta, President and CEO of Philadelphia's Welcoming Center, to discuss "Breaking Bread, Breaking Barriers," an innovative initiative that uses food and conversation to build community across cultural, political, and social divides. After the interview, Michael and TC explore the lessons behind the project before listeners weigh in on what makes a good neighbor, a strong community, and meaningful citizenship. From shared meals to simple greetings, this episode examines whether small acts of connection can help bridge our growing social disconnect. Original air date 8 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Should 60 Minutes' Scott Pelley have been fired for humiliating his boss in front of coworkers?

Michael examines the controversy surrounding veteran 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley and his dismissal following a tense staff meeting with new leadership. After reviewing reporting, audio accounts, and Pelley's own interview with The New York Times, Michael argues that one key question has been overlooked: exactly what was said in the room that led to the firing? He breaks down the confrontation, the broader battle over CBS News' future, and whether Pelley's conduct amounted to protected dissent or clear-cut insubordination. Cast your vote and decide for yourself. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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President Trump has named housing executive Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence, a move that's drawing scrutiny from both national security experts and lawmakers. Michael examines the nomination, the qualifications traditionally required for the DNI role, and whether Republican resistance to some of Trump's recent actions signals a broader shift within the party. Former White House counterterrorism advisor Richard Clarke joins the program to explain what the DNI actually does, why the position was created after 9/11, and why Pulte's appointment has raised concerns inside the intelligence community. Original air date 3 June 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com

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