Michael Smerconish interviews Eric Trump, author of the book 'Under Siege,' discussing President Trump's foreign policy successes, particularly in the Middle East, and his efforts to address issues such as the national deficit and government shutdown. The interview highlights Trump's strategic approaches abroad and the need for similar tenacity in addressing domestic challenges like healthcare reform, immigration, and national debt. The conversation also touches on Eric Trump's views on the obstacles his father faces and the need for compromise in governance. Additionally, the script covers a segment on a significant court case about voter rights in primary elections, with Professor Michael Pelli discussing the limitations independent voters face. The program closes with a discussion on the existential threats posed by artificial intelligence with Nate Soares, and an update on viewer poll results regarding significant global threats.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-------- Â
42:35
--------
42:35
Ceasefire in Gaza: The Road to Peace?
A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, now in its second day, which involves the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops and the exchange of hostages and prisoners. Michael Smerconish reports from the Philadelphia suburbs and provides updates from CNN's Jeremy Diamond in Tel Aviv. The script mentions President Trump's upcoming visit to the region to monitor the situation and the complex political landscape including Palestinian displacement and devastation in Gaza. It also features an analysis by New York Times columnist Thomas L. Friedman, who examines the fragile peace talks and the broader implications for lasting peace in the Middle East. The latter part of the script transitions to domestic U.S. politics, discussing the government shutdown, the need for bipartisan cooperation, and the role of independents like Joe Manchin in Congress. The script concludes with a segment on media commentator Barry Weiss and her new leadership role at CBS News, highlighting her views on political extremism and independent journalism.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-------- Â
43:03
--------
43:03
Navigating Political Turbulence: From Shutdowns to Shifts in Voter Alignment
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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-------- Â
42:31
--------
42:31
Decoding the Patterns of Violence: Beyond Left and Right
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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-------- Â
42:37
--------
42:37
The Male Dilemma: Social Shifts and Their Impact on Young Men
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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
South Africa