Finding Common Ground: Steps Towards National Unity
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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42:47
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42:47
Perception, Reality, and Resilience: Navigating Today's Challenges
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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42:32
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42:32
Some Choices, Once made, Can't easily be undone: Gerrymandering, California Politics, and Social Trends
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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42:38
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42:38
No Questions Were Taken …But So Many Remain
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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42:56
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42:56
Civility in Crisis: Running for Office Shouldn’t Require a Flak Jacket
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.Â
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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