Next Up with Mark Halperin
MK Media
Next Up with Mark Halperin delivers unique political insight and reporting, with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.
Rank History (30 days)
Recent Episodes
20 episodesIran Ceasefire “Fog of Peace," Debating the "8 For 28," and The AI Revolution, with Jonathan Turley
This episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin” tackles the growing uncertainty shaping today’s biggest geopolitical story, as Mark uses his reported monologue to unpack the “fog of peace” surrounding the Iran ceasefire and why even top officials can’t fully explain what’s happening behind the scenes. He also takes on tough criticism of his April “8 for ’28” rankings of the Democrats top presidential prospects, breaking down the backlash, what he stands by, and how he evaluates the evolving field. Then, Jonathan Turley joins for a wide-ranging conversation on history, technology, and the rule of law. He discusses the inspiration behind his new book and why Thomas Paine remains such a complicated and consequential figure, before drawing striking parallels between America’s founding and the disruptive potential of the AI revolution. Turley also weighs in on mounting concerns about bias and political pressure inside the Justice Department, and what it all means for public trust in American institutions. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Find the full audio show wherever you get your podcasts: Apple — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-with-mark-halperin/id1810218232 Spotify — https://open.spotify.com/show/2f0n8G4xqUo8aGxbbbtRjH%3Fsi%3D8e4ff54000cc438d Follow Next Up with Mark Halperin on all social platforms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuphalperin TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nextuphalperin X (Twitter): https://x.com/NextUpHalperin Connect with Mark Halperin on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markevanhalperin X (Twitter): https://x.com/markhalperin Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Why Rahm is on the Rise in April's "8 for ’28" Rankings, Plus Iranian Journalist Reveals Trump Strategy Next Steps
Who will the Democrats nominate for president next? Mark’s “8 for ’28” is back with his April rankings. In his reported monologue, he breaks down the current state of the evolving 2028 Democratic field. He highlights what he sees as the biggest weakness facing many of the contenders: a lack of clear messaging and modern media strategy, and explains why campaigns must now operate like full-time content machines. Mark also dives into why Rahm Emanuel is gaining traction, pointing to his aggressive media presence and clearer policy vision as key factors that set him apart in a crowded field. Mark is then joined by Karen Skelton and Yemisi Egbewole, for their takes on the April rankings, including if Kamala Harris remains near the top, and why JB Pritzker has slipped. They also debate Pete Buttigieg’s status as a potential wild card and whether he can break through despite skepticism within some portions of the party. Finally, Mark speaks with Iranian journalist Omid Memarian, who warns that the current war strategy in Iran could backfire, arguing that it may strengthen the regime rather than weaken it, and offers a sobering perspective on the path forward Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Mark Halperin Opens Up About His Career and Political Views, Plus the Truth About Media Bias, with Drew Holden
This episode of Next Up with Mark Halperin puts Mark in the hot seat. In a rare role reversal, he reflects on the personal and professional forces that shaped his career, from his father Morton Halperin and a childhood surrounded by politics to the lasting influence of ABC News Legend Peter Jennings, whose mentorship helped define his approach to journalism and life. Mark is then joined by Drew Holden for a sharp, wide-ranging conversation about the state of the media and the debate over bias. Holden breaks down why coverage of Donald Trump shifted so dramatically, how journalists respond when their work is criticized, and what needs to change inside newsrooms to rebuild trust with the public, making this a candid and insightful look at the forces shaping modern media. Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% ExpressVPN: Visit https://ExpressVPN.com/MARK to find out how you can get up to four extra months. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The FULL 2026 Senate Map Breakdown - Which Seats GOP and Dems Will Pick Up, Plus the Battle For the Key Seventh Seat
In this special episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark uses his unparalleled sources to deliver a full-length reported monologue demonstrating that Democrats still have an extremely steep hill to climb to take back the Senate majority in November. Shattering the conventional wisdom, Mark breaks down in detail the nine races that will decide control of the chamber. He starts by analyzing the three seats currently held by Democrats they are most at risk of losing, explaining the political dynamics driving vulnerability and how Republicans are positioning themselves to capitalize. He then lays out the three most likely pickup opportunities for Democrats and what needs to go right to flip those seats. And then, he reports, even if Democrats go 6 for 6 in those contests, they still need to win one of the three Republican-held seats in Iowa, Alaska, and Texas to win the chamber. You have not heard the Senate map broken down like this anywhere else. Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark ExpressVPN: Visit https://ExpressVPN.com/MARK to find out how you can get up to four extra months. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Iran War and Midterms Strategy, Plus Ro Khanna on a Potential 2028 Presidential Run
Mark Halperin speaks with Congressman Ro Khanna of California about the real impact of the Iran war, weighing military gains against rising costs and making the case for diplomacy. Khanna also opens up about a potential 2028 presidential run and the personal and political factors, including family, shaping his decision. Then, the Economist’s James Bennet joins to examine President Trump’s motives in the conflict and the risks of how the war is being framed. Lastly, Vin Weber and Kevin Walling join together to break down why Donald Trump, not the economy, will define the midterms and how turnout dynamics could shape the outcome. They also dive into the role of money in politics, where billionaire donors should be spending, and why Democrats continue to excel at small-dollar donations. 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% ExpressVPN: Visit https://ExpressVPN.com/MARK to find out how you can get up to four extra months. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Why the Iran Conflict Is More Complicated Than It Looks, Plus: Jonathan Freedland on Diplomacy vs War and Ralph Reed on Charlie Kirk
Mark Halperin’s reported monologue breaks down the latest developments in the U.S. conflict with Iran, explaining why recent U.S. and Israel strikes are delivering meaningful tactical wins, while the broader strategy remains uncertain. He outlines what’s going well, what’s not, and why reopening the Strait of Hormuz is the single most critical factor in determining how this conflict unfolds, with major implications for the global economy and U.S. military strategy. Plus, Jonathan Freedland joins Mark to discuss how he became an expert on American politics from the U.K., and why so many in Britain misunderstand the United States, before making the case that diplomacy may have been a better path than war with Iran. And Dr. Ralph Reed reflects on Charlie Kirk’s legacy, explaining why he was a once-in-a-generation communicator and what his absence means for MAGA and the future of the conservative movement. ExpressVPN: Visit https://ExpressVPN.com/MARK to find out how you can get up to four extra months. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Truth About War Polling, and Sen. Rand Paul on Inflation, Gas Prices, and How Iran Could Go "Endless"
Tensions with Iran are escalating, and new risks are emerging that could make the mission far more difficult than the Trump administration expected. Mark uses his reported monologue to break down the military, strategic, and public perception challenges now facing the United States, including, most immediately, the zero-sum fight to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the role of drones and asymmetric warfare, and why growing concerns inside Washington are raising questions about how the conflict could unfold. He also explains why public opinion may ultimately become the decisive factor in the mission’s success or failure. Then Sen. Rand Paul joins the program for a wide-ranging conversation about the war with Iran, warning that the conflict could become another long and costly Middle East war if leaders are not careful about defining clear goals. He also discusses why he believes the national debt poses the greatest long-term threats to the United States, how inflation and tariffs are affecting the economy, and why rising gas prices and economic pressure could shape the next election. Plus, Sen. Paul offers an intriguing answer when asked about his chairing the upcoming confirmation hearing involving his colleague Sen. Markwayne Mullin. Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark ShipStation: Streamline your shipping and save up to 15 hours a week with ShipStation—try it free for 60 days at https://ShipStation.com using code NEXTUP. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump’s Chaos Messaging Strategy on Iran, Biggest "8 for ’28" Dem Contenders, and Biggest SCOTUS Cases to Watch, with Josh Gerstein
Mark Halperin opens the show with a reported monologue on the rapidly evolving Iran conflict and the role messaging plays in shaping global expectations. He explains how Donald Trump’s communication style can quickly shift market sentiment, influence oil prices, and alter the narrative around the war. Mark also examines why Trump’s seemingly inconsistent public statements may actually be part of a deliberate strategy he has used throughout his business career and presidency. Next, Mark unveils his March edition of “8 for ’28,” ranking the Democrats he believes are most likely to win the party’s next presidential nomination. He walks through the board candidate by candidate, explaining what is going right for each contender and the biggest doubts that could hold them back, from frontrunners like Gavin Newsom to other potential entrants across the Democratic field. Finally, Politico senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein joins the show to discuss how the Supreme Court has handled Trump-related cases so far and what those decisions may signal for the years ahead. They break down the president’s early legal victories, the areas where the Court has pushed back, and which upcoming cases could shape the balance of presidential power during the rest of Trump’s term. Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark ShipStation: Streamline your shipping and save up to 15 hours a week with ShipStation—try it free for 60 days at https://ShipStation.com using code NEXTUP. Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump’s Iran Strategy Explained, the Mystery Behind Biden’s Health, and John Quincy Adams’ Remarkable Second Act
In this episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark uses his reported monologue to put to rest the debates over the “why?” and “why now?” questions about President Trump’s decision to use military force in Iran. By looking at nearly half a century of statements from Trump himself and from his immediate predecessors, Mark illustrates how clear Trump’s rationale and reasons are for the historic decision, leaving space to ask the other important and germane war-time questions for the United States and the world. Later, Mark is joined by Bob Crawford, bassist for The Avett Brothers and co-host of “The Road to Now” podcast, to discuss his new biography “America's Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick.” Crawford explains what drew him to Adams’ extraordinary life and why the sixth president keeps reappearing at key turning points in American history. He also recounts Adams’ remarkable second act after the presidency, when he served nearly two decades in Congress and became a leading voice in the fight against slavery. Finally, Dr. Raymond Scalettar joins the program to discuss the history of presidential health and the long-standing tension between transparency and privacy when it comes to America’s commanders-in-chief. He also weighs in on why concerns about President Biden’s health were not fully shared with the public. Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Gavin Newsom Opens Up About Dyslexia, 2028 "Veto" Power, and Past Marriage, Plus Trump's Strategic Iran Victory
This episode features an update on the latest in Iran and a revealing interview with California Governor Gavin Newsom. Mark opens with his reported monologue featuring an in-depth analysis of President Trump’s escalating conflict with Iran, scorecarding what appears to be early strategic and tactical wins while separating battlefield gains from political complexities. He breaks down what seems to be working for the administration, what it means for America as a whole, and the major risks and warning signs that could turn early success into mission creep, regional instability, or something far more difficult to contain. After that, Governor Gavin Newsom joins Mark for a deeply personal conversation about his memoir “Young Man in a Hurry: A Memoir of Discovery,” reflecting on his parents’ divorce, growing up between privilege and struggle, and writing the book for his children rather than for politics. He addresses the dyslexia debate head on, explains the disciplined system he uses to read and prepare, shares a never-before -told story about the “intervention” his children staged after learning about his first marriage to Kimberly Guilfoyle, and responds directly to the question about what would keep him from running for president. 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dominant Media’s Massive Blind Spots, the Key Midterm Ground Game, and James Rosen on Trump, Obama, and Scalia
In this episode, Mark Halperin argues in his reported monologue that too many journalists cover “politics” instead of “campaigns, leaving their audiences largely unaware of what really wins and loses elections. The vast majority of news coverage focuses on surface narratives and political gossip, leaving consumers in the dark about the asymmetrical campaign advantages that are the obsession of the pros. From data operations and AI-driven voter targeting to fundraising strategy and digital advertising, he explains how the craft of campaigning creates the edges that separate winners from losers — and determines who governs. Then author James Rosen joins to discuss why Justice Antonin Scalia remains one of the most consequential Americans of the last century. They explore Scalia’s originalism revolution, the controversy surrounding Bush v. Gore, and how Scalia’s legal philosophy still shapes the Supreme Court today, before ending on a lighter note with Rosen’s spot on Obama and Trump impressions and his deep knowledge of Beatles trivia. Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump's Crucial State of the Union, the Key Difference Between 2016 and 2026, and AI and China Challenges
In this episode, Mark Halperin uses his reported monologue to reflect on how Donald Trump’s path from 2016 to today reshaped American politics — and why the country remains deeply divided in his second term. Drawing on signature moments with Stephen Colbert and Tucker Carlson, he looks at why what once felt to some like a shocking political moment has now become a defining era, and why millions of Americans still struggle to understand each other across that divide. Mark is joined by Beverly Hallberg and Hyma Moore to discuss one of the biggest challenges ahead: how government should deal with artificial intelligence. They debate what role the president and lawmakers should play as AI transforms jobs, the economy, and society, and why government leaders struggle to keep up with technological change. The conversation also turns to the global economic race, as Alex Roy explains how China’s dominant rise in electric vehicle manufacturing threatens American automakers and the future competitiveness of the U.S. industry. From political division at home to technological competition abroad, this episode looks at the forces shaping where America goes next. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How to Stay Ahead of the AI Revolution and What It Means for the Future of America, with Jeremy Jones
On a new episode of “Next Up with Mark Halperin,” Mark’s reported monologue breaks down why the AI revolution is bigger than most people realize and why millions risk falling behind if they don’t adapt now. He also breaks down AI pioneer Matt Shumer's rules for staying competitive in a rapidly changing economy, explaining how shifts in how people use AI today will determine if they succeed in the years ahead. Entrepreneur Jeremy Jones joins to discuss what it takes to build a business in today’s environment and how his life path led him into the AI world. He explains how campaigns, governments, and organizations are already using AI to track voter sentiment, test messaging, and potentially reshape political strategy. Plus, Natalie Winters and Rep. Joe Cunningham join to debate where both parties really stand on war, China, and the use of American military force overseas, and what it says about the future of U.S. foreign policy. https://shumer.dev/something-big-is-happening Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK 120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20% Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
8 for ’28 Is Back with Newsom Still on Top and Mark Kelly Added to the List, Plus Alfonso and Jashinsky
“8 for ’28” is back. Mark Halperin debuts his February rankings of the most likely next Democratic presidential nominee, breaking down why Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro remain alone at the top of the list and why some major names are still on the outside looking in. He explains what’s driving movement early in the 2028 field, and what to watch for as the jockeying intensifies.Plus, Republican Wisconsin congressional candidate Michael Alfonso joins to discuss winning Donald Trump’s endorsement at just 25 years old, his views on Trump’s policy record, and how younger candidates view future-oriented issues such as China and artificial intelligence.And, Emily Jashinsky weighs in on the Epstein fallout, explaining when controversial associations should become career-ending and how politics and media decide who faces consequences.120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20%Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Political Scandal Double Standards, the "Epstein Class" Divide, and Trump’s Cultural Impact, with Andrew Sullivan
Mark Halperin opens the episode with a deep dive into the changing standards of political scandal, from Bill Clinton in 1992 to today’s Epstein fallout. In what he calls a political “Wild West,” Mark explores why some public figures survive controversy while others are taken down, and what 2028 presidential hopefuls should be quietly worried about right now.Then Andrew Sullivan joins for a candid and wide ranging conversation about Donald Trump’s lasting impact on America. Sullivan argues that beyond policy, Trump has reshaped the country’s political culture, coarsened public discourse, and expanded executive power in ways that may outlast his presidency. He also weighs in on the rise of the so called “Epstein class,” the dangers of extreme wealth concentration in an AI driven economy, and why he believes governments may ultimately be incapable of fully controlling artificial intelligence.Sullivan closes by reflecting on the future of the Democratic Party, and who he would choose as president if he could hand pick the next leader of the United States. Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK ShipStation: Streamline your shipping and save up to 15 hours a week with ShipStation—try it free for 60 days at https://ShipStation.com using code NEXTUP.Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How China is Weaponizing America's Immigration System, with Peter Schweizer, PLUS Why Ossoff Has Democrats Buzzing
In this episode of Next Up, Mark Halperin opens with his reported monologue on how a recent speech by Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff has Democrats energized and Republicans quietly concerned. Mark breaks down how Ossoff skillfully fused outrage at Donald Trump with economic populism, optimism, and disciplined messaging in a way many Democrats now see as a potential template for the 2026 midterms and beyond.Mark is then joined by New York Times bestselling author Peter Schweizer for a wide-ranging conversation on what Schweizer calls the weaponization of immigration. Schweizer details how China exploits U.S. birthright citizenship through birth tourism and surrogacy, raises alarms about American flight schools training Chinese pilots who may later serve in the PLA, and challenges the idea that the Mexican government is a passive player in the migration crisis.Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/MarkShipStation: Streamline your shipping and save up to 15 hours a week with ShipStation—try it free for 60 days at https://ShipStation.com using code NEXTUP.Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Trump's Media War Strategy, the 2028 Dem Calendar, Immigration Narratives, with Jaime Harrison and Emma-Jo Morris
Mark Halperin opens the latest episode of "Next Up" with his reported monologue on how President Trump’s decade-long war against the Dominant Media remains one of his most effective political tools. Mark highlights Trump’s unparalleled understanding of the news business, which, unbelievably, he gets better than journalists themselves do. Trump’s critique of the industry's flaws is as muscular as it is accurate, highlighting liberal bias, elitism, and a broken business model, all of which further erode the press’ credibility, which also energizes Trump’s base and conservatives at large.Then, former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison joins the program on a special occasion – his 50th birthday. Harrison offers an insider’s perspective on the Democratic Party’s fundraising challenges against the "billionaire class" of the GOP. He also dives into the heart of the 2028 presidential nominating process, noting that potential White House candidates do not yet seem to be lobbying for specific early states, and offers his prediction on the first-in-the-nation nominating calendar: South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Nevada.Finally, Emma-Jo Morris, Senior Consultant at Beck & Stone and co-host of The Group Chat on 2WAY, joins Mark to debate the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, arguing that the public supports mass deportation. She addresses recent criticisms regarding Vice President J.D. Vance’s temperament and stance on Israel, arguing that his "contemptuous tone" is a sensible and necessary reaction to hostile media frames. Morris also evaluates the current cabinet, offering high praise for HHS Secretary RFK Jr. while critiquing Kristi Noem’s performance.120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20%Masa Chips: Ready to give MASA or Vandy a try? Get 25% off your first order by going to http://masachips.com/MARK and using code MARK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How the GOP Plans to Stop a Blue Wave, and the Inside Story of Hollywood's Biggest Legal Drama, with Maureen Callahan
Mark Halperin opens a new episode with a reported monologue on the shifting midterm landscape, explaining why Republicans are increasingly worried about a potential Blue Wave. He walks through new polling, historical patterns, and insider conversations that suggest what felt possible to sophisticated Republican strategists just weeks ago — keeping the House majority — for now has gone out of reach. And the clock could end working against the GOP, unless they make some significant changes, coupled with some luck, soon.Then Maureen Callahan joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation on culture, celebrity, and power. Maureen and Mark break down why awards season is now driven by Oscar campaigning rather than performances, unpack the legal war surrounding “It Ends With Us” and the Hollywood players caught in it, and examine how fame and entitlement can distort family dynamics at the highest levels. The discussion also covers what is actually worth watching and listening to right now, from TV to podcasts, offering a sharp and unsparing look at the here-and-now culture.120Life: Go to https://120Life.com and use code NEXTUP to save 20%Masa Chips: Ready to give MASA or Vandy a try? Get 25% off your first order by going to http://masachips.com/MARK and using code MARK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Minnesota Sparked a National Immigration Debate, and Intra-GOP "War" Fight, with Rep. Dingell and Rich Lowry
Mark Halperin opens with his reported monologue arguing that America is losing sight of what matters by obsessing over elites, gossip, and political theater instead of grappling with the serious policy questions that matter. He makes the case that the media and political class are crowding out first-principles debates at a moment when the stakes could not be higher. Mark then turns to foreign policy and constitutional power, breaking down a revealing Senate exchange between Rand Paul and Marco Rubio that forces a hard rethink of what actually constitutes an act of war. The debate goes beyond partisanship and raises uncomfortable questions about American power, moral consistency, and the limits of executive authority. The episode closes with two deep dives on immigration. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell joins Mark to discuss why the scenes in Minneapolis have unsettled the country and to wrestle with the most difficult deportation cases, the millions who fall between clear extremes. Then, National Review editor Rich Lowry offers the conservative perspective, laying out how the right is divided over deterrence, practicality, and whether there is any workable middle ground at all Cardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Masa Chips: Ready to give MASA or Vandy a try? Get 25% off your first order by going to http://masachips.com/MARK and using code MARK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The REAL Story of Why Trump Changed Course on Minnesota, and How Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Took Over After Limbaugh
On today’s episode of Next Up, Mark Halperin uses his reported monologue to go inside what really drove Donald Trump to change course on Minnesota. He lays out the specific voices that matter when Trump rethinks a decision and explains why media optics, internal pressure, and shifting political narratives pushed a rapid reversal — all informed by Trump insiders who really understand how he made the choice to head in a different direction.Later, Buck Sexton and Clay Travis join Mark for a wide-ranging conversation that moves from politics to culture to media. What starts as a playful debate over iconic duos quickly exposes a serious generational divide, before turning to how Clay and Buck managed to succeed in a time slot long defined by Rush Limbaugh. The episode wraps with a look inside Trump’s cabinet, as Buck and Clay explain why Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has quietly emerged as one of the administration’s most impressive figures and closes with a candid debate over who would actually make the stronger presidential candidate: Clay or Buck. Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/MarkCardiff: Get fast business funding without bank delays—apply in minutes with Cardiff and access up to $500,000 in same‑day funding at https://Cardiff.co/MARK Masa Chips: Ready to give MASA or Vandy a try? Get 25% off your first order by going to http://masachips.com/MARK and using code MARK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.