Mark Halperin opens the show with his reported monologue on the viral “Trump is dead” rumors and how they mirror the 1969 “Paul is dead” controversy about Paul McCartney. Just as conspiracy theories around McCartney’s supposed death only strengthened his legend, Mark argues that Democrats’ public wish-casting of Trump’s obituary reveals more about their own anxieties than Trump’s future. Far from weakening him, those fueling speculation about Trump’s health only reinforce his larger-than-life presence in American politics.

Then, Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri joins for a wide-ranging interview on the Republican agenda heading into 2028. Schmitt details his new best-selling book, and why the courts are the GOP’s “Last Line of Defense” against progressive policies. He also weighs in on Section 230, federal overreach, lessons from COVID, and the role of government in protecting children online. Plus, Schmitt offers an inside look at how Senate Republicans are preparing to fast-track confirmations for Trump’s nominees.

Finally, Politico’s Rachael Bade shares her reporting on Trump’s evolving relationship with congressional Republicans, including how Senate GOP leader John Thune has quietly built a working partnership with the president. She explains why that alliance matters, what it signals for power dynamics on Capitol Hill, and how Democrats are positioning their next generation of leaders for 2028. Plus, Rachael takes us behind the scenes of Washington’s social circuit, and where to find Trump-era power players.

Grasshopper Escapement: Go to https://amazon.com and buy your copy of CAPITALIST BABY!
Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold

Mark Halperin opens today’s show with his reported monologue on the ten biggest stories of the summer and what they signal for a busy fall news cycle. From Trump’s crime push and the Democratic response, to the Capitol Hill fight over the Epstein files, Mark lays out the stakes ahead. He also explains how the Ukraine stalemate and Gaza escalation shape Trump’s foreign policy, and how the New York mayor’s race, Kamala Harris’s book tour, and Wes Moore’s national scrutiny frame the Democrats’ future. Plus, Mark (admitted Swiftie) reacts to the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce engagement news!

Then, Mark is joined by his 2WAY co-host and longtime Democratic strategist Dan Turrentine, for a deep dive into why Trump keeps winning daily fights while Democrats stumble. They unpack the Left’s struggles on crime, messaging, and fundraising – and what they can fix now in order to effectively compete with the GOP campaign machine in 2026 and 2028.

Finally, Politico’s senior legal affairs reporter Josh Gerstein breaks down the legal landscape reshaping presidential power. From the “weak links” on the 6-3 conservative Supreme Court, to Trump’s White House counsel strategy, they explore upcoming fights over tariffs, the Fed, and the limits the Court may place on executive authority.

Grasshopper Escapement: Go to https://amazon.com and buy your copy of CAPITALIST BABY!
Delta Rescue: Visit https://DeltaRescue.org to learn more

Mark opens the show with his reported monologue on why and how Gavin Newsom is so misunderstood. He explains why Newsom stands alone in the Democratic Party’s top tier of potential presidential candidates for 2028 due to his focus on the “Three As”: action, attention-getting, and authenticity. Mark also corrects four myths about Newsom, including the possibility that the California governor may never actually run for president.

Then former Senator Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas) joins the program to assess the Democratic Party’s structural challenges. From donor defections and the rise of billionaires and Super PACs on the Republican side to declining voter registration, Pryor warns that Democrats must engage with the grassroots. He argues the party must urgently refocus on organizing, messaging, and turnout if it hopes to compete in 2028. Plus, his candid advice on what it will take to reverse the Democratic Party’s downward slide.

Finally, Michael Caputo shares a deeply personal account of battling cancer and cancellation at the same time — and how it fuels his support for the MAHA movement. He stresses the importance of President Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prioritizing childhood cancer, chronic disease, and the use of AI in medical breakthroughs. Caputo also explains why early-onset cancer is rising at alarming rates – and why he believes this fight must be at the center of America’s health agenda.

American Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. 866-886-2026 or visit https://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Next - NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Birch Gold: Text NEXT to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold