Perino on Politics

As the partial government shutdown enters its seventh week, Senior Vice President of CRC Advisors and host of the 10-Minute Drill podcast Matt Whitlock covers the challenges facing Republicans and Democrats in resolving the standoff. Meanwhile, the "No Kings" protests shine a spotlight on their dark money funding. Matt also explains why there is potential for a Republican to win the California gubernatorial race due to its jungle primary system. Purple State Of Mind: Matt describes some of Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger's progressive policies and why they are a reflection of what is to come following the midterms if more Democrats take office. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former White House Chief of Staff and Fox News Political Analyst Reince Priebus unpacks the unique decision-making process of President Trump, the ongoing partial government shutdown, and the challenges facing the Republican Party in the upcoming midterm elections. Reince explains the need for the Republican Party to engage low-propensity voters to find success with the President not on the ballot. Purple State Of Mind: Dana and Reince discuss their shared love for Wisconsin as Dana teases her new book, Purple State. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With gas prices rising, the Trump administration moves to secure the Strait of Hormuz while some U.S. airports hit a wall of political deadlock. Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy discusses Democrats' unwillingness to compromise amid the ongoing government shutdown, which is affecting essential services. Speaker McCarthy looks ahead to this year's midterms and what Republicans can expect and shares his concerns about the record number of retirements in Congress. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Speaker McCarthy describe the path forward for the SAVE Act and the strategic challenges of passing voter integrity legislation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author, columnist, former Bush foreign policy advisor, and host of the Call Me Back podcast, Dan Senor, breaks down the ongoing military operations between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. He highlights the potential next leader of the Iranian regime, noting the challenges the U.S. faces when interfering with their choice of leadership. Dan discusses broader global conflicts, including the impact that China, Russia, and other foreign adversaries have. He explains that they are all watching how the Trump administration handles global conflict. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dan also explains the best places for young people to find reliable information and news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the weekend the United States and Israel initiated a joint military campaign against Iran with Operation Epic Fury, signaling a new era in the Middle East. Managing Director of Beacon Global Strategies and Host of the NatSec Matters Podcast, Michael Allen explores how this operation will alter Iran's longstanding role as an opposition to peace and prosperity in the region. Dana and Michael also look at the response from Washington on President Trump's decision to take military action amid a partial government shutdown. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Michael looks at the growing tensions between Pakistan and India, examining the power struggle between the neighboring nations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the eve of the 2026 State of the Union, and there's lots to unpack following the Supreme Court's ruling against President Trump's use of an emergency statute to impose tariffs. Founder of the bipartisan government relations firm Mehlman Consulting and The Age of Distribution Substack, Bruce Mehlman, explains the potential impact on trade deals following the SCOTUS ruling. Dana and Bruce weigh in on several geopolitical issues, including tensions with Iran and the Mexican government's takedown of a major cartel leader. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Bruce discusses the role of artificial intelligence and data centers in local communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the Munich Security Conference underway, Senior Vice President of CRC Advisors and Host of the 10-Minute Drill podcast Matt Whitlock reviews the performance of Democrats such as Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer as they struggle to articulate their parties foreign policy agenda on the world stage. Meanwhile, Americans are in the midst of another partial government shutdown, which Matt analyzes as a result of congressional leadership catering to an aggressive online base. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Matt discusses the infrastructure crisis involving a massive raw sewage leak into the Potomac River and the lack of transparency from local officials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former prosecutor and host of Sunday Night in America and The Trey Gowdy Podcast, Trey Gowdy, provides his perspective on the latest breaking news headlines gripping the nation. Dana and Trey begin by discussing the search for Nancy Guthrie, analyzing the complexities of "proof of life" requests and the tactical misuse of technology in modern abductions. Trey provides insight into recent government shutdown politics, explaining the debate over Department of Homeland Security funding. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Trey discuss the need for consistent messaging in political debates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dana is out this week, so the co-founder of South & Hill Strategies, Colin Reed, is joined by Columnist at the Washington Examiner and Washington Post, Salena Zito, to fill in. They dive into the current partial government shutdown and why the chaos on Capitol Hill no longer phases voters. Colin and Salena also dissect the Pennsylvania political landscape, discussing whether Governor Josh Shapiro’s book tour or Senator John Fetterman’s (D-PA) populist approach could be signals of a 2028 presidential run. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Colin and Salena look at how population shifts are fueling redistricting battles that could reshape the playing field for this year’s Midterm Elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ICE-related tensions continue to erupt in Minneapolis, following the shooting death of resident Alex Pretti, who was carrying a legally concealed weapon. Meanwhile, thousands of people have taken to the streets in freezing temperatures to protest the Trump administration's immigration enforcement. Host of The Guy Benson Show on FOX News Radio, Guy Benson, discusses the situation in Minneapolis and whether it will continue to escalate. Dana and Guy also touch on foreign policy issues, including the situation in Iran and the President's relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Guy explains why he is following Virginia politics closely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One year into President Donald Trump’s second term, Targeted Victory Chief Communications Officer Matt Gorman weighs in on some of the biggest flashpoints at home and abroad. Dana and Matt discuss the potential of the U.S. acquisition of Greenland, President Trump’s tariff threats against European countries, and why this moment for the Iranian people feels different than in the past. They also dig into the protests unfolding in Minnesota and why Matt doesn’t see tensions easing anytime soon, before turning to the political landscape ahead of the 2026 midterms and the possibility of Democrats reclaiming the Senate. I Wish Someone Told Me: Matt shares the two cases he’s watching most closely, including the Supreme Court’s transgender athletes case and the Court’s upcoming decision on tariffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Managing director at Beacon Global Strategies and host of the NatSec Matters podcast, Michael Allen, discusses the severe crackdown by the Iranian regime on civilian protesters, a digital blackout to suppress communication and whether the U.S. will get involved. Michael also explains the Trump administration's involvement in Venezuela following the detention of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He argues why this political action by the administration sets a strong precedent for defending issues abroad. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Michael shares his analysis on the Russia-Ukraine war, including Russia's use of a hypersonic missile to attack Lviv. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump wasted no time beginning 2026 by dominating headlines with the capture and arrest of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. Co-founder of South & Hill Strategies, Colin Reed, and Columnist at the Washington Examiner and Washington Post, Salena Zito, explain the political fallout of the President's swift move, including the media and lawmakers' reaction. Salena and Colin discuss a major domestic scandal out of Minnesota and Governor Tim Walz's involvement. They also share their projections for the Midterm Elections later this year. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Colin and Salena look ahead to tax day and NFL playoffs. Who is Dana rooting for this season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While 2026 is just around the corner, so are the Midterm Elections. Meanwhile, next month will mark the first anniversary of President Trump's second term in office. To reflect on this year and look ahead to next, Dana revisits her conversation with Yemisi Egbowole, founder of Podium Strategies and former Chief of Staff and advisor to the Biden White House Press Office. Yemisi discusses challenges facing the current Democratic Party and shares her projections for who may lead the Party in the future. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Yemisi highlight a messaging issue shared by both Democrats and Republicans. Has that changed since they recorded in August? This episode originally aired on Monday, August 18th, 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2025 comes to an end, Dana revisits her conversation with the founder of the bipartisan government relations firm, Mehlman Consulting, and the author of The Age of Distribution Substack, Bruce Mehlman, about foreign policy and what would become the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Dana and Bruce spoke in October, on the heels of President Trump's major announcement on the war in Gaza and amid other key issues in the headlines around the world. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: For more political updates, visit Bruce's Substack, The Age of Distribution Substack. This episode originally aired on Monday, October 13th, 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shocking violence ensued over the weekend following a trio of violent attacks that left many on edge at the height of the holiday season. Founding partner at Cavalry LLC and Co-Host of the Ruthless Podcast, Josh Holmes shares how this past weekend's tragedies amplified growing concerns about terror across the globe. Josh breaks down the primary health care dilemma in Congress and the need for Republicans to develop a strong, unifying message on the economy before the 2026 Midterm Elections. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Josh share their three Christmas wishes for American politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a memorable election win for Republicans, Americans are looking at Congress and its cost-cutting efforts. Senior Vice President of CRC Advisors Matt Whitlock describes President Trump's efforts to address an affordability issue in America. Matt also shares some of the upcoming Supreme Court cases he's paying attention to, including arguments over presidential power and birthright citizenship. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Matt discusses how President Trump's tariffs are affecting trade with Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bethany Mandel, a homeschooling mother of 6, a writer and host of 'The Mom Wars' podcast, shares how she is surviving travel with her children, teaching them about religion, architecture across history, and the world. She also discusses her view on teenagers and smartphones. Later, Dana and Bethany highlight a special election in Tennessee that has the entire Congress watching and the growing concerns of congressional members' personal safety. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Bethany describes the concerns that American moms have about the economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dana is on assignment this week, but host of the Getting Hammered and Naturally podcasts, Mary Katharine Ham, taps host of the Trey Gowdy Podcast, Trey Gowdy, to examine the political impact of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation, including how it affects the Republican majority in the House and the shifting dynamics inside the GOP. Mary Katharine and Trey discuss the divide within the party over Ukraine, Russia, and U.S. foreign policy, and the confusion surrounding the State Department’s proposed peace plan. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Trey weighs in on how social media is reshaping political narratives heading into 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the White House gears up to host Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed Bin Salman, President Trump is ready to make another 'big' deal. Managing Director and Partner at Beacon Global Strategies, Michael Allen unpacks the President's current foreign policy plans. Dana and Michael discuss global issues and the complex state of geopolitics. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Michael highlights the high amounts of fentanyl entering through the U.S. Southern border. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The longest government shutdown in U.S. history could come to an end with a few Democratic Senators joining Republicans to vote "yes" to reopen the government. Co-founder of South & Hill Strategies, Colin Reed, and Columnist at the Washington Examiner and Washington Post, Salena Zito, explain the political repercussions for Democrats. They discuss the division within the Democratic Party and whether more Progressive candidates will emerge and be welcomed by voters in upcoming election cycles. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: While the 2026 Midterm Elections are top of mind, Salena and Colin also highlight potential contenders for the 2028 Presidential Election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the eve of Election Day, and a few key races have caught Americans' attention. Former GOP strategist and Host of "The Rich Zeoli Show," Rich Zeoli shares his take on the New Jersey and Virginia Gubernatorial Elections. He describes the issues that matter to voters as they head to the polls. Meanwhile, Rich notes the challenges the Democratic Party is facing. He explains why they are in a perpetual state of primarying one another while they continue to search for their base. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Rich discuss how President Trump is holding both the Democratic and Republican parties together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The government shutdown continues, with very few people outside of Washington, D.C., feeling its impact. Meanwhile, Election Day is a little over a week away for the New York City Mayoral Race, and Democrats are split on whether they support the Democratic Candidate Zohran Mamdani. Co-host of the Ruthless Podcast, John Ashbrook, describes the growing divide within the Democratic Party, which he calls a "civil war" within the party. He also examines the lack of authenticity among Democrats, which could be why young socialist candidates are creeping into more races around the country. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: John discusses President Trump's trip to Asia this week, and the results Americans could potentially see. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the weekend, the 'No Kings' protests stretched across the country, as some Americans voiced their frustrations with the current administration. Meanwhile, the government shutdown reached its twentieth day, and Congress continues to argue about who is responsible. FOX News Chief Political Anchor and Executive Editor of Special Report, Bret Baier, discusses some of President Trump's current foreign policy initiatives. Bret explains how the President's potential accomplishment of a Middle East peace deal could make critics look at the President in a completely different light. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Bret shares some exciting news! His new book, To Rescue The American Spirit: Teddy Roosevelt And The Birth Of A Superpower, is available wherever books are sold on Tuesday, October 21st. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, President Trump celebrates a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, which led to the release of twenty Israeli hostages. Founder of the bipartisan government relations firm Mehlman Consulting and author of The Age of Distribution Substack, Bruce Mehlman, discusses the President's involvement in brokering a deal and the difficulty of his job. Bruce also describes where Congress stands on day thirteen of the government shutdown. He explains why health care remains a significant focus. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Bruce takes a look at the impact of artificial intelligence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the Trump administration expands its crime crackdown into new cities, Congress can't compromise on a deal to restart the government. FOX News Audio Political Analyst and Editor-in-Chief of Jewish Insider, Josh Kraushaar, breaks down why the shutdown could last longer than expected. As the second anniversary of October 7th approaches, the day the terrorist organization Hamas perpetrated attacks on the Israeli public, Josh discusses a possible deal on the table to end the war in the Middle East. He also shares the latest on why Jewish American voters are moving away from the Democratic Party. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Dana and Josh examine why Democrats are excited about up-and-coming Progressive candidates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a potential government shutdown hangs in the balance, Republican strategist and Executive Vice President at Targeted Victory, Matt Gorman, discusses previous shutdowns and why no one wins in this scenario. He breaks down the White House's efforts to stop it, explaining the dynamics of why some Congressional leaders are allowing it to happen. Matt also details the fallout surrounding former Vice President Kamala Harris's book tour, as he ponders her potential political future. Later, he describes President Trump's plan to correct crime in major U.S. cities. I Wish Someone Told Me: Dana and Matt discuss the importance of keeping up with pop culture news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

President Trump and thousands of Americans gathered to remember Charlie Kirk on Sunday. Only time will tell if his legacy and movement will help energize Republicans in the coming months. Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy describes his relationship with Kirk and his unique ability to rally young voters towards the Republican Party. Speaker McCarthy discusses the significance of President Trump's trip to the United Kingdom last week. He also details how the President stabilized significant conflicts in the world and continues to fix others. I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Speaker McCarthy explains why he is keeping an eye on California Governor Gavin Newsom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices