Next Up with Mark Halperin

Next Up with Mark Halperin delivers unique political insight and reporting, with timely conversations featuring prominent voices in politics, media, and policy.

Last refreshed: June 20th, 2026 at 2:34 PM

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Episodes

What Maine Voters Really Think About Graham Platner and Susan Collins

In this special bonus episode, Mark Halperin sits down with a focus group of Maine voters to get beyond the polls and hear how they are really thinking about one of the most critical midterm races in the country. Voters share their candid views on Susan Collins, Graham Platner, and the issues shaping their decisions as the race increasingly draws national attention. Their answers are often surprising and provide a window into the national mood about electability, integrity, experience, and the d...

Jun 20, 2026•40 min

Why These Men Are So Special

Join Mark Halperin for a special Father's Day episode. He sits down with his father, Morton Halperin, and his son, James, for a candid conversation about how fatherhood has evolved across generations and the lessons that endure. Then, NewsNation's Leland Vittert shares the powerful story behind his bestselling book “Born Lucky” and explains how his father's love and determination helped him overcome the challenges of autism. He also reflects on the overwhelming response to the book and why its m...

Jun 18, 2026•44 min•Ep. 109

Is Trump's Iran Deal Really "America First", with Glenn Beck

This episode features Mark Halperin's reported monologue on the Trump administration's Iran deal, dissecting its origins, the shift from military and economic pressure to incentives, and widespread skepticism regarding Iran's willingness to change. Halperin evaluates claims of 'rational' Iranian leaders and the deal's potential impact. Later, Glenn Beck offers his perspective, praising Trump's pragmatic 'America First' approach to avoid war, discussing the complexities of JD Vance's political appeal, and identifying a new type of populist leader in Graham Platner, before sharing insights on his own media philosophy and mission to preserve the Republic.

Jun 16, 2026•57 min•Ep. 108

The Truth Behind Graham Platner's Sudden Political Rise

Mark Halperin’s reported monologue reveals the Graham Platner story almost everyone else is missing. Then best-in-class political strategist Doug Sosnik explains why Democrats have the midterm edge — along with one big caveat. And Robby Soave joins to discuss which party is winning over young male voters and how that matters now and for 2028 Chapter: For free and unbiased Medicare help, dial (262) 454-0503 to speak with my trusted partner, Chapter, or go to https://askchapter.org/mark*Paid Partn...

Jun 11, 2026•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 107

What You’re Not Being Told about Scott Pelley’s CBS Firing

Mark Halperin’s reported monologue examines the twin political outrages over the L.A. mayoral race and CBS News drama. He explains why the right is hurting its own cause by reflexively alleging voter fraud as the culprit for Spencer Pratt's loss. Mark also breaks down Scott Pelley's firing from "60 Minutes", what the ousted newsman’s "evidence" actually proves about CBS News chief Bari Weiss, and the reality of liberal bias in the Dominant Media. Then, CNN's Michael Smerconish joins to discuss t...

Jun 09, 2026•58 min•Ep. 106

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