PoliticsNation - Season 11 / Year 2025

In today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discussed the hundred-day mark of President Trump's second term. Trump marked this occasion by escalating the chaos and cruelty defining his presidency. 

The week started with the significant ousting of National Security Adviser Mike Waltz amid various controversies, raising questions about his successor, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is currently filling both roles. 

Trump then introduced a budget proposal that suggests a 23 percent cut across key areas like education, environmental protections, healthcare, and the social safety net, while requesting an additional trillion dollars for national defense and increasing border security spending, despite low crossing rates. 

Even Trump's allies in Congress are reportedly anxious about selling this budget to the public, as tariffs kick in and Wall Street grows concerned about a potential trade war and recession. And that's where we begin tonight.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's upcoming historic trip to the Middle East, but his second-term priorities are at risk.

Resistance to his mass deportations is increasing, evidenced by the arrest of a democratically elected mayor. His budget bill is stuck in Congress, with members of his own party in dispute.

Additionally, Trump's reputation as a dealmaker is being tested as agreements on tariffs and ceasefires remain elusive. Time is running out for him to advance his agenda before the upcoming midterm elections that could reshape his presidency.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, The Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how, after being treated like royalty by Arab leaders during his trip to the Middle East this week, Donald Trump is returning to Washington, where the checks and balances of democracy conflict with his aspirations of ruling like a strongman. 

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has thrown a major obstacle in Trump's mass deportation plans, ruling that Venezuelan detainees must be given more time to present their cases in court. The Court emphasized that the constitutional right to due process must be upheld, even as this administration seeks to target Democratic lawmakers who advocate for the same rights.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how Donald Trump is spending the holiday weekend playing golf at one of his private clubs, celebrating the passage of his "big, beautiful" tax and spending bill by House Republicans, just in time for Memorial Day. 

While the bill may seem beneficial for the wealthy with its massive tax breaks, it proposes significant cuts to Medicaid, food assistance, and environmental protections, creating serious problems for many Americans as it moves to the Senate. 

In addition, Trump capped off the week with a $400 million luxury jet gift from a foreign government and an exclusive dinner tied to a Bitcoin scheme that has greatly enriched him and his family. 

Amid all this, Trump's Justice Department dropped accountability agreements with police departments this week—the fifth anniversary of George Floyd's murder—blatantly disregarding his legacy and impact on justice in America. 

So, my big question tonight is: Is criminal justice in the U.S. anymore "just" than it was five years ago? The answer will come later on "Politics Nation."

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton begins with breaking news out of Los Angeles. President Trump has deployed the California National Guard following three days of confrontations between protesters and law enforcement regarding the administration's mass deportation efforts in and around Los Angeles.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's tough decision regarding the Iran and Israel Conflict. President Trump says he will decide whether the United States should attack Iran's nuclear sites within the next two weeks despite our spy agencies saying Iran doesn't have a bomb. 

The White House is expected to give an Intelligence briefing in the next hour. 

In the meanwhile, Democrats on the hill are already preparing to stop the President from starting a war without Congress, while their Republican colleagues are distracted by internal squabbles over the President's "Big Beautiful" Budget Bill. 

South Carolina Congressman Jim Clyburn will join us to discuss the latest. 

Meanwhile, the country continues to watch ICE agents in Los Angeles snatching migrants off the streets, flanked by National Guard Troops that the President has deployed. A federal appeals court gave Trump a win on that matter this week. However, his ability to detain immigrants indefinitely may be in jeopardy, after a key court decision yesterday.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump and other Congressional Republicans celebration of the passage of the Tax and Spending Bill this Fourth of July weekend. While it may be a win for the GOP, the Americans will be affected with more than four trillion dollars in net tax cuts over the next decade. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries will join to discuss more about the spending cuts. 

Twelve million Americans are likely to see their health insurance go away. Three million will watch as their SNAP benefits disappear. Many Economists warn that it could be a formula for disaster, adding more than three trillion dollars to the national debt over the next decade, which only leaves future generations to face the consequences of the political decisions leaders are making today. 

In the meanwhile, the administration's mass deportation efforts will witness a historic windfall with 45 billion dollars in new funding for ICE alone.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton shares the important updates on the latest of the Texas flooding that left nearly 80 people dead including 43 adults and 28 children. 

California Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear join to discuss the Big Beautiful Bill that President Trump recently signed that will affect millions of Americans and the impact of their respective states. 

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott will join to discuss the bill having an impact on Maryland as well as the investigation on Correctional Department employee who invited ICE to a local courthouse to detain someone during a pre-trial meeting.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the outrage from President Trump regarding ongoing questions about his administration's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case, despite years of conspiracy theories from Trump and his supporters. 

This controversy has engaged top Justice Department officials and divided the MAGA base. 

Additionally, America is facing the consequences of the "big, beautiful spending bill," which includes significant tax cuts for the wealthy and cuts to social safety programs. Economic inflation is rising due to Trump's mass deportations and an escalating trade war. 

It appears that the summer will be a long and challenging one for both the president and the nation.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton highlights President Trump's reminder on his Truth Social platform that we've reached the halfway mark of his second term, which he calls one of the "most consequential" periods in American history.

While many Americans may agree, opinions vary on whether the outcomes are positive or negative. Recent polling indicates a significant decline in support for his policies, especially regarding immigration and the economy. 

Adding to the turmoil are escalating mass deportations, a trade war of Trump's own making, and a growing scandal related to the Epstein files. The pressing question is what the next three and a half years will bring, especially if the past six months are any indication.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the challenges facing the country, largely due to President Trump's actions. Currently in Scotland, Trump is on a trip that promotes his golf courses, adding millions to the $52 million taxpayers have already spent during his second term. 

As he tees off overseas, troubling details about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein are emerging. Despite this, the administration is attempting to divert attention. Todd Blanch, Trump's personal lawyer turned Deputy Attorney General, recently met with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's convicted accomplice, without the prosecutors who brought Epstein to justice. 

Trump hasn't ruled out a potential pardon for Maxwell. To distract from the scandal, Trump is targeting Black leaders, including former President Obama, while releasing outdated files on Martin Luther King Jr. His tariffs are in effect, his mass deportation plan is underway, another government shutdown is approaching, and the midterm elections are just a year away.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the breaking news: President Trump announced a deal after EU talks, amid his trip to Scotland for golf. The big question is how this impacts U.S. states and cities, which are facing economic uncertainty and social upheaval due to shifting trade policies and deportations. I'll ask Colorado Governor Jared Polis soon. Later, we explore challenges for America's mayors with the Mayor's Association President and a promising candidate for Minneapolis' next mayor. I'll also critique Trump's new executive order on homelessness, which I believe will worsen the problem.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how Donald Trump has treated his presidency like a golf game, bending the rules for advantage. This week, Trump fired a top economist after a disappointing jobs report and is pressuring Republican lawmakers to gerrymander voting maps ahead of the midterms to mitigate political backlash. Additionally, just days before the sixtieth anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, the John Roberts Supreme Court seems ready to undermine the Act in a case affecting two Black-majority congressional districts in Louisiana.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses breaking news: Texas House Democrats are announcing plans to break quorum tomorrow. Their goal is to block a Trump-backed Republican redistricting plan that could cost them as many as five congressional seats in the upcoming midterm elections. The chairs of the Democratic Caucus will hold a press conference later tonight in Chicago, hosted by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. We have an all-star lineup to break it all down, including former Obama Attorney General Eric Holder.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the Texas House, which adjourned in just minutes again due to over a dozen Democratic lawmakers being absent. This absence prevents Texas Republicans from achieving the quorum needed to advance a congressional redistricting map that would strengthen their majority. 

Republican lawmakers are calling on the federal government to intervene, specifically asking Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to return the missing legislators and urging the Texas Supreme Court to remove them from office. 

This stand-off appears to have energized Democrats, who are looking for ways to resist the Trump agenda. Prominent Democratic governors are offering support to Texas legislators, with some ready to challenge Republicans on redistricting ahead of the midterms.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the situation in the Texas State House, which will reconvene tomorrow. However, Republicans are unlikely to vote on their redistricting map, backed by President Trump, as several Texas Democrats remain in Illinois and California in protest. Governor Greg Abbott mentioned that this stand-off could last for years, with Republicans claiming Democrats are just as guilty of redistricting manipulation. Vice President J.D. Vance even claimed Democrats have inflated census numbers by adding undocumented immigrants to blue states. In turn, Democratic governors have challenged Republicans, expressing their readiness to confront the redistricting issue while dismissing threats of federal law enforcement targeting Texas Democrats. And that is where we begin tonight.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton shares breaking news about negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. President Trump is set to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky in Washington following a failed summit with Russian President Putin in Alaska. 

Axios reports that Trump plans a trilateral summit with Putin and Zelensky by August 22. He also spoke with Zelensky and EU leaders over the weekend about a possible NATO-like security guarantee. Although Trump once claimed he could end the war in 24 hours, he now suggests a ceasefire is unlikely but maintains that a peace deal is near. 

Additionally, federal forces and the National Guard have been mobilized in Washington, D.C., amid a redistricting battle between Republicans and Democrats. 

Later, we will speak with director Spike Lee about the state of Black Hollywood.

On today's episode of "Politics Nation," host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the Trump administration's efforts to use sensational headlines to avoid accountability. The Justice Department has released new information related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, including audio and transcripts from a jailhouse interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, as well as numerous documents for congressional investigators. This new data raises more questions than answers. Meanwhile, the president threatens to enforce his crime crackdown across the nation, regardless of other cities' desires. Additionally, his former National Security Advisor is under FBI scrutiny for mishandling classified documents.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's threats to expand military deployments to cities with black mayors and significant non-white populations. The Washington Post reports that the Pentagon plans to send thousands of National Guard troops to Chicago next month, supposedly to address crime. Both Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor J.B. Pritzker have rejected this operation as unnecessary. Additionally, Trump targeted Maryland's black governor, Wes Moore, threatening a similar crackdown in Baltimore. Meanwhile, Trump is using Washington, D.C., as a testing ground for his authoritarian policies. In breaking news, National Guard troops in D.C. will be armed starting this evening.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the setbacks faced by the Trump administration after legal challenges to its second-term agenda.

A federal appeals court ruled that Trump overstepped his authority by using emergency powers to impose tariffs. Additionally, a judge blocked fast-track deportations, a key aspect of Trump's immigration policy.

Despite these issues, the White House continues operations in Democratic-run cities, with ICE planning increased immigration enforcement in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed how his city is preparing for the administration's threats to deploy the National Guard and other forces for a crime crackdown that many residents oppose.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses with the Chicago Mayor the preparations for a possible influx of immigration agents into the city, which could begin as early as this week. 

Mayor Brandon Johnson is outlining his strategies this weekend to protect the rights of city residents amid a federal crackdown. The White House responded just hours ago. 

Across the country, community leaders are closely watching to see how President Trump will handle his politically charged confrontation with Democratic cities, most of which are led by Black mayors.

On tonight's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how Chicago is preparing for a federal crackdown on immigration and crime by a president who claims to support peace and law and order but is increasingly talking about war. Less than 24 hours after signing an order to rename the Defense Department, the commander-in-chief posted on social media this afternoon, asserting that "Chicago is about to find out why it's called the Department of War." This threatening message comes as the administration already attempts to expand its policing efforts in Washington, D.C. and faces court rulings that declared the president's deployment of the National Guard to handle anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles illegal.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses recent demonstrations from the Capitol to Chicago, where Americans are voicing their anger against a presidential administration that is overstepping its power. The Voting Rights Act—the hallmark of the civil rights movement—is in jeopardy as Republicans initiate a redistricting arms race. Louisiana is asking the Supreme Court to weaken crucial protections of the Act, risking majority-minority congressional districts at a time when Trump is targeting Democrat-led cities for federal operations. We can expect significant developments this week, with insights from two congressmen deeply involved in this issue. Additionally, with the mayoral election just two months away and Trump visiting New York City today, I will speak with Democratic nominee Zohran Mam-Dani about his campaign and his plans if federal troops are deployed.

On tonight's episode of "Politics Nation," host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the national alert following the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. This tragedy has ignited a discussion about the rising threat of political violence as federal investigators examine the incident in Utah. 

The administration is also advocating for crime-fighting measures in American cities, with Memphis, Tennessee, potentially being the next focus. Reverend Al Sharpton speaks with Mayor Paul Young, a Democrat, about this tonight. 

Additionally, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo will join the show to discuss his bid for Mayor of New York City, sharing his thoughts on reducing political tensions and his stance on the Trump agenda if elected.

On today's 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses another torrent of news from Washington this week. 

Members of the U.S. House, from both parties, acknowledged the life of Charlie Kirk as the nation grapples with his legacy ahead of the far-right podcaster's funeral tomorrow. 

Meanwhile, Congress held high-profile hearings on public health safety and the leadership of the top domestic law enforcement agency. These hearings devolved into confrontations between FBI Director Kash Patel and lawmakers in both chambers. 

To make matters worse, the Senate adjourned without passing a bill to prevent a government shutdown, leaving less than ten days to do so. 

But the chaos in Washington is just a surface-level distraction from the underlying tension in Trump's America. The political divide feels deeper than ever.

In today's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the President's apparent obsession with following through on his campaign to seek revenge against his political enemies by any means necessary. Former FBI Director Jim Comey, a longtime nemesis of the President, is currently facing federal charges initiated by the Trump Justice Department, following public demands from the President. 

In a significant breaking development this evening, the President has instructed the Pentagon to take the unprecedented step of deploying troops within the United States to address what he describes as "Antifa terrorists" threatening ICE facilities in Portland, Oregon. The Mayor of Portland and the Governor of Oregon are currently addressing this situation, and we'll provide updates as they develop. 

Additionally, tonight we will hear from New York City Mayor Eric Adams regarding his intentions to remain in the race to lead America's largest city.

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation,' host Reverend Al Sharpton begins with breaking political news. The show highlights the possibility of a government shutdown, a meeting of all top generals at the Pentagon, and the news that New York City Mayor Eric Adams has decided not to seek re-election. Today, discussions are underway with the chairs of the Black and Hispanic caucuses in Congress, the former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and a member of the Senate, as Washington prepares for an incredibly busy week ahead. 

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the current government shutdown, which has now reached its fourth day without any indication of a resolution between Congressional Democrats and Republicans under the leadership of President Trump. Congress has adjourned until mid-month, resulting in significant repercussions: thousands of federal employees have been furloughed, some without compensation, and numerous taxpayer-funded institutions remain closed indefinitely. 

The President perceives this situation as an opportunity to assert greater pressure on his opposition and to reshape the government by reducing funding for what he refers to as "Democrat agencies." This evening, we will provide updates on the ongoing shutdown, hear from a sitting Congressman regarding its impact on his district, and receive insights from the head of the largest federal employees' union concerning the circumstances faced by his members. Additionally, a former Medicare and Medicaid administrator will elucidate how the healthcare debates central to this shutdown also represent a civil rights issue, particularly for African Americans.

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton covers the ongoing government shutdown, now in its twelfth day with no resolution in sight. 

President Trump is traveling to the Mideast to promote his peace deal. Meanwhile, Israel and Hamas are exchanging hostages this weekend, though details of the agreement remain unclear. 

The Speaker of the House has already dismissed Congress for the upcoming week, but Democrats plan to return on Tuesday for an emergency caucus meeting. 

While military members are expected to receive their paychecks this week via an executive workaround, many other federal agencies are experiencing chaos and confusion. 

The American public may soon feel the tangible effects of a government brought to a halt.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton reports breaking news as "no kings" demonstrations are taking place across the country. Organizers have scheduled over 2,500 rallies with millions expected to join. Republicans have spent days accusing the protestors of hating America. But many of the loudest voices at today's events are calling for a return to the democratic principles this country was built on. All of this is happening even as the government shutdown enters its third week. And the trump administration is increasing mass deportations and militarized crackdowns on major cities. We'll have all the latest updates and the top political news of the day. The ranking member of the House Budget Committee is standing by. And we'll react to the president's unexpected commute. Disgraced former New York congressman George Santos has been released from jail after serving only a fraction of his seven-year sentence for federal crimes.

On today's Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses over 7 million who joined nationwide 'No Kings' protests yesterday. Tonight, live from Chicago, organizers say a quarter-million marched against a Trump agenda that has made the city the center of his authoritarian push. While the 'No Kings' protest was peaceful, a separate protest at an ICE facility resulted in multiple arrests for the second day, as Trump asked the Supreme Court to allow sending National Guard troops to Chicago. Sharpton will speak with Congressman Jonathan Jackson about the weekend's events and hear from a Catholic priest who tried to give communion to detainees at the Broadview facility.

Tonight, on 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton highlights that only three days remain until a major off-year election night, where voters face crucial choices and leaders provide insights. A federal judge has mandated the Trump administration to continue essential nutritional aid for 42 million low-income Americans amid the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 31st day. It's unclear whether President Trump will comply, as he references conflicting court decisions. He seems reluctant to negotiate with Democrats to reopen the government and is instead urging Senate Republicans to abolish the filibuster, while encouraging House members to take a prolonged recess. Remember, early voting is currently underway nationwide.

On tonight's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton welcomes viewers to MS NOW, our newly renamed channel, which stands for "My Source for News, Opinion, and the World." While we have a fresh name and graphics, our mission remains the same: to speak honestly and uphold the promises made on the first Politics Nation broadcast 14 years ago. 

Reverend Al Sharpton will discuss the end of the government shutdown and the ongoing challenges for Democratic lawmakers. He will be joined by two governors who have successfully kept their states running during the closure, both of whom may aspire to bring their leadership to the national level. 

Later, Reverend Al will chat with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass about preparing the city for expected flooding after appointing a new fire chief following this year's devastating wildfires. 

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton will discuss the recent government shutdown and renewed attention on the Epstein files. President Trump may soon target his old hometown of New York City again, especially with the political rise of Zohran Mamdani. Trump has vowed to challenge the incoming Democratic Socialist mayor, proposing an immigration crackdown and possible National Guard deployment. These issues, along with billions in funding for transit infrastructure, could be pivotal in next year's gubernatorial race as New Yorkers decide between continuing to oppose MAGA policies or aligning with them.