
PoliticsNation
MSNBC
Rev. Al Sharpton highlights political stories and issues requiring a national platform.
Episodes
Scorched Earth
5/3/2025
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.
Duration:00:39:51
Blow Black
5/1/2025
Tonight, on an episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how President Trump will reach the 100-day mark of his second term in office on Tuesday. His return to the presidency has been marked by a series of executive actions that have challenged the fundamental principles of our democratic system. New polling suggests many Americans are upset and anxious about the direction the Trump administration is taking America. They are also dissatisfied with the president's job performance, even on issues that were once considered Trump's strengths, like immigration and the economy. Democrats are increasingly stiffening their spines and fighting back. Last night, Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer told Politics Nation that the constitutional crisis has arrived. Right now, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker are on the steps of Capitol Hill, holding a sit-in billed as an "urgent conversation with the American people" ahead of Congress returning to session tomorrow to debate Republicans' proposed budget plan.
Duration:00:40:09
A Moment Of Mourning
4/27/2025
On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the recent events surrounding Pope Francis, who was laid to rest this morning at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. People of all faiths and those without faith worldwide paused to remember a man who dedicated his life to the principles of faith, compassion, and peace. Also, amid the solemnity of the day, there were also moments of hope, including a meeting between U.S. President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy. This meeting took place under the domes of the holiest church in the Christian world and focused on finding a path to end hostilities that have lasted three years due to Russia's war in Ukraine. This discussion came just a few months after Trump publicly berated Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. Lastly, as Trump returns to Washington, it remains to be seen whether any goodwill from this meeting will carry over to a nation deeply divided by the provocative policy moves made by this White House, as we approach the hundred-day mark of President Trump’s second term.
Duration:00:43:52
Standoffs and Confrontations
4/20/2025
On today's episode of Politics Nation, the Reverend Al Sharpton touches base as we hurtle towards day 100 of Trump 2.0. We're also starting another week and another round of judicial combat between the Trump administration and our courts. Right now, the President's attempts to deport Venezuelans have been halted by the Supreme Court as justices consider that case. Plus, while the white house continues to justify the mistaken deportation of a Maryland man -- and its refusal of a Supreme Court order to retrieve him, The case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia has become a rallying cry for activists and some Democratic lawmakers, who see it as the shot in the arm the party needs right now. Also, this week is the first Earth Day of Trump's second term. As he doubles down on harvesting fossil fuels and the exploitation of our oceans, and continues to defund federal research, scientists warn of another potentially record-breaking summer heat cycle. And who pays most of the price? We'll tell you in just a bit, as we've got another "Politics Nation" summit to tackle the trump effect on our habitats and health.
Duration:00:42:05
Laying Down the Law
4/20/2025
In tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the Trump administration's need to temporarily halt deportations of Venezuelans while the Supreme Court reviews the case. A rare ruling was issued by the high court early Saturday after backlash against the White House's strict immigration policies. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen recently visited El Salvador to meet Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man deported due to an "administrative error." Instead of complying with the Supreme Court's order to facilitate his return, the White House provided information about Abrego-Garcia’s past, claiming it justifies his removal without due process. Concerns are rising in Washington that the administration’s defiance in the face of Supreme Court opposition could lead to a constitutional crisis. The situation underscores the growing scrutiny of the White House's immigration policies and their implications for the rule of law.
Duration:00:42:36
Roller Coaster
4/12/2025
In today’s episode, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the significant market volatility this week, as Trump's trade wars impact the American economy. Late last night, the administration announced exemptions for phones, computers, and chips from new tariffs, despite a recent 145 percent tariff on products from China. Some companies are imposing surcharges on imported goods, and Amazon's CEO has warned of rising prices. Meanwhile, legal battles continue over Trump’s agenda, with the Supreme Court indicating its stance on how much oversight it may impose on the president.
Duration:00:41:13
Trade Offs
4/6/2025
On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the upcoming reopening of global stock markets after a historic sell-off triggered by President Trump's "liberation day" tariff announcement last week. World leaders are working urgently to mitigate the impact of these tariffs. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit the White House tomorrow in an attempt to persuade the administration to reverse its 17 percent tariff on Israel. Meanwhile, political resistance to the Trump administration is growing domestically, with tens of thousands of Americans participating in "hands off" demonstrations across the country. These protests are aimed at opposing trade wars, mass deportations, and attacks on civil rights.
Duration:00:42:03
After shocks
4/6/2025
President Trump is golfing in Florida this weekend, following the initiation of a trade war that caused stock markets to plunge, resulting in the most significant two-day market decline in history. The actual economic impact of Trump's tariffs on both allies and adversaries will take months, if not years, to fully assess. China has announced a retaliatory tariff of 34 percent on U.S. imports. Trump's self-styled "Tariff Liberation Day" has contributed to the chaos of his second term, and his opponents are protesting this weekend with "Hands Off" demonstrations against government staffing cuts, mass deportations, and the administration's ongoing dismantling of civil rights protections for all Americans.
Duration:00:42:07
Turning Points
3/30/2025
We anticipate a week that could be crucial for the second Trump administration. On Tuesday, voters in Wisconsin and two districts of Florida will have the opportunity to weigh in on Trump's first two months back in office by casting ballots in races that will impact the balance of the courts and Congress. Trump has dubbed Wednesday "Liberation Day," as he is expected to announce another significant round of tariffs. The President told NBC News that he "couldn't care less" if these tariffs lead to higher costs for consumers. Additionally, the controversy surrounding the Signal messaging app continues to escalate, with growing calls for investigations and accountability. This week is poised to be significant. Let’s get started.
Duration:00:39:17
Smoke Signal
3/29/2025
In tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton examines the White House's handling of various scandals that unfolded over the weekend. Members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees are urging the Pentagon to look into the administration's use of a messaging app for U.S. military communications. Representatives from both committees will join us for a discussion on this matter. Moreover, public frustration is rising over substantial government cuts prompted by Elon Musk and Doge, with town halls across the country expressing discontent. Republicans might encounter political fallout in the upcoming special elections. Later, we feature Josh Weil, a Florida congressional contender and public-school teacher who is running in a competitive district that was previously a stronghold for Trump. Finally, the Trump administration is targeting well-known museums that it deems "too woke." Reverend Al Sharpton will offer his perspective on this executive order in this week's segment of "Gotcha."
Duration:00:41:17
All the President’s Men & Women
3/23/2025
On this episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Donald Trump’s second cabinet meeting and whether billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk will make another appearance. Meanwhile, President Trump and his secretaries are dealing with judicial pushback on everything from his mass deportation plans to cuts for the federal workforce. Plus more signs across the country that voters fed up and ready to fight back from noisy townhalls to massive rallies.
Duration:00:36:55
Collision course
3/22/2025
We're two months into Trump's second term, and the administration seems to be on the fast path to a constitutional showdown with the courts. Much of the drama this week centered around the white house's attempt to use the Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members. Trump and his allies have repeatedly attacked the judge handling the case, with some calling for the judge's impeachment, prompting a rare rebuke from Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. Similar stories are playing out in other hot-button cases, including Trump's transgender ban in the military and his efforts to give doge access to Americans' most sensitive social security data. One clear question is emerging across the docket: Who will emerge the victor in a battle of wills between judges appointed to uphold the law and a president who believes he is the law?
Duration:00:42:36
Red Flags
3/20/2025
On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's return to the White House after another weekend of golf at his Florida resort and the various challenges he faces ahead. Despite campaigning on peace, he launched airstrikes in Yemen last night, resulting in at least 31 deaths. Additionally, a federal judge temporarily blocked the administration's attempt to utilize wartime authorities for the rapid deportation of migrants linked to Venezuelan gangs. Plus, an NBC News poll revealed that Trump’s approval rating was at an all-time high, although Americans expressed concerns about his economic policies. Meanwhile, Democrats are experiencing declining favorability ratings as they debate their strategy to counter the president. Lastly, the Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the issues with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who just met with Trump, and Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, who is running to become the state’s first Black governor.
Duration:00:41:39
The Chaos Continues
3/15/2025
In today’s episode of Politics Nation, Reverend AL discusses a tumultuous week for the second Trump administration, highlighted by the looming threat of a government shutdown. Additionally, critics argue that the Republican stopgap spending bill signed by Trump raises concerns. It fails to limit his control over federal spending. It has created a division among House Democrats, who largely stood against it, and Senate Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who permitted its progress. Schumer is now facing backlash for allegedly yielding to Trump. Lastly, Trump returned to Mar-a-Lago following a Republican victory and made headlines with a controversial speech at the Justice Department. The federal budget remains unresolved, and Elon Musk’s Doge Group is scaling back government services. Significant reductions to Social Security are anticipated as voter frustration grows.
Duration:00:41:20
Stay Woke
3/12/2025
On today's episode of Politics Nation, moments ago in Selma, I joined the commemorative march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge to honor those who faced "Bloody Sunday" sixty years ago. Participating in this march has been one of my greatest honors as an activist. However, today’s observance lacked the joy of past years and felt like a call to action. The civil rights community is facing its greatest threat in decades from a Trump administration that is undermining Black advancement, erasing Black history, and attacking Black participation in society. Tonight, live from this historic site, I will discuss the generational threat to voting, civil, and human rights with three Black members of Congress, reflecting on the sacrifices made here in Selma 60 years ago.
Duration:00:40:12
The New Resistance
3/9/2025
On today's episode of 'Politics Nation' Nearly two months into Trump's second term, Democrats remain without a clear strategy to respond to his administration. Plus, signs of opposition emerge as lawmakers adapt differently, such as breaking ranks or compromising. This week, Texas Congressman Al Green staged a bold protest during Trump’s address to Congress, resulting in censure from some Democrats who felt he went too far. As the Democrats' resistance begins to take shape, Trump’s agenda appears to be stalling. Republicans in Congress are grappling with backlash over cuts, tariff disputes, and proposed reductions to the Education Department's budget—issues on which Trump has temporarily backtracked. Lastly, reports indicate that Trump has asserted control over Elon Musk, making it clear in a cabinet meeting that his administration is in charge, not Musk and his team.
Duration:00:41:58
A World of Trouble
3/2/2025
On today’s episode of Politics Nation, we look forward to President Trump’s joint address to Congress, amid significant division following weeks of controversial actions from his administration. America's European allies are now considering independent measures for Ukraine following a contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, federal workers are preparing for more chaos as Elon Musk interferes with their jobs without proper oversight. As Americans tune in on Tuesday, they will be looking for answers on how Trump’s actions will fulfill his promises to reduce inflation, create jobs, and enhance global safety. Will he provide clarity, or will it just be empty rhetoric?
Duration:00:39:17
Off The Rails
3/2/2025
On tonight’s episode of Politic Nation, America’s allies and adversaries are reacting to the notable exchange between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office. Tensions have risen regarding peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, as Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Zelensky for not adequately showing gratitude for U.S. support. Negotiations are currently on hold, and an agreement for U.S. access to Ukrainian mineral resources remains unsigned. This incident may mark a shift in U.S. policy, with Trump moving away from traditional democratic partners in Europe toward more amicable relations with authoritarian leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin. We will explore the political fallout from this meeting and provide updates on budget negotiations in Congress. Additionally, breaking news from New York City reveals that former Governor Andrew Cuomo is announcing his campaign for mayor.
Duration:00:39:36
You've Got Mail
2/23/2025
On today's episode of Politics Nation, government workers received an email from President Trump's unelected efficiency expert, Elon Musk, stating: "Justify your job in five lines or resign." The Trump administration is also planning a takeover of the postal service. The head of the postal workers' union will explain the threat to this longstanding American institution. At the Pentagon, the second-ever Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the first woman to lead the Navy has been removed, along with several other high-ranking officials, accused of being "too woke." We’ll cover President Trump’s ongoing takeover of the federal government tonight. Finally, we’ll preview a new documentary addressing the mental health crisis in the Black community, featuring a young filmmaker who tackled the subject shortly after middle school.
Duration:00:40:12
The Bully Pulpit
2/22/2025
On this episode of Politics Nation, the Rev. Al discusses how the Trump administration embraces its aggressive governing style. Just hours ago, President Trump enthused the crowd at the conservative political action conference in Washington. This right-wing event Has become a celebration of the harsher aspects of Trump 2.0. Today, our Civil Rights Summit panel will address the mass firings, deportations, and the consistent demonization of immigrants, transgender Americans, and anyone who embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion values. While these strongarm tactics may thrill the Maga supporters able to attend this political rally in D.C., they face a cooler reception throughout mainstream America. Even lawmakers in Republican districts are now receiving communications from constituents, realizing they might be unable to effectively count on this administration to deliver the government services essential for a functioning country. The key question remains: How will Americans respond to a new administration that leads with a closed fist when they expect a helping hand?
Duration:00:41:50