Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, MS NOW, Willie Geist|3455 - Senate advances Sen. Lindsey Graham's Russia sanctions bill
Join Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist, for in-depth and informed discussions that help drive the day's political conversation. Top newsmakers, Washington insiders, journalists, and cultural influencers, come together on Morning Joe for unparalleled insight and analysis around the day's biggest stories.
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Episode's summary
This episode examines escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following U.S. military interceptions of Iranian missiles, alongside domestic health concerns regarding rising measles cases linked to declining vaccination rates. The discussion also covers the political scrutiny facing Dr. Anthony Fauci regarding COVID-19 origins and the Senate's progress on a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran.
Additionally, the episode features an interview with Senator Richard Blumenthal regarding legislative efforts to curb Russian war funding and reflections on the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham.
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Highlights
The reason why is the foreign minister, uh, quite clearly is on a different page than members of the hardened Revolutionary Guard who do not want to yield, who do not want to end this war, who are feeling a degree of power they've never felt before in Iran.
00:01:53 · The speaker explains the internal division within Iran that complicates potential peace efforts.
Measles is on the rise, with cases hitting a 35-year high.
00:07:35 · The reporter provides statistics regarding the significant increase in measles infections across the country.
The problem can be attributed to two people, Trump and RFK Jr. They've been campaigning against this vaccine, saying it's linked to autism, even though that's been widely disproven through numerous studies.
00:08:35 · The reporter identifies political figures as contributors to the decline in vaccination rates due to their anti-vaccine rhetoric.
I think he will go for it because one of Senator Graham's last shining accomplishments was, in effect, to persuade President Trump that it is in his interest and our national interest to support Ukraine by imposing these crushing sanctions and tariffs on Ukraine's purchasers of Russian oil and gas because they are fueling Russia's war machine.
00:17:37 · Senator Blumenthal explains why he believes President Trump will support the newly advanced bipartisan sanctions bill.
What's top of mind for me is that we need to put a halt to the unlimited, unbridled discretion that the president seems to feel he has to wage this war.
00:21:30 · Senator Blumenthal expresses his concern regarding the executive branch's use of authority in the conflict with Iran.
This episode examines escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following U.S. military interceptions of Iranian missiles, alongside domestic health concerns regarding rising measles cases linked to declining vaccination rates. The discussion also covers the political scrutiny facing Dr. Anthony Fauci regarding COVID-19 origins and the Senate's progress on a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran.
Additionally, the episode features an interview with Senator Richard Blumenthal regarding legislative efforts to curb Russian war funding and reflections on the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham.
Published29 Jul 2026
Duration24:50
Episodes
3455-
Senate advances Sen. Lindsey Graham's Russia sanctions bill
Listened
This episode examines escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following U.S. military interceptions of Iranian missiles, alongside domestic health concerns regarding rising measles cases linked to declining vaccination rates. The discussion also covers the political scrutiny facing Dr. Anthony Fauci regarding COVID-19 origins and the Senate's progress on a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia and Iran.
Additionally, the episode features an interview with Senator Richard Blumenthal regarding legislative efforts to curb Russian war funding and reflections on the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham.
29 Jul 2026
3454-
Joe Manchin wants more independents in Congress
Listened
This episode explores shifting political landscapes in Iowa and Texas, featuring an interview with former Senator Joe Manchin and his daughter, Heather, regarding their new 'Independent Leadership Council' initiative. The discussion delves into how political extremes are displacing the moderate center and the impact of social media on polarization.
The hosts also examine various sociological and economic trends under a 'Brand Up, Brand Down' lens. Topics include declining national homicide rates, the financial implications of the national debt, rising shoplifting among younger generations, and shifting social behaviors such as declining sexual activity and increasing social isolation.
29 Jul 2026
3453-
Trump delivers eulogy at Lindsey Graham's funeral
Listened
The episode examines escalating tensions in the Middle East, focusing on military escalations between Iran and the U.S., and how internal Iranian power struggles complicate de-escalation efforts. The panel also discusses how President Trump's public diplomacy and social media use may be undermining his international credibility.
Domestically, the discussion covers Trump's declining approval ratings, the economic implications of inflation, tariffs, and interest rates, and concerns regarding immigration enforcement and detention center conditions. The segment also touches upon Senate confirmations, political shifts within the GOP, and the Federal Reserve's outlook.
29 Jul 2026
3452-
Trump praises tariff, mocks affordability (again) in Michigan rally
Listened
This episode explores the shifting political landscape in America, examining Donald Trump's recent comments on economic affordability and the growing influence of socialist elements within the Democratic Party. The discussion also covers Republican Senate dynamics regarding the filibuster and leadership under Thune.
The program further delves into the evolution of American soccer and concerns over FIFA's moral corruption, alongside political analysis of Jay Clayton's confirmation hearing and the Trump administration's efforts to restrict mail-in voting. Additionally, the episode features reflections on the legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham and an interview with Emmy Rossum about her new Hulu crime thriller, 'Furious.'
28 Jul 2026
3451-
Trump doubts intelligence that Russia is helping Iran
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This episode explores complex geopolitical shifts, including President Trump's comments on potential negotiations with Iran and the growing alignment between Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. The discussion also covers the political landscape in Israel regarding Prime Minister Netanyahu and the implications of recent diplomatic developments.
Additionally, the episode features an interview with Maine Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson, focusing on local issues such as healthcare access, food insecurity, and reproductive rights. The program concludes with reports on the confirmation of Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence and the critical water crisis affecting the Colorado River.
28 Jul 2026
3450-
DSA v. Democrats: The battle to define a political party
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This episode explores the rising influence of radical ideologies within the Democratic Party and the internal tensions regarding how to handle extreme progressive voices. The hosts debate whether the Democratic establishment must hold its more extreme members accountable to prevent being defined by them in upcoming elections, while also examining Donald Trump's recent rhetoric and economic claims.
The discussion further covers legal challenges to mail-in voting and the potential impact of media consolidation through the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger. The episode concludes with insights into the legacy of the Condé Nast media empire and a look at evolving digital subscription models.
28 Jul 2026
3449-
Trump heads to Michigan ahead of state's Aug. 4 primary
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This episode examines the intersection of global conflict and domestic economic strain, specifically focusing on how rising food and fuel costs are impacting American life. The discussion explores shifting political landscapes, from Republican candidates distancing themselves from Donald Trump's rhetoric to the financial struggles and leadership turmoil within the Democratic National Committee.
The program also features an in-depth look at the documentary 'Wham! 10 Days in China,' with Andrew Ridgeley and director Mike Christie discussing the unprecedented political pressures of their 1985 tour. Additionally, the episode covers recent developments regarding the Iran-U.S. ceasefire, Trump's use of AI-generated imagery on social media, and evolving political dynamics in Texas.
27 Jul 2026
3448-
New reporting on DNC financial troubles ahead of the midterms
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The hosts debate LeBron James's unexpected move to the Philadelphia 76ers on a veteran minimum contract and discuss Christopher Nolan's latest film. The episode also explores the severe financial crisis and leadership instability within the Democratic National Committee, including reports of extreme debt management measures.
The conversation shifts to broader political and cultural trends, covering the emergence of the South as a political epicenter, an ICE vetting controversy in Maine, and how GLP-1 drugs are influencing American home design. Finally, the episode examines reports regarding the Trump administration's cancellation of federal grants based on political affiliations.
27 Jul 2026
3447-
Trump delivers crass WHCD speech with 'endless' wars rage on
Listened
This episode examines the escalating conflict with Iran, focusing on the diplomatic and military challenges facing the U.S., including munitions shortages and the political dilemma of potential strikes ahead of the midterm elections. The discussion also addresses domestic economic pressures, such as rising food and fuel inflation, and the shifting political dynamics within the Republican party as candidates navigate their relationship with President Trump.
Additionally, the program explores recent controversies regarding historical integrity, specifically President Trump's order to install warning signs at the Smithsonian Museum. Historians and reporters debate the implications of attempting to rewrite American history for political purposes and the broader impact on journalism, dissent, and the concept of patriotism.
27 Jul 2026
3446-
Reflecting on race and 250 years of American history
Listened
This episode examines escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, including President Trump's consideration of major combat operations and allegations regarding the manipulation of Pentagon casualty statistics. The program also features a deep discussion with Professor Eddie Glaude Jr. on the fundamental contradictions in American identity, specifically the tension between ideals of freedom and the history of racial injustice.
In a book recommendation segment, Ryan Holiday discusses his independent bookstore, The Painted Porch, before the hosts explore several historical works. These include Taylor Branch's civil rights trilogy, Gary Wills' account of the Gettysburg Address, Daniel Immerwahr's study of American empire, Jeffrey Rosen's analysis of the Founding Fathers, and Jill Lepore's history of the United States.
24 Jul 2026
3445-
Unrest in Ukraine: Protesters demand Zelensky reinstate Defense Minister
Listened
This episode examines major political shifts in Ukraine, including the power struggle involving President Zelensky and the dismissal of defense minister Fedorov, alongside potential U.S. military operations in Iran and uncertainty surrounding a Saudi nuclear deal.
The discussion also covers the volatility of Trump's foreign policy, shifting dynamics in Georgia swing states, and the economic implications of new U.S. tariffs on trading partners like Canada. Finally, the episode explores efforts to protect election integrity and concerns regarding administration pressure on the media.
24 Jul 2026
3444-
AXIOS: Trump says he is seriously considering restarting major combat operations in Iran
Listened
This episode features a discussion on Morning Joe regarding the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, including President Trump's consideration of major combat operations. The panel debates administration transparency, specifically addressing the removal of U.S. troop deaths from official counts and the lack of congressional briefings.
The program also covers geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Houthi rebel threats to Red Sea shipping and the Department of Justice's recent withdrawal of subpoenas issued to New York Times reporters. Additionally, the segment explores political tensions between President Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune regarding the Save America Act, alongside reports on Republican loyalty within the House.
24 Jul 2026
3443-
U.S., Iran trade strikes for 12th straight night
Listened
This episode examines the escalating military conflict between the United States and Iran, focusing on threats to civilian infrastructure and the potential impact on vital waterways. The discussion also explores recent political polling showing Republican challenges regarding the economy and immigration.
The program further analyzes the 'split screen' American economy, contrasting high stock market performance and AI-driven growth with a widespread affordability crisis in housing, food, and energy. Additionally, the episode covers the economic implications of AI on job displacement in professional sectors, alongside news regarding legal investigations into Jeff Staley and updates on the Tate brothers' extradition case.
23 Jul 2026
3442-
U.S. signs landmark nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia
Listened
This episode examines Donald Trump's recent campaign rhetoric in Georgia, focusing on his claims regarding communism and economic inflation, alongside the shifting political strategies of both the GOP and Democrats concerning immigration enforcement. The discussion also covers significant geopolitical developments, including concerns over a potential U.S.-Saudi nuclear agreement and allegations of Chinese election interference.
Additionally, the episode explores the legal and social landscape of America through a discussion on the criminal referral against Jack Smith and an interview regarding the documentary 'Amerigo.' The conversation concludes with reflections on the state of the American Dream, institutional distrust, and the importance of a generative mindset in younger generations.
23 Jul 2026
3441-
Fox News Polling: Democrats favored by voters to handle key issues
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This episode examines recent political and global developments, beginning with Morning Joe's analysis of Fox News polling showing Democrats leading on key issues like the economy and immigration, alongside the escalating conflict between the U.S. and Iran regarding threats to civilian infrastructure. The discussion also covers Democratic strategies to combat election disinformation and 'doomsday scenario' simulations ahead of the midterms.
Additionally, the episode explores critical health and safety updates, including FDA investigations into unregulated peptide injections, a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce, and the surge in measles cases across the U.S. Finally, the conversation addresses the global trend of banning social media for children and the legislative challenges facing the United States.
23 Jul 2026
3440-
Trump signals willingness to escalate war with Iran
Listened
This episode examines the evolving landscape of the Trump administration's foreign policy, characterized by experts as a shift toward 'aggressive unilateralism.' The discussion covers escalating tensions with Iran, potential military strikes on nuclear sites, and the geopolitical implications for Israel and Lebanon.
The program also explores domestic and cultural developments, including an interview with author Kelly Ashby Paul regarding her patriotic children's books, the upcoming 'Les Misérables' arena concert in New York City, and international news ranging from France's social media age restrictions to record-breaking World Cup viewership.
22 Jul 2026
3439-
Scalise warns of 'Bolshevik takeover' for Democrats
Listened
This episode examines the intersection of political rhetoric and economic reality, beginning with a debate on whether Republican use of 'communism' as a talking point serves as a distraction from affordability issues. The discussion also covers Donald Trump's shifting stance on China and the impact of administration policies on unaccompanied minors in custody.
The program further explores public health concerns regarding a cyclospora outbreak, the global implications of AI at the upcoming Semaphore conference, and the economic challenges facing young Americans. Finally, we look at political developments in Arizona's Republican primaries and a voter registration error in New Jersey.
22 Jul 2026
3438-
Analysis of Trump's second term foreign policy
Listened
This episode features a panel discussion regarding the foreign policy of President Trump's second term, focusing on recent military actions in Venezuela and Iran. Experts analyze the concept of 'aggressive unilateralism,' the risks of American overreach in Lebanon and the Gulf, and the political motivations driving regional stability.
The discussion also covers domestic economic pressures, including an analysis of the rising national debt under the Trump administration and its impact on manufacturing jobs and tariffs. The episode concludes with a look at health benefits regarding coffee consumption and a morning news briefing.
22 Jul 2026
3437-
Pentagon: almost 100 troops injured in recent weeks
Listened
This episode examines the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, focusing on the political and military dilemmas facing President Trump and the potential for a broader Middle East war. The discussion also addresses allegations of Pentagon lack of transparency regarding American casualties and service member injuries.
The program further covers news regarding a DOJ investigation into journalists' records, the appointment of Britain's new Prime Minister, and the economic impact of the World Cup. Finally, an interview with Robert Smigel explores his new podcast 'Humor Me' and his comedic work.
21 Jul 2026
3436-
Democrats look to stage comeback in deep-red Iowa
Listened
This episode investigates the ongoing inquiry into the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells and explores the internal ideological tensions within the Democratic Party. Discussions feature Jim Messina on the importance of moderate candidates in swing states like Michigan and Iowa, as well as the party's current leadership challenges.
The program also examines shifting brand trends, from the revival of the Mickey Mouse Club to the growth of CD sales. Finally, Senator Mark Warner joins to discuss US-Iran tensions and the urgent need for legislative guardrails to address the rapid development and security vulnerabilities posed by artificial intelligence.
21 Jul 2026
3435-
Pentagon identifies two soldiers killed in action in Jordan; U.S., Iran trade strikes for 10th straight day
Listened
This episode examines the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, debating whether the Trump administration's military actions lack a long-term strategy or inadvertently empower Iranian interests. The discussion also covers rising tensions in the Middle East involving the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, alongside allegations of Pentagon misinformation regarding military casualties.
The program transitions from sports news—including the Boston Red Sox's winning streak and disciplinary investigations into Argentinian players following the World Cup final—to a deep dive into American history. Featuring author Lauren Collins, the episode explores the 1898 Wilmington coup to illustrate the persistent pattern of white backlash against Black political progress in the United States.
21 Jul 2026
3434-
Trump threatens Canada with tariffs over wildfire smoke
Listened
This episode examines declassified intelligence regarding foreign interference in the 2020 election and the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, which has resulted in increased casualties among American service members. The program also explores the critical importance of state and local elections in protecting democracy from threats like gerrymandering.
In sports, the episode analyzes Spain's victory in the Men's World Cup final against Argentina and provides updates on the British Open and baseball. Additionally, the discussion covers Canadian-American relations regarding wildfires and the necessity for political unity among Democrats, independents, and non-MAGA Republicans following recent primary elections.
20 Jul 2026
3433-
Christopher Nolan talks epic new film "The Odyssey"
Listened
Admiral John Kirby and David Ignatius discuss the escalating conflict with Iran, focusing on the lack of an 'exit ramp' due to internal divisions within the Iranian regime and the potential for expanded U.S. military operations. The discussion covers the complexities of negotiating with a fragmented leadership structure involving the IRGC.
The episode also covers news regarding political tensions between Canada and the U.S. over wildfire smoke, the arrest of the Tate brothers, and an FDA reversal on lettuce-related outbreaks. Finally, director Christopher Nolan discusses his new film, The Odyssey, detailing the technical challenges of filming in IMAX, his creative process for adapting classical literature, and the timeless truths found in Homer's work.
20 Jul 2026
3432-
Deadly Iran escalation, Spain wins the World Cup, "The Odyssey" storms the global box office
Listened
This episode features a wide-ranging discussion covering political integrity, international conflict, and the global landscape of sports. The panel examines election integrity in the U.S., declassified documents regarding foreign influence, and escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran.
The conversation also delves into sports analysis, including Spain's World Cup victory, the development of soccer fundamentals in the United States, and the future of the Democratic Party. The discussion concludes with reflections on the cultural impact of football in America and the political influence of the DSA.
20 Jul 2026
3431-
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro joins Morning Joe
Listened
17 Jul 2026
3430-
Trump provides no evidence of illegal voting in speech
Listened
17 Jul 2026
3429-
Trump's declassified docs show Russia meddled in 2020 against Biden
Listened
17 Jul 2026
3428-
U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico (D-TX) joins Morning Joe
Listened
16 Jul 2026
3427-
Over 100 House Democrats vote to cut Israel aid
Listened
16 Jul 2026
3426-
Previewing Trump's primetime address
Listened
16 Jul 2026
3425-
Trump: ICE can't give up traffic stops
Listened
15 Jul 2026
3424-
Fallout from two deadly ICE shootings
Listened
15 Jul 2026
3423-
Todd Blanche faces scrutiny ahead of Senate confirmation hearing today
Listened
15 Jul 2026
3422-
U.S., Iran vie for control of Strait of Hormuz
Listened
14 Jul 2026
3421-
Sen. Gary Peters backs Haley Stevens in Michigan Senate race
Listened
14 Jul 2026
3420-
ICE in Maine shoot and kill a man who was not the target of an arrest warrant
Listened
14 Jul 2026
3419-
U.S. and Iran trade new rounds of strikes
Listened
13 Jul 2026
3418-
NYT journalists subpoenaed after reporting on new Air Force One
Listened
13 Jul 2026
3417-
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina dies unexpectedly at the age of 71
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13 Jul 2026
3416-
Democrat Josh Turek leading in Iowa Senate poll
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10 Jul 2026
3415-
Mideast tensions escalate after U.S. strikes on Iran
Listened
10 Jul 2026
3414-
Calls are growing for an independent investigation into deadly ICE shooting in Texas
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10 Jul 2026
3413-
U.S. & Iran trade strikes for second day
Listened
Thu, 9 Jul 2026 17:56:19 +0000
3412-
Republicans celebrate Graham Platner chaos in Maine
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Thu, 9 Jul 2026 13:35:07 +0000
3411-
Graham Platner drops out of Maine Senate race, who will replace him?
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Thu, 9 Jul 2026 12:08:27 +0000
3410-
"I think it's over": U.S. launches strikes on Iran, Trump criticizes NATO
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Wed, 8 Jul 2026 16:19:37 +0000
3409-
Democratic Senate candidates in Michigan faceoff in debate
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Wed, 8 Jul 2026 15:05:43 +0000
3408-
U.S. launches strikes against Iran, Trump criticizes NATO
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Wed, 8 Jul 2026 11:58:41 +0000
3407-
WH Ballroom... now Helipad?: SEMAFOR explains 'How Trump became the president of Washington, DC'
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Tue, 7 Jul 2026 15:06:45 +0000
3406-
Top Democrats who backed Graham Platner now pulling endorsements