The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell

Drawing upon his experience as a former chief of staff on the Senate Finance Committee and as an Emmy-winning executive producer and writer of ‘The West Wing,’ Lawrence O’Donnell examines the compelling and impactful political stories of the day. Join him every weeknight.
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Episode's summary

This episode examines recent political developments involving Donald Trump, including his reactions to Supreme Court rulings and high-stakes Oval Office meetings with the leaders of Ukraine and Israel. The discussion also covers President Zelensky's military actions in the Caspian Sea and their implications for US-Ukraine relations. The program further investigates the hidden costs of retrofitting a Qatari-donated Boeing 747 for presidential use and the financial motives behind a Saudi nuclear deal. Additionally, the episode features interviews regarding the economic impact of tariffs on Iowa farmers and American small businesses.

Chapters

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Highlights

Donald Trump always lies about losing and always tries to hide his moments of complete and utter surrender.

00:01:58 · The host criticizes Donald Trump's behavior regarding legal and political setbacks.

Bellowing, Trump told Netanyahu he was sick of his antics. I've done everything to protect you. You better effing go along with this.

00:13:47 · The host quotes from a book describing an aggressive interaction between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that Ukraine struck a cargo vessel moving military supplies between Iran and Russia in the Caspian Sea.

00:15:42 · The speaker reports on recent Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Iranian supply lines in the Caspian Sea.

The Pentagon has tried to mask the total price tag, including from Congress, by taking the funds from a classified budget for nuclear modernization.

00:24:56 · The report alleges that funding for the plane's upgrades was hidden within a classified budget.

She said that 80 percent of tariffs are paid by foreign countries. And that's about as accurate as saying 80 percent of Wisconsin is covered in palm trees.

00:41:49 · Congressman Mark Pocan critiques a Trump administration official's claim regarding who bears the cost of tariffs.

Episodes

2088-

Lawrence: Trump proves he’s the stupidest negotiator in the history of American government

This episode examines recent political developments involving Donald Trump, including his reactions to Supreme Court rulings and high-stakes Oval Office meetings with the leaders of Ukraine and Israel. The discussion also covers President Zelensky's military actions in the Caspian Sea and their implications for US-Ukraine relations. The program further investigates the hidden costs of retrofitting a Qatari-donated Boeing 747 for presidential use and the financial motives behind a Saudi nuclear deal. Additionally, the episode features interviews regarding the economic impact of tariffs on Iowa farmers and American small businesses.

29 Jul 2026
2087-

Lawrence: Day 150 shows what happens when a madman starts a war

This episode examines the ongoing five-month conflict between the Trump administration and Iran, analyzing criticisms of Donald Trump's leadership and reports that military bombing campaigns have reached their limit of effectiveness. The discussion includes polling data showing widespread American disapproval of the war. The program also covers domestic political tensions, including Donald Trump's campaign rhetoric in Michigan and legal battles over voting rights. Additionally, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse discusses the nomination of Todd Blanche for Attorney General, expressing concerns regarding election integrity and the potential influence of wealthy donors on the Supreme Court.

28 Jul 2026
2086-

Pentagon lowers number of troop deaths in Iran war

This episode examines the Trump administration's handling of the war in Iran, focusing on allegations of manipulated casualty data and the lack of a strategic exit plan. Senator Chris Coons joins to criticize current Middle East policy and advocate for stronger alliances. The program also investigates the significant returns of Donald Trump Jr.'s investment firm, 1789 Capital, and explores the economic consequences of proposed tariffs on Canada and other trading partners. Additionally, the episode covers the impact of trade and war policies on inflation and energy prices, alongside a discussion on legislative efforts in Texas to restrict IVF access.

24 Jul 2026
2085-

Trump threatens to commit potential war crimes on Iran

This episode examines the escalating tensions in the conflict with Iran, focusing on Donald Trump's threats to strike Iranian civilian infrastructure and the potential for war crimes. Senator Gary Peters discusses the administration's lack of a coherent strategy and calls for accountability regarding international law violations. The program also covers significant domestic political developments, including Congressman Brendan Boyle's critique of Republican budget policies and Jim Jordan's criminal referral of Special Counsel Jack Smith. Additionally, the episode explores the impact of election denialism on Arizona's Republican primaries and examines upcoming congressional challenges in Florida.

23 Jul 2026
2084-

Combative Hegseth faces tough questions from senators

This episode examines a contentious Senate hearing regarding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's $1.5 trillion defense budget request and the ongoing war in Iran, featuring intense questioning from Senators Ossoff and Peters and criticism from Congresswoman Madeline Dean. The program also covers various US election developments, including the Arizona gubernatorial primary and Pennsylvania's 8th District race. Additionally, the episode explores Donald Trump's efforts to reshape Washington D.C.'s landmarks and the legal battles over the Kennedy Center. The discussion concludes with concerns regarding Todd Blanche's confirmation as Attorney General and the potential use of an 'anti-weaponization fund' as a taxpayer-funded slush fund.

22 Jul 2026