The 2026 Political Scandal Survival Guide and Why 2028 Contenders May Sit Out Entirely, Plus Larry Wilmore on the Comedy Renaissance

Mark Halperin delivers his reported monologue on what it really takes to survive a presidential campaign, drawing on decades of experience covering politics at the highest level. He breaks down how Bill Clinton navigated major scandals during the 1992 race and why his approach to crisis management still stands apart today, then broadens the lens to 2028 to explain why many potential candidates may ultimately decide not to run at all. From George W. Bush to Donald Trump, Halperin examines how past controversies surface, how candidates respond under pressure, and why the ability to withstand scrutiny may be the single most important factor in determining who can actually win. Later, Stephen Moore joins to discuss why artificial intelligence could transform the economy faster than any shift in modern history, from its impact on jobs and productivity to the massive energy demands it will require. Plus, comedy legend Larry Wilmore weighs in on the evolving entertainment landscape, breaking down the current comedy boom and why audiences are returning to live experiences, before sharing his candid thoughts on Trump, the state of the arts, and why Marco Rubio stands out to him in the Trump cabinet. Dutch: Switch to prescription flea protection and save $50 on your Dutch membership at https://Dutch.com/Mark using code MARK. Acre Gold: Start building physical gold with simple monthly payments and enter to win two Ancient Collection gold bars at https://GetAcreGold.com/MARK Bank On Yourself: Discover the retirement plan banks Don't want you to know about—get your free report at https://BankOnYourself.com/Mark Apple — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-with-mark-halperin/id1810218232 Spotify — https://open.spotify.com/show/2f0n8G4xqUo8aGxbbbtRjH%3Fsi%3D8e4ff54000cc438d Follow Next Up with Mark Halperin on all social platforms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextuphalperin TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nextuphalperin X (Twitter): https://x.com/NextUpHalperin Connect with Mark Halperin on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markevanhalperin X (Twitter): https://x.com/markhalperin