Cracking Up

June 20, 2026; 5pm: On today’s episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton begins with breaking developments in the Middle East as tensions threaten to unravel the fragile three-day-old peace agreement between the United States and Iran. With conflicting claims over the status of the Strait of Hormuz, continued regional violence, and Vice President J.D. Vance traveling to Switzerland for negotiations, Sharpton examines the growing uncertainty surrounding the conflict and its potential impact on the global economy. He also critiques President Trump’s leadership during the crisis, arguing that the administration appears increasingly focused on domestic symbolism while international instability escalates. Later, Sharpton turns to former President Barack Obama’s vision of leadership and unity, recapping the opening of the Obama Presidential Center during Juneteenth weekend and exploring what it represents for the nation’s future. The episode highlights competing visions of America at a pivotal moment at home and abroad. For more, follow us on Instagram @PoliticsNation To listen to the shows in this feed and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. You'll also get exclusive bonus content and early access to select shows. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.