Mike Murphy is many things. He is either the funniest smart strategist or the smartest funny strategist.

He has advised some famous and admired Republicans, including John McCain, Mitt Romney, Jeb Bush, Tommy Thompson, Christie Whitman, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Born in Detroit, he attended the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and now makes his home in Los Angeles. Murphy is co-director of the Center for the Political Future at the University of Southern California. He also co-hosts the popular podcast, “Hacks on Tap,” with David Axelrod and John Heilemann.

It is a timely moment to consider politics and elections as America votes on November 3, 2026, in its midterm elections.

We will talk about many things, including President Trump, President Obama, the Democratic and Republican candidates, the issues, the economy, the war, the polls, and the implications for the candidates, issues, and future of politics.