PoliticsNation - Season 12 / Year 2026

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', Reverend Al Sharpton discusses preparing to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., feeling hopeful yet weary. He observes that in cities across the country, civil rights are being challenged by the Trump administration's crackdowns, with the Twin Cities currently representing the forefront of this conflict. 

The Washington Post reports that the president is contemplating sending up to 1,500 soldiers, according to anonymous defense officials. Minnesota has also placed its National Guard on standby following clashes in downtown Minneapolis over the weekend involving right-wing and anti-ICE protesters. 

Meanwhile, the Trump administration refuses to investigate the killing of Renee Good by an ICE agent. Additionally, the president is set to speak at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where representatives from EU countries—recently hit with tariffs over Greenland—will be present as Trump demands Denmark cede the territory to the U.S.

On today's episode, Reverend Al Sharpton reports breaking news following a tense weekend in Minneapolis after the killing of 37-year-old VA nurse Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents on Saturday. Administration officials continue to blame Pretti for the deadly encounter, as Minnesota lawmakers announced their next legal moves earlier today. Joining the discussion are Minnesota Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty and Steve Simon, the Minnesota Secretary of State.

On tonight's Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton and the House Democratic Leader discuss the ongoing government shutdown, tough House spending bill negotiations, frustration over heavily redacted Epstein files, and continued Minnesota protests after a judge allowed DHS operations to proceed. 

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how, on the first night of Black History Month, America faces a new challenge in protecting civil rights. 

Across the nation, we are seeing scenes reminiscent of the 1960s as thousands join mass demonstrations and sit-ins in response to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. 

In Georgia, our democracy is at risk after the FBI seized ballots and voter data from the 2020 election, raising concerns for the upcoming midterm elections. Recent special election results indicate that Trump and the Republicans may face significant backlash from voters worried about the country's direction. 

On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Rev. Al Sharpton delivers a forceful rebuke of a racist video shared this week by President Trump depicting former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. Rev. Sharpton condemns the post as vile, dehumanizing, and beneath the office of the presidency, noting that even members of Trump's own party were compelled to denounce it. 

The episode examines the broader implications of the incident, particularly as it occurred during the opening days of Black History Month and amid ongoing efforts by the administration to diminish the contributions of African Americans. Rev. Sharpton also raises alarms about the resurgence of racist tropes alongside rhetoric about "nationalizing" elections in cities with large Black populations, calling the moment increasingly ominous. 

Joining the Reverend for the discussion are Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Senator Tina Smith, and Brennan Center President Michael Waldman, who weigh in on accountability, democratic norms, and the stakes for the country moving forward — including why the ultimate response to racist conduct must come at the ballot box this November.

Tonight, on 'Politics Nation', Reverend Al Sharpton opens the show just hours before Super Bowl 60 kicks off in San Francisco. While the big game looms, President Trump's ongoing culture wars threaten to overshadow the festivities, with Bay Area officials raising concerns about potential ICE activity near the stadium. Conservatives remain fired up over the politics surrounding the halftime show and the Winter Olympics abroad, as the U.S. political climate heats up with the midterm elections now less than nine months away. 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul joins the program to discuss her re-election campaign, ICE enforcement in New York, and her recent announcement of a running mate, along with a major endorsement from the state's progressive mayor. Also joining are Congressional Black Caucus Chair Rep. Yvette Clarke and Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Rep. Adriano Espaillat. The panel will tackle Trump's racist post targeting the Obamas, the Epstein files, DHS funding, Bad Bunny, and more.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton covers the ongoing stalemate between the White House and Congressional Democrats over Homeland Security funding, which has resulted in a partial government shutdown. The impasse continues as the President and Republicans resist Democratic demands for ICE and Border Patrol reforms. 

Meanwhile, President Trump is also facing dissent within his own party regarding the release of the Epstein files. The latest controversy centers on a six-page Justice Department letter to congressional leaders, justifying redactions and listing every high-profile name in the files. The release is drawing criticism from Republicans who argue that too much information has been withheld and that there is no context for how the names appeared in the documents.

Today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the fact that the nation once again finds itself in the midst of a partial government shutdown—the second in just over a year since Donald Trump took office.

This time, the gridlock centers on a single department, as Democrats continue to push for basic reforms to Homeland Security following public outrage over ICE's violent tactics in Minnesota and other locations.

However, the president and his Republican allies in Congress have, so far, shown no interest in pressuring DHS to scale back its actions. 

With Congress out of Washington for the coming week as leadership negotiates a deal, thousands of federal workers under the DHS are expected to report to work without pay, once again.

Tonight's episode of Politics Nation opens with a tribute to Reverend Jesse Jackson, highlighting his legacy of cooperation and humanity. Later in the show, Reverend Al Sharpton addresses current tensions, including the president's criticism of Supreme Court justices, threats of military action against Iran, and the ongoing government shutdown over immigration policy. The looming midterm election, shaped by these controversies, is also discussed, with the House's top Democrat joining the show for further analysis.

Rev. Al Sharpton discusses the live and legacy of his late mentor, Rev. Jesse Jackson following his public funeral service in Chicago.

On this episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses the growing death toll of the war with Iran as well as voting rights and the American economy.

Rev. Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's war with Iran and the financial impacts on Black Americans.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton discusses President Trump's conflicting statements on the war with Iran. While he claimed the U.S. was winding down, reports suggest Trump is considering sending troops, and the Pentagon is asking Congress for $200 billion for military preparations. Rev. Sharpton also remembers former FBI Director Robert Mueller, who passed away at 81 and was known for investigating Russia's interference in the 2016 election.

On Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton highlights a tense week as President Trump issues a series of high-stakes ultimatums—threatening military strikes on Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, escalating a broader conflict that could impact global energy and security. 

At home, Trump is also pressuring Democrats by threatening to send ICE agents into airports during a DHS shutdown, while insisting Congress pass his voting-focused SAVE America Act—despite resistance and ongoing debate on Capitol Hill.

Reverend Al Sharpton takes listeners inside the explosive "No Kings" rallies unfolding across the United States and around the world. As demonstrators turn out in the midst of a war and a partial government shutdown, they are voicing deep frustrations with President Trump and policies critics argue resemble the actions of a monarch rather than a democratically elected leader.

Tonight, on Politics Nation with Rev. Al Sharpton: Tensions escalate in the Persian Gulf as thousands of additional U.S. combat troops deploy and Houthi rebels in Yemen launch strikes on Israel. With the Strait of Hormuz still closed, the global economic impact continues to intensify into the second month of conflict. Back in the U.S., more than 8 million people rally in "No Kings" protests opposing the war and the Trump agenda, putting pressure on lawmakers ahead of the midterms. Plus, a key special election in Florida boosts Democratic momentum—hear from the candidate flipping expectations in Trump's backyard. 

On today's Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton breaks down rising tensions with Iran as President Trump warns time is running out on his 10-day ultimatum, threatening major consequences within 48 hours. As the U.S. military searches for a downed service member and reports emerge of additional aircraft losses, the human toll continues to climb. Back in Washington, Trump and Republicans push for a massive $1.5 trillion military funding request—amid deep cuts to social programs and growing economic strain for Americans, with midterm elections just months away. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses how, on a Christian holiday symbolizing renewal and hope, the United States finds itself amid escalating conflict. The day began with encouraging news—a reported miraculous overnight rescue of a missing U.S. airman from inside Iran. However, the hopeful tone shifted when President Trump took to social media, warning that Iranians would be "living in hell" if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened, as his 10-day ultimatum nears its end. A White House official confirmed to MSNBC that Tuesday night marks the president's deadline for a deal. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton discussed his week hosting the National Action Network's Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention in New York. During the event, political leaders from all levels, as well as several prominent Democrats expected to run for president in 2028, shared their perspectives. The episode also featured remarks from several of these figures, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. All of these leaders expressed concern that American democracy is currently in peril and will likely face significant challenges in the upcoming November elections. They warned that the current administration intends to implement voting restrictions that disproportionately affect people of color. Additionally, they highlighted the negative impact of President Trump's actions regarding Iran and his economic policies on Black Americans, as well as ongoing attacks on diversity and its progress. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, you're getting the latest on rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. President Trump is issuing new threats, saying he could "immediately" blockade ships in the Strait of Hormuz and target Iran's civilian energy infrastructure if a deal to end the war isn't reached. You'll also hear about Vice President J.D. Vance returning to the U.S. after talks with Iranian negotiators fell apart Saturday. And while those negotiations were breaking down in Pakistan, Trump was in Miami attending a UFC fight. There's more you need to know—growing concerns about Republican "dirty tricks" ahead of the midterms, as Black voters in Virginia say they're being targeted with racist misinformation to keep them from a key redistricting vote. And coming up, you'll hear from several potential 2028 presidential candidates from the National Action Network convention, including Senators Mark Kelly and Cory Booker, Governor Andy Beshear, and Congressman Ro Khanna.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton discusses the confusion reigning in the Mideast as Iran claims it has reimposed its control over the Strait of Hormuz until the U.S. ends its blockade of Iranian ports. Reports indicate that vessels face fire from Iranian gunboats as they attempt to pass through the strait. A new Wall Street Journal report quotes U.S. officials stating that the military now plans to board ships in international waters if those vessels are linked to Iran. At the White House, President Trump refuses to answer questions about the strait but claims talks with Iran are progressing and expects to have more information by the end of the day. These mixed messages emerge as the president faces growing unpopularity at home and internationally, with even his own MAGA base split over the war and his public feud with the Pope baffling the faithful worldwide.

On a special "Flash Point" edition of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the sweeping implications of a historic Supreme Court ruling on Black congressional districts in Louisiana. The decision, issued by the conservative-led court, has intensified the national battle over voting rights by undermining key protections long associated with the Voting Rights Act and raising concerns about the future of majority-Black districts across the South. The ruling has already triggered political fallout, with Louisiana's governor halting ongoing primaries to redraw congressional maps that could further shift the balance of power toward Republicans. Sharpton frames the moment as both a critical challenge for Democrats aiming to regain control of Congress and a broader test for the durability of civil rights gains achieved over decades. The episode explores the possibility that the decision signals a turning point in American democracy, with potential consequences for representation, electoral fairness, and the legacy of the civil rights movement. Featuring a lineup of prominent voices, including affected Louisiana lawmakers, Congressional Black Caucus leadership, and historic figures in Black political leadership, the program offers a wide-ranging discussion on the ruling's legal, political, and social impact. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton takes a closer look at a pivotal moment for Black voters as the Supreme Court's ruling on Louisiana voting maps sparks legal challenges, accelerates redistricting efforts across the South, and raises new concerns about fair representation ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the escalating national battle over redistricting and voting rights as Republicans push new congressional maps ahead of the midterm elections. Following a Virginia Supreme Court decision striking down the state's Democratic-favored voting map, lawmakers across the South and Midwest are advancing controversial redistricting efforts amid renewed debate over the Voting Rights Act and minority representation. The discussion highlights growing concerns over the future of Black and Brown voting districts in states like Tennessee, where new maps have sparked criticism over transparency and voter input. The episode also explores former President Donald Trump's influence on Republican lawmakers during the redistricting process and features conversations with regional Democratic leaders on the front lines of the fight over representation, voting power, and the balance of Congress.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, Rev. Al Sharpton examines how the 2026 midterm landscape is rapidly shifting after major court rulings on voting rights and redistricting. For months, Democrats hoped President Trump's declining poll numbers would help them regain control of Congress. But recent decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court and the Virginia Supreme Court have reshaped the political battlefield, potentially favoring Republicans ahead of November. Sharpton discusses how GOP-led states across the South and Midwest are moving quickly to redraw congressional maps, while Democrats face legal and political setbacks. The episode features Democratic lawmakers and candidates navigating the growing redistricting fight and its impact on the balance of power in Washington. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Rev. Al Sharpton opened with a live report from Selma, Alabama — one of the most historic centers of the Civil Rights Movement — where demonstrators gathered to protest Republican-led gerrymandering efforts unfolding across the South. Faith leaders, activists, and political organizers assembled in Selma, Montgomery, and other cities nationwide, warning against what they describe as attempts to roll back decades of Black political progress in order to preserve Republican control of Congress and support President Donald Trump's political agenda. 

On today's episode of PoliticsNation, Rev. Al Sharpton examines how this week's primary elections could become a major test of voter frustration following the Supreme Court's recent decision in Louisiana v. Callais. The ruling effectively gutted the Voting Rights Act. As voters across several states head to the polls, the episode explores how Americans are evaluating both President Trump's leadership and the Democratic opposition ahead of the 2026 midterms. Sharpton also highlights growing concerns among Black voters in Southern states where voting rights advocates warn of increasing threats to political representation and ballot access. Following a weekend of voting rights rallies, the program focuses on the stakes of the upcoming elections and the broader fight over democracy, representation, and Black political power in America. 

On Politics Nation, Reverend Al Sharpton covers President Trump's push for a $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund to reward political allies, including January 6th participants—a plan so extreme some Republicans refused to support it. Sharpton contrasts this swift action with decades of stalled reparations efforts for African Americans, arguing that Republican resistance to Trump's power comes too late and predicting increased demands for justice if Democrats return to power. 

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton is joined by Democratic kingmaker Congressman Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, who was celebrated at his 34th Annual World Famous Fish Fry after surviving a GOP gerrymandering effort that threatened to weaken his district and diminish his political influence in a move critics say was designed to benefit President Trump. 

The victory against Trump-backed redistricting efforts gave Democrats a boost heading into the weekend, while Clyburn's South Carolina gathering also offered an early glimpse at several high-profile Democrats who could be eyeing a 2028 presidential run.

On today's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton covers breaking news from Newark, New Jersey, where tensions appear to be easing outside the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility after days of protests and clashes between demonstrators and police. 

Authorities announced that limited family visitations have resumed, with full visitation hours expected to return tomorrow as officials and activists work to calm unrest across Newark and surrounding communities. Meanwhile, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is calling for the facility's closure following an oversight visit with New Jersey House Democrats. 

Reverend Al examines every angle of the developing story with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and Reverend Steffie Bartley of the National Action Network, who joins live from the ground in Newark.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines the political battle unfolding on Capitol Hill as President Trump's $700 billion immigration bill heads to the House after passing the Senate. With a House vote expected as early as Monday, Sharpton highlights growing fractures within the Republican Party, including recent GOP support for a War Powers resolution on Iran and additional aid to Ukraine despite White House opposition. The episode also explores Democratic efforts to regain control of Congress ahead of the midterm elections while raising concerns about renewed voter suppression tactics and attempts by MAGA Republicans to cast doubt on the legitimacy of upcoming elections.

On tonight's episode of Politics Nation, host Reverend Al Sharpton examines President Trump's latest display of political spectacle as events tied to Flag Day and the president's birthday unfold across Washington, D.C. From a UFC-style showdown planned for the White House South Lawn to public demonstrations near the Kennedy Center, Sharpton explores how Trump's focus on image, dominance, and media attention continues to shape the national conversation. 

The episode also turns to the deeper issues overshadowing the weekend's theatrics, including growing political division across the country and the ongoing conflict Trump claims he is close to ending. 

Sharpton contrasts the administration's high-profile public events with the mounting concerns facing Americans at home and abroad.