The Smerconish Podcast · Episode 2035 · September 21, 2026 · 10 min

Today's Poll Question: Is a candidate's civility toward opponents a factor in your vote?

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Is a candidate's civility toward opponents a factor in your vote? Michael Smerconish explores whether respect, dignity, and a willingness to work across political lines still matter when voters choose a candidate—or whether policy positions outweigh everything else. The conversation is prompted by Tim Shriver’s work with Unite and the Dignity Index, which focuses on reducing contempt in public life. Michael considers a difficult tradeoff: what if you agree with a candidate’s agenda but reject the way they treat opponents? And what if a more civil candidate holds views you oppose? It’s a timely look at character, disagreement, and what voters actually value at the ballot box. Listen, vote at Smerconish.com, and be sure to RATE, REVIEW, and SHARE this podcast!