Today's Poll Question: When attacked, should the U.S. respond proportionally or overwhelmingly?

Today's Poll Question: When attacked, should the U.S. respond proportionally or overwhelmingly?

June 11, 2026 · 13 min · Episode 1904

About this episode

Michael examines whether the U.S. should respond proportionally or overwhelmingly when attacked, amidst escalating tensions with Iran.

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: When attacked, should the U.S. respond proportionally or overwhelmingly? As tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, Michael examines one of the oldest and most consequential questions in foreign policy: when America is attacked, should it strike back in kind or with overwhelming force? Drawing on recent developments in the Gulf, President Trump’s response strategy, a memorable scene from The West Wing, and a provocative Wall Street Journal editorial, Michael explores the competing arguments for restraint and escalation. Listen here, then vote. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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