Trump supporters feel betrayed over Iran War, Erika Kirk appointed to Air Force Academy Board, Stephen A. Smith says he'd vote for Marco Rubio, And More: 3.11.26 - Rising Recap

Podcast: Rising

Published: 2026-03-11

Duration: 54 min

Summary

This episode explores growing disillusionment among Trump supporters over the Iran war, Erica Kirk's controversial appointment to the Air Force Academy Board, and Stephen A. Smith's political insights, including his surprising preference for Marco Rubio over top Democrats.

What Happened

The hosts kick off the episode by diving into backlash against CNN's misleading tweet regarding an attempted ISIS-inspired bombing in New York City. The tweet's inaccurate portrayal of the suspects as innocent teens sparked outrage, prompting both a retraction and broader criticism of media bias in how terrorist acts are framed.

A major topic was the escalating Iran war and the fracture it seems to be creating within Trump's own base. Prominent supporters like Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson expressed feelings of betrayal, noting that Trump's campaign promise to end 'senseless wars' directly contradicts this conflict. Questions arose about whether Israel influenced the U.S. to act, with senators and commentators questioning the war's objectives.

Attention shifted to Stephen A. Smith, who clarified that he has no plans to run for president in 2028 but revealed he would vote for Marco Rubio over Gavin Newsom or Kamala Harris. Smith praised Rubio as an 'adult in the room' while also calling for fresh, effective leadership in the Democratic Party, naming Josh Shapiro and Wes Moore as his top picks.

Erica Kirk's appointment to the Air Force Academy Board, following the murder of her husband Charlie Kirk, sparked debate. Critics questioned her qualifications, while supporters argued her leadership in youth-focused conservative politics made her a suitable choice for the advisory role.

The hosts also highlighted a CBS News investigation exposing widespread hospice fraud in Los Angeles. Despite previous crackdowns by Governor Gavin Newsom, over 700 hospices in L.A. County reportedly triggered red flags for fraud, including excessive billing and suspicious business practices.

The episode touched on the DNC's lawsuit against the Trump administration over concerns about federal agents at polling places. The lawsuit seeks clarity on whether armed officers could be stationed near polling locations, a move Democrats argue would intimidate voters and undermine election integrity.

Finally, the Pentagon's recent strikes on Iran's naval assets were discussed, alongside the potential for escalations. The hosts debated whether the administration's objectives are clear and whether this conflict aligns with U.S. interests, given the risks to regional stability and the backlash from allies.

Key Insights

• CNN faced backlash after falsely portraying suspects in an ISIS-inspired bombing attempt as innocent teens. The network's retraction didn't quell criticism, as many argued this misstep reflects broader media bias in framing terrorist acts.
• Trump's base is fracturing over the escalating Iran war, with figures like Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan accusing him of breaking his anti-war campaign promise. Speculation swirls that Israel's influence may be driving U.S. actions, raising questions about whose interests the conflict truly serves.
• Over 700 hospices in Los Angeles County have triggered fraud red flags, with tactics like excessive billing and fake patient claims. Despite prior crackdowns by Governor Gavin Newsom, the system remains riddled with abuse, exposing vulnerabilities in healthcare oversight.
• The Pentagon's strikes on Iran's naval assets risk inflaming tensions in an already volatile region. Critics argue the Biden administration hasn't clarified its objectives, leaving allies questioning whether these actions align with U.S. interests or destabilize global security.

Key Questions Answered

What did Joe Rogan say about Trump's Iran war on Rising?

Joe Rogan criticized the Iran war as a betrayal of Trump's campaign promise to avoid 'senseless wars,' questioning the administration's unclear objectives and rationale.

Why did Stephen A. Smith say he would vote for Marco Rubio on Rising?

Stephen A. Smith described Rubio as an 'adult in the room' with strong qualifications, adding that he'd prefer him over Democrats like Gavin Newsom or Kamala Harris unless better candidates, such as Josh Shapiro or Wes Moore, were in the race.

What concerns did the DNC raise about federal agents at polling places?

The DNC sued the Trump administration, citing ambiguity over whether armed federal agents might be deployed to polling locations, which Democrats argue could intimidate voters and violate election laws.