Stephen A. Smith, an ESPN commentator, has voiced criticism of prominent figures such as Oprah Winfrey and former First Lady Michelle Obama for their support of Vice President Kamala Harris. Smith stated that their campaign tactics in the 2024 presidential election may have unintentionally turned off voters.
A New York City native, Smith is widely recognized for his fervent and occasionally controversial commentary. He began his career as a sports journalist after completing his mass communication degree at Winston-Salem State University, where he was also a basketball scholar. An injury cut short his time on the court. Smith joined ESPN in 2003 and quickly became a familiar face on shows like “First Take” and “NBA Countdown.”
Smith’s remarks have often stirred controversy, whether regarding domestic violence, athletes’ use of recreational drugs, or his forthright criticisms of certain sports personalities. His comments have frequently gone viral, prompting debates on social media.
In his critique, Smith suggested that the attempts by wealthy celebrities to sway voters through guilt and moral lecturing may have been counterproductive, thereby contributing to Harris’s loss to Donald Trump in the presidential race.
“They’re worth hundreds of millions if not billions,” Smith said of the celebrity supporters. “They’re incredibly detached from [voters’] way of life and their quality of life.”
Smith particularly objected to Obama’s comments implying that a vote for Trump was a vote against women’s interests. He argued that this message was particularly ineffective for male voters. He also criticized Winfrey’s warning about the potential impact on voting rights under Trump’s presidency.
“If we don’t agree with you, we’re against you – that kind of rhetoric doesn’t work,” Smith stated in his political commentary.
Smith described the election outcome as a “referendum on the Democratic Party” and an “annihilation” of Harris by Trump. He highlighted voter concerns about a variety of issues, including the economy, border policies, and transgender rights in sports. According to Smith, the Democratic Party’s stances on these issues, coupled with the messaging from celebrities, contributed to their electoral loss.
Smith’s growing involvement in political commentary coincides with his contract negotiations with ESPN, where he is reportedly seeking a nine-figure deal. His guest appearances on conservative host Sean Hannity’s show have featured discussions about Trump’s age and mental state, along with broader political issues.
While Smith has criticized both major political parties, he has recently disclosed his political ambitions, stating he would consider a presidential run if he believed he could win. However, he stressed that he would approach key issues differently, particularly immigration policy. He stated that he would oppose Trump’s strict approach to immigration, specifically the denial of citizenship to children born in the United States to immigrant parents.
