The Breakfast Club DONKEY: Sen. Eric Schmitt Draws Criticism For Seemingly Racist, Controversial Speech At NatCon
Sep 9, 2025
Charlamagne Tha God critiques Senator Eric Schmitt's controversial speech at a conference, sparking accusations of racism. The discussion revolves around how such rhetoric impacts America's identity and the dangers of exclusivity in political discourse. They also delve into Carmelo Anthony's Hall of Fame speech, highlighting the overlooked acknowledgment of his partner Lala. The conversation prompts a broader examination of recognizing contributions in personal relationships and the importance of gratitude.
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Undefined "Us" Signals Exclusion
- Senator Eric Schmitt framed America as belonging to a specific "us" rather than everyone, repeating that it "belongs to us."
- Charlamagne argues the undefined "us" functions as coded, exclusionary rhetoric that signals who is meant to be excluded.
Heritage Language Can Mask Exclusion
- Schmitt emphasized heritage, ancestors, and a singular way of life as defining America.
- Charlamagne interprets this as rhetoric that can be read as white replacement–adjacent and exclusionary.
Ambiguity Is A Political Signal
- Leaving the referent of "us" undefined lets sympathetic audiences fill in a racialized meaning.
- Charlamagne stresses that politicians use that ambiguity intentionally to signal to certain voters.