The Stephen A. Smith Show Stephen A's Take: Donald Trump is criticized for labeling protesters as “insurrectionists” while pardoning actual January 6th rioters.
Jun 15, 2025
16:31
Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown.
📰 Main Topics Covered
1. ICE Raids and Protests
- Protests erupted in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., in response to federal ICE raids and troop deployments.
- A curfew was lifted in downtown LA, where protests were concentrated.
2. Senator Alex Padilla Incident
- Padilla was forcibly removed and handcuffed during a press conference with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
- The speaker criticizes Padilla for interrupting but also condemns the excessive force used against him.
3. Critique of Democratic Leadership
- Gavin Newsom and Alex Padilla are accused of playing into Trump’s hands by appearing weak on law enforcement and immigration.
- The speaker argues that Democrats are failing to present a “winning hand” and are instead engaging in performative politics.
4. Critique of Republican Leadership
- Donald Trump is criticized for labeling protesters as “insurrectionists” while pardoning actual January 6th rioters.
- The speaker calls out the hypocrisy and divisiveness of Trump’s rhetoric.
5. Call for Unity and Competent Leadership
- Advocates for leaders like Wes Moore, Josh Shapiro, Marco Rubio, John Kasich, Chris Christie, and Nikki Haley—figures seen as more policy-focused and less chaotic.
- Emphasizes the need for compromise, unity, and sincere leadership over political theater.
🎯 Tone and Style
- Passionate, confrontational, and reflective.
- Uses rhetorical questions and direct address to engage the audience.
- Balances criticism with calls for constructive change.