In a recent episode of his show, ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith delivered a sharp rebuke to the Democratic Party’s rhetoric regarding democracy. Smith criticized party leaders for what he perceives as hypocrisy in claiming that democracy is under threat while they handpicked Kamala Harris as the 2024 nominee without a primary process. His frustration was palpable as he stated, “See, when I talked about voting for Kamala Harris, I wasn’t excited about her. As far as I’m concerned, she didn’t earn it because she didn’t go through a primary.”
Smith’s comments reflect a broader concern about the integrity of the electoral process. By bypassing the traditional primary system, he argues, Democratic leaders are undermining the democratic principles they claim to defend. He emphatically told them to “shut the hell up” regarding their frequent invocations of a “threat to democracy,” pointing out that their actions contradict their words. “I don’t want to hear that,” he asserted. “You didn’t care about that when you circumvented the democratic process.” This direct approach underscores his belief that political expediency has taken precedence over democratic values.
The analyst further condemned the party establishment, suggesting they had the capacity to remove President Biden earlier but chose not to, viewing it as “her turn.” Smith highlighted a pattern within the Democratic Party where nominations appear predetermined rather than earned through the candidate’s merit or public support. He contrasted this with the conservative support for former President Trump, stating that conservatives stood behind him not because it was merely his turn but because he represented their interests. “You could have gotten Joe Biden out earlier, but you didn’t do it because you wanted her there—because it was her turn,” he pointed out.
Smith’s commentary isn’t just a critique of the Democratic Party; it also serves as a reflection on broader electoral practices. His focus on established political norms illustrates a discontent with how both major parties address candidate selection and accountability. He identifies a divisive element within the party system, wherein decisions are made by elites rather than through an open and competitive primary process.
He didn’t hold back in drawing parallels between Harris’ nomination process and previous candidates. “In 2016, when Hillary had competition—Hillary Rodham Clinton—oh, it was her turn. When Biden was getting smoked in the primaries before Representative Clyburn came and saved the day, it was his turn,” he explained. This repetition of the phrase “it was her turn” conveys a weary acknowledgment of a frustrating trend that many voters see but often feel powerless to change. Smith’s rhetoric is a reminder of the disconnect that exists between political elites and the voters they are meant to serve.
As Smith critiqued the Democrats’ strategy, he showcased an appreciation for the authenticity he believes is found within the conservative base. His remarks about Trump’s candidacy resonate with those who prioritize results over political tradition. “That’s my problem with the Democrats,” he stated. “It’s always somebody’s turn.” This quote captures Smith’s broader argument that the political landscape has shifted from one of merit-based achievement to one defined by entitlement and expectation.
Ultimately, Stephen A. Smith’s analysis serves as a compelling insight into the ongoing discontent with political practices that prioritize party loyalty over genuine representation. His passionate delivery and unflinching honesty challenge the status quo and encourage a reconsideration of how candidates should be chosen in a truly democratic society. In an era marked by partisan divisions, Smith’s call for accountability resonates loudly, urging both parties to reflect on their processes and the messages they send to the electorate.
"*" indicates required fields
