Stephen A's Take: Donald Trump is criticized for labeling protesters as “insurrectionists” while pardoning actual January 6th rioters.

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.  Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Themes in the Script Coaching Search Chaos: The Knicks fired Tom Thibodeau after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals. Multiple teams (Mavericks, Timberwolves, Rockets, Bulls, Hawks) denied the Knicks permission to interview their head coaches. The Knicks appear to lack a clear plan for a replacement. Criticism of Potential Candidates: Quin Snyder: Acknowledged as a good coach, but not seen as a strong enough replacement for Thibodeau. Billy Donovan: Respected, but not the right fit for the Knicks at this time. Jason Kidd and Mike Malone: Not available or not even interviewed, raising questions. Support for Mark Jackson: Strong advocacy for Mark Jackson, citing his New York roots, coaching history with the Warriors, and broadcasting career. Expresses frustration that Jackson hasn’t been given another coaching opportunity in over a decade. Support for Sam Cassell: Praised for his experience, championship pedigree, and ability to connect with players. Seen as a viable and deserving candidate. Critique of Knicks Leadership: Questions about James Dolan’s influence and Leon Rose’s decision-making. Suggests internal chaos and lack of direction within the organization. Would you like me to help turn this into a polished article, a video script, or perhaps a social media post?Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown.  The Stephen A. Smith Show, featuring Stephen A.’s signature blend of sports commentary, political and social commentary, and audience interaction. The episode covers a wide range of topics, including: 🔥 Key Topics Covered 🏀 NBA Finals Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Jalen Williams performances Stephen A.’s predictions  🇺🇸 Immigration & Politics ICE raids and protests in Los Angeles Senator Alex Padilla’s removal from a press conference Criticism of both Democratic and Republican responses to immigration Commentary on Trump’s rhetoric and actions 🗳️ Political Commentary Praise for politicians like Wes Moore, Josh Shapiro, Marco Rubio, and Nikki Haley Criticism of Gavin Newsom and others for political grandstanding 🍟 Pop Culture & Humor Ranking of fast food French fries (Chick-fil-A and McDonald’s get high praise) Hilarious responses to fan tweets about personal dilemmas and rap rankings 🎤 Music & Culture Ranking rappers: Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Nas, Lil Wayne Commentary on Kendrick’s recent dominance over Drake 🏈 NFL & Aaron Rodgers Speculation on Rodgers’ performance with the Steelers  Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. Support the show: http://www.youtube.com/@stephenasmithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.