Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Democrats for Reacting to Trump's SOTU Address

The sports commentator argues Democrats played into Trump's hands by refusing to stand and applaud during the State of the Union speech.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized Democrats for their reaction during President Trump's State of the Union address, arguing that they played right into Trump's hands by refusing to stand and applaud. Smith said Trump knew the Democrats "weren't going to stand" and that 73 of them showed up to other events instead. He urged Democrats to focus on issues that matter to Americans like healthcare, jobs, and the economy rather than personal animus towards Trump.

Why it matters

Smith's criticism of Democrats' response to the State of the Union address reflects a broader debate over the role of political opposition and how to effectively counter a polarizing president. His comments suggest that Democrats' theatrics may have backfired by reinforcing Trump's narrative that they are driven by personal hatred rather than concern for the country.

The details

During his "Straight Shooter" podcast, Stephen A. Smith said Trump "set up" Democrats by asking them to cheer for protecting American citizens over migrants. Smith argued that by refusing to stand and applaud, the Democrats played into Trump's hands by appearing "devoid of objectivity" and "devoid of thinking about what's in the best interest of the United States of America." Smith urged Democrats to "shape the message in a fashion that benefits you for once" instead of "falling right into his hands." He also criticized Democrats like Rep. Ilhan Omar and political strategist James Carville for their heated rhetoric against Trump, saying Americans care more about practical issues like healthcare and the economy than whether they like the president or not.

  • President Trump delivered the State of the Union address on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Stephen A. Smith

A sports commentator and host of the "Straight Shooter" podcast, who has been critical of Democrats' response to President Trump.

Donald Trump

The former president who delivered the State of the Union address that prompted Smith's criticism of Democrats.

Ilhan Omar

A Democratic congresswoman who has been outspoken in her criticism of President Trump.

James Carville

A Democratic political strategist who called President Trump a "fat, sorry, sack of s---" in a preview of the State of the Union address.

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What they’re saying

“Donald Trump, when he asks the question about cheering and asking about protecting American citizens and prioritizing them ahead of migrants, he set you up! He knew you weren't going to stand. He knew 73 of y'all were going to show up to other places and not show up to the State of the Union.”

— Stephen A. Smith, Sports Commentator (Straight Shooter* Podcast)

“And he's making the claim that you hate him so much you're devoid of objectivity, and you're devoid of thinking about what's in the best interest of the United States of America because you're too busy thinking about your own personal feelings and animus towards him.”

— Stephen A. Smith, Sports Commentator (Straight Shooter* Podcast)

The takeaway

Stephen A. Smith's criticism of Democrats' reaction to the State of the Union address highlights the ongoing political divide and the challenge of effective opposition to a polarizing president. His comments suggest that Democrats may need to rethink their approach and focus more on practical issues that matter to voters rather than personal attacks on Trump.