Nationwide — Rep. Jasmine Crockett responded quietly after sports commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized her political approach, sparking backlash and online debate. Smith later clarified his remarks, saying he meant no disrespect toward the Texas congresswoman.
During an episode of his SiriusXM show Straight Shooter with Stephen A., Smith discussed the U.S. economy and praised Trump’s leadership, as reported by Blavity. He then mentioned Crockett, saying she spends too much time attacking Trump instead of focusing on cooperation in politics.
“When you go on national television and you calling the president of the United States out of his name and you’re being all disrespectful as a representative in this country, do you believe the citizens of Texas sent you there to do that?” Smith said. He added that Crockett’s job should be to “get things done” for her constituents rather than criticize.
Smith clarified that he wasn’t targeting Crockett personally, calling her “an intelligent, accomplished woman,” but said her tone toward Trump was unproductive. His comments quickly drew strong reactions online, especially from Crockett’s supporters.
Texas rapper Willie D publicly defended the congresswoman, accusing Smith of using his platform in “tearing down a Black woman who’s out here putting in real work.” Crockett reposted his message on her Instagram story with a praying hands emoji.
Following the backlash, Smith released another video on Instagram and YouTube to explain his side, saying his comments were misunderstood. “What I had to endure this weekend were an abundance of people talking a whole lot of stuff about me because they did not like what I had to say about Representative Jasmine Crockett.”
Smith argued that critics misinterpreted his words. “Nothing frustrates me more than when people have the truth at their disposal and they choose maybe not lie, maybe not even embellish, but allow their emotions to usurp facts,” he added, denying that he disrespected Crockett.
He also said Crockett had been invited to appear on his show for weeks. “I just disagree with what she’s making headlines for because I think it’s counterproductive to the ultimate goal,” Smith said.
As of now, Crockett hasn’t publicly responded to Smith’s latest comments.