Jon Stewart on the LA ICE Protests and Trump's Escalating Response | Stephen A. Smith

Summary

Summary of "The Daily Show: Ears Edition" Episode: Jon Stewart on the LA ICE Protests and Trump's Escalating Response | Stephen A. Smith

Release Date: June 10, 2025
Hosts: Jon Stewart, Tom Brokaw, Lester Holt, Jordan Klepper
Guest: Stephen A. Smith

---

Introduction

The episode begins with comedic banter and light-hearted introductions from Jon Stewart and a lineup of familiar voices, including Tom Brokaw and Lester Holt. The show quickly transitions into the main topics, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion on the recent LA ICE protests and the escalating responses from former President Donald Trump.

Los Angeles ICE Protests

Jon Stewart opens the conversation by highlighting the fiery atmosphere in Los Angeles, attributing the unrest to tensions between the city's liberal policies and the Trump administration's stringent immigration raids. He humorously remarks:

"Is your city ever not on fire? ... LA continues to be our most flammable city this weekend's combustion was the very predictable result of a liberal city reliant on an immigrant population colliding with a heavy-handed MAGA migrant trawling operation looking to hit its quota of brown poke men."
(02:10)

The discussion delves into the impact of ICE raids, specifically referencing a significant event at a Home Depot parking lot in Paramount, south of LA. Stewart sarcastically comments on the choice of location:

"A Home Depot? From the worst of the worst to a Home Depot. Geez, ICE."
(03:38)

Trump's Escalating Response

The conversation shifts to Trump's intensified rhetoric and actions in response to the protests. Tom Brokaw contributes by mocking Trump's tough stance:

"When they spit, we hit. For the love of God, someone protect Hawk to a girl. They."
(04:56)

Stewart critiques the shift in Trump's approach, comparing it to Churchill's famous defiance:

"Well done, Mr. Churchill. When they spit, we hit."
(04:56)

The hosts debate the reasons behind Trump's escalation, questioning whether it serves as a distraction from other political issues. Stephen A. Smith enters the conversation, providing insights into Trump's motivations and strategies.

Stephen A. Smith Joins the Discussion

Stephen A. Smith, renowned for his work on ESPN's "First Take," brings a fresh perspective to the conversation, merging sports commentary with political analysis. He discusses Trump's directives and the impact on ICE officials:

"Stephen Miller held a meeting screaming at ICE officials to arrest more undocumented immigrants."
(05:30)

Stewart humorously imitates Miller's aggressive tone:

"I think it's just his default tone is banshee. It's what happens when oxygen molecules are desperate to exit his unholy lungs. So it just comes out like, get them Miller."
(05:47)

The dialogue takes a lighter turn with Jordan Klepper's comedic interjections, parodying the intensity of the situation and highlighting the absurdity of conflating innocent day laborers with violent gang members.

"Look, look at these stairs. Does this buff sandstone look plum to you, Jordan?"
(10:50)

Impact on the Community and Business

The hosts discuss the broader implications of the immigration raids on local communities and businesses. A notable incident involves the vandalism and destruction of Waymo's self-driving cars by protesters, leading to Waymo suspending its services in LA.

"My God. How dare you? How could you use Waymo's innocence and helpful spirit against Waymo."
(08:43)

Stewart emphasizes the unnecessary provocation caused by these raids, arguing that they target non-criminals and disrupt hardworking communities.

"You're just day laborers who are already being exploited. But this, right now, is needlessly provocative in Los Angeles."
(11:29)

Transition to Political Ramblings: Trump and Elon Musk

The conversation pivots to the tense interactions between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, touching upon Trump's accusations against Musk regarding the Epstein files and Musk's threats to expose Trump. Tom Brokaw provides a satirical take on the situation:

"It's just a couple of pussies. If these were two Alphas fighting, Ted Cruz's description of their fight wouldn't be this funny."
(19:17)

Stewart and Brokaw mock the immature and vindictive nature of their disputes, highlighting the detrimental effects on public discourse and political focus.

Election Dynamics and Party Strategies

Stephen A. Smith and Tom Brokaw engage in a robust discussion about the dynamics within the Democratic and Republican parties. They critique the Democratic Party's internal fragmentation and the Republican Party's steadfast adherence to traditional values.

Stephen A. Smith: "I'm incredibly happy with President Trump's decision."
(14:12)

Tom Brokaw: "The left definitely blew it. I thought that the progressive left, the extreme left, really, really ruined the election for the Democrats."
(27:14)

They explore how party strategies have influenced election outcomes, with Stewart interjecting humorously about misspeaking and the fleeting nature of political alliances.

Sports and Politics Intersection

The episode seamlessly blends sports commentary with political analysis, reflecting Stephen A. Smith's dual expertise. The hosts discuss the New York Knicks' disappointing playoff performance, using it as a metaphor for broader political failures.

Jon Stewart: "My son was there in the rafters when Jalen Brunson hit. There was a point. There was probably like a minute and some left. They had a nine-point lead."
(22:02)

Tom Brokaw: "If you were that close, yet you're so far because you missed out on him, you would think you would know better than doing that. That doesn't belong to you. You're a Knick. You're not a warrior."
(23:03)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the chaotic state of American politics and society. They emphasize the need for compassionate policies and criticize the divisive tactics employed by political leaders. Stewart underscores the importance of unity and the detrimental effects of politicians who prioritize personal vendettas over national well-being.

Jon Stewart: "I believe the politicians in this country have served to divide us and paint us against one another for their own selfish deeds. And I think that they have contributed to the demise of this country."
(36:34)

Stephen A. Smith concludes with a passionate plea for accountability and reform, emphasizing the role of media and public figures in fostering positive change.

Stephen A. Smith: "I don't mind calling them out. I don't give a damn who it is. Whoever needs to go, needs to go. And I'm about that."
(37:56)

---

Key Takeaways

• LA ICE Protests: The episode provides a critical look at the ongoing tensions in Los Angeles due to ICE raids, highlighting the clash between liberal city policies and Trump's immigration stance.

• Trump's Strategy: Trump's escalating rhetoric is scrutinized, with discussions on its impact on national unity and distraction from other pressing issues.

• Stephen A. Smith's Insights: As a guest, Smith bridges the gap between sports and politics, offering unique perspectives on party dynamics and election strategies.

• Impact on Communities: The destruction of Waymo's self-driving cars exemplifies the broader negative consequences of aggressive immigration policies on businesses and local communities.

• Political Fragmentation: The conversation delves into the internal struggles within the Democratic Party and the Republican Party's adherence to traditional values, questioning the effectiveness of their strategies.

• Call for Unity: The hosts collectively emphasize the need for compassionate policies, accountability, and unity to address the nation's challenges.

---

Notable Quotes

• Jon Stewart on LA's Volatility:
  "LA continues to be our most flammable city this weekend's combustion was the very predictable result of a liberal city reliant on an immigrant population..."
  (02:10)

• Tom Brokaw on Trump's Aggression:
  "When they spit, we hit. For the love of God, someone protect Hawk to a girl. They."
  (04:56)

• Jordan Klepper's Parody of ICE Raids:
  "Turn and you say, and I will tell you, I saw the soul of Stephen A. Smith after dark. And I liked what I saw."
  (38:24)

• Stephen A. Smith on Political Accountability:
  "I don't mind calling them out. I don't give a damn who it is. Whoever needs to go, needs to go. And I'm about that."
  (37:56)

---

Conclusion

This episode of "The Daily Show: Ears Edition" masterfully intertwines humor with critical analysis, addressing pressing issues such as immigration protests, political strategies, and the interplay between sports and politics. Through sharp wit and insightful commentary, Jon Stewart and his co-hosts, along with guest Stephen A. Smith, provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the current socio-political landscape.

For those who haven't listened, this summary encapsulates the episode's essence, offering a comprehensive overview of the key discussions and humorous exchanges that define this installment of "The Daily Show: Ears Edition."

Transcript

[Tom Brokaw]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[WhatsApp Advertisement]

This episode is brought to you by WhatsApp. Your personal messaging is also your personal space, completely private. That's why it's nice to know that on WhatsApp, no one can see or hear your personal messages. So the calls with your mom, chats about the latest work drama, late night voice messages and all those photos and videos of your dog, every personal message stays private because no one, not even WhatsApp can see or hear your personal messages. WhatsApp message privately with everyone. The NBC Nightly News legacy isn't handed.

[Jon Stewart]

Down or NBC News.

[Tom Brokaw]

I'm Tom Brokaw.

[Jon Stewart]

We hope to see you back here. I'm Lester Holt.

[Lester Holt]

It's carried forward.

[Jon Stewart]

Tom Yamets is there for us.

[Lester Holt]

Firefighters are still working around the clock. As the world changes, we look for what endures. We are coming on the air with breaking news. Right now, we look for a constant and from one era to the next, trust is the anchor. For NBC Nightly News Tomorrow News, I'm Tom Yamas. A new chapter begins. NBC Nightly News with Tom Yamas evenings on NBC.

[Discover Advertisement]

Are you still quoting 30 year old movies? Have you said cool beans in the past 90 days? Do you think Discover isn't widely accepted? If this sounds like you, you're stuck in the past. Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide. And every time you make a purchase with your card, you automatically earn cash back. Welcome to the now it pays to Discover. Learn [e-mail] credit card based on the February 2024 Nielsen report.

[Jon Stewart]

You're listening to Comedy Central.

[Tom Brokaw]

From the most trusted journalists at Comedy Central. It's America's only source for news. This is the Daily show with your host, Shaun Stew.

[Jon Stewart]

Yeah, that's what I'm talking about. Welcome to the Daily Show. My name's Jon Stewart. We got. I'm gonna tell you something. Their enthusiasm is not for naught. We have a great show for you tonight. Stephen A. Smith is going to be joining me later, going to get a full Tony's rundown. But first, I want to talk about this very briefly. I was in Los Angeles over the weekend getting a BBL from a celebrity doctor. And quick question for those of you who live in that area, is your city ever not on fire? Whether you win a basketball championship, a World Series championship, whether you have an exploding pinata, gender reveal gone wrong, congratulations, it's a boy and an evacuation. Or you're just protesting the Trump administration's expanded deportation raids. LA continues to be our most flammable city this weekend's combustion was the very predictable result of a liberal city reliant on an immigrant population colliding with a heavy handed MAGA migrant trawling operation looking to hit its quota of brown poke men. Gotta catch em all. Yes America. This is where we started.

[Tom Brokaw]

We gotta get the criminals out first.

[Jon Stewart]

We're gonna get the criminals, the murderers, the drug dealers, and this is where we are now. Protests started following ICE raids at the.

[Tom Brokaw]

Home Depot parking lot in Paramount, south of the city.

[Jon Stewart]

A Home Depot? From the worst of the worst to a Home Depot. Geez, ice. If you need assistance in arresting people, you know those guys are looking for work. So it's an explosive situation on the cusp of federalism versus states rights, border control versus due process, terrifyingly militarized sweeps versus hardworking people in local communities. The United States Marines versus the postmates. Guy who brought you an egg sandwich. It's going to require a deft and firm, experienced and wise. I think you know where I'm going with this. A deft touch from leadership in Washington.

[Tom Brokaw]

Well, we're going to have troops everywhere. We're not going to let this happen to our country. They spit. That's their new thing. And when that happens, I have a little statement. They say they spit, we hit.

[Jon Stewart]

Well, well done, Mr. Churchill. When they spit, we hit. For the love of God, someone protect Hawk to a girl. They. Now obviously this is a bit of a change in attitude from Trump towards protecting law enforcement from his previous January 6th attitude of they hit, we don't give a shit. So why this escalation?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Top Trump aide Stephen Miller.

[Jon Stewart]

Oh, what is it? Young Lord Vader wanted?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Stephen Miller held a meeting screaming at ICE officials to arrest more undocumented immigrants.

[Jon Stewart]

Yeah, that sounds like him. Although I'm pretty sure Stephen Miller wasn't screaming. I think it's just his default tone is banshee. It's what happens when oxygen molecules are desperate to exit his unholy lungs. So it just comes out like, get them Miller.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Setting a new quota of 3,000 arrests per day to include more than just migrants with criminal records.

[Jon Stewart]

Miller reportedly asked ICE officials to hey, why aren't you at Home Depot? And don't say, cuz they're not bothering anybody down there. Cuz they're bothering me. Let's just say at home. I'm sure that's an exaggeration. I'm sure Stephen Miller understands overwhelmingly that these are people and not monsters.

[Jordan Klepper]

They released people into this nation. Not people. Monsters.

[Jon Stewart]

To port. To port.

[Jordan Klepper]

To port.

[Jon Stewart]

Deport deport deport. I'm gonna guess that's what Stephen Miller shouts when he deport, deport, deport. And then obviously to be sensitive to his partner, he has to be like, you deported too. Right. And then she probably goes, you know.

[Jordan Klepper]

Yeah.

[Jon Stewart]

And then goes into the shower and self deports. Sorry, that's. That's. Yeah, you're very kind. So now, predictably, these non targeted, much broader deportation efforts in cities that feel very connected to the immigrant population is a tinderbox. And Trump happily lights the fuse. Peaceful protesters mixed with anarchists and vandals pushed back by horseback and tear gas. Nothing could survive the onslaught except the attitude of teenagers. You, dad. I mean, cops. Luckily, in the midst of all this chaos, there have been no fatalities. Well, human fatalities. Self driving car company Waymo said it was suspending service after at least five of its cars were vandalized and set on fire. Took five of them before you were like, should we stop sending the Waymos? Do you think they were just sitting around, you know, four. Could be a coincidence. But it was no coincidence.

[Tom Brokaw]

It is believed that those Waymos were summoned or booked by the protesters with.

[Jon Stewart]

The intention of then getting them to.

[Jordan Klepper]

The location and torching them.

[Jon Stewart]

My God. How dare you? How could you use Waymo's innocence and helpful spirit against the Waymo? Imagine for a moment Waymo's disappointment upon realizing it was, as Admiral Ackbar might say, a trap. You got Waymo going. Hello. It is my honor to take you to Hollywood and. What are you doing? My God, no. I'm giving you only one star. No. Tell my Roomba I love her. For more on the immigration raids, we go out live to Los Angeles and our very own Jordan Klepper. Jordan, thank you for joining us. Jordan, where do we. Where do we stand right now? Where do we stand right now with the immigration raids?

[Jordan Klepper]

Well, the Trump administration does not see these raids as an overreach. They see this as necessary to confront one of the world's most notorious gangs.

[Jon Stewart]

Gangs at home. What do they believe these people are? What trend?

[Jordan Klepper]

Even worse. Casa del Depot.

[Jon Stewart]

That's just Home Depot in Spanish.

[Jordan Klepper]

Si, senor. These are bad hombres, Jordan.

[Jon Stewart]

They're just day laborers.

[Jordan Klepper]

Well, to the uninformed, perhaps, but I've seen some of the pictures of what these folks are capable of. Gruesome depravity. You know what, if anyone at home is watching and there are children in the room, you might want to ask them to leave. But take a look at this. Disgusting.

[Jon Stewart]

What am I? I mean, what am I looking at. It's like a stone wall.

[Jordan Klepper]

You're looking at what was supposed to be a Tuscan inspired retaining wall. Does that look Tuscan inspired to you, John?

[Jon Stewart]

I mean, looks fine, I guess.

[Jordan Klepper]

John, John, I didn't pay these guys $40 each for fine. Look at my side patio.

[Jon Stewart]

Oh, all right. I mean, o. Okay.

[Jordan Klepper]

They're impatient, John. I mean, are you kidding me? They can't handle full sun. Look, look at these stairs. Does this buff sandstone look plum to you, Jordan?

[Jon Stewart]

I don't know what any of those words mean.

[Jordan Klepper]

Tell me these guys aren't the worst of the worst, Jordan.

[Jon Stewart]

See, isn't this what the Trump administration wants? For people to conflate violent gang members with innocent day laborers who are already being exploited? I don't think anyone would be complaining about a rational system of due process getting rid of criminals, but this, right now, is needlessly provocative in Los Angeles.

[Jordan Klepper]

You're right. You're right. I'm sorry. I lost my head. You know, the American guys quoted me a patio figure that just was. I mean, I'm on basic cable, John, but you're right. I can't get behind indiscriminately kicking out blameless workers, especially since I still want to put in a koi pond. But you know what? You can't expect a compassionate approach to deportation when you got a psycho like Stephen Miller in charge. I mean, that guy just gives me the willies, you know?

[Jon Stewart]

Jordan, don't. Jordan, don't look, but Stephen Miller is behind. Is he clicking? Is Stephen Miller clicking?

[Jordan Klepper]

Yeah, John, he's clicking, all right. He uses echolocation to hunt his prey. He found me, okay? I shouldn't have said his name. I just can't say it again or another Stephen Miller will appear. Damn it.

[Tom Brokaw]

Damn it, John.

[Jordan Klepper]

It's too late for me. All right?

[Tom Brokaw]

Just.

[Jordan Klepper]

John. John. Tell my wife I love her idea to build a gazebo next to the koi ponds.

[Jon Stewart]

Oh, God.

[Jordan Klepper]

Stay away from.

[Tom Brokaw]

Oh, God. Stay away from me.

[Jordan Klepper]

Join me.

[Jon Stewart]

Join me. I'm sure he'll be fine. I'm sure he'll be fine. That was eerie. Very eerie. Now moving back to the tension, turmoil, and violence coming out of Los Angeles. It's hard to watch an American city torn apart like this. And quite honestly, I was a bit surprised by. But even the MAGA sphere is somber and reflective at what they're seeing in Los Angeles.

[Jordan Klepper]

It's deeply, deeply unfortunate.

[Jon Stewart]

Look, I'll be honest. This, like, really hurts my soul. I think it's a sad thing to See, no one wants to see this. I hate to see it.

[Tom Brokaw]

I think America hates to see it. Most importantly, it's going to be bad for the country.

[Jon Stewart]

I think it is important for us to pray, you know, for peace. Sorry, I'm being told that wasn't about Los Angeles. That was them heartbroken that Trump and Elon have gone. No contact. That's a slightly different thing. That's true. See, for the right right now, I guess that's the real national tragedy. Elon Musk has unfollowed cat turd. We must pray for peace. See, the upset in LA is in a blue state, in a blue city with people that they don't give a about.

[Stephen A. Smith]

I'm incredibly happy with President Trump's decision.

[Tom Brokaw]

Trump is right on target with this.

[Jon Stewart]

This just screams common sense, an enormous positive for our country. Certain deserved. There was never any consequences. And now the hammer is being dropped.

[Jordan Klepper]

Do you want to live in Los.

[Jon Stewart]

Angeles, which is mini Mexico? To be fair, they also have a fantastic Koreatown. But you know, why escalate this shit now? The unrest in LA's predictable outcome of these aggressive tactics. I believe the right refers to federal overreach as don't tread on me. We the people. Cold, dead hands. Something along those lines. So why is this happening now? What's it meant to distract from? I mean, I can't even remember what were we even talking about right before the first Waymo went up in flames?

[Jordan Klepper]

Elon Musk is now accusing Trump of.

[Tom Brokaw]

Being in the Epstein files.

[Jon Stewart]

Oh, right. That's what we were talking about. Which now, to be fair to Trump, it is ridiculous. I mean, you can't just make wild accusations like that just because Trump and Epstein hung out once or twice, or Trump was in the flight logs, or Epstein called Trump his closest friend, or they went to parties and whispered, you know, I can only assume biblical passages in each other ear. I'm telling you, I'm telling you, Epstein, 2 Corinthians. You gotta check it out. It's awesome. It's not a crime to be in each other's hearts. And what indication has Trump ever given that there may be things within those Epstein files that may be concerning to him?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Would you declassify the 911 files?

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Would you declassify JFK files?

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah, I did. I did a lot of it.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Would you declassify the Epstein files?

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah, yeah, I would.

[Stephen A. Smith]

All right.

[Tom Brokaw]

I guess I would.

[Jon Stewart]

I think that less so because, you.

[Tom Brokaw]

Know, you don't know. You don't want to affect people's lives if it's phony stuff in there.

[Jon Stewart]

A lot of phony stuff in there. You know, you can put anything in a file, say anything about anybody. By the way, just for the record, asking a 17 year old masseuse if she's planning on staying in the United States, that's a legitimate question. And the rest of the video is AI if there's a video. My favorite moment was when the head of the FBI, Cash Patel found out Elon accused Trump of being on the Epstein list live while podcasting.

[Tom Brokaw]

Does he know that Donald Trump is in the Epstein files? Does he have access to the Epstein files? I don't know how he would, but I'm just staying out of the Trump Elon thing. That's way outside my lane. What the f CK are they doing? I know my lane and that ain't it.

[Jon Stewart]

Not your lane. Aren't you literally in charge of the FC files? I know my lane. I'm just a guy in charge of law enforcement domestically, Conspiracy's crimes, cover up Home Depot parking, overcrowding, you know. But now because of their personal issues, Musk has threatened to expose Trump. And Trump has threatened to cancel Musk's government contracts. And he's threatened serious consequences to Musk if Musk funds Democratic candidates. It must be hard for the right to see how petty and petulant these two man babies are and how they wield their power in vindictive and capricious manners when they don't get exactly their way and the damage that that behavior causes. And I guess what I would say to the right is welcome to our world every day. Now you know, now you know Harvard won't bend the knee. Attack a law firm representing a Democrat, Attack a long term ally that prefers to retain its sovereignty. Attack a small mom and pop business just trying to complete an 8 billion dollar merger. Attacked you on the right, didn't give a shit when Godzilla and Mothra teamed up to destroy the city. You're only mad that now they're fighting each other cuz you just got a taste of their paper thin, over sensitive, fragile and ego driven nihilism. Or as you call it. It's like watching two Giants fight.

[Jordan Klepper]

These are two titans, two very strong willed heavyweights.

[Jon Stewart]

Two big dogs living in close quarters.

[Tom Brokaw]

Two grown men that are fighting.

[Jon Stewart]

Two alpha males duking it out. Alpha males. I don't think we're watching the same fight. You're, you're seeing this. It's actually this. It's just a couple of pussies. If these were two Alphas fighting. Ted Cruz's description of their fight wouldn't be this funny.

[Jordan Klepper]

These are two alpha males who are pissed off and unfortunately they're unloading on each other.

[Jon Stewart]

Deport, deport, deport. Oh, shit. I'm telling them, not me. I'm a citizen. I'm a citizen. Leave me be. When we come back, I'll be swapping hot takes with Stephen A. Smith. Don't go away. No, no. Stephen A. Nicely done.

[Tom Brokaw]

Nicely done.

[WhatsApp Advertisement]

This episode is brought to you by WhatsApp. You know, privacy isn't just a feature on WhatsApp. It's built into everything WhatsApp does. Your personal messaging is also your personal space. Completely private. That's why it's nice to know that no one can see or hear your personal Messages, not even WhatsApp. So the calls with your mom, chats about the latest work drama, late night voice messages and all those photos and videos of your dog. Every personal message and call stays private like they should between you, your friends and your family. Because no one, not even WhatsApp can see or hear your personal messages. WhatsApp message privately with everyone. NBC Nightly News legacy isn't handed down or NBC News.

[Tom Brokaw]

I'm Tom Brokaw.

[Jon Stewart]

Hope to see you back. I'm Lester Holt.

[Lester Holt]

It's carried forward.

[Jon Stewart]

Tom Yamas is there force Firefighters are.

[Lester Holt]

Still working around the. As the world changes, we look for what endures. We are coming on the air with breaking news. Right now, we look for a constant and from one era to the next, trust is the anchor for NBC Nightly News. I'm Tom Yamas. A new chapter begins. NBC Nightly News with Tom Yamas evenings on NBC.

[Jon Stewart]

Welcome back to the Daily Show. My guest tonight, he is the host of ESPN, ESPN's First Take and the Stephen A. Smith show on YouTube where he discusses politics, culture, sports, whatever comes to his mind. Please welcome to the program Stephen A. Smith. Sir, how are you?

[Tom Brokaw]

I'm doing great. That's a great crowd. How you doing, man?

[Jon Stewart]

Lovely. It's so nice to see you. Elephant in the room. NBA basketball final. You, you and I are ride or die. New York Knickerbocker fans. Yes, it's been a disappointing and to have them just end the playoffs there and not continue, I thought was the right move.

[Tom Brokaw]

Oh, yes, you think after you blow a 17 point lead with over six minutes left, 14 with 251 left, nine with 52 seconds left and you end up losing game one. I didn't want to admit it to the world at that time, but I knew they were done you did know they were done? I gotta do.

[Jon Stewart]

I gotta do. My son was there in the rafters when Jalen Brunson hit. There was a point. There was probably like a minute and some left. They had a nine point lead.

[Tom Brokaw]

Right.

[Jon Stewart]

They hit it. And he made the fatal mistake that a Knicks fan. And now he knows. I had to school the morning. He did the bye bye. He did the bye bye on a selfie.

[Tom Brokaw]

Here's the crime. The crime.

[Jon Stewart]

Can he be arrested for that?

[Tom Brokaw]

The crime? He should. He should, and I'm gonna tell you why.

[Jon Stewart]

All right, sir, because who does the bye bye?

[Tom Brokaw]

That's Steph Curry, the greatest shooter.

[Jon Stewart]

Yes.

[Tom Brokaw]

God has ever created.

[Jon Stewart]

Yes.

[Tom Brokaw]

That guy in the 2009 draft, right. Was drafted seventh overall.

[Jon Stewart]

Yes, I know.

[Tom Brokaw]

Who had the eighth pick? It was the Knicks.

[Jon Stewart]

And who do we take? Hill. Who do we take? Somebody's not even in the league.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah. Jordan. Yeah.

[Jon Stewart]

Jordan Hill.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes. So my point to you is that if you were that close, yet you're so far because you missed out on him, you would think you would know better than doing that. That doesn't belong to you. You're a Knick. You're not a warrior.

[Jon Stewart]

Steven, he's just a boy. He's just a boy. He's doing his best.

[Tom Brokaw]

Children learn at a very young age. You've got to know better. You've got to know better. We cannot have.

[Jon Stewart]

I've raised him poorly. I made him a Mets fan, too. He's gotta have some fun.

[Tom Brokaw]

You did a good job.

[Jordan Klepper]

Well, thank you.

[Tom Brokaw]

It's just that when it comes to sports, none of us are perfect.

[Jon Stewart]

No. Well, I appreciate that. Now, you, though, are into everything now. You've been doing political commentary. You were on a show where you did a roundtable with the President. Donald.

[Tom Brokaw]

Chris Cuomo. Yeah. News Nation. Chris Cuomo, Bill O'Reilly. President Trump came on because of Bill O'Reilly. It was an interesting evening, to say the least. He called in for a half hour. He was rambling. I still don't know what he said. I mean. I mean, he said a lot. He said a lot. And I brought up HBCUs, historically black colleges and universities, asking him about his contribution or the contribution he was intending to make to them. And he says, I love the black people. The blacks. I love them. Stephen.

[Jon Stewart]

He became a Rastafarian.

[Tom Brokaw]

Something like that. Something like that. Without the dreads. Without the dreads.

[Jon Stewart]

Can I tell you the crazy part? Stephen brought up Harvard and what was happening at Harvard, and he brought up Harlem. And the President goes, you Know, Stephen, Harlem is. It's coming. And I thought, I thought, does he think Harvard is in Harlem or does he just hear har and just goes lem?

[Tom Brokaw]

I guess so. I guess so. I don't have the answer to that question. But it was an interesting experience, to say the least, sitting there talking to him about it. And you know what? And then they asked him, they asked him, they said, you know, if there's anything that you think he did wrong, anything that you think he was correct, whatever he said, honestly, I can't think of anything. I think I've been pretty close to perfect. And I said, that's him. That's the Donald Trump I've always have you.

[Jon Stewart]

Did you know him prior to this?

[Tom Brokaw]

I knew him prior to him running for the presidency. I've often told the story. In 2014, he wanted to purchase the NFL's Buffalo Bills, right? The price tag was 1.4 billion.

[Jon Stewart]

That's it.

[Tom Brokaw]

He had one at the time. At the time, yes. Because it's over 6 billion now, right? The commanders and all that stuff. But at the time it was $1.4 billion. My sources tell me he had 1.1. And he said to me, and he said to me, he literally called me in 2014 and he said, stephen, I'm going to tell you this right now. And this is a quote. If them mother get in my way, I'm gonna get them all back. I'm gonna run for president. Those are his exact words. And so the NFL often jokes with me, so it's our fault when I tell them that story. And I said, yeah.

[Jon Stewart]

May I have a close up, please?

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

People of Buffalo, give them the name.

[Tom Brokaw]

Save us.

[Jon Stewart]

How is that possible? Now why did he call you? For the purpose of putting together a group.

[Tom Brokaw]

Essentially he was just, he's putting the word out. He was putting the word out that this doesn't happen. He wanted to do it and this should happen. I'm dying, Donald Trump. I'm very popular, I'm well known. I'm worth over a billion dollars. I should be able to purchase an NFL team if I want it, right? And if I can't get it, it's because they're getting in my way. That was his position. Their position was you didn't have enough money.

[Jon Stewart]

You didn't have enough money.

[Tom Brokaw]

That was their position.

[Jon Stewart]

He was already in what, the USFL or the NFL?

[Tom Brokaw]

That was years ago. That was in the 80s, but he was looking. This is 2014, right? And that was the last time that I had spoken to him until that town hall meeting on News Nation.

[Jon Stewart]

And as you watch all these things unfold, do you think to yourself, yep, he got us all back.

[Tom Brokaw]

Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah.

[Jon Stewart]

Hell yeah.

[Tom Brokaw]

Hell, yeah. How could you not? I mean, because, listen, listen, there are things I don't think anybody. I'm a centrist at heart. I always vote. I usually vote Democrat. The only Republican I've ever voted for was Chris Christie, the former governor of New Jersey. Outside of that, I've always voted Democrat. But there's a lot of things that I think can be done differently. I thought the left blew this election more so than him winning it.

[Jon Stewart]

Really?

[Tom Brokaw]

Oh, yeah, the left definitely blew it. I thought that they. I thought that the progressive left, the extreme left, really, really ruined the election for the Democrats. And that's. That's how I view it. It's the truth. And I think that. I think that because that happened, it positioned him to get away with a lot of things. He's. His, his position on immigration has been well known. He let you know what he was going to do.

[Jon Stewart]

A lot of times he did it on an escalator.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah, how about that?

[Jon Stewart]

The most powerful mode of transportation there is.

[Tom Brokaw]

He doesn't care. And here's the thing about it, is, listen, don't be surprised when you see him and you're thinking about pettiness or you're thinking about vengeance or whatever, Right? He's viewing it as, they try to put me in prison. They try to put me behind bars for the rest of my life.

[Jon Stewart]

Right.

[Tom Brokaw]

I'm gonna get them all. And he won't just openly admit it. He'll say stuff like, I wouldn't do that, but I'd have the right to if I wanted to. He's letting you know and the people.

[Jon Stewart]

That he's also doing it.

[Tom Brokaw]

Oh, yeah, to a degree, yes, he is. No question.

[Jon Stewart]

But don't you think, you know, it would be reasonable to say that January 6th was a moment that should have maybe gotten him some legal. You know, that wasn't a happenstance.

[Tom Brokaw]

I am one of those people who firmly believes it was an insurrection. There's no question about it. I'm not backing up from that. But the reality is that I pay attention to 70/8 million people who felt otherwise or did not give a damn because what they did, what they said was, we're looking at this country, the state of affairs that exist within this nation, and we're concerned about ourselves. We ain't got time for all that. We don't care whether he's in jail or not. We might care if he's in the White House or not, but we don't care whether he's in jail or not. And if you're the left and you engaged in what the right would say is lawfare, trying to use the courts to keep from having to compete with him, and then you're putting forth some of these policies, whether it's transgender issues or other stuff that they would bring up, you had a lot of people that are saying that's not where our focus should lie. We're not trying to.

[Jon Stewart]

Don't you think that's their focus?

[Tom Brokaw]

Whose focus?

[Jon Stewart]

The right. I feel like the right is far more focused on where you go to the bathroom than the left. I feel like the left is a more laissez faire. Like, you know, look, I think the left is easy. It's easy to paint the extreme and to create a hyperbolic vision of the left as this woke army. I think it's. I think it's exaggerated.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes. But here's the problem, John.

[Jon Stewart]

Yeah.

[Tom Brokaw]

You can be on national TV every single week doing a phenomenal job that.

[Jon Stewart]

You point out at.

[Tom Brokaw]

I know that. Monday, every week, I just say what. I know. This once. This. I said. I said every week. I said every week. I didn't say every day. The point is. The point is, is that even though you're pointing that out, when you're running for an election, it's about what's going to win. And they knew that that was a strategy, that was going to be a winning strategy for them. But then.

[Jon Stewart]

Or is it the left's fault if it's not real?

[Tom Brokaw]

Because you got to know what works and what doesn't, and fight fire with fire. You got to know how to win it. How to win.

[Jon Stewart]

They called him Hitler.

[Tom Brokaw]

Did that work?

[Jon Stewart]

No.

[Tom Brokaw]

Did that work? Exactly. A matter of fact, a lot of people dismiss that argument because they accused the left of engaging in the extreme because you didn't want to compete against them. Think about this. The man rolled down the street, rolled down the escalators in 2015, okay? He's dominated the GOP and the Republican Party since that moment in time.

[Jon Stewart]

No question.

[Tom Brokaw]

Who the hell has done that for the left? It was Hillary's turn in 2016. Even though Bernie was gaining traction in 2020, Representative Clyburn had to come to the rescue of South Carolina in order for Joe Biden to even be relevant. And then, obviously, with COVID and everything that had transpired and how Trump handled that particular situation, it favored the Democrats. Then you get into office. Biden promised to be a transitional president, a one term president. I'm just here to be as a stopgap to make sure that we can return to normalcy. And then the second he got in and there was no red wave in 2022, he said, hell with that, I ain't leaving. I ain't leaving. And then what happened?

[Jon Stewart]

You touched the ring, though. Once you touch the ring, there you go.

[Tom Brokaw]

It's an addiction. It's an addiction, right? And then sure enough, when the red wave didn't happen and the Democrats won more than anybody expected them to in 2022, they let him get away with it. And think about it, you call yourself the left, you call yourself a progressive party and you are standing up at the State of the Union, clamping, clapping and chanting, four more years. For a man that was going to be 82 once the election, once the inauguration day took place with four more years and America looked at you and said, have you lost your ever loving mind? That's what the hell happened. It's very simple. It ain't that damn complicated. It really isn't.

[Jon Stewart]

But that seems to be across purposes. Stephen A. Smith and let me, let's.

[Tom Brokaw]

First take this, okay?

[Jon Stewart]

Please let me take.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah, you are doing it. You're doing a very good job because.

[Jon Stewart]

First thing I'm gonna, you're gonna have me on that show.

[Tom Brokaw]

You're welcome. You're welcome. Come on.

[Jon Stewart]

What time does it take it?

[Tom Brokaw]

Is it only 10am 10am Five days a week, 10am to noon. You come one day.

[Jon Stewart]

Don't grind me down to a day.

[Tom Brokaw]

You come one day.

[Jon Stewart]

Sir, when you talk about. So that's, that's two separate things. One is they allowed a, what people would consider to be a centrist, old guard Democrat to run again for president. And then you say the progressive left wing is the one that didn't, they didn't choose Joe Biden. They don't have the power in that party. Chuck Schumer is out there, you know, writing eight strongly worded questions to Donald Trump about getting the progressives are the one going. People in this country want Medicare for all do something. They're the ones that have a principled agenda that they are going to put forth that all the Democrats have run from under the guise of we have to be moderate and we have to be centrist. But that doesn't appeal to changing the culture and dynamic of how this government should work by the people, for the people, of the people.

[Tom Brokaw]

That's a great argument. And I don't disagree. What I'm saying to you is that we're done here. What I am saying to you, what I am saying to you, however, is that the messenger matters. And when you have somebody in their 70s like Bernie, at the time. When you have somebody in their late 70s approaching their 80s like Joe Biden.

[Jon Stewart]

He could barely get up the stairs.

[Tom Brokaw]

But the GOP is the one that lives on their tradition, old school ways, not necessarily want things to change. We want free market capitalism. We want closed borders. We want strong national. This is what they say. And their message is resolute and the same in the same and the same, even though their tactics obviously vary. When you look at the left, there always seems to be something new, at least in the eyes of a lot of people. The Democratic Party looks very, very fragmented. You look at them and you're saying, okay, is it the progressive left? Is this centrist? Who are we vibing with? Who are we flowing with? Who's going to get it done? Who can beat Trump? Because you got to think about the competition. If Trump. And I've often said this too. They said, why is Trump so popular? Somebody asked me this a few months ago, and I said, let me tell y' all something. You have certain voters out there and they're looking at you and they say, okay, you know, Jon Stewart's a voter. Well, Jon Stewart's looking at you and he hears you say, look, we gotta fix our economy. We've gotta, you know, patrol our borders. We've gotta do a better job of making sure we take care of the desolate and the disenfranchised. Think about them. Think about small businesses throughout this country, et cetera, et cetera. And then you have another candidate that comes along and they say, to hell with them. They ain't worth a damn. They're crooks. They're no good bastards. I can't stand them. And you shouldn't either. The American people who voted for Trump are like, yeah, we love that. That's what we're talking about. Because that's how they feel about our elected officials. So they think they have somebody speaking their language that has enough venom, enough hostility, enough disgust with the nation's capital. And they're saying, he's not one of them, he's one of us. That's why he's popular. But J.D. vance might not be. That's why he's popular. But Marco Rubio wasn't. That's why he's popular.

[Jon Stewart]

But Ted Cruz wasn't this guy with the touch he's got the touch. He's a dramatic demagogue that can do that. So in your demagogue against the Sasquatch, he's going to be a one off. So who inherits because he can't constitutionally run again? Or do you think in the same way that he went and by the way, I don't know if this happens to people when they're talking to you, but all of a sudden I'm talking much faster than I've ever talked before in my entire life and I'm switching things around and I'm moving my hands and I'm doing this and I've never spoken like this in my entire life. And I am scared because I don't know how I'm going to stop. And I keep wanting to say Stephen A. Smith. I want to say your whole name.

[Tom Brokaw]

That's right. Well, Stephen, what's happening to me?

[Jon Stewart]

Stephen.

[Tom Brokaw]

Stephen A. Works. You haven't spoken to me enough. Because if you spoke to me enough, it'd be Stephen A. Not just Stephen A. Smith.

[Jon Stewart]

Really?

[Tom Brokaw]

That's right.

[Jon Stewart]

Do you think I could ever get to the point where it's just Stephen.

[Tom Brokaw]

A. Yeah, I do. I think after today you will get.

[Jon Stewart]

I'd like that very much.

[Tom Brokaw]

I think after that you will get there.

[Jon Stewart]

I'd like that.

[Tom Brokaw]

You know what I'm saying? Cuz I'm. Cuz I'm your brother, you know what I'm saying? So you'll do that.

[Jon Stewart]

Listen to this though. I do want to ask you this. Yeah. Because as you so your name now, because as you're observing this, you're pushing those buttons. You're the one saying, as Trump had said, yes, it is corrupt. It is. These people are bums. They don't have your best. And now that has thrust you into that conversation.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

And the question is, is that something that appeals to the vanity. Is it something that appeals to. To your principle, to your morality? Where do you take that interest and how do you. And how do you.

[Tom Brokaw]

People think I'm interested in being an elected official? I have no desire to be that. I'd have to give up a lot of money to do that. First of all, I don't want to do that.

[Jon Stewart]

I don't know if you know that, but the rules have changed. You don't.

[Tom Brokaw]

A lot of my money, not only that, a lot of my money say I earned my money.

[Jon Stewart]

Stephen A meme coin would be rolling billions of dollars.

[Tom Brokaw]

But check this out.

[Jon Stewart]

If you were the president, I like.

[Tom Brokaw]

Feel, feel you on that but the way I look at it is that the money that I have earned working my ass off all of these years now, I would have to curry favor, which means I would be owned. And I ain't having that. So I'm not interested in that at all. But having said that, like I consider you to be and various others, I want to be a major player in terms of a voice and a conduit for change. I want to make sure that people know that the BS has got to stop. And oh yeah, I don't mind doing that. I don't mind doing that at all. You want to be a hellraiser. You want to make sure you make people uncomfortable and that they're not going to get away with the BS that they've been getting away with. Because I believe white, black, and everything in between, society as a whole, by and large, are a lot of great God fearing individuals that can get along just fine. I think the politicians in this country have served to divide us and paint us against one another for their own selfish deeds. And I think that they have contributed to the demise of this country. So I don't mind calling them out. I don't give a damn who it is. It could be a councilman, it could be a mayor, it could be a governor, it could be a senator or a representative. The President himself, I could care less. Whoever needs to go, needs to go. And I'm about that.

[Jon Stewart]

It's been a pleasure. I do have to say, if you had run for president.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

Three years ago, when the New York Knickerbockers signed a young point guard named Jalen Brunson.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

Stephen A. Smith went on television.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yeah.

[Jon Stewart]

Might have been espn.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

Sat there and he looked dead in the camera.

[Tom Brokaw]

Yes.

[Jon Stewart]

Right in the eyes. And he said to the people of America, white, black and everything in between, Jalen Brunson ain't the guy.

[Tom Brokaw]

Okay.

[Jon Stewart]

Yeah. To me that's an impeachable offense and I would not have heard that.

[Tom Brokaw]

Can I respond? Can I respond? You may first of all, let me say something. Let me say something the President would never say.

[Jon Stewart]

I may never stop talking like this.

[Tom Brokaw]

I was wrong. I was wrong. Which Jalen Brunson reminds me of. And he reminded me of that night game six when they beat Boston. He always reminds me of every time he says that. But here's the thing. At that time, Kevin Durant with Kyrie Irving was supposed to be arriving in New York. They had missed out on getting those guys and they gave us Jalen Brunson. Now I ask you respectfully, especially at that particular moment in time, kd as in Kevin Durant with Kyrie Irving. And we are all anticipating them coming to the Garden. Okay. And then we find out they going to Brooklyn. They changed their mind at the 11th hour. Kyrie got KD to change it.

[Jon Stewart]

The subject, sir.

[Tom Brokaw]

And we got Jalen Brunson. I'm sorry, What a crime that I felt that way. I don't feel that way now, but at the time, I'm sorry I felt that way.

[Jon Stewart]

I stand by my context. And I just want to say to the people, when you turned and you said, and I will tell you, I saw the soul of Stephen A. Smith after dark. And I liked what I saw. My man, Stephen A. Smith. Two new series XM shows going to be in September on Stephen h. Smith on YouTube. Quick break. We'll be right back after this. Hey, everybody, that's not here for tonight. Before we go, we're going to check in with your host for the rest of the week, Desi Lydic. Desi. Boom. Desi. What are we going to be looking at this week?

[Stephen A. Smith]

Oh, huge week coming up, John. I'll be covering all the preparations for this Saturday's epic pride parade down in D.C. trump cannot stop talking about it. Who knew he was such an ally?

[Jon Stewart]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's the military parade. Donald Trump's on that side. That's not pride related. That's a military.

[Stephen A. Smith]

No, I don't think so, John. It's the middle of June. The flags, the flare, the jacked men in uniform who are serving. No. Mark my words, those streets will be flooded with seamen.

[Jon Stewart]

You talking about men who serve in the Navy?

[Stephen A. Smith]

No, I'm not Desi Lytic.

[Jon Stewart]

All this week, ladies and gentlemen, here it is, your moment of death.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Now, the threat of active military raises a certain question about whether the White House is in the job of de escalation or escalation. And I think that's a fair question to ask given what we've seen over the last 24 hours.

[Jon Stewart]

And we are now seeing on our screen right now what appears to be a dumpster fire. Yes.

[Stephen A. Smith]

Yes. Yeah.

[Tom Brokaw]

Explore more shows from the Daily show podcast universe by searching the Daily Show. Wherever you get your podcasts, watch the Daily show weeknights at 1110 Central on Comedy Central and stream full episodes anytime on Paramount plus Paramount podcasts. This is an iHeart podcast.