Summary of "The Rubin Report" Episode: "Watch Host’s Face as Stephen A. Smith Gives Brutally Honest Answer to Why Democrats Are Hopeless"

Release Date: May 6, 2025

Introduction and Context

In this episode of The Rubin Report, host Dave Rubin engages in a candid and robust conversation with renowned sports broadcaster Stephen A. Smith. The discussion centers around the perceived shortcomings of the Democratic Party, the rise of political polarization, and the broader implications for American society. The episode delves deep into topics such as party dynamics, race relations, media influence, and the cognitive capacities of political leaders.

1. Stephen A. Smith’s Political Views and Potential Candidacy

The conversation kicks off with Stephen A. Smith reflecting on the state of American politics and contemplating a potential run for the presidency.

• Stephen A. Smith (02:30): "Unfortunately, I believe that if I did take this very, very seriously and I moved forward and I decided that I wanted to be a politician, do I believe I could win? You're damn right."

Smith expresses confidence in his ability to garner support, not necessarily due to personal qualifications but because of widespread dissatisfaction with current political leadership.

2. Critique of the Democratic Party and 'Woke' Culture

Both Rubin and Smith critique the current trajectory of the Democratic Party, highlighting internal divisions and the rise of "woke" culture.

• Stephen A. Smith (03:45): "The Democratic Party has presently constructed... it would pretty much need to be purged in order for me to assume that I would want to be associated with them."

Smith underscores the necessity for the Democrats to reform and distance themselves from extreme left factions to regain public trust.

3. Discussion on Race Relations and Political Polarization

The duo delves into the changing racial dynamics within American voting patterns and the role of media in perpetuating division.

• Dave Rubin (07:43): "These are black people who did not vote for Trump the first time they came around on him. And now we're 100 days in and they're happy with their results."

Rubin challenges the traditional racial voting blocs, suggesting that these lines are blurring, which he attributes to shifting cultural narratives.

4. Examination of Joe Biden's Cognitive Abilities

A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to assessing President Joe Biden's cognitive health and its impact on governance.

• Jamie Raskin (29:08): "If you're asking about my direct engagement and interactions with former President Joe Biden... I would be lying to you."

Smith and Rubin are critical of Biden's mental acuity, implying that his leadership may be compromised, which they believe affects policy decisions and national stability.

5. Criticism of Democratic Leaders and Figures

The conversation extends to various Democratic leaders, scrutinizing their qualifications and actions.

• Dave Rubin (09:44): "These attacks are not new because Jim Crow never died. He just lay in wait."

Rubin draws parallels between historical and contemporary issues, suggesting that systemic racism persists within American institutions, bolstered by current Democratic leadership.

6. George Soros and Funding of Protests

Addressing the influence of philanthropist George Soros, Rubin and Smith argue that funding from such entities orchestrates protests and political movements to destabilize traditional American values.

• Dave Rubin (26:19): "Open Society admits, yes, we fund protest groups... The pattern is clear."

They assert that Soros-funded organizations manipulate grassroots movements to further specific political agendas, undermining authentic democratic processes.

7. The Role of Media and Public Figures

The episode critiques how media personalities and public figures contribute to political polarization and misinformation.

• Dave Rubin (03:06): "But none of it has to do with her skin color. If she was white, I would be making the same jokes about her."

Rubin criticizes media outlets like CNN for their handling of race and political narratives, suggesting favoritism and biased reporting that exacerbate societal divisions.

8. Community Q&A Highlights

Towards the end, Rubin addresses questions from the community, offering advice and sharing personal insights.

• Elizabeth: "Any advice for being a guest on a podcast?"

  Dave Rubin: "Be yourself. It's the most cliché thing, but it absolutely is the truth." (24:00)

• Monsoon: "What's an issue that you think conservatives didn't handle correctly?"

  Dave Rubin: Discusses the conservative approach to gay marriage, suggesting that a more libertarian stance might have mitigated some of the backlash from the left. (34:00)

9. Personal Reflections and Societal Observations

Rubin shares personal anecdotes and broader societal observations, reinforcing his critiques of current political and cultural trends.

• Dave Rubin: "It's becoming almost impossible if you are a decent human being to live in a major American city." (35:00)

He laments the rise of lawlessness in major cities, attributing it to ineffective governance and the failure of political leadership to maintain order and uphold American values.

10. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Rubin emphasizing the importance of authenticity and standing up against perceived political and cultural decay.

• Dave Rubin: "You gotta say what you think. Why not?" (48:00)

He encourages listeners to remain true to their beliefs, even if it means facing opposition or losing friendships, as a means to foster genuine relationships and societal progress.

Notable Quotes

• Stephen A. Smith (02:30): "You're damn right. But it's by default. It's not because I'm the most qualified candidate in the world."

• Dave Rubin (07:43): "CNN invited a group of black people... If you had to go back in time, would you vote for Donald Trump, yes or no? 1,000%. Absolutely. Yes."

• Dave Rubin (26:19): "George Soros is Palpatine, barely in disguise."

• Jamie Raskin (29:08): "I would be lying to you, and I won't lie to you."

• Dave Rubin (48:00): "You gotta say what you think. Why not?"

Key Takeaways

• Disillusionment with the Democratic Party: Stephen A. Smith articulates a deep-seated frustration with the current Democratic Party, advocating for significant reforms to purge extreme elements.

• Race and Voting Dynamics: The traditional racial voting patterns are shifting, with some black voters expressing support for Republican figures like Donald Trump, challenging longstanding political affiliations.

• Cognitive Concerns of Leadership: There is considerable concern among the hosts regarding President Biden's cognitive health, questioning his capability to effectively lead the nation.

• Influence of Philanthropic Funding: Entities like George Soros are criticized for allegedly orchestrating and funding protests to destabilize American political and social structures.

• Media Bias and Polarization: The media, particularly outlets like CNN, are accused of perpetuating racial and political biases that exacerbate societal divisions.

• Urban Lawlessness: Major American cities are portrayed as hotbeds of lawlessness and disorder, attributed to ineffective governance and the failure of political leaders to maintain stability.

• Authenticity and Personal Integrity: Emphasis is placed on the importance of being authentic and outspoken, even at the cost of personal relationships, as a means to foster societal change and personal fulfillment.

Conclusion

This episode of The Rubin Report presents a critical examination of the current American political landscape, highlighting perceived flaws within the Democratic Party, concerns over leadership, and the impact of external funding on political movements. Through an engaging dialogue with Stephen A. Smith, Dave Rubin offers a perspective that challenges mainstream narratives, urging listeners to critically assess the state of American politics and advocate for meaningful change.