Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show
Episode: Interview Only: Former President Obama Speech Writer Discusses the Future of America
Release Date: November 5, 2024
Introduction
In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith engages in an in-depth conversation with Jon Favreau, the former head speechwriter for President Barack Obama. Favreau offers his expert insights on the upcoming election, the current political climate, and the future trajectory of America. Throughout the discussion, Favreau draws from his extensive experience in politics and media to provide a nuanced analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing the nation.
Election Landscape
Stephen A. Smith welcomes Favreau and immediately probes his optimistic demeanor on the eve of a consequential election.
Quoted at [01:34]:
"I get so nervous before every single election day. And I decided that this time around, my anxiety is not going to change the outcome. So I might as well just be calm..." – Nate Thompson (Jon Favreau)
Favreau anticipates a tight race, noting that current polls reflect a closely contested election. He highlights the unfavorable political environment for Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democrats, citing lingering issues from the post-pandemic era such as inflation, high prices, and immigration challenges.
Quoted at [02:17]:
"Kamala Harris and the Democrats are facing a political environment that is pretty brutal... Donald Trump is... pretty toxic to voters." – Nate Thompson
Favreau underscores that despite these challenges, Trump's divisive presence could inadvertently benefit the Democrats by mobilizing voters who oppose his extremism.
Kamala Harris's Candidacy
Stephen A. Smith delves into the dynamics of Kamala Harris's campaign, questioning the legitimacy of her rise and the potential pitfalls she faces against Trump's rhetoric.
Quoted at [04:33]:
"Most people who aren't paying close attention to politics... are just sort of tuning in now and making up their mind." – Nate Thompson
Favreau explains that many undecided voters remain uninformed about Harris's background and accomplishments. Through grassroots interactions, such as door-to-door conversations, he illustrates how informing voters about Harris's track record can sway opinions in her favor.
Quoted at [04:55]:
"Kamala Harris took on these big banks. She got homeowners a lot of money from the banks who they were trying to screw homeowners over..." – Nate Thompson
He emphasizes that informed voters are more likely to appreciate Harris's efforts to protect working people, potentially shifting their support away from Trump.
Speechwriting for President Obama
The conversation transitions to Favreau’s tenure as Obama’s speechwriter, shedding light on the collaborative process and the depth of understanding required to effectively convey Obama's vision.
Quoted at [06:35]:
"I think the key to really speech writing... is to really get inside their mind and to really try to empathize with what they want to say." – Nate Thompson
Favreau recounts how initially, Obama preferred to write his own speeches but gradually trusted Favreau's expertise as his responsibilities grew. This partnership was pivotal in crafting memorable and impactful speeches, including Obama's legendary 2009 inauguration address.
Perception of Kamala Harris's Speech Delivery
Stephen A. Smith raises concerns about the authenticity of Kamala Harris’s speeches, questioning whether her delivery feels genuine or overly managed.
Quoted at [09:17]:
"I think the speeches are probably more tightly structured... there's less room for, like, improvisation." – Nate Thompson
Favreau acknowledges that Harris's limited campaign duration—only 90 days—has necessitated highly polished and strategically crafted speeches. While this approach ensures consistency and minimizes risks, it may also give an impression of being overly scripted, leading some to question the authenticity of her delivery.
Role and Mission of Crooked Media
The discussion shifts to Favreau's role in founding Crooked Media, a progressive media company aimed at influencing political discourse and activism.
Quoted at [12:03]:
"When we're talking to people... try to persuade people." – Nate Thompson
Favreau explains that despite being a left-leaning platform, Crooked Media strives to engage a broad audience by using humor and empathy to bridge partisan divides. The company’s mission involves not just informing but also persuading voters through relatable and accessible content.
Quoted at [13:03]:
"We want to use humor... you need some humor... show empathy to people." – Nate Thompson
He elaborates that humor and empathy are essential tools in making political conversations more approachable, thereby fostering a more unified and engaged electorate.
Closing Thoughts and Advice to Voters
As the election approaches, Stephen A. Smith seeks Favreau’s final advice for undecided voters.
Quoted at [14:02]:
"Whatever you may think of Donald Trump's first term... Kamala Harris is the better choice." – Nate Thompson
Favreau passionately argues against Trump’s potential return, highlighting his increasingly extreme policies and personal motivations. He contrasts this with Harris’s proven track record of fighting for working people and protecting reproductive rights, positioning her as the preferable candidate even for typically conservative voters.
Responding to a Potential Trump Victory
Stephen A. Smith inquires about the implications of a Trump victory and the path forward for liberals.
Quoted at [15:58]:
"There's two responses to a Trump victory... give up... or... persuade people and change their minds." – Nate Thompson
Favreau outlines two possible reactions to a Trump win: capitulation or active engagement. He advocates for continued effort to persuade and mobilize voters, emphasizing that persistent involvement is crucial for future electoral successes and the preservation of democratic values.
Conclusion
Stephen A. Smith wraps up the interview by expressing eagerness to continue the conversation post-election and commends Jon Favreau for his insightful contributions. Favreau reiterates his commitment to fostering informed and engaged citizenship through media and political activism.
Quoted at [17:03]:
"If you actually want to work for the future that you believe, then you got to keep going and you got to get involved and you got to go out and talk to people who might not agree with you." – Nate Thompson
Smith encourages listeners to participate in the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of every vote in shaping the nation's future.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
[01:34]
"I get so nervous before every single election day. And I decided that this time around, my anxiety is not going to change the outcome. So I might as well just be calm..." – Nate Thompson -
[02:17]
"Kamala Harris and the Democrats are facing a political environment that is pretty brutal... Donald Trump is... pretty toxic to voters." – Nate Thompson -
[04:33]
"Most people who aren't paying close attention to politics... are just sort of tuning in now and making up their mind." – Nate Thompson -
[06:35]
"I think the key to really speech writing... is to really get inside their mind and to really try to empathize with what they want to say." – Nate Thompson -
[09:17]
"I think the speeches are probably more tightly structured... there's less room for, like, improvisation." – Nate Thompson -
[12:03]
"When we're talking to people... try to persuade people." – Nate Thompson -
[14:02]
"Whatever you may think of Donald Trump's first term... Kamala Harris is the better choice." – Nate Thompson -
[15:58]
"There's two responses to a Trump victory... give up... or... persuade people and change their minds." – Nate Thompson -
[17:03]
"If you actually want to work for the future that you believe, then you got to keep going and you got to get involved and you got to go out and talk to people who might not agree with you." – Nate Thompson
Final Thoughts
This episode offers a comprehensive examination of the current electoral landscape through the lens of a seasoned political strategist and media entrepreneur. Jon Favreau’s insights provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of campaigning, the power of informed voting, and the role of media in shaping political narratives. As America stands on the brink of a pivotal election, this conversation underscores the importance of engagement, empathy, and strategic communication in navigating the nation’s future.