Summary of "Stephen A's Take: MSNBC Opinion tries to paint me MAGA, but I got independent receipts"

Release Date: March 30, 2025
Podcast: The Stephen A. Smith Show
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts

1. Introduction

In the March 30, 2025 episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith addresses a recent critique by Jahan Jones from MSNBC, who accused Smith of serving as a "megaphone for MAGA propaganda." This detailed discussion delves into Smith's political stance, his approach to guest selection, and the broader implications of political discourse within media platforms.

2. Context: The MSNBC Accusation

Timestamp [01:04]:
Jahan Jones published an article on MSNBC.com titled "ESPN Stephen A. Smith is a Megaphone for MAGA Propaganda," in which he asserts that Smith's engagements with right-wing figures like Candace Owens, Sean Hannity, Ben Shapiro, Megyn Kelly, and Bill O'Reilly indicate a biased alignment with the MAGA movement. Jones suggests that such interactions contradict ESPN's recent efforts to keep its talent away from controversial political discussions.

3. Stephen A. Smith’s Response

3.1. Invitation for Dialogue

Timestamp [02:00]:
Smith mentions that his team reached out to Jones for a one-on-one discussion to address the article. However, Jones declined the invitation, citing a busy schedule. Smith emphasizes his openness to dialogue, stating, "Personally, I hope we get the opportunity to have that dialogue."

3.2. Rejection of the MAGA Label

Timestamp [03:15]:
Smith challenges the notion that differing political opinions automatically label him as MAGA. He declares, "I think that's the exact problem with the left. You see, if I don't agree with you, I must be MAGA."

3.3. Advocating for Centrist Position

Timestamp [03:30]:
Smith asserts his position as a centrist and moderate, distancing himself from both the Democratic and Republican parties. He states, "I've never once described myself as a Democrat or a Republican. I'm a centrist. I'm a moderate."

3.4. Diverse Guest List to Showcase Balance

Timestamp [03:45]:
To demonstrate his balanced approach, Smith lists a variety of guests from both political spectrums who have appeared on his show:

• Right-Leaning Guests: Ben Shapiro, Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, Clay Travis
• Left-Leaning Guests: Meaghan Kelly, Jake Tapper, Hakeem Jeffries, Cory Booker, Cornel West, etc.

He emphasizes, "I've had folks from both sides. I've interviewed anybody that's resonating with the masses about significant pertinent issues. I will do that. Left, right, in the middle. It does not matter to me."

3.5. Clarifying the Role of a Journalist

Timestamp [08:07]:
Smith differentiates between platforming and journalistic responsibility. He explains, "I am a journalist by trade. I'm going to interview you and give you an opportunity to answer the questions that people want to know."

He argues that hosting diverse opinions is essential, stating, "They gonna say it anyway. If I interview Trump tomorrow, I'm gonna be accused of platforming."

3.6. Addressing Specific Political Issues

Timestamp [09:32]:
Smith discusses various contentious topics to illustrate his commitment to addressing pressing issues rather than adhering to a single political ideology:

• Immigration: Criticizes both Democratic and Republican policies, highlighting the complexities and failures on both sides.
• Crime: Points out inefficiencies in the criminal justice system, such as the release of criminals shortly after arrest.
• Economic Policies: Debates issues like inflation and student loans, advocating for open discourse and debate.

He asserts, "If we want to sit up there and look at the latest controversy that they're involved in, in terms of national security information... people are allowed to have their opinions."

3.7. Critique of Both Political Sides

Timestamp [16:13]:
Smith critiques the hypocrisy and double standards he perceives in both the left and the right. He references:

• Left's Hypocrisy: Points out inconsistencies in policies and actions, such as Kamala Harris's alleged lack of distinction from Joe Biden's policies.
• Right's Failings: Acknowledges the flaws within conservative leadership, including corruption cases and ineffective governance.

3.8. Emphasis on Independent Ownership and Editorial Freedom

Timestamp [21:30]:
Smith clarifies the ownership and editorial independence of his show, distancing it from ESPN's policies. He states, "This is Stephen A. Smith's platform. It has nothing to do with ESPN. This is 100% owned and operated by me."

He reinforces his commitment to discussing "social commentary" and "issues and compromise," irrespective of political affiliations.

3.9. Advocacy for Diverse Political Voices

Timestamp [23:18]:
Smith underscores his willingness to host a wide array of political figures, regardless of their political leaning. He mentions potential guests from various backgrounds, including Representative Eric Swalwell, Bill Maher, and even controversial figures like the Ku Klux Klan (under the premise of asking pertinent questions).

He emphasizes, "Left, right, in the middle. It does not matter to me. I'm always going to be that way."

3.10. Support for Centrist Leaders

Timestamp [26:10]:
Smith advocates for centrist and moderate political leaders, highlighting Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, as a prime example: "Wes Moore... should be the next President of the United States of America."

He further explains his voting preferences, indicating support for candidates based on individual merit rather than party allegiance.

4. Conclusion: Reaffirming Independence and Commitment to Balanced Discourse

Timestamp [28:42]:
Reiterating his opening remarks on self-care and personal worth, Smith underscores the importance of maintaining one's integrity and independence amidst political pressures.

Final Remarks:
Stephen A. Smith vehemently denies being a MAGA megaphone, positioning himself as an independent, centrist voice committed to balanced and open discourse. He advocates for hosting diverse political perspectives, critiquing both sides, and focusing on pertinent societal issues without partisan bias.

Notable Quotes:

• "If I don't agree with you, I must be MAGA. It must be the case I'm platforming MAGA propaganda. Is that so?" — Stephen A. Smith [03:15]

• "I've never once described myself as a Democrat or a Republican. I'm a centrist. I'm a moderate." — Stephen A. Smith [03:30]

• "I am a journalist by trade. I'm going to interview you and give you an opportunity to answer the questions that people want to know." — Stephen A. Smith [08:07]

• "This is Stephen A. Smith's platform. It has nothing to do with ESPN. This is 100% owned and operated by me." — Stephen A. Smith [21:59]

• "Left, right, in the middle. It does not matter to me. I'm always going to be that way." — Stephen A. Smith [23:46]

5. Key Takeaways

• Centrist Stance: Stephen A. Smith positions himself firmly as a centrist, rejecting labels that pigeonhole him into specific political categories.

• Diverse Guest Selection: By hosting a wide array of guests from varying political backgrounds, Smith emphasizes the importance of balanced discourse and varied perspectives.

• Journalistic Integrity: Smith underscores his role as a journalist committed to exploring all sides of an issue, distancing himself from allegations of bias.

• Critique of Political Hypocrisy: He calls out inconsistencies and shortcomings in both major political parties, advocating for accountability and honest dialogue.

• Independent Ownership: Clarifying that his platform is independent of ESPN, Smith asserts full control over his content and guest selections.

This episode serves as a comprehensive defense against allegations of partisan bias, highlighting Stephen A. Smith's dedication to independent journalism and balanced political discourse. For listeners seeking an unbiased analysis of current events and political matters, this episode reinforces Smith's commitment to providing a platform for diverse voices and fostering informed discussions.