The Stephen A. Smith Show: Republicans and the Push for a Third Trump Term by Steve Bannon

Release Date: March 21, 2025
Podcast: The Stephen A. Smith Show
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Episode Title: Stephen A's Take: Republicans, why is Trump being pitched for a 3rd term by Steve Bannon. You have no other options?

Introduction: A Fiery Start

The episode kicks off with Stephen A. Smith expressing his frustration and anger regarding recent political developments. From the outset, Smith sets a passionate tone, stating, "I'm pretty pissed off, and I'm not gonna miss words today..." (01:04).

Steve Bannon's Push for a Third Term

Smith delves into Steve Bannon's recent statements advocating for President Donald Trump to seek a third term. He references Bannon's appearance on the Chris Cuomo show, highlighting Bannon's declaration: "I'm a firm believer that President Trump will run and win again in 2028..." (03:03). Smith condemns this stance, emphasizing the constitutional limitations imposed by the 22nd Amendment, which explicitly states that a president cannot serve more than two terms.

Steve Bannon (03:03): "I'm a firm believer that President Trump will run and win again in 2028. So I've already endorsed President Trump. A man like this comes along once every century, if we're lucky."

Constitutional Concerns and Hypocrisy

Smith vehemently criticizes Bannon and other right-wing figures for their attempts to circumvent constitutional provisions. He questions the seriousness of altering the Constitution, especially when these individuals previously championed constitutional adherence. "Is that funny to circumvent the Constitution?... If anybody was against the Constitution or should be against the Constitution, it should be black people." (03:43).

He continues to highlight the irony of Bannon's actions, noting the hypocrisy of promoting constitutional values while simultaneously seeking to undermine them.

Legal Troubles of Steve Bannon

The discussion shifts to Bannon's legal history, providing a comprehensive overview of his offenses and subsequent plea deals. Smith outlines Bannon's involvement in the "We Build the Wall" fundraising campaign, his guilty plea to fraud charges, and the repercussions he faced, including his conviction for contempt of Congress related to the January 6th Capitol attack.

Stephen A. Smith (07:00): "Steve Bannon pleaded guilty this past Tuesday to defrauding donors to a private effort to build a wall on the US Southern border..."

Smith underscores the seriousness of Bannon's actions, questioning how someone with such a background can advocate for preserving constitutional limits.

The Republican Party's Fixation on Trump

A significant portion of the episode critiques the Republican Party's overwhelming focus on Donald Trump as their sole viable candidate for future elections. Smith lists alternative Republican figures like J.D. Vance, Marco Rubio, Ron DeSantis, and Nikki Haley, questioning why these individuals are sidelined in favor of maintaining Trump's influence.

Stephen A. Smith (10:21): "What is this fixation, this cult-like allure and addiction to Donald Trump... There's plenty of people to run for the presidency for the right."

Smith argues that this fixation not only stifles diversity within the party but also hinders the development of a robust succession plan, essential for the party's long-term viability.

Impact on the American Public and Political Stability

Smith expresses concern over the potential ramifications of Bannon's push and the Republican Party's direction. He asserts that the uncertainty surrounding Trump's potential third term is causing widespread anxiety among Americans, exacerbating political tensions.

Stephen A. Smith (16:55): "Or not, and it scares the living hell out of them. And y'all don't mind the stress that you caused them in the midterm..."

This anxiety is further fueled by inconsistent messaging from Republican leaders, leaving the public uncertain about the party's true intentions and future.

Lack of Alternative Leadership and Moving Forward

Towards the episode's conclusion, Smith emphasizes the urgent need for the Republican Party to cultivate and support alternative leaders. He challenges the party to step beyond Trump's shadow, advocating for leaders who can inspire and unite rather than polarize.

Stephen A. Smith (17:34): "Why don't you run in? Why don't you run? What's wrong with Rubio? What's wrong with Vance?... You can't do that."

Smith's call to action is clear: for the Republican Party to remain relevant and effective, it must prioritize leadership development and constitutional integrity over personal allegiances.

Conclusion: A Call for Constitutional Adherence and Leadership Renewal

In wrapping up, Stephen A. Smith reiterates his disapproval of the current trajectory within the Republican Party. He underscores the importance of upholding constitutional values and encourages the party to embrace a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach.

Stephen A. Smith (18:49): "Is it because there's something personally invested in it for you? I'm just wondering. Steve Bannon is a highly, highly intelligent man... You should be ashamed of yourself."

Smith's passionate plea serves as both a critique and a hopeful vision for a more balanced and principled political landscape.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen A. Smith (01:04): "I'm pretty pissed off, and I'm not gonna miss words today..."

• Steve Bannon (03:03): "I'm a firm believer that President Trump will run and win again in 2028. So I've already endorsed President Trump..."

• Stephen A. Smith (03:43): "Is that funny to circumvent the Constitution?... If anybody was against the Constitution or should be against the Constitution, it should be black people."

• Stephen A. Smith (07:00): "Steve Bannon pleaded guilty this past Tuesday to defrauding donors to a private effort to build a wall on the US Southern border..."

• Stephen A. Smith (10:21): "What is this fixation, this cult-like allure and addiction to Donald Trump..."

• Stephen A. Smith (16:55): "Or not, and it scares the living hell out of them. And y'all don't mind the stress that you caused them in the midterm..."

• Stephen A. Smith (17:34): "Why don't you run in? Why don't you run? What's wrong with Rubio? What's wrong with Vance?... You can't do that."

• Stephen A. Smith (18:49): "Is it because there's something personally invested in it for you? I'm just wondering. Steve Bannon is a highly, highly intelligent man... You should be ashamed of yourself."

Key Takeaways

1. Constitutional Limits Are Under Threat: Steve Bannon's advocacy for a third Trump term poses a direct challenge to the 22nd Amendment, raising questions about the Republican Party's commitment to constitutional principles.

2. Legal Controversies Undermine Credibility: Bannon's past legal issues, including fraud charges related to the "We Build the Wall" campaign and contempt of Congress convictions, cast a shadow over his political maneuverings.

3. Republican Party's Leadership Crisis: The party's over-reliance on Donald Trump prevents the emergence of new leaders, jeopardizing its future stability and effectiveness.

4. Public Anxiety and Political Polarization: Efforts to extend Trump's presidency contribute to national anxiety and deepen political divisions, undermining democratic norms.

5. Urgent Call for Change: Stephen A. Smith emphasizes the need for the Republican Party to embrace new leadership and uphold constitutional values to restore public trust and ensure political resilience.

Stephen A. Smith's passionate discourse in this episode serves as a critical examination of current Republican strategies and leadership choices. By highlighting the constitutional implications and advocating for leadership diversity, Smith urges both the party and its supporters to reflect on the long-term consequences of their political maneuvers.