The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode: Stephen A's Take: Stephen A breaks down angry Democratic strategist James Carville
Release Date: February 23, 2025

Introduction: The Clash Begins

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into a heated exchange between himself and renowned Democratic strategist James Carville. The confrontation originated when Carville publicly criticized Smith’s recent political commentary, sparking a dynamic and intense dialogue about the current state of the Democratic Party.

James Carville's Critique of Stephen A. Smith

The episode kicks off with Nate Thompson explaining how James Carville addressed Smith on his Politicon podcast, questioning Smith’s insights into the Democratic Party.

James Carville [01:29]:
"That's why I'm in the news. I'm not in the news because I'm here. I'm in the news because the Democratic Party is here. Damn it. Lower than that. Down at the bottom. They suck right now. Horrible. Because they don't have a voice. Where the hell is the voice everybody want to sit up there and talk about?"

Carville expresses frustration over what he perceives as the Democratic Party’s lack of a cohesive and effective voice, criticizing its current strategies and leadership.

Stephen A. Smith's Rebuttal

Responding to Carville’s criticisms, Stephen A. Smith does not hold back his disdain for the strategist’s understanding of politics.

Stephen A. Smith [02:16]:
"You say you're friends with Wes Moore, and you say you're friends with Josh Shapiro, or I'm friends with both of them. I think they're really extraordinary, talented people. I got news for you, dude. That's six or seven other people in the Democratic Party that are just that talented. So before you start running your mouth off about politics, a topic of which you really don't know anything about, you ought to sit back and think about it and call some people and run it by them."

Smith challenges Carville’s authority, suggesting that his criticisms are unfounded and that Carville lacks the necessary political acumen to make such statements.

Nate Thompson's Defense and Analysis

Nate Thompson steps in to mediate the conversation, defending Smith’s position while critiquing Carville’s approach.

Nate Thompson [05:05]:
"You sound like one of those old curmudgeons that want things to stay so the way that they used to be. And you're resentful, harboring an abundance of animosity because you're not being heard."

Thompson argues that Carville’s inability to connect with contemporary voters stems from a resistance to change and an attachment to outdated strategies.

Carville’s Counterarguments

James Carville counters Thompson’s points by asserting his persistent and relevant involvement in political discourse.

James Carville [07:33]:
"I saw him on Fox News, I saw you on CNN. I saw you on your podcast before the election. Where the hell you think I got some of the stuff from?... You didn't say any of those things. I tell you what, let's see the audience."

Carville emphasizes that his critiques are informed and align with various media discussions, positioning himself as a credible voice within the Democratic landscape.

The Democratic Party's Strategy Under Scrutiny

The conversation shifts to a broader analysis of the Democratic Party’s strategies and the effectiveness of its messaging.

Stephen A. Smith [06:17]:
"We have no legislative power. We have no executive power. We have no judicial power. So when you're out of power, you're an opposition party and go and tell all the people that are sending you and asking you for money, justify what you did, justify what you did wrong and tell us what you're going to do different."

Smith criticizes the party’s lack of tangible power and questions its accountability and strategic direction, highlighting perceived missteps that have led to voter disillusionment.

Nate Thompson’s Perspective on Political Messaging

Thompson further elaborates on the discrepancy between traditional political strategies and the emerging voices within the party.

Nate Thompson [17:23]:
"Your problem isn't with me. Your problem is with those folks who are entrenched in politics on Capitol Hill... Young whippersnappers, breath smelling like Similac, wet behind the ears, that don't want to listen to somebody like you."

He suggests that the Democratic Party's struggles are due to a disconnect between established strategists like Carville and the newer, more dynamic elements vying for influence, leading to ineffective campaigning and messaging.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The episode culminates in a reflection on the necessity for the Democratic Party to evolve its strategies and embrace new voices to resonate with the modern electorate. Both Smith and Thompson advocate for a departure from outdated tactics, emphasizing the need for authentic and relatable communication to rebuild the party’s standing.

Nate Thompson [17:50]:
"Your problem isn't with me... If you're gonna mention my name, can we cut out the profanity? Can we stop cussing? Can we stop acting like we're juveniles? You're better than that, sir. You're better than that."

Thompson underscores the importance of professionalism and respect in political discourse, urging a move away from vitriolic exchanges toward constructive dialogue.

Notable Quotes

• James Carville [01:29]:
  "They suck right now. Horrible. Because they don't have a voice."

• Stephen A. Smith [02:16]:
  "You really don't know anything about, you ought to sit back and think about it."

• Nate Thompson [05:05]:
  "You sound like one of those old curmudgeons."

• Stephen A. Smith [06:17]:
  "We have no legislative power. ... tell us what you're going to do different."

• Nate Thompson [17:50]:
  "Can we cut out the profanity? Can we stop cussing?"

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show provides a compelling look into the tensions within the Democratic Party, highlighting the clash between traditional strategists and emerging voices. Through candid exchanges and incisive commentary, Stephen A. Smith and Nate Thompson offer listeners a nuanced perspective on the challenges and necessary transformations facing the party today.