The Stephen A. Smith Show – Episode Summary: Stephen A's Take on Megyn Kelly vs. Jake Tapper Interview

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Stephen A. Smith Show
• Hosts: Stephen A. Smith and iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Stephen A's Take: Stephen A reacts to confrontational interview between Megyn Kelly and Jake Tapper
• Release Date: May 22, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into the heated and highly publicized confrontation between renowned journalists Megyn Kelly and Jake Tapper. The discussion centers around Tapper's new book, Original Sin, co-authored with Alex Thompson, which scrutinizes former President Joe Biden's cognitive abilities and alleges a deliberate obfuscation of his mental lapses by his close associates and family.

Overview of Original Sin and Its Claims

At the onset of the episode, Stephen A. Smith introduces Original Sin, highlighting the book's controversial examination of President Biden's mental health. Smith notes that the book has stirred significant anticipation and debate, particularly regarding whether CNN and its anchors, including Jake Tapper and Megyn Kelly, may have withheld critical information to boost book sales.

Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson’s Perspective

Key Excerpts from the Interview:

• Jake Tapper ([02:35]):

  "In my ecosphere we were covering all of these. It wasn't just falling down, it was getting lost. It was some of the stuff you report in your book was we knew and we were reporting on like the multi jump cuts in the videos of him where it was obvious he couldn't get through a one minute take."

• Alex Thompson ([03:15]):

  "The Biden White House did not like me. Okay. This is. I do not have great connections with the Biden White House."

Tapper and Thompson discuss their extensive research, citing over 200 sources and presenting evidence of Biden's cognitive decline. They accuse the White House of attempting to conceal these issues and criticize CNN for not adequately addressing the emerging stories at the time.

Stephen A. Smith’s Reaction and Analysis

Praise for Megyn Kelly:

Stephen A. Smith begins by commending Megyn Kelly for her journalistic integrity and forthrightness. He emphasizes her commitment to facts and transparency, particularly in her relationships with prominent figures such as Pete Hegseth.

Stephen A. Smith ([04:33]): "I've been Watching her for years. I respect the hell out of that woman. She does not play. She does not pull punches. She gives you facts. She lives on them."

Criticism of Jake Tapper and CNN:

Transitioning to Jake Tapper and CNN, Smith expresses disappointment and skepticism. He accuses Tapper and the network of allowing a protective narrative around Biden's mental health, questioning their commitment to unbiased reporting.

Stephen A. Smith ([07:00]): "I called out Joe Biden and the diminished mental acuity and a lack of ferv and the incapacitation that so many that people were alluding to. I called it out a year in advance. I got eviscerated."

Smith further critiques Tapper's handling of dissenting voices within CNN, suggesting that political loyalties may have compromised journalistic integrity.

Stephen A. Smith ([08:12]): "The Democratic Party was demanding that you flow with and you vibe with what they wanted you to. And if you did it, they were ready to have your ass canceled."

Broader Critique of the Democratic Party:

Expanding his critique, Smith discusses the broader implications of what he perceives as cancel culture and duplicity within the Democratic Party. He draws parallels to high-profile cases like Andrew Cuomo and Al Franken to illustrate his point about the party's willingness to discard its own members while maintaining a facade.

Stephen A. Smith ([12:03]): "The fact remains that there were people... It ain't about Trump. It's not about Kamala Harris. It's about that party. From woke culture to cancel culture."

Concerns for the Future:

Smith voices concerns about the potential political ramifications, including the impact on upcoming midterm elections and the 2028 presidency. He warns that the revelations from Tapper and Thompson's book could cause "irreparable harm" to the Democratic Party.

Stephen A. Smith ([14:07]): "I think irreparable harm is going to be done to the Democrats. I think the midterms are in jeopardy. I think the presidency in 2028 is in jeopardy."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen A. Smith ([07:00]):

  "I called out Joe Biden and the diminished mental acuity and a lack of ferv and the incapacitation that so many that people were alluding to. I called it out a year in advance. I got eviscerated. Eviscerated."

• Jake Tapper ([02:35]):

  "In my ecosphere we were covering all of these... some of the stuff you report in your book was we knew and we were reporting on... it was clear to us that he was using teleprompter."

• Stephen A. Smith ([04:33]):

  "I respect the hell out of that woman. She does not play. She does not pull punches. She gives you facts."

• Stephen A. Smith ([12:03]):

  "It ain't about Trump. It's not about Kamala Harris. It's about that party."

Conclusions and Implications

Stephen A. Smith concludes the episode by reiterating his skepticism towards CNN and Jake Tapper's portrayal of Biden, suggesting that political biases may have influenced the coverage. He underscores the importance of holding media organizations accountable and encourages listeners to critically assess the information presented by major news outlets.

Stephen A. Smith ([15:16]): "I'm just saying it's gonna be real interesting to watch what happens."

Smith's analysis serves as a call to action for listeners to seek the truth and remain vigilant against potential media and political manipulation. He anticipates significant fallout for the Democratic Party and media figures involved, positioning the episode as a critical commentary on contemporary political and media landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show provides a robust critique of media practices and political strategies, particularly focusing on the intersection of journalism and partisan politics. Stephen A. Smith delivers a passionate and incisive analysis, enriched with firsthand insights and strategic questioning, making it a must-listen for audiences interested in the evolving dynamics of American politics and media.