The Stephen A. Smith Show Episode: Stephen A’s Take: “The Great One” Mark Levin Bash Trump’s Putin Hype
Release Date: February 22, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this compelling episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delves into a significant development within conservative circles: Mark Levin's unexpected criticism of former President Donald Trump regarding Trump's stance on Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This discussion sheds light on internal debates within the Republican Party and the broader implications for American politics.

Mark Levin’s Critique of Trump on Ukraine and Putin

At the heart of the episode is Mark Levin’s recent departure from his usual unwavering support for Trump. Levin publicly challenged Trump's narrative around the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, specifically disputing Trump's characterization of Zelensky as a dictator and his allegations that Ukraine is manipulating free elections.

Notable Quote:

Mark Levin (01:05): "Zelensky hasn't called for an election. That's what the constitution compels. Now I'm waiting for the first free election for Vladimir Putin. I mean, this is almost comical in a sick way that Putin is demanding an election. Why is he demanding an election in Ukraine when he doesn't have free and real elections in his own country?"

Levin further emphasized that Russia was the aggressor in the conflict, stating:

Mark Levin (02:15): "Ukraine did not invade Russia. Russia invaded Ukraine. Ukraine doesn't have the industrial might that Russia has or China. They didn't start this war. What were they supposed to do? Roll over and play dead? MAGA doesn't support Putin. 81% of the American people do not trust Putin because 81% of the American people are smart."

Stephen A. Smith's Analysis and Support of Levin’s Stance

Stephen A. Smith lauds Levin for his bold stance, recognizing it as a rare instance of conservative integrity. He appreciates Levin’s willingness to critique Trump, highlighting the importance of such accountability within the party.

Notable Quotes:

Stephen A. Smith (04:30): "If you don’t have people on the right that I'm not willing to say to Donald Trump, yo, man, you're going a bit too far... I think you're wrong on this one."

Stephen A. Smith (06:20): "Mark Levin was absolutely right. I was a fan of his show to begin with, but I appreciate him even more today because when you take the kind of stance that he has taken against Donald Trump, it shows that you're trustworthy."

Smith underscores that Levin’s criticism stems from a place of seeking truth and upholding constitutional principles, rather than partisan opposition.

Contrasting with Other Republican Voices

Stephen contrasts Levin’s approach with that of other prominent Republican commentators like Sean Hannity, pointing out that Levin is one of the few on the right willing to challenge Trump when necessary.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith (07:50): "I've never seen an individual in my life that wanted to debate that man because he knows what the hell he's talking about... but Mark Levin provided everybody hope."

Smith criticizes the lack of similar accountability from other conservative figures, suggesting that without voices like Levin’s, the party risks unchecked leadership.

The Importance of Accountability on the Right

Emphasizing the need for internal critique, Smith argues that conservatives must be willing to hold their leaders accountable to maintain integrity and effectiveness.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith (09:00): "If you don't have people on the right that are willing to do that, then we are in trouble."

He highlights the necessity for Republicans to distinguish between right and wrong unequivocally, a stance Levin exemplifies.

Concerns about Checks and Balances

Beyond the immediate critique of Trump’s foreign policy positions, Smith expresses broader concerns about a potential future where Trump holds office without sufficient checks and balances, fearing that this could lead to executive overreach.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith (08:40): "The issue of Trump being in office is not the biggest issue. It's him being the office devoid of checks and balances. I don't mind him being in office more than I mind the Republicans having both the House and the Senate and he gets to operate with impunity. That's my fear."

Conclusion: Hope from Conservative Voices like Levin

Wrapping up the discussion, Stephen A. Smith offers a hopeful perspective, crediting Mark Levin for providing a trustworthy and principled voice that could inspire similar accountability among conservatives.

Notable Quote:

Stephen A. Smith (10:10): "Right is right, wrong is wrong. Donald Trump and going after Zelensky. Nah, you ain't got any business doing that. You don't want to give him more money, don't give him more money. But you ain't got to talk about him like that, like he's the villain in all of this. That's going a bit too far."

Smith's endorsement of Levin not only reinforces the significance of Levin’s critique but also underscores the essential role such voices play in shaping a responsible and effective conservative movement.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show offers an in-depth examination of the complexities within the Republican Party, particularly regarding leadership accountability and foreign policy stances. By spotlighting Mark Levin’s courageous critique, Stephen A. Smith encourages a culture of honesty and integrity, emphasizing that upholding these values is crucial for the party's future and the nation's well-being.

Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections have been omitted to focus solely on the episode's substantive discussions.