Stephen A. Smith: ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith has once again made waves with his outspoken commentary, this time targeting two of the most influential figures in American politics and entertainment: Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama. Following the election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, Smith blasted the campaign tactics employed by Democratic supporters, accusing celebrities like Winfrey and Obama of “guilting” Black voters into supporting Vice President Kamala Harris.
Smith’s Criticism of Celebrity Influence
On his Stephen A. Smith Show, the renowned sports commentator shared his strong opinion about the role high-profile figures like Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama played in the election. According to Smith, these wealthy celebrities—who he described as “incredibly detached” from the daily struggles of ordinary Americans—failed to resonate with voters by trying to pressure them into supporting Harris. He highlighted Winfrey’s comments, which suggested that a Trump victory could discourage future voting, calling it a tactic that “alienates” potential voters.
“This is the kind of stuff that alienates an electorate,” Smith remarked. “You’re trying to morally manipulate voters by telling them they’re ‘not worth a damn’ unless they vote the way you want them to vote.” Smith emphasized that in an economy struggling with inflation and an immigration crisis, such tactics were doomed to backfire.
Michelle Obama’s Remarks Draw Criticism
Smith also took issue with Michelle Obama’s comment, made during the campaign, that Black men voting for Trump were essentially voting against “us.” He criticized the former First Lady for creating a divisive narrative, arguing that it left no room for differing opinions within the Black community. “If we don’t agree with you, we’re against you?” Smith challenged. “How do you think the men felt about that? You thought that was going to work?”
The outspoken pundit’s comments reflect a growing frustration among some voters who feel alienated by the celebrity-driven, guilt-laden rhetoric often used in modern political campaigns. Smith’s critique brings attention to the broader issues of celebrity influence in politics, questioning whether such tactics truly connect with or persuade the average American voter.
The Aftermath of Trump’s Victory
Despite Smith’s prediction that Kamala Harris would win, the outcome of the election was a significant surprise. Trump’s victory marks the first time in his political career that he won the popular vote, after having lost in his previous two campaigns. The election results have left many wondering if celebrity endorsements and campaign strategies like those used by Winfrey and Obama played a role in the outcome.
As the debate continues about the effectiveness of celebrity-backed political campaigns, Smith’s critique of Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama adds to the ongoing conversation about the role of influential public figures in shaping political discourse.
