Stephen A Smith challenges Democrats to earn the Black vote rather than take it for granted
Stephen A. Smith argued that Democrats should endear to Americans, particularly Black Americans, with good policy, rather than merely fearmongering about Republican opposition.
Sports commentator Stephen A Smith challenged Democrats on Monday to actually persuade Black voters rather than take their support for granted.
Smith, who has flirted with running for office, spoke candidly to listeners, saying, "I keep reminding y'all, I don't want us falling into fearmongering and all of this other stuff to decide who our commander in chief is going to be every four years."
He argued it would be far better if politicians could be assessed purely for what policies they actually have to offer, so that ultimately, "We make sure that they cater to America's interests first, but just as importantly, as a Black man, the Black community. I want us to stand up and say, ‘Hey, flatter me! Work for my vote! Don't think that it automatically comes your way! You got to earn it!’"
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith argued that Democrats have begun to cater to niche issues that only apply to tiny parts of the electorate. (Paras Griffin / Getty Images)
He appeared to call out how the Democrats have become obsessed with niche issues that only apply to a tiny part of the electorate, rather than helping larger communities.
"We've been giving the Democratic Party our vote above 80% since the '60s. I'm not saying that should change," he said. "I'm saying let them earn it, as opposed to not doing anything for us, focusing on even smaller constituents than us."
He went on to note, "We make up 13.6% of the population. Stop concerning yourself with 1% of the population, if not less, when it comes to the interests of this country and the interests of communities that fall under the purview of this country."
Smith went on to argue that the Democrats need to do better than merely suggest the other side is racist.
DAVID MARCUS: IF DEMOCRATS DO HIM DIRTY, STEPHEN A. SMITH COULD BE THE NEXT RFK JR.
Stephen A. Smith has criticized leaders and policies on both sides of American politics. (Paul Morigi/Getty Images for SiriusXM)
"Look out for us, and don't just be in our face saying that the other side is racist, so don't vote for them. Like I'm supposed to believe you're not. Nah," Smith said.
He suggested that for many other aspects of life, one needs to examine a prospective house, test drive a new car, or try on a new suit before they commit to buying it.
"I ain't giving you anything. Earn it," he said. "It's all I'm saying."
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Stephen A. Smith has flirted with running for the presidency. (Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for UCLA)
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