Stephen A. Smith knocks Democrats boycotting Trump address: ‘Ticks me off’
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has expressed strong dissatisfaction with Democratic members of Congress planning to boycott President Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address. In a recent statement, Smith criticized the decision as “the kind of stuff that ticks me off,” arguing that it disrespects the American people and undermines the democratic process. He emphasized that elected officials should engage with the public and address their concerns, rather than opting out of high-profile events like the State of the Union.
Smith’s comments come amid growing partisan tensions in Washington, as Democrats and Republicans continue to clash over various issues, including Trump’s policies and leadership style. The planned boycott reflects a broader trend of political polarization, with some lawmakers choosing to prioritize ideological battles over bipartisan cooperation. Smith suggested that such actions not only divide the country but also fail to represent the will of the majority of Americans.
This issue matters because it highlights the ongoing challenges of governance in a deeply divided political landscape. By boycotting the State of the Union, Democrats are signaling their resistance to working with Trump and his administration, which could further exacerbate gridlock and mistrust between the two parties. Smith’s critique underscores the importance of constructive dialogue and the potential consequences of partisan brinkmanship on national unity and progress.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/21/2026