Stephen A. Smith: "Petty" Dems Skipping SOTU Have No Moral High Ground To Judge Trump
RealClearPolitics
by Stephen A. Smith, Straight ShooterFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Stephen A. Smith criticized Democrats for their "juvenile, petulant, petty" response to President Trump, particularly their consideration of skipping or walking out during the State of the Union address. He argued that such actions not only lack decorum but also undermine their ability to morally judge the president. Smith emphasized the importance of maintaining respect for the office and acting with adulthood, especially when representing constituents who rely on elected officials to get things done.
Smith acknowledged his limited political expertise but highlighted his common sense, decency, and respect for the presidency as key principles guiding his critique. He stressed that while individual feelings about Trump may vary, senators and representatives must work collaboratively to address issues, even if they disagree with the president. Smith also reiterated his lack of interest in politics, focusing instead on his role as a commentator who speaks truthfully about important matters.
Smith’s comments reflect broader debates about political decorum and strategy. By calling out Democrats for their response, he raises questions about whether such actions effectively achieve their goals or alienate voters. His critique also touches on the challenges of bipartisan cooperation in a polarized political climate, where even small gestures can spark significant attention and controversy.
Ultimately, Smith’s message underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in politics, particularly when dealing with high-profile figures like the president. His perspective adds to ongoing discussions about how elected officials navigate public perception, constituent expectations, and their own values in a contentious political environment.
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/25/2026