Stephen A. Smith Questions Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s Anti-Trump Focus

Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) for her frequent denunciations of President Donald Trump, questioning whether her approach serves constituents in Texas’ 30th District.

The remarks came on the Oct. 2 episode of his podcast, Straight Shooter with Stephen A., and circulated widely via clips on social platforms.

In the segment, Smith argued that “going off” on Trump isn’t governing, asking whether Crockett should instead prioritize working with the current administration to secure tangible benefits for her district. The comments drew swift pushback online and in media coverage.

Crockett, a prominent Trump critic during the ongoing shutdown fight, has recently tied GOP strategy to efforts to block fuller disclosure of Jeffrey Epstein–related documents, urging Republicans to “release the files.” Her statements, mirrored by other Democrats pressing for transparency—have kept her at the center of the partisan clash over the shutdown’s cause.

“Work is saying, ‘That’s the man in power. I know what his agenda is. I’m not exactly in a position to stop him since the Republicans have the Senate and the House, but maybe if I’m willing to work with this man, I might get something out of it for my constituency,’” Smith said.

Reaction to Smith’s take split along familiar lines: supporters said he was asking a fair question about results, while critics accused him of minimizing the stakes of Crockett’s oversight and messaging. The debate continued across outlets and creator feeds sharing the podcast clip.

Crockett has not directly responded to Smith’s latest comments as of publication, but allies highlighted her focus on constituent work and oversight duties amid the shutdown.