Stephen A Smith criticizes Texas congresswoman Jasmine Crockett for using street-style language that he claims is hurting Democrats and helping Republicans in Washington

Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN personality known for his fiery sports commentary, has shifted his focus from the court to Congress.

On his SiriusXM show Straight Shooter with Stephen A. Smith, he took aim at Democratic Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett of Texas, criticizing her for using what he described as “street language” that, in his view, alienates potential voters and benefits the Republican Party.

Why Smith Thinks Crockett’s Style Backfires

Smith didn’t hold back when discussing Crockett’s communication style, saying that her use of slang and confrontational tone undermines her image as an intelligent and capable leader.

“When you’re in her position, that’s not going to get you anywhere,” he argued.

According to Smith, Crockett’s rhetoric may energize some audiences but ultimately distracts from her message as an “educated, brilliant Black woman” representing hundreds of thousands of Texans.

He went further to question whether such streetwise language has any place in political negotiations.

“How many of y’all bring the streets to the table when you’re trying to get a deal done?” he asked his listeners, adding that Capitol Hill is not the place for the same tone used in neighborhood conversations.

Controversial Comments That Sparked the Debate

Crockett has been no stranger to controversy.

Her critics have often highlighted moments when she’s gone after Republican leaders with sharp words, including a viral remark where she mocked Texas Governor Greg Abbott — who uses a wheelchair — by calling him “Governor Hot Wheels.”

Smith pointed to moments like that as examples of how such language gives her opponents easy ammunition.

“Republicans take her words and turn them into weapons,” he said, explaining that they use her fiery outbursts to paint Democrats as unprofessional.

“Why would they do that? Because they know it wins for them.”

A Clash Between Passion and Pragmatism

Smith made it clear that his issue isn’t with Crockett’s passion but with her political approach.

He said he actually respects her intelligence and resume, acknowledging that her heart is “in the right place.”

However, he believes her confrontational style might make her less effective in passing legislation.

“At some point, if you want to get things done, you’ve got to walk across the aisle and deal with people you don’t want to deal with,” Smith argued.

For him, politics is as much about building bridges as it is about standing firm on principles.

Backlash and Calls for Cancellation

Smith’s comments have sparked backlash, especially after his earlier criticism of Crockett.

Some listeners accused him of undermining a strong Black female leader, while others even called for his show to be canceled.

Smith addressed the uproar on his latest episode, calling the cancellation attempts “immature” and “shameful.”

“Everybody’s entitled to their opinions,” he said. “But calling for a rally to cancel me? That’s not it.”

Advice for Crockett’s Political Future

Despite the tension, Smith ended his critique with what he framed as advice.

He encouraged Crockett to aim higher — perhaps for a committee chairmanship or even to challenge a Republican senator — instead of spending energy on verbal spats.

“I appreciate her passion, her intellect, and her courage,” he said, “but isn’t politics about winning too? Isn’t it about getting it done?”

Smith’s Growing Political Presence

Interestingly, Smith’s own name has recently surfaced in political discussions.

Several reports have hinted that the ESPN host could be a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028.

Although he initially dismissed the idea, he has since admitted that he’s “flirting with the possibility,” mostly due to his dissatisfaction with how Democrats are handling the country’s political climate.

Appearing on Real Time with Bill Maher, Smith didn’t close the door entirely.

“Life is good, man,” he said.

“I can’t imagine myself doing it, but I haven’t ruled it out — because I’m disgusted with what I’m seeing on the left.”

What Comes Next

With Smith increasingly using his platform to discuss politics, and Crockett continuing to attract both criticism and admiration for her unfiltered style, their clash highlights a broader debate within the Democratic Party — one about tone, strategy, and what it really takes to win voters in today’s polarized America.

Whether either of them changes course remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: both know how to keep the conversation going.