Stephen A. Smith issued a public apology to U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett in a video posted on X, addressing criticism over his past comments about her. He said he delayed responding because he was recovering from emergency dental surgery, but felt compelled to speak after seeing former President Donald Trump attack Crockett.
Smith acknowledged that some viewed his earlier remarks as dismissive and said he now understands why people expected him to be more supportive. He stressed he never meant to disrespect Crockett or any Black woman and clarified his questions about her congressional approach were meant to encourage dialogue, not criticism.
He rejected claims that his tone was misogynistic but accepted responsibility for how his words were received. Smith praised Crockett’s intelligence and leadership, suggesting she could run for Texas Senate or attorney general. He invited her and other lawmakers to a town hall in Washington, D.C., and closed by affirming his deep respect for her work and commitment to the Black community.
Smith acknowledged that some viewed his earlier remarks as dismissive and said he now understands why people expected him to be more supportive. He stressed he never meant to disrespect Crockett or any Black woman and clarified his questions about her congressional approach were meant to encourage dialogue, not criticism.
He rejected claims that his tone was misogynistic but accepted responsibility for how his words were received. Smith praised Crockett’s intelligence and leadership, suggesting she could run for Texas Senate or attorney general. He invited her and other lawmakers to a town hall in Washington, D.C., and closed by affirming his deep respect for her work and commitment to the Black community.
