Key facts
- Stephen A. Smith criticized Jill Biden's memoir for admitting she thought Joe Biden had a stroke during the 2024 debate.
- Smith argued that Jill Biden's statement, along with other Democratic rhetoric, constitutes lying and damages the party's brand.
- He suggested that such admissions are poorly timed ahead of midterm elections and could help Republicans.
- Smith stated that Democrats need to eradicate this type of messaging to avoid losing elections.
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has criticized former First Lady Jill Biden, arguing that her public statements, particularly regarding her husband's health, have damaged the Democratic Party's brand. On his podcast, Smith focused on Jill Biden's new memoir, 'View From the East Wing,' where she revealed that she believed Joe Biden might have been having a stroke during his widely criticized 2024 debate performance against Donald Trump. Smith contrasted her initial post-debate public reassurances with her later admission, suggesting this indicated Democrats were 'lying through their teeth.' He expressed concern that such admissions, especially with upcoming elections, would alienate voters and embolden Republicans. Smith asserted that this type of messaging needed to be eliminated for the party to succeed, framing his critique as being 'pro-Democrat' by offering advice on how to win and avoid appearing dishonest.