Stephen A. Smith Criticizes NFL Over Reaction To Trump Dance Celebrations
ESPN’s liberal commentator Stephen A. Smith is speaking out against the NFL’s handling of players performing the “Trump Dance” following major plays this season. The dance, popularized by President Donald Trump at his rallies, has caught on with some NFL players, much to the chagrin of the league, which felt the need to comment on the celebratory moves.
Smith, the outspoken co-host of First Take and host of his radio show, expressed his frustration with the NFL’s response. He felt that the league’s need to intervene was unwarranted. “They got a right to support who the hell they want without the league needing to send in a response,” Smith remarked. “This is nonsense.”
Stephen A Smith on point 100% wtf is the NFL trying to ban the so called “ Trump dance “ NFL since when do you NOT support the President elect ?? This is freaking America stand with your leader no matter who you voted for !! AMERICA made it LOUD & CLEAR , We needed a change we… https://t.co/HEL5OSwngS
— JOHN BOLARIS (@JohnBolaris) November 24, 2024
The controversy began when several NFL players, including 49ers’ defensive end Nick Bosa, performed the Trump-inspired dance after big moments on the field. Bosa, a well-known Trump supporter, had previously been fined for wearing a MAGA hat in a postgame interview, violating the NFL’s policy against displaying personal political messages. The NFL’s stance on players expressing personal political views, such as the “Trump Dance,” quickly became a focal point.
Smith criticized the NFL for overreacting to what he saw as harmless celebratory behavior. He argued that the issue did not warrant a league-wide statement and pointed to UFC President Dana White, who would not have made such a statement. “Dana White doesn’t play that nonsense. He’s not going to apologize for it, as most American citizens should feel free to do,” Smith said.
Smith’s remarks reflect broader cultural frustrations, particularly with “woke culture” and “cancel culture,” which he believes have created an atmosphere where people are afraid to express differing views. He also argued that this climate is partly responsible for the rise of Donald Trump, stating, “This is why Donald Trump was elected in the first place.”
Stephen A. Smith Defends NFL Players Doing Trump Dance https://t.co/EAfYCkvIl7
— Michael McCarthy (@MMcCarthyREV) November 24, 2024
In an unexpected turn, Smith also suggested that the NFL’s reaction was indicative of a larger societal issue. “People are walking around wondering whether or not they are echoing the right pronoun,” he said. Smith’s comments indicate how this type of cultural sensitivity has created divisions in American society, with many Americans feeling silenced or marginalized for their views.
Smith concluded his comments by stating that Trump’s presidency and the current political environment are a direct result of these cultural tensions. “Because of that, I believe is a big reason why Donald Trump on Jan. 20 will be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States of America,” Smith said.