Stephen A. Smith defends Trump dinner, urges critics to act

Stephen A. Smith defended his recent meeting with President Donald Trump, arguing that critics of his appearance at the White House should focus on their own lack of action rather than attacking his methods. During an episode of his "Straight Shooter" show on Thursday, Smith challenged his detractors by asking, "What the f--- are you doing?" He emphasized that his primary objective was to address the impact of federal diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives on private sector philanthropy, specifically regarding donations to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Smith stated that the current administration's approach to DEI has discouraged corporate leaders from making charitable contributions to HBCUs due to fears that such acts will be misinterpreted as DEI exercises. He claimed that he needed the president to speak out against this chilling effect. According to Smith, Trump indicated he had not previously considered the issue but agreed to tackle it, promising to address it in a matter of days when meeting with HBCU officials. Smith noted that while he does not know what will happen, he feels he has tried as he always has and will.

The meeting took place on Oct. 15 at the White House, where Smith was joined by comedian Bill Maher and musician Kid Rock. Smith addressed the criticism surrounding this gathering, expressing frustration with those who complain about him showing up at the White House with Maher. He apologized for using profanity on air, noting that such language is common in their broadcasts, but maintained that the criticism is ridiculous and that it is "never enough" for him. He argued that his actions represent a genuine attempt to influence policy for his community.

Smith also responded to comedian D.L. Hughley, who questioned the meeting on the "Uncertain" podcast. Hughley asked why Trump feels comfortable talking to Smith when he has shown an aversion to people who challenge him, suggesting that Smith's positions might be more palatable to those with a disdain for their shared community. Smith criticized Hughley for complaining without taking steps to address issues in their community. He stated that he is tired of people complaining while others are trying to take action, asking rhetorically what his critics are doing besides complaining.

During a Wednesday appearance on "The View," Smith reiterated that he would not apologize for meeting with Trump. When co-host Sunny Hostin asked if he thought he got anywhere given Trump's history of racial bias, Smith replied that they would find out, but insisted he was going to try because Trump is the president of the United States. He framed his approach from a constitutional perspective, arguing that people need to deal with Trump remaining in office until 2028. Smith maintained that he is committed to exhausting every means to do what is in the best interest of his community.

Fox News contributor Joe Concha supported Smith's stance in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. Concha described Smith and Bill Maher, along with John Fetterman, as a dying breed of individuals who believe in exchanging ideas with those they disagree with. He cited the White House dinner with Trump and Kid Rock as an example of this exchange, contrasting it with what he described as a trend on the left to shut down debate through censorship.