Stephen A. Smith, the prominent ESPN personality, sharply criticized former President Donald Trump’s social media post following the death of Robert Mueller, the former FBI Director and special counsel. Trump wrote on Saturday: ‘Robert Mueller just died. Good, I’m glad he’s dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!’
Mueller’s Military Service and Legacy
Mueller, who passed away at age 81, led the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. His team determined that Russia acted to benefit Trump, though no charges of collusion were filed against him. Before his FBI tenure, Mueller served three years as a Marine officer in Vietnam, commanding a rifle platoon. He received a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and two Navy Commendation Medals for his service.
Smith’s Strong Reaction
Smith, known for his sports commentary and growing political voice, responded on X: ‘See……this is the B.S. I’m talking about. This is a disgusting thing coming from our Commander In Chief — especially about a VETERAN and PURPLE HEART recipient. #DamnShameful!’
Former NFL offensive lineman Jumbo Elliott, who played for the New York Giants and Jets, also reacted online: ‘This real? Never know w trump and this app. Needless to say it would be absolutely disgusting and unworthy of the office.’
Broader Criticisms of Trump Administration
Smith, identifying as an independent voter, has voiced frustration with the Trump administration’s handling of the ongoing conflict in Iran, now in its third week amid rising gas prices. On his SiriusXM radio show, he stated: ‘What the f*** is wrong with y’all? This is some straight bulls***! It’s gotta stop. This is not what America is supposed to be about.’
He warned that President Trump, whom he called ‘Teflon Don,’ risks damaging the Republican Party’s future, handing momentum to Democrats. ‘Do you know why it’s easy to get at the President of the United States right now, to point the finger of blame at him? Because he is f***ing up, that’s why,’ Smith said. ‘Somebody has to say it… he’s messing up so badly that the Republican Party is in a world of trouble.’
Smith accused Vice President JD Vance of misleading statements on gas prices under former President Joe Biden and criticized Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He impersonated Trump, saying: ‘Everything is great, everything is wonderful. How could you think otherwise? We’re winning the war… it’s not really a war but if it was, we’re winning.’ He faulted Republicans for acting as apologists.
Despite his critiques, Smith emphasized balance: ‘I can’t stand none of your a***es’ about politicians, while cautioning the GOP against self-destruction and advising Democrats not to squander their opportunity.
Smith’s Presidential Ambitions Fade
Smith recently dismissed rumors of a 2028 White House run, citing financial reasons after signing a lucrative ESPN contract reportedly worth $20 million annually. In a conversation with Fox host Sean Hannity, he said: ‘I don’t think I’m running either because I gotta give up my money. I ain’t giving up my money, Sean. Let me put the presidential aspirations to bed.’
When asked about potential 2028 votes, he named Democratic governors Wes Moore of Maryland and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, as well as Republican Marco Rubio, calling him ‘an adult in the room.’
