Don Lemon Claims Stephen A. Smith is ‘Siding with White People’ in Response to ICE Shooting

Don Lemon Critiques Stephen A. Smith’s Defense of ICE Officer

Don Lemon has expressed skepticism regarding Stephen A. Smith’s defense of the ICE officer involved in the shooting death of Renee Good. He suggests that Smith’s reasoning may be more about appeasing white audiences rather than a genuine concern for justice.

Lemon, who seems to think that Smith’s comments are driven by a desire for financial gain, stated, “I try not to criticize black men in general, especially since our community faces unique challenges. But, well, Stephen A. Smith often talks about issues he’s not informed about.”

He continued, criticizing Smith for appearing on various right-leaning platforms, discussing African American issues without adequate knowledge. “It surprises me that they would do this for a white person. And, ultimately, for profit,” Lemon remarked.

He then pondered how lucrative it might be to adopt a conservative stance as a black journalist. “If I were a black conservative, I’d be rich! It’s like a ticket to wealth,” Lemon declared.

While Stephen A. Smith is indeed well-compensated for his role, it’s largely due to his expertise in sports, not his political viewpoints.

Lemon’s criticism follows a comment from an ESPN speaker who deemed the ICE officer’s actions in Good’s shooting as “totally justified.” However, Smith did offer an alternative perspective, suggesting the officer could have targeted the car’s tire instead of shooting Good directly.

Smith elaborated, “I’ve reviewed that footage several times, and legally speaking, I don’t expect him to face prosecution; he was justified. Yet, from a human angle, what was the necessity of that choice? If necessary, couldn’t he have shot the tire? Even if that didn’t work, why confront her when she wasn’t moving recklessly?”

Lemon persisted with his critique of Smith’s approach, suggesting that his focus has shifted from sports coverage to disparaging black individuals.

Interestingly, both Good and the officer involved were white, making Smith’s racial interpretation of the incident puzzling. It’s unclear how this stance benefits him in relation to ESPN’s workforce, which largely comprises liberal employees.