Stephen A Smith doubles down on Trump dinner, challenges critics by asking, ‘What the f— are you doing?’
Stephen A. Smith defended meeting President Donald Trump, saying he wanted to raise the effect of the administration’s roll-back of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on corporate donations to historically Black colleges and universities. He said Trump told him he had not considered the issue and would address it with HBCU officials, though Smith acknowledged the outcome remains uncertain.
Smith met Trump at the White House on 15 October alongside comedian Bill Maher and musician Kid Rock. He pushed back at critics, including comedian D.L. Hughley, who questioned why Trump was comfortable speaking with him, and said he would not apologise for trying to influence the president. Smith also defended the meeting on The View, arguing that Trump remains president and that he would pursue ways to support his community.
In short
- Smith says he raised HBCU donations with Trump.
- He says Trump plans to discuss the issue with HBCU officials.
- Smith rejects criticism of his White House meeting.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Meeting a president can be a practical way to raise an issue affecting HBCUs, especially when corporate donors are reconsidering support amid changes to DEI programmes. Smith can argue that engaging whoever holds office may create an opportunity to influence policy, and that pursuing a possible benefit for his community is more useful than refusing contact on principle.
The case against
Critics can argue that a high-profile White House meeting risks lending legitimacy and favourable publicity to a president whose policies they believe have harmed diversity efforts. They may also question whether a private conversation, with no clear commitment or assured outcome, can meaningfully protect HBCU funding, and whether access for selected public figures is a substitute for transparent policy action.
Explained simply
Historically Black colleges and universities, often called HBCUs, are US institutions founded to educate Black students, many of them established when segregation barred Black people from other colleges. They rely on a mix of tuition, public funding and donations, including support from companies.
Diversity, equity and inclusion programmes aim to address barriers faced by under-represented groups. The Trump administration has rolled back some such initiatives, raising questions about whether companies will change their giving to HBCUs. Stephen A. Smith is a sports commentator who has also become a prominent political voice; he says he used his access to the president to raise the issue.
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