Stephen A. Smith Slams Left for Lawfare Tactics Against Trump [WATCH]

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith expressed sharp criticism on Monday regarding Judge Juan Merchan’s decision to schedule President-elect Donald Trump’s sentencing just days before his January 20 inauguration.

The sentencing, set for January 10, comes after Trump was convicted in May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a nondisclosure agreement with adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

On “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” Smith questioned the purpose of the sentencing, suggesting it served no practical purpose other than to tarnish Trump’s reputation. “This is the kind of stuff that just validates assertions about stuff being politicized,” Smith said.

“Maybe not specifically with Trump, but the suspicion definitely is there. What is the purpose of this? Is he going to jail? Are you going to give a fine? We got to sit up there and go through all the pomp and circumstance when you know you’re not going to do anything.”

Celebrate Trump’s Historic 2024 Victory with the Exclusive Trump 47th President Collection!

Smith criticized Judge Merchan, noting that the case’s substance and timing seemed politically charged.

“He was certified today as the next president of the United States of America. Come January 21st, he will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States of America. But … you want to sentence him,” Smith said. “You’re Juan Merchan — who is he, the state Supreme Court justice in New York? You want to sentence him next Friday? And by the way, what is the sentencing about?”

The charges stem from allegations that Trump falsified business records to conceal payments made to Daniels during his 2016 presidential campaign.

Smith questioned the gravity of the case, comparing it to non-disclosure agreements commonly used in business and legal contexts.

“Thirty-four felony counts … sounds very, very damaging. It’s a hush-money case,” Smith said.

“Essentially, the case against Donald Trump is that he is alleged to have engaged in relations with a former porn star and he made efforts involving finances to keep her mouth shut. That’s what all of this is about?”

Smith also took aim at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who opposed Trump’s motion to dismiss the case and suggested Judge Merchan could use an abatement mechanism, typically applied when a defendant dies between conviction and sentencing.

“Why? That’s going to validate everything for you? Did you get him? Did you put him in jail? Did you prevent him from winning the election? No, you did not,” Smith said. “So now all you’re doing is further impugning the name of the president-elect, soon to be the 47th president of the United States.”

Smith emphasized that the sentencing would not include jail time, nor would it prevent Trump from taking office, signing laws, or fulfilling his duties as president.

He also referenced Trump’s recent political influence, including his role in securing Republican Mike Johnson’s election as Speaker of the House.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Goes Off on the Left’s Continued Lawfare Against Trump [WATCH]

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith expressed sharp criticism on Monday regarding Judge Juan Merchan’s decision to schedule President-elect Donald Trump’s sentencing just days before his January 20… pic.twitter.com/G4Aaegb4zP

— RVM News (@redvoicenews) January 7, 2025

Smith’s remarks highlight ongoing debates about the intersection of law and politics in high-profile cases.

Trump’s legal team has consistently argued that the charges against him are politically motivated, while his supporters view the case as part of a broader effort to undermine his presidency and political career.

As Trump prepares to take office as the 47th president, the January 10 sentencing is likely to reignite discussions about the fairness and motivations behind the legal proceedings.

For now, Smith’s criticism reflects a growing skepticism among many Americans about the politicization of the legal system.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.