‘Trump Played You Like a Fiddle, You Still Don’t Get It’ [WATCH]

ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized Democratic lawmakers over their conduct during President Donald Trump’s recent State of the Union address, arguing that their response played directly into the President’s political strategy.

Speaking about the moment when President Trump asked lawmakers to cheer for protecting American citizens and prioritizing them ahead of migrants, Smith said the reaction from Democrats was predictable.

“Donald Trump, when he asked a question about cheering and asking about protecting American citizens and prioritizing them ahead of migrants, he set you up,” Smith said.

“He knew you weren’t going to stand he knew 73 of y’all were going to show up to other places and not show up to the State of the Union.”

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Smith said the decision by dozens of Democratic lawmakers to skip the address or remain seated during key moments was viewed negatively by moderate voters.

“He knew that a lot of Americans that were moderates on both sides of the aisle were going to look at y’all as being every bit as out of control as you claim he is,” Smith said.

“The difference is, is that he takes those positions and the heat that comes with it. As the incumbent, the president in office, you couldn’t keep him out.”

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According to Smith, President Trump has consistently framed Democratic opposition as driven by personal animosity rather than policy disagreements.

“And he’s making the claim that you hate him so much you’re devoid of objectivity, and you’re devoid of thinking about what’s in the best interest of the United States of America, because you’re too busy thinking about your own personal feelings And animus towards him,” Smith said.

Smith added that, in his view, the President uses such moments to his advantage.

“And every time you do that, he smiles and mocks you and has a field day, you played right into his hand,” he said.

Anticipating criticism for his remarks, Smith addressed potential backlash directly.

“Don’t come back at me and say, f Stephen A Smith, or Stephen A Smith is selling out, or Stephen A Smith is this way or that way,” he said.

“I’m just telling you what it is. Don’t kill a messenger. Shape the message in a fashion that benefits you.”

Smith argued that Democrats have struggled to counter President Trump effectively for more than a decade.

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