Stephen A. Smith Warns Democrats About Embracing Zohran Mamdani’s Socialist Views

On Monday, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith cautioned that aligning with the political beliefs of New York City’s likely Democratic mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, could spell disaster for the Democratic party among voters.

Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, has proposed various progressive policies in his campaign, including establishing urban-owned grocery stores, implementing a $30 minimum wage, and offering free buses and childcare. Smith expressed his concern during a segment, stating that socialism clashes with core American capitalist principles and that socialists are often unlikely to win elections.

“Let me be very clear,” Smith said. “If the Democrats start to resemble Zoran Mamdani—and I’m not trying to throw shade here—you have no chance. Nationally, there is no chance of winning the presidency, Senate, or House seats. No chance at all. I want to emphasize that.”

He went on to assert that while democratic socialists may exist across the country, they do not represent what America fundamentally stands for. “America revolves around capitalism! It’s about the economy—a prosperous one, no less!” Smith declared. “Someone needs to say it, and I will!”

Mamdani has faced criticism from several Jewish leaders due to his views on Israel. Despite this, he has garnered support from other Democratic Socialist officials in New York, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and independent Senator Bernie Sanders, prior to the Democratic primary.

A survey revealed that 36% of American adults had a somewhat positive view of socialism, while 60% held a negative perception. According to the Pew Research Center, only 6% of respondents viewed socialism very positively, with 32% seeing it very negatively. In comparison, 57% of adults expressed a somewhat positive opinion of capitalism, while 39% viewed it negatively.