This week, renowned commentator Stephen A. Smith found himself in a position of reflection and contrition after issuing a public apology for remarks he made about Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas. Smith’s initial comments had critiqued Crockett’s vocal criticisms of Republicans, labeling her language as “rhetoric for the streets” and questioning its effectiveness in representing her constituents.

The response to Smith’s remarks was swift and intense, igniting a wave of social media backlash. Some voices even called for Smith’s removal from his prominent media roles, which include a SiriusXM radio show and ESPN’s “First Take.” Despite initially dismissing these reactions as “immature,” Smith revisited his stance, issuing an apology on his SiriusXM program on Wednesday.

In his apology, Smith acknowledged the broader implications of his comments in the context of a politically charged environment. “I get it now, with [President] Trump feeding into that nonsense, giving him fodder or ammunition, to continue to go out there and talk about our Black women that way,” Smith reflected. He expressed a desire to distance himself from any narrative that could undermine the accomplishments of Black women like Crockett.

Smith further expressed his respect for Crockett, highlighting her achievements and the fervor with which she advocates for her beliefs. “I absolutely do. And I appreciate the fact that she feels compelled to fight the way that she’s fought, the way that she fights because of what she’s dealing with,” he stated, as reported by Mediaite.

“I get it now, with [President] Trump feeding into that nonsense, giving him fodder or ammunition, to continue to go out there and talk about our Black women that way. I got it. I don’t like that at all. I don’t want to be associated with nothing like that, and I apologize because I respect the hell out of Jasmine Crockett and what she has accomplished,” Smith said in comments first highlighted by Mediaite. “I absolutely do. And I appreciate the fact that she feels compelled to fight the way that she’s fought, the way that she fights because of what she’s dealing with.”

Smith, a former sports journalist and longtime cable commentator, has been increasingly outspoken on political issues in recent months.

That turn has fueled speculation he might one day run for president, a suggestion the analyst and host has repeatedly dismissed.