Interview Only: Candace Owens positions herself as a truth-teller, unafraid of backlash from political elites, media, or activist groups.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. This episode of The Stephen Smith Show features a high-profile, extended interview with conservative commentator Candace Owens. The conversation spans a wide range of political, social, and cultural issues, including: • U.S. foreign policy and military involvement in the Middle East • Owens’ criticism of Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu • Her views on antisemitism, censorship, and media bias • The MAGA movement and her disillusionment with Donald Trump • Immigration policy and domestic priorities • Her Christian faith and its influence on her political stance • Personal experiences with threats and public backlash Stephen Smith maintains a probing but respectful tone, allowing Owens to elaborate on her controversial views while occasionally pushing back or seeking clarification. 🔹 Analysis Tone & Structure • The interview is structured like a long-form podcast, blending political commentary with personal reflection. • Owens is assertive, articulate, and unflinching in her views, often invoking religious and moral frameworks. • Smith plays the role of a curious, sometimes skeptical host, offering balance without overt confrontation. Political Positioning • Owens positions herself as a truth-teller, unafraid of backlash from political elites, media, or activist groups. • She criticizes both major political parties, though her strongest critiques are aimed at neoconservatives, pro-Israel lobbyists, and the Biden administration. • She expresses admiration for figures like Tucker Carlson and Thomas Massie, whom she sees as principled and anti-war. Media & Influence • Owens discusses being deplatformed and caricatured in the media, yet notes her growing influence and audience. • Smith acknowledges her reach and promises to feature opposing voices in future episodes. 🔹 Key Themes 1. Foreign Policy & Israel • Owens is sharply critical of U.S. support for Israel, particularly under Netanyahu. • She argues that American military policy is overly influenced by Israeli interests. • She draws a distinction between criticizing the Israeli government and antisemitism. 2. Media, Censorship & Free Speech • She claims that accusations of antisemitism are being weaponized to silence dissent. • She criticizes figures like Dave Portnoy for emotional manipulation and hypocrisy. • Smith raises concerns about rising antisemitism, offering a counterbalance. 3. MAGA & Trump • Owens expresses disappointment in Trump’s recent alliances and foreign policy stances. • She contrasts “America First” with “Israel First” and criticizes neoconservatives. • She praises Thomas Massie as a true representative of MAGA values. 4. Immigration & Domestic Policy • Strong support for deportation of undocumented immigrants, including families. • Criticism of sanctuary cities and federal inaction. • Emphasis on prioritizing American citizens over foreign aid. 5. Faith & Morality • Owens frequently invokes Christianity as her moral compass. • She criticizes Christians who support Israeli military actions as hypocritical. • She frames her activism as a spiritual mission. 6. Personal Risk & Resilience • She discusses threats to her life, including an FBI-confirmed plot. • Despite this, she refuses to increase security, citing faith in God. • She sees herself as a martyr-like figure for truth.

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