Dave Smith and Douglas Murray Clash on JRE Over “Expert” Debate

Dave Smith and Douglas Murray Have Heated Moment on Joe Rogan’s Podcast

Comedian Dave Smith and author Douglas Murray got into their sharpest exchange yet during a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. The debate centered around who gets to have a public opinion—experts or everyday voices.

Murray called out what he saw as a shift in Smith’s stance, from “I have views” to “I’m just a comedian.” Smith pushed back hard. “You don’t have to be an expert to have an opinion,” he said. “Should I have just shut up about opposing lockdowns and vaccine mandates?”

Murray questioned the logic. “Isn’t it weird to say, ‘I’m not an expert on a conflict,’ and then talk about it everywhere?” Smith responded, “Yes, it’s weird. But I fundamentally disagree with this idea that there’s a ruling expert class who decides what opinions matter.”

The moment got intense as both men stood firm. Rogan mostly listened, watching two sharp minds battle over who gets to speak on complex topics—and how loudly.

The clash raised real questions about information, authority, and how comedy and commentary intersect in today's media.