In a surprising twist that has sent ripples through the political landscape, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith has revived speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028. During an interview with CBS News’ Robert Costa, set to air on February 15, Smith disclosed that he is giving “strong consideration” to stepping onto the debate stage, marking a significant shift from his previous statements where he downplayed the idea.
A Year of Mixed Signals
Over the past year, Smith has played a game of political cat and mouse. Initially dismissing the idea of a run, he later revealed in an April interview that he was approached by political figures on Capitol Hill. “I’ve been approached by people who are elected officials in office, whether it’s governors or mayors,” he stated, indicating a level of seriousness behind the conversations. “I have no desire to be a politician, but I’ve decided that I’m no longer going to close that door.”
His earlier comments seemed to suggest a reluctance to enter the political fray. In a candid moment on *The Daily Show* with Jon Stewart, he declared his preference for being a “hell raiser” rather than pursuing the presidency. “The way I look at it, the money that I have earned working my ass off all of these years now, I would have to curry favour, which means I would be owned. And I ain’t having that,” Smith said, demarcating a clear boundary between his career in sports commentary and the political arena.
Political Landscape Uncertainty
As political tides shift, Smith’s potential candidacy raises eyebrows, particularly in light of his recent critiques of the Democratic Party. In July 2025, he lamented the party’s apparent lack of leadership, describing it as “leaderless” and devoid of a definitive voice. “They look very, very bad right now because they look leaderless,” he said, a sentiment that resonates with many disillusioned voters.
Despite his reservations about joining the political ranks, Smith’s name has surfaced in various candidate polls for the upcoming election cycle. He has mentioned Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Maryland Governor Wes Moore as his preferred Democratic candidates, highlighting his engagement with the political discourse even as he grapples with his own ambitions.
A Surprising Endorsement
In a curious twist, former President Donald Trump expressed enthusiasm for Smith’s potential run, describing him as an entertaining figure with “great entertainment skills.” During a town hall meeting, Trump stated, “I’d love to see him run,” adding an unexpected layer of complexity to Smith’s nascent political ambitions. This endorsement from a polarising figure like Trump raises questions about Smith’s appeal across the political spectrum and how he would navigate the treacherous waters of partisan politics.
Why it Matters
The prospect of Stephen A. Smith entering the political arena is emblematic of a broader trend where traditional boundaries between entertainment and politics are increasingly blurred. As an influential media figure, Smith’s potential candidacy could mobilise a unique voter base, particularly among younger demographics who resonate with his outspoken style. His journey from sports commentary to political contender reflects a moment in American politics where celebrity status can wield significant influence, reshaping the electoral landscape in unpredictable ways. As the 2028 election approaches, the implications of such a candidacy could transcend mere votes, challenging the very fabric of political engagement in the United States.
