Stephen A. Smith Leaves Door Open for Possible 2028 Presidential Run
Renowned ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith says he is keeping his options open for a potential run for president in 2028. While not formally declaring candidacy, Smith acknowledged growing interest in his political future during a recent interview with Complex’s Speedy Morman.
“I haven’t changed my stance,” Smith said. “After speaking with my pastor and several politicians — who I won’t name — they encouraged me to keep the door open. So that’s exactly what I’m doing.”
Smith, known for his outspoken style on ESPN’s First Take, has increasingly weighed in on political issues in recent years. He joked that running for president would come with “a huge pay cut” — something he’s not eager to take. Still, he didn’t rule out the idea completely.
“Three years from now, if I change my mind, that would be a change,” he said. “I’d rather stay successful without the scrutiny that comes with public office, but if enough people come my way and the situation in the country demands it, I’ll consider it.”
Earlier this year, Smith’s name appeared in a poll for potential 2028 contenders, sparking public curiosity and a wave of messages urging him to run. Speaking on ABC News’ This Week, Smith said elected officials and even billionaires have encouraged him to explore the possibility of launching a campaign.
“I’ve never wanted to be a politician,” he added, “but I’m not ignoring the conversations being had.”
Smith has been critical of both major political parties. On HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, he voiced frustration over the Democratic Party’s handling of the 2024 election, particularly Vice President Kamala Harris’s nomination without a competitive primary.
“Kamala Harris, who didn’t even make it to Iowa in 2020, suddenly becomes the nominee, and people are acting like she’s a rockstar,” Smith said. “I voted for her, but I felt like a fool. It felt like we were handed a candidate instead of being allowed to choose.”
Despite his criticism of Democrats, Smith said he is also dissatisfied with the Republican Party under Donald Trump.
“I don’t like what I’m seeing, especially with this tariff war,” he said. “There doesn’t seem to be a clear plan. Democrats talk a lot but don’t get much done, and Republicans are out there throwing darts blindfolded.”
Still, Smith emphasized that he hopes a better-qualified candidate emerges by 2028 — someone who can unite the country and bring about real solutions. “If that doesn’t happen, and desperate times call for desperate measures,” he said, “I’ll be ready to reassess.”