Stephen A. Smith flirts with presidential run while dismissing political ambitions

In early 2025, Stephen A. Smith, a prominent sports media figure in the United States, began to contemplate the possibility of a presidential run in 2028. This consideration comes only months after the 2024 presidential election, signaling Smith's awareness of the political landscape and his growing involvement in political discussions on his platform, 'The Stephen A. Smith Show.' During a podcast episode from February 17, Smith stated he has no intentions of running for president, yet he acknowledged that he is leaving the door open for future prospects, influenced by encouragement from elected officials and public supporters. Smith's statements reflect a strategic approach to handling the balance between his media career and potential political ambitions. He expressed to his audience that if the moral, social, and political conditions of the nation are dire by late 2026 or early 2027, he would consider a run, assessing his chances based on the prevailing situation. He articulated that if the current state of politics continues to deteriorate, it might offer him a favorable opportunity, despite claiming he is unprepared, unqualified, and lacking any prior political experience. Smith's media influence, particularly on platforms like ESPN, positions him as a figure who could draw considerable attention in a presidential race. During an April National Association of Broadcasters convention, Smith reiterated his hesitance to officially announce his candidacy, attributing his openness to exploration to recommendations from others, including his pastor. Smith stated that he would run as a Democrat but emphasized the necessity for a significant reform within the party. Indications from former President Donald Trump further fuel speculation about Smith's potential political journey, as Trump praised Smith's abilities and claimed he would support his bid. This endorsement from a high-profile politician illustrates Smith's significant standing in the eyes of many. Despite Smith's claims of having no interest in politics, his frequent discussions about the topic have sparked intrigue among audiences and observers alike. By continuing to engage in political conversations and addressing the possibility of a presidential campaign, Smith not only maintains his relevance in the media but also showcases his confidence in potentially holding a public office in the future. This duality of media engagement and political consideration has led many to believe that he is not only mindful of his brand but also reflective of his ambitions to explore new pathways, depending on the evolution of national issues in coming years.