Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN personality known for his fiery takes on sports and culture, has once again stirred the pot—this time, by hinting at a potential run for president of the United States in 2028. On April 7, 2025, the 57-year-old broadcaster took to X to declare that he’s “officially leaving all doors open” when it comes to a political future, a statement that has sparked intrigue, skepticism, and no shortage of buzz across social media and news outlets.
Smith’s flirtation with a presidential bid isn’t entirely new. Over the past few months, he’s been dropping breadcrumbs about the possibility, often framing it as a response to external encouragement rather than a personal ambition. “I’ve been approached by people on Capitol Hill. I’ve been approached by elected officials in office, whether it’s governors or otherwise,” he said recently, suggesting that the idea has gained traction beyond mere speculation. Yet, he’s quick to temper the hype with a dose of reality: “Life is great. Especially at ESPN/Disney. Hate the thought of being a politician.” It’s a classic Stephen A. move—teasing the audience while keeping his options fluid.
This latest announcement comes on the heels of a Rasmussen poll commissioned by Pablo Torre Finds Out, which showed Smith holding his own against prominent Democratic hopefuls like Gavin Newsom, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and even Vice President JD Vance in hypothetical 2028 matchups. Smith’s numbers suggest he’s not just a fringe novelty, trailing Newsom by just three points and Ocasio-Cortez by four (within a four-point margin of error). Pollster Mark Mitchell didn’t mince words: “Based on what I see in these numbers, he should run.”
So why is Stephen A. Smith, a man who just inked a reported five-year, $100 million deal with ESPN, entertaining a leap into the messy world of politics? Part of it seems to stem from frustration. “Sick of this mess,” he wrote on X, a sentiment that could apply to the state of sports, media, or—more likely—the polarized political landscape. Smith has been vocal about his disillusionment with both parties, particularly the Democrats, whom he’s called “lost” and lacking a coherent leader. He’s positioned himself as a centrist, distancing himself from the liberal label while still critiquing the GOP when he sees fit—like his recent jab at Republicans over Trump’s third-term musings: “I thought your party was the party that preached about the Constitution.”
Smith’s appeal, though, isn’t rooted in policy papers or political experience—it’s in his persona. Loud, unapologetic, and charismatic, he’s a cultural force who commands attention. As The Guardian put it, he’s “an unlikely force in a party that needs critical friends and fresh ideas.” His ability to connect with diverse audiences, honed over years on First Take and his podcast, could translate to the stump. Plus, in an era where celebrity and media savvy often trump traditional credentials (see: Donald Trump), Smith’s lack of political baggage might be an asset.
Not everyone’s buying it. Critics argue that Smith’s political musings are shallow at best, inconsistent at worst. Bobby Burack of OutKick didn’t pull punches: “Look, Stephen A. has no business running for president. He’s not informed and his political beliefs are shallow and inconsistent.” Others see it as a publicity stunt, a way to keep his name trending as he builds his brand beyond sports. After all, this is a guy who thrives on staying relevant—whether he’s sparring with LeBron James courtside or debating DEI with Trump allies
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Even Smith himself has laughed off the idea at times, calling it “hilarious” on Karen Hunter’s podcast last month. But the fact that he keeps returning to the topic—and that polls show surprising support—suggests there’s more than just hot air here.
What Would a Stephen A. Campaign Look Like?
Imagine it: Stephen A. Smith on the debate stage, arms flailing, voice booming, telling Gavin Newsom or JD Vance to “stay off the weed!” or “respect the game!” He’s already hinted at his pitch—common sense over ideology, a rejection of partisan extremes, and a focus on straight talk. “I approve this message,” he quipped on The Tonight Show, a line that feels like a trial balloon for a campaign slogan.
But the road from Bristol to Washington is long. Smith would need to flesh out a platform, navigate primaries, and prove he’s more than a TV character. His ESPN gig pays better than the presidency ($20 million a year vs. $400,000), and he’s admitted that’s a factor. Still, if the past decade has taught us anything, it’s that the improbable can happen—especially when the public’s fed up.’
For now, Stephen A. Smith’s presidential tease is just that—a tease. He’s not filing paperwork or hiring strategists (that we know of). But by leaving the door ajar, he’s tapped into a moment of political flux, where outsiders can disrupt the game. Whether he’s serious or just stirring the pot, one thing’s clear: the idea of “President Stephen A.” isn’t as wild as it sounds. In 2025 America, where sports, media, and politics collide daily, the loudest voice in the room might just find a path to the top.
What do you think—could Stephen A. Smith really pull this off, or is it all noise? Let’s hear your take.
Flip the page for Stephen A. Smith speaking on running for president.
