SUMMARY: Stephen A. Smith hinted at a potential 2028 presidential run during an interview on ABC’s This Week. While focused on his ESPN career, Smith says he’s keeping the door open due to growing encouragement from pastors, politicians, and influencers. A recent poll placed him at 2% in a hypothetical Democratic primary. Could sports’ boldest voice shake up politics?

ESPN’s First Take host Stephen A. Smith sparked buzz about a potential presidential run during a revealing Sunday morning interview on ABC’s This Week. While Smith firmly stated he’s happy at ESPN, he admitted that the idea of running for president in 2028 is something he’s not ruling out.

“Literally, people have walked up to me, including my own pastor for crying out loud, who has said to me, you don’t know what God has planned for you,” Smith explained. “At least show respect to the people who believe in you … and leave the door open for any possibilities two to three years down the line. And that’s what I’ve decided to do.”

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Smith Caught in Political Spotlight

The conversation heated up after host Jon Karl bluntly asked, “Are you really thinking about running for president?” Smith’s response highlighted the growing interest from influential figures urging him to consider the leap from sports to politics. “I’m not a politician. I’ve never had a desire to be a politician,” Smith emphasized, noting he recently signed a lucrative contract extension with ESPN. Still, persistent encouragement from elected officials, pundits, and even billionaires has him keeping his options open.

Polls and Political Potential

A February poll placed Smith at 2% in a hypothetical Democratic primary, matching numbers pulled by 2024 Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz. This hypothetical support could earn him a spot in early presidential debates, a prospect Smith doesn’t shy away from.

Taking on the Two Parties

Smith criticized both major political parties, stating, “All of them disgust me to be quite honest with you.” However, he added, “I would hope somebody else would step up that’s more qualified than me, but if it has to come down to me, it is something I would consider.”

Closing on an Optimistic Note

Though Smith insists he’s focused on his ESPN career, the encouragement he’s received highlights the desire for new voices in politics. Whether or not he runs, Smith’s willingness to “tussle” in the political arena has sparked conversations about leadership and change.

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