ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith Gives Update On Potential White House Bid

Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN commentator, recently addressed the swirling rumors about a possible future in politics. While not making any official announcements, he shared a light update on the topic during a recent public appearance.

Longtime ESPN host Stephen A. Smith appeared on CNN’s State of the Union to discuss the growing buzz around a potential 2028 presidential run—a possibility he says he’s keeping open. While traditionally aligned with Democratic causes, Smith used the interview to sharply critique his party, blaming the far left for damaging its image and losing touch with working-class Americans.

Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Smith pointed to issues like open borders, excessive government spending, identity politics, and cancel culture as reasons why many Americans feel alienated. He argued that fear of speaking freely, particularly around gender and pronouns, has contributed to psychological strain nationwide and helped fuel Donald Trump’s political rise.

Smith criticized the Democratic Party’s messaging, saying it often feels detached from the real problems people face—like rising costs, crime, and a lack of stability. “People are trying to survive, not argue over political ideologies,” he said.

When asked directly about his own presidential ambitions, Smith admitted he’s not politically experienced or qualified in the traditional sense, but said he’s been encouraged by public figures and everyday citizens alike to consider the idea. He cited a conversation with his pastor, who urged him to keep the door open because “you never know what God has planned.”

Though he emphasized he’s not committed to a run, Smith noted his large platform gives him the opportunity to speak openly about the country’s challenges. He also slammed the performative nature of modern politics, where lawmakers often seem more focused on opposition than solutions. “That’s not leadership. That’s theater,” he said.

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