ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith is openly weighing a 2028 presidential run, revealing that spiritual guidance has been instrumental in this surprising consideration. His possible candidacy represents a bold challenge to conventional political pathways, leveraging his substantial media platform and straightforward communication style that resonates with millions of Americans. Could Stephen A. Smith’s media experience translate to effective political leadership?
Sports Commentator Contemplates Presidential Run
Stephen A. Smith, the outspoken ESPN commentator known for his fiery sports takes, is seriously considering a presidential run in 2028. The revelation came during an appearance on ABC’s “This Week” with Jonathan Karl, where Smith explained that his consideration stems from encouragement by his pastor, A.R. Bernard, along with elected officials, pundits, and donors.
Smith feels compelled to explore the possibility despite his unconventional background in sports media rather than politics. “I have no choice because I’ve had elected officials, and I’m not going to give their names, elected officials coming up to me,” Smith explained, suggesting his media platform and communication skills might translate effectively to the political arena.
Time to stop messing around. Life is great. Especially at ESPN/Disney. Hate the thought of being a politician. But sick of this mess.
So I’m officially leaving all doors open https://t.co/n6BmAOKjiv
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) April 7, 2025
Faith and Politics: Pastor’s Encouragement Drives Consideration
The spiritual dimension of Smith’s political consideration is particularly noteworthy, as he credits his pastor with helping shape his thinking. “Here’s the reality: People, 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 revealed in recent interviews.
According to Smith, Pastor Bernard advised him to “at least show the respect to the people who believe in you, respect you, believe that you can make a difference in this country to leave the door open for any possibilities two or three years down the line.” This faith-based encouragement appears to have significantly influenced Smith’s willingness to consider a political future, though he humorously noted his pastor has also told him, “You’re not at church enough.”
Stephen A Smith has no experience leading any kind of organization at any level at any point in his life. He just started caring about politics 5 seconds ago. He has spent his career shouting about basketball. The idea that he’s somehow qualified to be President is total lunacy. https://t.co/UJWrMCuqeV
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) April 13, 2025
Frustration with Both Parties Fuels Political Ambitions
Smith’s political aspirations stem largely from his dissatisfaction with the current political landscape. He has openly criticized the Democratic Party’s handling of President Trump and what he perceives as a lack of leadership and vision, while also expressing concerns about Trump’s policies, particularly on tariffs.
Despite acknowledging other political figures like Governors Wes Moore and Josh Shapiro as more qualified potential candidates, Smith sees his consideration as necessary if Democrats fail to present stronger leadership. His name has already appeared in polls for the Democratic presidential primary, registering 1-2% support, which Smith views as “an indictment of the Democratic Party” rather than an endorsement of his candidacy.
Smith has taken a firm constitutional stance, stating that if any Republican supports Trump seeking a third term, “I don’t want to hear a word out of their mouth ever again about following the Constitution.” With the 2028 election expected to be an open race with no incumbent, Smith’s potential candidacy reflects the evolving nature of American politics and the growing influence of media personalities in shaping political discourse.