Stephen A. Smith fuels 2028 buzz, saying all politicians ‘disgust me’

• Stephen A. Smith, ESPN commentator and registered independent, says he’s considering a 2028 presidential run after being approached by political insiders and expressing frustration with both parties. His recent comments have sparked online debate and comparisons to Donald Trump’s early campaign skepticism.
• Smith criticized Democrats for focusing on issues like “woke culture” and abortion rights in 2024, arguing they should have prioritized warning voters about Trump’s economic proposals.
• While Smith hasn’t officially announced a campaign, his statements have ignited discussions about the impact of media figures entering politics.

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Stephen A. Smith, one of the most recognizable voices in sports, says he’s seriously considering a run for president in 2028. The longtime ESPN commentator says he’s been approached by political insiders, donors, and even his pastor about the idea.

In a recent post on X, Smith wrote:

“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.”

Smith: ‘All of them disgust me’

During an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Smith said growing frustration with both parties has made him consider the possibility of running.

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

According to The Hill, Smith is a registered independent. He voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 but said he would consider voting for a Republican — though not for Donald Trump.

“I would hope somebody else would step up that’s more qualified than me, but if it comes down to me, it is something I would consider,” Smith added. “I don’t mind the thought of tussling with these folks at all… on the left or the right. All of them disgust me, to be quite honest with you.”

The internet already has thoughts

While some view Smith’s statements as unlikely or even a publicity stunt, the idea has taken hold online.

An account called “Stephen A. Smith For President” has already gained nearly 20,000 followers on X. The page shares political clips, quotes and reactions.

One post from Democratic strategist Mike Nellis read, “I hope he runs. It might force actual candidates to take risks… and if he wins, it’s the Democratic Party’s fault for not evolving.”

Not everyone agrees. One user called it a “publicity stunt,” and former SportsCenter anchor Keith Olbermann called the idea a “scam.”

A familiar playbook?

For some, the reaction to Smith’s comments echoes the early skepticism that surrounded Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.

On ABC’s “This Week” in July 2015, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said, “[Trump’s] got some momentum and we better be ready that he may be leading the Republican ticket.”

A Washington Post op-ed from the same year titled “Stop laughing at Donald Trump” argued that the now twice-elected president may not win, but had already “succeeded in uniting America.”

Smith blames Democrats for losing voters

Smith says he’s not impressed with how Democrats approached the 2024 race. He criticized the party for focusing on issues like “woke culture,” “cancel culture,” and abortion rights. Instead, he said Democrats should have focused more on warning voters about Trump’s economic proposals, including tariffs.

While Smith hasn’t officially launched a campaign, his statements have sparked conversation about what it would mean to see another media figure enter the race.