ESPN host Stephen A. Smith has stirred up conversation by hinting at a possible presidential run. During an interview on ABC’s "This Week," Smith expressed that he feels compelled to keep the door open for a future campaign, especially after discussions with various influential individuals.
Smith stated, "I have no choice," referencing the encouragement he has received from elected officials, pundits, and even billionaires about exploring a presidential bid. He emphasized that he’s not a politician and has never aspired to be one, noting his satisfaction with his current role at ESPN, where he recently signed a contract extension.
Despite his hesitations, Smith acknowledged that many people, including his pastor, have urged him to consider the possibility of running for office. He mentioned that he respects those who believe in him and feels a responsibility to keep his options available for the next few years.
While he recognizes that there are more qualified candidates, such as Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Smith indicated that he would be willing to step up if necessary. He expressed disdain for the current political landscape, saying, “All of them disgust me to be quite honest with you.”
The discussion also touched on comments made by Steve Bannon regarding the potential for a celebrity candidate to challenge Trump in the 2028 election. Smith responded critically, warning against any attempts to bypass the Constitution, particularly regarding the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidential terms. He urged Republicans to remain consistent in their respect for constitutional boundaries.
As speculation grows about a possible Smith candidacy, he remains focused on his current career while keeping an eye on the political landscape. Whether he will ultimately decide to run remains to be seen, but his comments certainly have sparked interest in what could be a surprising turn in the upcoming election cycle.