The speculation surrounding Stephen A. Smith’s potential run for president of the United States is intensifying, alongside numerous conspiracy theories. After making an appearance on Hannity’s Fox News show, Smith discussed his recent comments about feeling compelled to consider a presidential bid. Despite showing a decline in polling numbers, Smith remains unfazed, suggesting that party leaders may be manipulating those figures to undermine his support.
“I don’t believe that poll,” Hannity told Smith, referencing a January poll that placed him at 2%. He questioned whether the current Democratic leadership, associated with figures like AOC and Bernie Sanders, would ever accept or support him. Smith and Hannity both concurred with a firm no on that front.
Smith elaborated, “Do I believe people would engage with me to discuss my perspective? Sure. But would they truly back me, particularly those entrenched in the Democratic Party for the last seven years? Absolutely not. Despite not being a political expert, I’ve been following this for a long time.” He acknowledged the challenges of the political process, stating, “People will stand in your way… especially on the left, where they tend to turn on their own, particularly if there’s dislike.” Smith pointed out inconsistencies in polling after an earlier poll indicated he had around 7.5%, which he felt should contradict the sudden dip to 1% following extensive media coverage.
After a January 27 poll by McLaughlin & Associates put Smith at just 2%, a more recent poll from Pablo Torre Finds Out earlier this month offered significantly more optimistic results for the First Take host, prompting questions about the credibility of the January figures.
While Democratic leaders may attempt to obscure Smith’s polling numbers, it’s clear they do not view him as a serious candidate. Despite claims that he could resonate with voters like Donald Trump did for Republicans, there remains uncertainty about his political platform. His political comments often echo superficial sports commentary—asserting opinions without substantial backing.
It’s possible that AOC and Bernie Sanders are quietly working to ensure Stephen A. Smith’s polling remains modest. However, it seems equally likely they don’t regard someone with a $100 million contract from ESPN as a genuine political contender within their ranks.
