Stephen A. Smith made it official Monday afternoon with a statement that sent shockwaves through both the sports and political realms. While he isn’t announcing a run for president of the United States in 2028, he did declare that he will not say he’s not running, leading many to speculate about his potential candidacy.
During his appearance at the National Association of Broadcasters convention in Las Vegas, Smith addressed the rumors surrounding his presidential interests, a topic he has broached frequently since teasing the idea after the 2024 election. “I have no desire to be a politician. My life is pretty well,” he stated during the conference when asked about his political aspirations by longtime media consultant Mike McVay. “But I’ve decided that I’m no longer going to close that door. I’m gonna keep my options open. I’m going to entertain the possibility.”
Smith emphasized he’s content with his current life, recently signing a five-year $100 million contract at ESPN and developing a podcast that benefits from his political teasings. “I have no desire to do it,” he reiterated, noting, “You just articulated my contract extension. I’m living pretty good. I personally perceive politicians as professional beggars—always with their hands out for something in return.”
As news of Smith’s stance on political aspirations circulated on social media, he issued a statement on X.
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
Smith’s comment, “Time to stop messing around,” reflects his enjoyment at ESPN and his aversion to politics, while simultaneously keeping his options open. As long as there’s interest in him potentially running for president, he will continue to entertain the idea of captivating the Democratic party, challenging long-standing politicians in debates with the fervor he shows on First Take.
“Imagine me on a debate stage with these people,” Smith remarked. “This is what I do for a living. I am not a politician. I don’t have a political record for them to lean on. I can challenge what you literally say (as politicians). They would all know more than me at this particular time, but they have a record to address.” He further noted, “They better hope I’m not interested, I’ll tell you that much,” referring to potential candidates like Republicans Marco Rubio and JD Vance and Democrats Josh Shapiro and Gavin Newsome for 2028.
While Smith officially stated that he won’t firmly rule out a presidential run, he is no closer to a candidacy than he was previously. To his credit, he navigates this political landscape skillfully, teasing interest with vague statements as long as the public remains intrigued by the possibility of his involvement in politics.
