Stephen A. Smith Signals Potential 2028 Presidential Run as Trump Expresses Interest
By Mark Swanson | Monday, February 16, 2026 10:53 AM EST
ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith has reignited speculation about a potential presidential run for the Democratic nomination in 2028.
In an interview on “CBS Sunday Morning,” Smith stated he is “giving strong consideration” to seeking the White House spotlight in 2027.
“I will confess to you, I’m giving strong consideration to being on that debate stage for 2027,” Smith said. “I’ve got this year coming up, 2026, to think about it, to study, to know the issues.”
The possibility has been a topic of discussion for nearly a year. In March 2025, Smith told “The View” he was “half-joking” about running but left the door open.
“If you came to me and you told me I had a legitimate shot to win the presidency of the United States of America, I would definitely consider it,” Smith recalled.
Since then, Smith has been weighing the idea more seriously after receiving calls from “billionaires,” “elected officials,” “pundits,” and his “pastor.”
While expressing hope that “somebody else would step up that’s more qualified,” Smith added on ABC’s “This Week” that if it came down to him, “it is something I would consider. Yes, I would.”
President Donald Trump even encouraged the possibility during an April 30, 2025, town hall event.
“I love watching him. He’s got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him,” Trump said. “I’ve been pretty good at picking people and picking candidates, and I will tell you, I’d love to see him run.”
Smith acknowledged the remarks but stressed he was not seeking an endorsement.
“I wasn’t looking for any kind of endorsement from anybody, especially him,” Smith stated. “But he is the president of the United States. There is a bit of flattery that comes with getting such words from the man who holds the highest office in the land, and I can appreciate that.”
Smith is a longtime ESPN personality and host of “First Take,” known for his fiery commentary, debate style, and prominent role in sports talk television and radio.
