Stephen A. Smith was left stunned after Donald Trump endorsed him for a presidential run, triggering fresh debate over media figures stepping into politics.
At a Glance
- Donald Trump endorses ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith for a possible 2028 run
- Smith expressed shock and said he’s not pursuing a political career
- Trump cited Smith’s intelligence and entertainment skills
- The endorsement adds to speculation about media figures in politics
- Smith used the moment to critique the Democratic Party
Trump’s Unlikely Pick Draws Attention
During a NewsNation town hall with Bill O’Reilly, Donald Trump made headlines by endorsing ESPN host Stephen A. Smith as a future presidential contender. “I’d love to see him run,” Trump said, praising Smith as “a smart guy” with “great entertainment skills,” according to Newsweek.
Watch CNN’s segment on the moment at Stephen A. Smith reacts to Trump’s endorsement.
Smith, a longtime critic of Trump, was blindsided. “I was aghast, to be quite honest with you,” he said on CNN with Jake Tapper. “I wasn’t looking for any kind of endorsement from anybody—especially him.” But he acknowledged the weight such a remark carries from a former president, noting, “There’s a bit of flattery that comes with it,” as reported by AL.com.
No Campaign Plans—But Questions Remain
Smith was quick to clarify that he has no political ambitions and little interest in running for office. Still, he didn’t completely rule it out, stating, “I probably would win” if he ever ran seriously. The comment—half in jest—highlighted growing speculation about the crossover potential between media influence and electoral power.
While the idea may seem far-fetched, Smith used the moment to levy criticism at the Democratic Party, arguing that it has failed to adapt. He emphasized that realignment—not celebrity—is what politics currently needs, adding further nuance to his surprise inclusion in a national political discussion.
The Media-Politics Convergence
Trump’s praise of Smith reflects a broader trend: the blurring line between media and political power. From Trump himself to figures like Vivek Ramaswamy and Marianne Williamson, unconventional voices continue to reshape the political stage. Smith, with a large platform and passionate following, represents the type of candidate who might capture public imagination—even without a traditional résumé.
The discussion has also reignited commentary about who holds real influence in American discourse. As the 2028 election cycle looms, names like Pete Buttigieg, Gavin Newsom, and Andy Beshear are in the mix. But Trump’s unexpected nod to Smith signals a new kind of wildcard candidacy—one born from celebrity, not policy.
Whether serious or symbolic, Trump’s endorsement has elevated the question: Is the next president already on your screen, just not on the campaign trail?
