Nick Wright weighed in on the idea of Stephen A. Smith potentially running for president. During a recent discussion, Wright didn’t dodge the topic, and he didn’t soften his stance either. While acknowledging Smith’s massive platform and influence, Wright revealed why he cannot see Smith as ‘President’.
Nick Wright Doesn’t Back Stephen A. Smith
With Smith openly acknowledging he is “giving strong consideration” to entering the 2028 Democratic primary, Wright questioned what it would mean for the presidency itself.
“If we were to go from President Trump, to President Stephen A Smith, then that’s what the office becomes,” Wright said on the “What’s Wright Show,” adding: “A version of like royal family in England, where it is not a figure in the position that has power but if the next president is a celebrity turned politician, then I just think that’s what presidents will be from there on.”
In his view, electing another celebrity would cement a trend where fame becomes the primary qualification.
Wright then delivered his blunt conclusion: “I don’t think that’s what’s best for the nation.” For him, the issue isn’t Smith’s charisma or media dominance. It’s the long-term implications of turning the presidency into an extension of entertainment culture.
He also pushed back on what he sees as a lack of accountability for prominent media figures who wade into politics. Well, Smith is now swimming in real political waters, so he must be held to a far higher standard. After all, popular commentators cannot afford to grift on falsities for clicks or engagement when discussing serious national issues.
Part of Wright’s skepticism also stems from Smith’s on-air persona. Over the years, Smith has built a brand on fiery monologues and sharp-edged debates, including high-profile exchanges with athletes like LeBron James.
Sure, singing a platform to push personal “agendas” or deliver “vicious rants” may generate ratings, but it’s not a temperament suited for the Oval Office.
Nick Wright believes if celebrities like Stephen A Smith can become president, that it’s probably not best for the nation:
“If we were to go from President Trump, to President Stephen A Smith, then that’s what the office becomes…. If the next president is a celebrity turned… https://t.co/RjGYhEIbcY pic.twitter.com/PVuasOfx0K
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) February 19, 2026
Meanwhile, Smith has continued outlining what a potential campaign might look like. In a February interview, he stated clearly, “We wouldn’t have a border crisis under my watch. Hell no.” He added, “We wouldn’t have this crime that exists on the streets of New York; you wouldn’t hear about me saying ‘Defund the police.’”
Smith has also said he plans to use 2026 to “study” and “know the issues” before potentially appearing on a debate stage in 2027.
Still, critics point to broader concerns. A 2025 Zeteo poll showed Smith with a -18 net favorability rating among potential primary voters, underscoring the polarizing nature of his public image.
Combined with past controversies and questions about policy depth, Wright believes the stakes are too high to treat the presidency as the next stage of celebrity evolution: a future he argues simply isn’t “what’s best for the nation.”
