Stephen A. Smith has long been a divisive figure in sports media. A prominent voice at ESPN, he has built a successful career analyzing and critiquing sports. However, Smith has also demonstrated his ambition on multiple occasions.
Beginning as a beat writer in Philadelphia, the longtime host of “First Take” has established a significant platform and recently signed a new contract reportedly worth $100 million. But his aspirations appear to extend beyond sports media. While not yet guaranteed, he is indicating a potential career shift in about four years.
Stephen A. Smith Considering Presidency
Over the past few years, Smith has become increasingly vocal in national media, particularly regarding politics. Regularly appearing on networks such as Fox News, Smith has become involved in the political landscape.
Recently, his comments on the Biden administration, Jackie Robinson, and criticisms of the Trump administration have gained traction. Consequently, he is beginning to emerge as a potential candidate for President of the United States.
Since his name began appearing in polls, Smith had consistently stated his lack of interest in running for office. Until now. A social media post suggested a possible future career path.
“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,” he wrote while linking to a Barrett Media article outlining his intentions.
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
At a recent NAB Show in Las Vegas, Smith had been clear about his disinterest in entering politics. “I have no desire to do it. I’m living a pretty good life right now. Life’s been good. The last thing that I would want to do is involve myself in politics.”
However, he is now open to the possibility after being approached by several individuals. “I’ve been approached by people on Capitol Hill. I’ve been approached by people who are elected officials in office, whether it’s governors or mayors or what have you. People have legitimately, seriously, asked me about it.”
As a result, despite his current reservations, he is not making any definitive decisions. “I have no desire to be a politician, 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.”
He did outline two conditions for a potential campaign. “If it comes in late 2026, 2027, where I look at this country and think it’s an absolute mess and there’s legitimate reason to believe that I indeed have a legitimate shot to win the presidency of the United States. I am not going to rule it out.”