Stephen A. Smith, the volcanic voice of ESPN, is turning his fiery commentary from the sports desk to the political arena with startling candor. In a revealing interview, the "First Take" star admitted deep regret about his choice in the 2024 presidential election, delivering a critique that's as direct as his infamous sports rants.
"I lost all faith," Smith declared, reflecting on his vote for Kamala Harris. He explained he initially believed she could bridge political divides, but became disillusioned with the Democratic Party's direction post-election. "When I saw how things were unfolding... I just said, 'There's no hope.' America still said [Trump] is more normal than y'all."
The 2028 Question: Smith for President?
For months, Smith has playfully—and sometimes seriously—flirted with a presidential bid of his own. He confirmed to The Washington Post that while politics isn't his current ambition, he's leaving the door open for 2028 as a Democratic candidate. "If these candidates appear to be as atrocious as they've been... then will I entertain it? Yeah, I'll entertain it," Smith stated, emphasizing that friends and loved ones have encouraged the move.
This political musing represents another dimension of Smith's expanding media empire, which occasionally generates controversy like his recent 'First Take' ego trip that sparked viewer revolt. Yet for now, Smith remains committed to his role as ESPN's highest-paid personality, where his opinions on everything from basketball to politics draw massive audiences.
Smith's Surprising 2028 Shortlist
If his name isn't on the ballot in four years, Smith revealed three politicians who could earn his support—including one notable Republican. His Democratic preferences include Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, both rising stars in the party.
More surprisingly, Smith expressed admiration for U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, praising him as "an adult in the room" whose qualifications are unquestionable. This bipartisan consideration reflects Smith's frustration with political extremes and his search for pragmatic leadership.
Smith's political reflections come during a period of high-profile sports regrets elsewhere, similar to McVay's haunting regret over one NFC Championship mistake he can't shake. While coaches lament game decisions, Smith is grappling with a ballot box choice that continues to weigh on him.
The ESPN personality's willingness to cross traditional political boundaries mirrors his sports commentary style—unpredictable, passionate, and designed to provoke discussion. His critique of his own party's post-election approach was particularly scathing, suggesting a disconnect between Democratic leadership and mainstream America.
As the 2028 election cycle slowly begins to simmer, expect Smith to continue blending sports and political analysis with his trademark intensity. Between now and then, he'll likely keep audiences engaged with his unique perspective on both fields, proving that the loudest voice in sports media isn't afraid to make noise in the political sphere too.
Smith's admission adds to a growing trend of sports figures expressing political remorse, joining stories like Cuban's billion-dollar regret over the Mavericks sale that haunts the former owner. Whether discussing free agency or foreign policy, Smith continues to prove that his opinions extend far beyond the final score.
