ESPN’s First Take host Stephen A. Smith recently revealed that he may have “no choice” but to run for president. In an ABC News’ This Week interview with Jonathan Karl, Smith discussed the pressure he’s received from elected officials, pundits, and influential figures, urging him to explore a run for the highest office in the land.
Despite his reluctance to enter politics, Smith made it clear that the weight of these repeated requests has made him reconsider his stance.
“I have no choice, because I’ve had elected officials, and I’m not going to give their names, coming up to me. I’ve had folks who are pundits, billionaires, and others talking to me about exploratory committees,” he shared. “I’m not a politician. I’ve never had a desire to be a politician. But the reality is, people have been asking me to consider this, and I have to leave the door open.”
Smith, a critic of the current state of politics in this country, specifically the Democratic Party, acknowledged that his openness to a potential run is driven by the overwhelming support from both his personal and professional circles.
He even mentioned that his pastor had told him, “You don’t know what God has planned for you,” encouraging him to leave the door open to possibilities, no matter how unlikely they might seem at the moment.
Although Smith is happy with his current role at ESPN, he also acknowledged the potential shift to American politics. His dissatisfaction with the performance of the Democratic Party in recent elections, and his belief that certain leaders have failed to make a real difference, have led him to entertain the idea of running for president.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith says he has “no choice” but to contemplate a run for president.
— This Week (@ThisWeekABC) April 13, 2025
“I would hope somebody else would step up that's more qualified than me, but if it has to come down to me, it is something I would consider.” https://t.co/IdW7zXspwA pic.twitter.com/XzuYLG9HVh
In his conversation, Smith also addressed comparisons to President Donald Trump. Smith warned against the possibility of circumventing the U.S. Constitution, particularly regarding the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms.
He said, “If any GOP member, if any Republican supports that, I don’t want to hear a word out of their mouth ever again about the Constitution.”
While he is still unsure whether he will ultimately run, Smith stressed that he would not shy away from the prospect if it became necessary. “If it has to come down to me, I would consider it,” he stated. “I don’t mind the thought of tussling with these folks at all, on the left or the right. All of them disgust me, to be quite honest with you.”
For now, it seems Stephen A. Smith is keeping his options open. Whether or not he pursues the presidency remains to be seen, but it seems as if he is definitely interested in occupying the White House.
