Stephen A. Smith is keeping the door open—at least slightly—on the idea of running for president.
During a recent appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher, the ESPN analyst and TV personality said that while he “can’t imagine” pursuing the presidency, it’s still a “possible” move in his future.
“Life is good, man. I leave the door open,” Smith told Maher. “I can’t imagine myself doing it, but I haven’t ruled it out, because I’m disgusted with what I’m seeing on the left.”
He went on to say he believes the party’s national leadership is “non-existent,” adding that a “construction worker could win the Democratic nomination right now” unless things change. “They better get their act together…The party is in disarray. New leadership.”
This isn’t the first time Smith has entertained the possibility. Back in April, he reposted an article speculating about his political ambitions, writing that he was “officially leaving all doors open” for a potential 2028 run. “Time to stop messing around,” he wrote at the time. “Hate the thought of being a politician. But sick of this mess.”
Despite the speculation, Smith has also been quick to clarify that he’s not actively planning a campaign.
Speaking to Deadline in May, he reiterated, “I have no intentions of running for president… I have no desire to be a politician at all.” He pointed to his successful career and current projects as reasons to steer clear of politics.
“I just signed a new contract with ESPN. I’m acting on General Hospital and Law & Order,” Smith said. “My life is pretty damn good. Why would I ruin it by being a politician? But… you never know what God has planned for you, so you just leave your options open.”
Smith’s comments come months after signing a reported five-year, $100 million deal with ESPN in March. In June, he also inked agreements to host two new shows for SiriusXM, further expanding his already busy schedule.
