Stephen A. Smith shares an interesting take on racism as he looks at the presidential election

Stephen A. Smith is approaching a decision that would transfer him from the sports debate to presidential politics.
During an appearance on CBS Sunday Morning with reporter Robert Costa, the longtime ESPN personality laid out a timeline for a possible 2028 White House bid, according to Yahoo. “I’m thinking about being on that debate stage in 2027,” Smith said. He added that he plans to use 2026 to study the issues before deciding whether to move forward.
Smith also clarified where he would stand politically. When Costa asked if he would run as a Democrat, Smith said he couldn’t see himself as a member of the GOP. He described himself as fiscally conservative, while also identifying himself as socially liberal. Smith pointed to his opposition to high taxes, his belief in “live and let live” and his support for secure borders and compassion for vulnerable communities. “We are a beautiful mosaic,” he said, framing the country as diverse yet unique.
Smith deals with racism and trust on the debate stage
Costa pressed Smith on whether racism would concern him if he launched a national campaign. Smith didn’t hesitate. “No,” he said, adding that he doesn’t see it being as widespread as some on the political left suggest. He also shared a broader view of the electorate. “I believe that the vast majority of Americans judge you by the content of your individual character, not the color of your skin.”
“I believe that the vast majority… pic.tvitter.com/esKsvj3ehuK
— Jason Cohen 🇺🇸 (@JasonJournoDC) February 16, 2026
Smith’s comments come as public curiosity about his political future grows. A McLaughlin & Associates poll last year found him with 2 percent support among 414 respondents. Although the number is still small, it put his name in the early national conversation.
Former President Donald Trump added fuel to that discussion in May when he publicly encouraged Smith to consider a run. Calling into a NewsNation town hall, Trump praised Smith’s entertainment skills and suggested the audience connect with him. “I’d like to see him run,” Trump said.
For his part, Smith doesn’t sound daunted by the prospect of debating seasoned politicians. “I don’t care one bit about the debate,” he said, adding that years of daily on-air searches have prepared him for any stage.
Whether Smith ends up filing the paperwork or not, he’s already moved the conversation along. The next year determines whether that curiosity becomes a candidacy.
2026-02-17 16:39:00







