Poll Shows Stephen A. Smith's Chances vs. JD Vance In 2028 Election

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith has been flirting with the idea of him running for president in 2028. Would he actually have a chance of winning though? 

Smith, 57, has become a household name due to his work on "First Take." He's been so integral to ESPN's success that he recently received an extension worth at least $100 million. 

Despite being known for his sports takes, Smith was floated out as a possible nominee for the Democratic Party in 2024. At first, he was more than content with enjoying his life as one of the highest-paid journalists in the business. 

"I have no desire to do it," Smith said at the NAB Show in Las Vegas. "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. I’ve always perceived politicians as being professional beggars. I don’t say that derogatorily or anything like that. It’s just the reality. You’ve always got your hand out for something. People always need favors in return. I’m not that guy. So I could never see myself as a politician." 

Although he has job security and a great salary, Smith has decided to keep his doors open. 

"I’ve been approached by people on Capitol Hill," Smith explained, via Barrett Media. "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. 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. 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."