Stephen A. Smith believes a higher power may want him to run for president — and he's listening

Stephen A. Smith has always commanded headlines with his bold takes on sports, but now, the ESPN host and cultural commentator is flirting with something far more consequential than debating the Dallas Cowboys — he's hinting at a potential run for the White House.

Stephen A. Smith says even God might be calling him to the White House

Known for his unfiltered commentary and fiery presence on ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith is once again drawing attention — this time, not for a controversial sports opinion, but for suggesting that a presidential campaign may be in his future. And according to him, it’s not just idle chatter.


“I have no choice, because I’ve had elected officials, and I’m not going to give their names, elected officials coming up to me. I’ve had folks who are pundits come up to me. I’ve had folks that got a lot of money, billionaires and others that have talked to me about exploratory committees and things of that nature. I’m not a politician. I’ve never had a desire to be a politician,” Smith told Jonathan Karl on ABC’s last Week.

While some may scoff at the idea of a sports broadcaster pivoting to politics, Smith insists this isn’t a personal ambition, but a call being echoed by people of influence — and faith. That includes voices as personal as his own pastor.

“Here’s the reality: People, literally people, have walked up to me, including my own pastor, for crying out loud, who has said to me, ‘You don’t know what God has planned for you. At least show the respect to the people who believe in you, who respect you, who believe that you can make a difference in this country, to leave the door open for any possibilities some two to three years down the line.’ And that’s what I’ve decided to do.”

Smith, who recently secured a jaw-dropping $100 million contract extension with ESPN, remains a polarizing voice in American media. From taking jabs at the Dallas Cowboys to sparking social debates, his opinions often draw both applause and backlash. His growing cultural clout, however, is undeniable.

For years, he has maintained that a political career wasn't in the cards. But now, his narrative is evolving. While he hasn’t confirmed any formal steps toward candidacy, Smith’s openness to the idea hints at a man seriously contemplating the weight of public expectation — and perhaps divine intervention.

Would America be ready for a leader who rose from sports commentary to the Oval Office? Smith isn’t making any promises yet — but he’s certainly not closing the door.

The question isn’t whether he would win God's vote — it’s whether he could win yours.

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