Stephen A. Smith Sees Little Hope for Democrats Against Vance and Rubio

On Thursday, ESPN host Stephen A. Smith wrapped up his radio show by expressing skepticism about the chances of any Democratic nominee against the Republican presidential candidates, Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

When a listener inquired about potential Democratic challengers to Vance and Rubio, Smith candidly remarked that there seems to be no one who stands a chance, stating, “The answer is no one, no goddamn soul.”

While Smith asserted that none of the Democrats are likely to mount a serious challenge, he mentioned that he would support someone like Senator Jon Ossoff from Georgia if he decided to run. “Ossoff from Georgia. I think I like him. I like the sound of him. I think so,” he noted.

Interestingly, Republicans view Ossoff’s seat as a significant opportunity ahead of the 2026 midterms, especially as he is the only incumbent Democrat running in a state likely to favor Trump in 2024.

Smith emphasized that he believes Vance and Rubio’s ticket would be formidable, particularly if the peace deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered during Trump’s presidency, proves lasting. He highlighted Rubio’s role, asserting, “But let’s be honest: If this Israel-Hamas deal turns out positive, there’s no one to match Marco Rubio, whom Trump has possibly called the greatest secretary of state in American history.”

After the agreement was reached, Trump specifically praised Rubio’s contributions, suggesting he might be remembered as one of the greatest leaders in the history of the State Department.

Furthermore, Smith conveyed that he considers Rubio a stronger presidential candidate than Vance. He reminisced about Rubio’s previous attempts to secure the Republican nomination in 2016, noting how he was overshadowed by Trump at that time. “Marco Rubio gets things done,” Smith asserted, highlighting the former senator’s diverse positions. “He’s no joke. I rank him above Vice President Vance. That’s about it.”