Stephen A. Smith and the 2028 Presidential Speculation
This weekend, Stephen A. Smith, a key figure in sports media, hinted at a possible presidential bid for 2028. But there’s something crucial for him and his advisors to consider: the Democratic Party is unlikely to embrace outsiders in the nomination process.
Bernie Sanders learned this lesson the hard way in both 2016 and 2020, as his populist movement faced consistent opposition from party leaders. Interestingly, he and the socialists have gained substantial ground in the party through years of activism.
A closer look at Smith’s presidential hopes might draw parallels with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Unlike Sanders, Kennedy ended up supporting Donald Trump after feeling sidelined by the Democratic National Committee.
Smith shared with CBS News that he’d want to “be on the debate stage” as discussions for the Democratic nomination unfold next year. It’s reminiscent of Kennedy’s experience, where he was not welcomed onto the platform.
What both Kennedy and Smith seem to grasp is that having independent-minded centrists in the primary poses a significant challenge for a party once defined by figures like Jefferson and Jackson.
The Democratic Party’s prevailing narrative insists that moderate figures like Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger or Kamala Harris are more centrist than the likes of Sanders or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, which doesn’t fully align with the reality. For instance, Spanberger raised taxes shortly after her election and backed progressive legislation, even if she doesn’t fit the stereotype of a far-left politician.
This narrative thrives partly because it goes unchallenged within the party. However, the dynamics could shift dramatically if someone like Smith enters the fray.
Without Smith, self-proclaimed centrists might evade tough questions, like those surrounding athletes in women’s sports. But can anyone really picture Smith just shrugging it off, without expressing some passionate counter? It’s hard to believe he would remain silent amidst controversy.
When it comes to Trump, the core of the Democrats’ identity seems to be built around countering his perceived authoritarianism. Smith’s take is quite different. He approaches matters with logic that sometimes makes the opposition seem irrational.
Democrats are in a precarious situation. If they resort to their usual tactics and exclude Smith from debate considerations, he could very well respond like Kennedy did: “I tried, but these people are out of touch.” This could lead to him finding common ground with Republicans.
Kennedy’s move attracted a wave of support for Trump that arguably bolstered his place in the White House. Smith also resonates with a vital audience—sports media consumers who often influence public opinion.
Remember 2024? There was a pivotal moment when an internal poll showed Biden with a significant lead among Teamsters, illustrating the crossover between labor, sports fandom, and politics.
So, how can Democrats regain the Teamsters? Those truck drivers tend to be avid listeners of sports talk radio, and Smith connects with that demographic effortlessly.
Back in 2015, I remember hearing Mike Francesa, a prominent figure in sports radio, predict that Trump wouldn’t just run—he’d win. It’s intriguing because the hosts of such shows converse daily with working-class audiences, giving them a unique perspective on voters.
Democrats face a real dilemma. They might be hesitant to let Smith’s insights shine too brightly, as it could expose their left leanings. On the flip side, should they attempt to undermine him, they risk igniting further influence. It’s conceivable that Smith might even deliver a standout speech at the 2028 Republican National Convention.
