Stephen A. Smith Open to Presidential Run
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith identifies as a fiscal conservative while leaning socially liberal. Because of this, he expresses some openness to the idea of running for president, particularly as a Democrat.
In a recent conversation with CBS Sunday Morning host Robert Costa, Smith stated, “I couldn’t imagine myself running as a Republican.” He did clarify, however, his lack of ambition to enter politics. “I have no intention of being a politician,” he added, but he did leave the possibility of a presidential run on the table.
Smith explained, “I’m not going to rule that out, because I want to be on the debate stage with people who think they’re better suited to run this country. The American people deserve voices genuinely interested in improving their lives, not just their own.”
When discussing political allegiances, Smith reiterated his Democratic preference based on his social views. “I’m a fiscal conservative. I can’t stand high taxes,” he said, “but I’m also a social liberal because I believe in living and letting live. I care about those who are suffering and marginalized.” He advocates for strong borders, indicating a balanced approach: “We didn’t need to open the borders, but we also don’t need to close them completely. We’re a gorgeous mosaic.”
His comments included critiques directed at the policies of both President Biden and former President Trump. Smith voiced dissatisfaction with what he referred to as Biden’s open border policy but also acknowledged a need to close the border, which he attributed to Biden’s public handling of the issue.
Regarding Trump’s tenure, Smith has focused on deportation practices by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, calling the agency’s actions “grabbing people,” and elaborating that the previous administration marked a shift toward enforcement against those merely crossing the border illegally, rather than focusing solely on criminals.
During the interview, the topic of racism also arose. Costa noted Smith’s energetic broadcasting style, which has earned him the nickname “Screaming A. Smith.” Responding, Smith commented on how white commentators are often described as passionate rather than labeled with anger as he is. “There are a lot of reasons to be happy,” he added.
When it comes to racial issues, Smith indicated that he doesn’t believe racism is as widespread as some on the left claim, asserting that most Americans tend to judge character over skin color.
