Trump Criticizes Stephen A. Smith’s Presidential Ambitions, Says He Lacks the ‘IQ’ and ‘Skills’

Trump Critiques Stephen A. Smith’s Presidential Aspirations

President Donald Trump has responded to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, who expressed a desire to run for president, by questioning Smith’s intelligence and qualifications for the role.

In the lead-up to Trump’s presence at Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York City, Smith criticized him as a “narcissist.” He claimed Trump’s visit would only exacerbate traffic issues for New Yorkers since the president’s motorcade would block roads.

“This president shouldn’t even be in New York City,” Smith said during an ESPN segment on Monday morning. “I’m serious. It’s selfish and narcissistic for him to attend this game.” He even went as far as to say that, should the Knicks lose to the San Antonio Spurs, it would be Trump’s fault.

After the game, a Fox News reporter brought up Smith’s comments and reminded Trump of Smith’s past musings about running for office. True to form, the president didn’t hold back in his critique. “I think he’s a decent guy, but running for president requires a certain aptitude,” Trump remarked. “You need a high IQ, and honestly, I don’t believe Stephen has that.”

While Smith has openly stated he’s never voted for a Republican, he identifies as a “centrist.” Nonetheless, he aligns himself with many far-left Democratic policies and suggests this makes him a suitable candidate for the presidency.

Interestingly, he has stated he’s not willing to take a pay cut to pursue this ambition, especially given his lucrative ESPN contract. In March, he even mentioned he had decided against running in 2028, saying, “I don’t think I’m going to run either, because I would have to part with the money.”

Addressing his earnings, Smith mentioned his annual salary is close to $40 million. He humorously advised, “Put your presidential ambitions to rest. If you have to part with money, it’s not going to happen.” Yet, he asserted last year that he believes he could defeat any Republican or Democrat in a race.

“I genuinely think the left is hopeless,” Smith claimed during an appearance on The View. “If I ran, I’m confident I could beat them all.” However, he quickly added that he has no real desire to enter politics, admitting, “I’m not a politician and I’m not qualified for that. But I know my opponents and how they consistently express their ideas.”