Stephen A. Smith isn’t mincing words when it comes to his thoughts on the state of the Democratic Party. In a recent interview on Hannity, the host of First Take was asked about the possibility of him running for president in 2028 after making waves in the polls. While Smith quickly shut down any talk of a presidential bid, he spoke out about what he perceived as the Democratic Party’s shortcomings.
Smith dismissed the idea of running, labeling politics as a “cesspool” and reinforcing that he had no intention of pursuing the presidency. He also expressed disbelief that someone with his background in sports commentary could even be considered a serious contender for the White House. According to Smith, this is a clear reflection of the “pathetic” state of the Democratic Party.
“I have no business being on that list whatsoever,” Smith said, referencing the 2028 presidential polls. “I am not qualified, but it just shows how pathetic things are at this particular moment in time.”
The New York native didn’t hold back, asserting that a sports pundit like himself is even in the conversation, which proves how dire things are for the party. However, Smith didn’t criticize everyone in the Democratic field. He voiced support for some potential candidates he believes would be better suited for the role, naming Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Maryland Governor Wes Moore as strong contenders.
But when it came to other high-profile figures in the party, Smith made it clear he wasn’t impressed. He particularly aimed U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and California Governor Gavin Newsom, though he didn’t detail his criticisms.
Smith also revisited his past regrets regarding supporting Vice President Kamala Harris. Reflecting on his vote in the 2020 election, he admitted that he felt misled, stating that many Democratic voters like him “fell for the okiedoke.” He suggested that had there been a primary contest, Harris might not have even emerged as the party’s nominee.
“Kamala Harris, who didn’t resonate during the primaries in 2020, couldn’t even get to Iowa, suddenly is the Democratic nominee,” Smith remarked. “Then you roll up to the convention in Chicago and everybody’s like, ‘She’s a rockstar!’ So it’s like, ‘How’d that happen?’”
Smith’s comments highlight his frustration with the Democratic Party’s perceived lack of qualified leadership, a sentiment that resonates with many disillusioned voters.