In politics, desperation breeds creativity. And if the current state of the Democratic Party is any indication, they’re getting quite creative indeed. After their crushing defeat in the 2024 election, Democrats have been wandering aimlessly in search of leadership. No message. No vision. No standard-bearer to rally behind.
Recent polls show over 30% of Americans can’t even name a Democrat who “best reflects the core values” of the party. I’ve watched them flail about since November 2024, and honestly, this latest development represents a new level of desperation.
Now, in a twist that would have seemed laughable just a few years ago, a celebrity sports commentator with zero political experience is being courted by Democratic officials as a potential savior for 2028. And the most surprising part? He’s actually considering it. Can you imagine the panic in DNC headquarters right now?
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, the boisterous and opinionated host of “First Take,” recently announced on social media that he’s “officially leaving all doors open” for a potential presidential run. Smith, who had previously dismissed such speculation, appears to be warming to the idea.
From ‘The Daily Caller’:
“Life is great. Especially at ESPN/Disney. Hate the thought of being a politician. But sick of this mess. So I’m officially leaving all doors open,” Smith wrote.
Smith’s frustration with the current political landscape seems to mirror that of many Americans. During a recent appearance at the National Association of Broadcasters Show, he elaborated on his evolving position: “I’ve been approached by people on Capitol Hill. I’ve been approached by people who are elected officials in office, whether it’s governors or mayors or what have you.”
While maintaining he has “no desire to be a politician,” Smith admitted, “I’m gonna keep my options open. I’m going to entertain the possibility.”
The mere fact that Democratic officials are recruiting a sports commentator speaks volumes about the party’s bench strength — or lack thereof. Smith himself acknowledged this when he previously said his rise in presidential speculation “just shows how pathetic things are” for the Democratic Party. Let’s be honest here: when your party’s best hope is an ESPN commentator, you’ve got serious problems.
A Sports Commentator with Cross-Party Appeal
What’s truly remarkable about Smith’s potential candidacy is the surprising level of support he’s already generating. According to a Rasmussen Reports poll, Smith holds a 33% favorable rating among likely voters — higher than many career politicians.
Even more telling is the breakdown: Smith is viewed favorably by 28% of Democrats, 37% of Republicans, and 32% of independents. Yes, you read that correctly — Smith’s approval among Republicans exceeds his support among Democrats. Isn’t it fascinating how a straight-talking personality can cut through partisan lines?
Among Black voters, his support jumps to 53%, compared to 26% among white voters. These numbers suggest Smith has a unique ability to transcend traditional political and demographic boundaries — something the Democratic Party desperately needs after being painted as out of touch with everyday Americans.
In hypothetical primary matchups, Smith already polls competitively against established Democratic figures. Against California Governor Gavin Newsom, Smith would garner 28% to Newsom’s 31%. Against Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, he’d get 28% to her 32%. I can’t help but wonder what this says about the quality of established Democratic leadership when a political novice polls this competitively.
What This Says About the Democratic Bench
The Democratic Party’s inability to produce compelling leadership is nothing new. Smith himself has been critical of potential Democratic candidates, recently saying he doubts Gavin Newsom could win in 2028 due to California’s ongoing problems under his leadership.
Smith’s appeal might stem from his reputation for blunt honesty — a stark contrast to the carefully scripted messaging typical of career politicians. He once described politicians as “professional beggars,” saying, “You’ve always got your hand out for something. People always need favors in return. I’m not that guy.”
This straight-talking approach resonates with Americans tired of political double-speak. It’s reminiscent of what propelled Donald Trump to victory in both 2016 and 2024 — an authentic voice that cuts through the noise and speaks directly to voters’ frustrations.
Twenty-five percent of Americans believe Smith would be more in touch with voters’ needs than other potential Democratic candidates. That’s a staggering indictment of the current Democratic establishment. (And honestly, is anyone really surprised?)
The fact that a sports commentator with zero political experience is being seriously discussed as a presidential contender reveals just how disconnected Democratic leadership has become from everyday Americans. When your party’s best hope for reconnecting with voters is an ESPN personality, it might be time to reconsider your platform.
Whether Stephen A. Smith ultimately decides to enter politics remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Democratic Party’s desperate search for leadership continues, and as we head toward 2028, they appear no closer to understanding what actually resonates with the American people.
For a party that once prided itself on being the voice of working Americans, that’s a failure that speaks volumes.
Key Takeaways
- Stephen A. Smith’s political consideration reveals the Democratic Party’s devastating leadership vacuum following 2024’s defeat.
- Smith’s surprising cross-party appeal (37% Republican approval) demonstrates Americans’ hunger for authentic, straight-talking candidates.
- Democratic officials recruiting a sports commentator highlights how disconnected the party has become from average voters.
- The stark contrast between Smith’s blunt honesty and traditional political messaging mirrors Trump’s successful appeal to Americans.
