Stephen A. Smith simply shut down speak of a 2028 run for president. Here’s why | EUROtoday

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith, who has floated operating for president in 2028, has shut down speak of a possible bid for the Democratic nomination — and it’s all about cash.

Smith hosts First Take on ESPN, in addition to a sports activities speak present known as The Stephen A. Smith Show and a politics and tradition present known as Straight Shooters with Stephen A. on SiriusXM.

The commentator has toyed with the thought of operating for workplace in latest months, telling CNN’s Jake Tapper final May, “Do I believe I could win? You’re damn right.” Smith identifies as a centrist and a reasonable, however advised CBS News’ Sunday Morning in February that if he did run for workplace, he’d run as a Democrat.

But any speak from Smith a couple of profession in Washington was simply that — speak. When Fox News’ Sean Hannity requested the ESPN host a couple of potential 2028 presidential run on his new podcast, Hang Out with Sean HannitySmith gave an trustworthy reply as to why he wouldn’t throw his hat within the ring.

Hannity mentioned to Smith in a teaser clip posted to X on Monday, “I think it’s all bulls***. I don’t think you’re running. Am I right?”

“I don’t think I’m running either ‘cause I gotta give up my money. I ain’t giving up my money.”

Last September, The Athletic reported that Smith makes almost $40 million a 12 months. His wage consists of $100 million over 5 years from ESPN and $36 million over three years for his SiriusXM gig, sources briefed on his contracts advised the publication.

Smith did make clear to CBS News’s Sunday Morning in February that he has “no desire to be a politician, zero.” But he mentioned he was “not ruling it out, because I’d love to be on the debate stages against some of these individuals that think they’re better suited to run the country.”

“Because I think that the American people deserve to listen to and hear from somebody who genuinely cares about making life better for them instead of yourself,” the EPSN host added.

Smith mentioned he’s fiscally conservative, noting that he “can’t stand high taxes,” and socially liberal as he pays “attention to the desolate and disenfranchised.” He additionally has combined views about immigration and border safety.

“Yes, I like strong borders, that’s absolutely true. We never needed open borders, but we don’t need it to be completely closed, either. We are a gorgeous mosaic,” he advised CBS News.

Among Smith’s followers who could also be unhappy to listen to he received’t launch a 2028 bid is President Donald Trump. Speaking at a NewsNation city corridor final April, Trump known as Smith a “good” and “smart” man.

“I love watching him. He’s got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him,” the president mentioned. “I’ve been pretty good at picking people and picking candidates, and I will tell you, I’d love to see him run.”