Trump Endorses – FORMER PRESIDENT Says WHAT?!

ESPN host Stephen A. Smith was caught off guard when President Donald Trump unexpectedly endorsed him for a future presidential run, leading to questions about the intersection of media personalities and political candidacy.

At a Glance 

  • President Trump endorsed ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith for a potential 2028 presidential run
  • Smith said he was “aghast” but flattered by the unexpected endorsement
  • Trump praised Smith as “a good guy, a smart guy” with “great entertainment skills”
  • Smith admitted he’s never been interested in politics but didn’t completely rule out a future run
  • The unusual endorsement comes as Democrats begin considering potential 2028 candidates

Trump’s Unexpected Endorsement

In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump publicly endorsed ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith for a potential presidential run during a NewsNation town hall with Bill O’Reilly. Trump’s unexpected support for the sports analyst caught many by surprise, including Smith himself. 

The President was effusive in his praise, describing Smith as “a good guy, a smart guy” and complimenting his entertainment skills. Trump went further by stating, “I’d love to see him run,” a remarkable endorsement of someone with no political experience from a former President planning his own return to office.

The endorsement came as part of a broader discussion about potential 2028 presidential candidates, with Trump claiming he has “a good track record of picking candidates.” The President’s comments have thrust Smith, known for his passionate sports commentary and debate style on ESPN’s “First Take,” into political conversations despite having no previous involvement in politics. For conservative viewers watching the exchange, the moment highlighted Trump’s continued influence in shaping political discourse even outside traditional political circles. 

Smith’s Surprised Reaction

Appearing on CNN’s “State of the Union” with Jake Tapper, Smith expressed his genuine surprise at Trump’s endorsement. The ESPN commentator admitted he was completely caught off guard by the former president’s comments, saying he “wasn’t looking for any kind of endorsement from anybody, especially him.” Despite this, Smith acknowledged the significance of receiving such praise from a President. His reaction showed both his discomfort with being thrust into political discussions and a measured respect for the office of the presidency.

“I was aghast to be quite honest with you, I wasn’t looking for any kind of endorsement from anybody, especially him. But he is the President of the United States. There’s a bit of flattery that comes with getting such words from the man who holds the highest office in the land, and I can appreciate that,” said Stephen A. Smith.

Smith further elaborated on his thoughts in a YouTube video where he addressed the endorsement directly. While maintaining he has “never been interested in politics,” he didn’t completely close the door on a future run. Smith suggested that while he doesn’t consider himself the most qualified potential candidate, he believes his communication skills and public persona could make him a viable contender if he ever decided to pursue politics seriously. This candid self-assessment reflected Smith’s trademark confidence while acknowledging the reality of his lack of political experience.

Media Personalities in Politics

Trump’s endorsement of Smith highlights the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment, media, and politics in America. Smith, primarily known for his sports commentary, has occasionally ventured into political and social discussions on his platforms. His commanding television presence and ability to engage audiences are qualities that Trump specifically highlighted as reasons why Smith might succeed in politics. For many conservative Americans, the idea of outsiders entering politics has become increasingly normalized since Trump’s own successful transition from business and entertainment to the presidency. 

“No, Stephen A., he is a good guy, a smart guy, I love watching him. He’s got great entertainment skills, which is very important. People watch him,” said President Donald Trump.  

As the Democratic Party begins considering potential candidates for 2028, the field appears to include more traditional political figures such as Pete Buttigieg, Gavin Newsom, Andy Beshear, and Gretchen Whitmer. 

Smith’s unexpected inclusion in presidential discussions, however unconventional, serves as a reminder of America’s changing political landscape where media personalities have increasingly found pathways into political consideration. Smith’s reaction, while appreciative of Trump’s comments, also reflected a realism about the serious nature of political service that many traditional voters would find reassuring.

Looking Ahead to 2028

While Smith’s potential candidacy remains purely speculative, Trump’s endorsement has added an unexpected element to early discussions about the 2028 presidential race. The Democratic Party is reportedly focused on rebuilding after anticipated 2024 losses, with hopes to rebrand before the next presidential cycle. Several current Democratic senators have already announced they won’t seek reelection, signaling a potential generational shift in political leadership. Whether Smith’s name continues to circulate in political discussions remains to be seen, but Trump’s endorsement has certainly given the sports commentator an unusual place in early 2028 speculation. 

For now, Smith continues his work at ESPN while processing this unexpected political attention. His measured response, acknowledging the honor while expressing realistic doubts about political ambitions, demonstrated the kind of straightforward communication that has made him popular with viewers. As America watches this unusual intersection of sports media and presidential politics unfold, it serves as another chapter in the evolving relationship between entertainment, media personalities, and political leadership in modern America.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR