Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith has made one thing crystal clear. A presidential campaign is not in his future.
During a conversation with Sean Hannity on the debut episode of the new podcast “Hang Out with Sean Hannity,” the outspoken ESPN analyst addressed speculation that he might consider a run for the White House in 2028. Smith quickly dismissed the idea.
“Let me put the presidential aspirations to bed,” Smith said on the premiere episode of the “Hang Out with Sean Hannity” podcast.
Then he delivered an even more blunt explanation.
“If I have to give up my money, it’s not happening.”
The remarks came as part of a wide-ranging interview that explored politics, culture and Smith’s own public persona. For fans who wondered whether the sports personality might eventually enter politics, the answer appears definitive.
A New Podcast Platform for Unfiltered Conversations
The interview marks the launch of Hannity’s new twice-weekly podcast, which aims to feature extended conversations with prominent figures from across sports, politics, business and entertainment.
Smith was selected as the show’s first guest, setting the tone for what the program hopes to deliver: candid discussions that go beyond the traditional television interview format.
The full conversation is expected to be released Tuesday on YouTube. In it, Smith opens up about the long internal debate he had regarding the possibility of entering politics before deciding firmly against it.
Smith Names Three Politicians He Would Support
While Smith ruled out running for president himself, he did not hesitate to weigh in on potential candidates for the 2028 election.
Among the names he mentioned was Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a choice that may surprise some observers given Smith’s political leanings.
“He’s an adult in the room. There is no questioning his qualifications for the job,” he said.
Smith added that, despite identifying as a Democrat, he would choose Rubio over several high-profile figures within his own party, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Democratic Governors Also Make His List
Still, Smith’s list was not limited to Republican figures.
The commentator also pointed to two Democratic governors he believes could lead the country effectively. According to Smith, he would be willing to support Maryland Gov. Wes Moore or Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro if either sought the presidency.
Those choices align more closely with his traditional political preferences, though his willingness to back candidates across party lines highlights his independent streak when discussing national leadership.
Inside Hannity’s New Florida Studio
The interview was filmed at Hannity’s newly built studio in Florida, a space he reportedly refers to as his personal “man cave.”
The setting aims to create a relaxed atmosphere where guests can speak openly without the constraints of a typical news broadcast.
Future episodes are expected to feature a range of well-known personalities, including Ainsley Earhardt, Dan Bongino, Clay Travis, Bill Hemmer, Lawrence Jones and Jimmy Failla.
With Smith’s appearance kicking things off, the podcast hopes to draw listeners interested in deeper conversations with influential figures shaping politics, culture and media.
