Trump endorses Stephen A. Smith for 2028 presidential run

During a NewsNation town hall marking his first 100 days back in office, President Donald Trump expressed support for ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith potentially running for president in 2028, describing Smith as a 'smart guy' with strong entertainment skills. Trump said he would 'love to see him run' and placed Smith above other potential Democratic candidates, citing his appeal and public profile. Smith, who has recently indicated he is 'leaving all doors open' for a presidential bid, confronted Trump on his administration's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, questioning the impact on marginalized communities. Despite Smith's public reservations about entering politics, his new ESPN contract allows him the flexibility to pursue other ventures, including a possible political career. The exchange at the town hall highlighted both Trump's endorsement and Smith's growing seriousness about a potential candidacy, even as Smith remains ambivalent about running. The event drew attention to ongoing dissatisfaction within the Democratic Party and speculation about new leadership for 2028.