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Stephen A. Smith gives the verdict.

After numerous teases of a potential run for president in 2028, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has given his verdict.

Last year, Stephen A. Smith said he wouldn’t rule out running for President of the United States in the 2028 election. The American people will have to vote for a new leader, as the Constitution prevents Donald Trump (in his second term) from running for a third term.

Multiple betting websites have even listed Smith as one of the early favorites to win the Democratic nomination in 2028. But, is the longtime ESPN personality actually serious about a White House run?

During an appearance on Fox News’ Sean Hannity’s podcast, Smith revealed that he won’t run for president in 2028 after all. Smith cited the high costs after Hannity expressed doubt over an actual run: (via Jay Stahl of USA Today):

“I don’t think I’m running either because I gotta give up my money. I can tell you right now, let me put the presidential aspirations to bed. If I have to give up my money, it’s not happening.”

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Well, there you have it. Smith obviously thought about it for quite some time, but realistically, it’s not in the works for the legendary sports media personality.

Stephen A. Smith Signed $100 Million Extension With ESPN Last Year

Stephen A. Smith (Image Credits: Imagn)
Last March, Smith signed a five-year extension with the Worldwide Leader in Sports worth over $100 million. The deal allowed Smith to make appearances on other media programs, including political shows.

That $100 million deal is obviously a nice chunk of cash, but U.S. presidential campaigns cost hundreds of millions of dollars. On top of that, the top candidates require more than $1 billion in donations.

Smith would be giving up too much of his personal net worth to run for president. Thus, it’s not a surprise that he’s going to play it safe and continue making 10 figures annually in sports media.