Overview

• The exchange took place on Smith’s Straight Shooter podcast via Zoom during a discussion of who could challenge President Donald Trump in 2028.
• Maher labeled the Democratic Party a “ghost brand” and said only an unapologetic outsider could relaunch and rebrand it.
• Maher argued that someone with Smith’s abandon could win back voters who have switched away from the party.
• Smith said a presidential campaign would cost him too much money, though he has previously entertained the notion of a 2028 run.
• In the broader discussion, Maher said Gavin Newsom would need to move further to the center to be viable, and Smith has cited Josh Shapiro and Wes Moore as his preferred options.