Stephen A. Smith Says Trump’s Presidential Run Was Motivated by NFL Grudge

Smith claims Trump vowed to run for president after failing to buy the Buffalo Bills in 2014 due to opposition from NFL owners.

Stephen A. Smith revealed on Bill Maher's podcast that Donald Trump told him in 2014 he would run for president if NFL owners blocked his bid to purchase the Buffalo Bills.
Trump reportedly offered $1 billion for the team, falling short of the $1.4 billion price tag, and ultimately lost to Terry and Kim Pegula, who secured the purchase.
Smith recounted Trump expressing frustration with NFL owners, saying he would seek revenge by entering the political arena.
Trump has previously acknowledged that if he had acquired the Bills, he likely would not have pursued a political career.
The claim has sparked renewed discussion about Trump’s motivations for his initial presidential campaign, which led to his victory in 2016 and most recently in 2024.