Overview

• President Donald Trump praised ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith during a NewsNation town hall, calling him a 'smart guy' with 'great entertainment skills' and expressing interest in seeing him run for president in 2028.
• Smith, who has criticized both major political parties, remains noncommittal but has stated he is 'leaving all doors open' to a potential presidential bid.
• During the town hall, Smith challenged Trump on his administration's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, highlighting policy debates that could shape his political identity.
• Recent polling data shows Smith with low favorability ratings compared to other prospective Democratic candidates, raising questions about his potential viability as a candidate.
• Celebrity reactions, including a playful post by Magic Johnson, have amplified public speculation about Smith's possible entry into the political arena.