Stephen A. Smith, best known for his sports commentary and sometimes controversial hot takes, continues to venture into the world of politics, even flirting with the idea of running for president. The topic came up again as CBS News’ Robert Costa interviewed Smith, and Smith’s answer — particularly his discussion about race — has raised eyebrows.
Smith dismisses racism as he contemplates a presidential run
During their sit-down discussion, the CBS News journalist asked Smith about his possible presidential run, and specifically whether he was concerned about racism impacting his potential candidacy.
“No,” Smith answered bluntly before he elaborated on his views about racism.
“I know it exists. I know that you can’t escape it, but I do not believe it is as prevalent as some on the left would like us to believe.”
On the contrary, Smith said, “I do believe a vast majority of Americans judge you on the content of your individual character rather than the color of your skin.”
Comparing “this day and age” to “decades ago,” Smith said, “It’s not about race. It’s about the fact that they don’t give a damn about it because they got their own problems.”
Specifically, Smith argued that currently, “We have more white Americans and others suffering and worried about the state of our nation, and because they’re concerned about that, that’s where their worries lie.”
NEW: Stephen A. Smith *SWATS DOWN* CBS News’ Robert Costa’s racism question
COSTA: “Would you worry about racism if you ran for president?”
SMITH: “No … I do not believe it is as prevalent as some on the Left would like us to believe.”
“I do believe a vast majority of… pic.twitter.com/esXwj3ehuK
— Jason Cohen
(@JasonJournoDC) February 16, 2026
Smith’s comments drew criticism on social media.
“Stephen A. Smith thinks racism isn’t a thing anymore….yeah, he’s a grifting Trumper,” a user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote. “Dude is willing to say and do some awful things in the next couple of years to help this regime by being a fake presidential candidate. RFK Jr. 2.0 just landed.”
“Dude just say you’re a Republican and quit wasting everyone’s time,” another commenter mentioned.
Dude just say you’re a Republican and quit wasting everyone’s time. https://t.co/9wMuCLigDK
— Richard Staple, BSN, RN
(@RichStapless) February 16, 2026
Smith said he’s a Democrat, but Republicans seem most excited for him to run
In terms of the likelihood of Smith running in the 2028 presidential election, he said during the interview, “I’m giving strong consideration to being on that debate stage for 2027,” but added he’d take this year to decide. Smith also said that he would run as a Democrat, while describing himself as holding a mix of conservative stances on issues like taxes and border security but liberal positions on other topics.
Despite Smith’s declaration that he would be a Democratic candidate, conservatives have supported his potential presidential run.
President Donald Trump has previously said, “I’d love to see him run.”
Several right-leaning accounts responded to the clip of Smith discussing racism with Costa, posting the caption “Stephen A. Smith swats down question on racism in possible 2028 presidential bid.”
Fox News has also taken notice of Smith. Network host Jesse Watters described Smith as “a very talented guy” and said he “would love to see him up on that Democrat debate stage.”
Author Charlie Spiering agreed, adding that Smith “looks good on camera. He’s articulate,” while disparaging “experienced politicians like AOC and Kamala Harris.”
While Smith may identify as a Democrat, liberals and conservatives alike seem to think that Smith is courting Republican support. His latest comments on politics and race are only reinforcing that view, playing well with conservatives but striking others as misguided at best and pandering to a right-wing audience at worst.
The post Stephen A. Smith Dismisses Racism As Not ‘As Prevelant’ Anymore, Stirring Backlash And Controversy appeared first on Blavity.
