ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith is reportedly "emerging as a potential 2028 Democratic candidate for president," according to Front Office Sports.

Smith, 57, reportedly has a 2% share in a recent poll surveying potential Democratic candidates conducted by President Donald Trump's former pollster John McLaughlin, which is 1% behind former Democratic vice presidential candidate and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, as well as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. The sports media personality is also reported to be 1% higher than Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and former Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, the 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, is currently the overwhelming leader at 33%, the only candidate polling in double digits. Smith's inclusion came "because there were media reports about him talking about the presidency," according to McLaughlin.

"He got some support. He certainly got media attention. So he’s probably gone up. But he’d probably have to take a pay cut. Just like President Trump had to take a pay cut. So we’ll see,” McLaughlin told Front Office Sports.

Smith added to speculation by saying he "might entertain running" while appearing on the FOX News' Hannity on Tuesday (February 4) night.

"The Democratic Party looks so pathetic after this election; I might entertain running. I just might change my mind one day. I doubt it, but I might. Because how much would it take to beat y’all? And Trump can’t run again," he said before firmly stating that he has no plans to run.

"My lifestyle is quite lovely," he added. "I would not want to ruin that by running for the presidency of the United States of America. I have no interest, but I was just trying to make a profound point."

Mandy Connell