@Reuteurs
(New York, New York) – Stephen A. Smith is once again blurring the line between sports commentary and politics, this time by weighing in forcefully on the fatal ICE-involved shooting in Minneapolis- and doing so just months after openly flirting with a presidential run.
Speaking on his SiriusXM podcast, Smith said the shooting was “completely justified,” arguing the officer’s actions aligned with “what transpired from a lawful perspective.” His remarks put him sharply at odds with Democratic officials who have condemned the incident and accused federal agents of misconduct.
The comments come after Smith raised eyebrows in an April 7 post on X, where he wrote: “Hate the thought of being a politician. But sick of this mess. So I’m officially leaving all doors open.” In subsequent interviews, Smith said he has “no choice” but to consider a future run for president, citing frustration with political leadership and public discourse.
Taken together, Smith’s blunt defense of law enforcement and his growing willingness to engage directly in political debates have fueled speculation that he is deliberately testing his voice beyond sports media. Supporters praised him for prioritizing legal standards over emotion, while critics accused him of using controversy to build political relevance.
Whether or not a presidential bid materializes, Smith’s remarks on Minneapolis- paired with his openness to entering politics- signal that he is increasingly comfortable stepping into one of the most polarized arenas in American life, with little concern for staying in a traditional lane.
