Stephen A. Smith Ranks Trump Officials?

Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith shocked listeners this week after saying Secretary of State Marco Rubio would easily defeat Vice President J.D. Vance in a 2028 Republican presidential showdown — a statement that’s turning heads in both political and media circles.

During Thursday’s episode of his Straight Shooter podcast on SiriusXM, Smith praised Rubio’s leadership and track record, saying the Florida conservative’s handling of foreign policy under President Donald Trump has set him apart as a national leader.

“If this Israel–Hamas peace deal ends up being a success,” Smith said, “no one in the GOP will be able to compete with Marco Rubio — the man President Trump called ‘maybe the greatest Secretary of State in American history.’”

Smith Praises Rubio’s Record: “He Gets Things Done”

Smith credited Rubio’s experience and results-driven leadership, saying he’s proven himself capable of managing both diplomacy and national security under pressure.

“Marco Rubio delivers results,” Smith said. “He’s served as a senator, now leads as Secretary of State and national security adviser. This man means business — and I rank him well ahead of Vice President Vance.”

That comment immediately drew attention among Trump supporters, who have long respected Rubio’s strong defense of American interests abroad and his tough stance on China, Iran, and border security.

Smith’s Political Commentary Draws New Attention

While best known for his sports takes, Stephen A. Smith has become increasingly outspoken about national politics. This week, he also mentioned Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore as potential 2028 Democratic contenders — though even he admitted the GOP field looks far stronger heading into the next election cycle.

Smith recently co-hosted a live NewsNation town hall at the Kennedy Center alongside Chris Cuomo and Bill O’Reilly, where he discussed the state of the nation and voter frustration with Washington insiders.

Hinting at His Own Run? Smith Says “All Hands on Deck”

In a previous interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, Smith half-joked about launching his own presidential bid, saying the current political landscape has left many Americans frustrated.

“I hope someone from the Democratic Party steps up,” Smith said. “But if it keeps getting worse — all hands on deck. We all might need to consider running rather than dealing with this nonsense.”

The Bottom Line

Smith’s remarks highlight what many conservatives already believe — that Marco Rubio, working closely with President Trump, has helped restore America’s strength and credibility on the world stage.

As speculation grows around the 2028 Republican primary, one thing is clear: Rubio’s blend of experience, patriotism, and proven results may make him the most formidable GOP candidate since Trump himself.