Prominent sports commentator Stephen A. Smith recently shared his picks for the Democratic Party’s potential presidential nominees in 2028, naming Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Maryland Governor Wes Moore as his top choices. Smith made his remarks during an appearance on his SiriusXM program, Straight Shooter with Stephen A., in response to a caller from Wisconsin who identified as a lifelong liberal.

The caller suggested that California Governor Gavin Newsom could be the party’s leading candidate in 2028, but added that he was “not totally sold” on the idea. Smith interrupted to express his own preferences. “You shouldn’t be. You shouldn’t be,” he said. “Let me tell you something right now: First of all, I’ve got two candidates for you. They’re two of my favorites. Now, I’m not telling you to vote as I vote. I’m just being honest and open with you about who are my two favorite candidates, OK?”

Smith then named his selections. “I love Gov. Josh Shapiro from Pennsylvania and Gov. Wes Moore from Maryland. Those are my two and not necessarily in that order,” he added, highlighting both leaders’ perceived strengths and potential appeal within the party.

The discussion comes amid broader speculation about potential Democratic contenders for 2028. In recent months, Moore’s name has frequently surfaced in conversations about the party’s future leadership. However, the Maryland governor has repeatedly made clear that he does not intend to pursue a presidential campaign at this time. In a recent interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, Moore was asked whether he would seek the Democratic nomination in 2028. “Yeah, I’m not running for president,” he stated unequivocally.

When pressed further about the possibility of a future bid, Moore emphasized his commitment to Maryland. “Our population is growing, Maryland is moving, and so I’m really excited about going back in front of the people of my state and asking for another term,” he said. He also addressed ongoing discussions around congressional redistricting in Maryland, calling gerrymandering “a true stain on a larger democratic soul,” while noting that all options remain on the table for addressing district lines.

Despite Moore’s repeated statements, Smith encouraged his listeners not to overlook the governor. “Gov. Wes Moore is the real deal. Make no mistake about it, I doubt he’ll run, but he is the real deal,” Smith said. “When you talk about somebody that can walk and communicate across the aisle and is fixated on getting things done, Wes Moore is somebody that I would strongly, strongly advise you not to ignore. You better pay attention to this man.”

Smith also weighed in on Gavin Newsom, acknowledging certain appealing qualities. “I like the look of him,” Smith said. “He looks so presidential, right? And Gavin Newsom is smart, he’s articulate, he’s bright, he’s very polished, and he could debate with the best of them.”

At the same time, Smith noted significant challenges in Newsom’s record as California governor. He cited issues such as rising homelessness, high taxes, heavy regulation, and the exodus of businesses from the state. “They’re going to point to a lot of different things that have ravaged that state,” Smith said, suggesting that these factors could become liabilities in a general election.

Smith also critiqued Newsom’s approach to decision-making, describing him as “a kind man whose heart is in the right place” but one who struggles with enforcing limits and saying no when necessary. “But when you are in office, you have to say no sometimes, and it doesn’t seem to be his gift,” he added.

While Shapiro and Moore remain Smith’s personal favorites, he clarified that his comments were intended to share his perspective rather than serve as a political endorsement. Both governors have gained attention for their leadership styles and accomplishments within their respective states, though their paths forward appear different: Shapiro remains a rising figure in Pennsylvania politics, while Moore is focused on securing a second term in Maryland.

As the Democratic Party looks ahead to 2028, discussions about potential candidates are expected to intensify, with analysts and party insiders closely watching the trajectories of both Shapiro and Moore. Smith’s commentary reflects a growing national conversation about emerging Democratic leaders and the qualities that may define the party’s next presidential nominee.