Stephen A. Smith says he ‘loves capitalism’

Stephen A. Smith is increasingly venturing into political commentary through his podcast and news appearances. However, he resents the assumption that his occasional appearances on Fox News make him conservative.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Smith discussed his political identity and his interactions with Sean Hannity and Chris Cuomo, while expressing his ambition to further explore live political talk in the future.

“I’m a registered independent. I have voted Democrat most of the time, but sometimes I haven’t been happy about it,” Smith said. “I don’t like the idea of anybody telling me that just because I’m Black, this is what I should do. I am a centrist that leans left.”

Smith said he “loves capitalism” but supports “certain entitlement programs that uplift communities.” He is frustrated by being labeled as conservative just because of his appearances on Hannity.

“I’m not friends with him because of his politics,” Smith said. “I’m friends with him because when I was fired, he went on a mission to help me resurrect my career.”