Van Lathan Drags Stephen A. Smith for Sounding Like a Republican

Van Lathan publicly questioned Stephen A. Smith’s political identity during a recent podcast appearance, arguing that the longtime ESPN commentator increasingly sounds more aligned with Republican politics than Democratic messaging.

Lathan made the remarks while appearing on “The Press Box” podcast hosted by Bryan Curtis. Conversation centered partly on Smith’s recent suggestion that Black voters should consider supporting Republicans for one election cycle, a statement that drew strong reactions across sports and political media spaces.

During the discussion, Lathan said Smith would likely find greater political success running as a Republican candidate rather than as a Democrat. He also ranked Smith eighth on a hypothetical Republican political depth chart, referencing public figures including Pete Hegseth and Florida Governor Ron Desantis while describing where he believes Smith fits politically.

“He should run as a Republican. He’s clearly a Republican,” Lathan said during the episode.

Lathan also referenced lessons from therapy and conversations involving personal identity while explaining why he believes Smith’s political instincts increasingly mirror conservative talking points. Remarks added another layer to ongoing debates surrounding Black political identity, party loyalty, and the growing political influence of sports media personalities.

Smith has become increasingly outspoken on national political issues in recent years, frequently discussing former President Donald Trump, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, and broader debates surrounding race, media influence, and electoral politics. His political commentary has steadily expanded beyond sports coverage into larger cultural and ideological discussions.

Supporters often describe Smith as politically independent and willing to challenge expectations surrounding party affiliation inside Black political spaces. Critics, however, argue that some of his rhetoric increasingly overlaps with mainstream conservative narratives and Republican messaging strategies.

Lathan’s comments also reflect a wider shift inside sports and entertainment media where prominent personalities now move between political analysis, cultural commentary, and traditional broadcasting roles. Podcasts and digital platforms have accelerated those conversations, giving media figures larger influence outside their original industries.

Speculation surrounding Smith’s political future has circulated repeatedly following several interviews and television appearances discussing national elections and public policy. Smith has not announced plans to pursue political office.

Exchange between Lathan and Smith now reflects how sports commentators and media personalities continue shaping political conversations extending far beyond television studios and debate panels.