Stephen A Smith sparks speculation over becoming Trump's next press secretary after WH visit

WASHINGTON, DC: ESPN broadcaster Stephen A Smith sparked speculation about becoming Donald Trump's next White House press secretary after making a surprise visit to the West Wing on Thursday, November 12.

However, Smith quickly dismissed the possibility, saying there was "no way in hell" he would take the job after spending around 40 minutes with the president.

Stephen A Smith meets Donald Trump at White House

Smith's visit came as Trump continues to look for someone to fill the vacant White House press secretary position. The sports broadcaster's arrival raised questions about whether he could be considered for the role, particularly after his earlier private dinner with the president.

However, Smith clarified that his meeting with Trump was for an interview for his YouTube show, ‘The Stephen A Smith Show.’ He also revealed that they discussed Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang for his show Straight Shooter.

Speaking to NewsNation, Smith firmly rejected the possibility of becoming Trump's press secretary, putting an end to the speculation surrounding his visit.

Stephen A Smith's dinner with Trump, Bill Maher and Kid Rock

The latest White House meeting comes less than a month after Smith spent four-and-a-half hours dining with Trump, comedian Bill Maher and musician Kid Rock on October 15.

The unexpected gathering brought together four personalities with different views to discuss politics, the economy and foreign policy.

Smith later revealed that Trump had invited him and Maher to return to the White House. He also defended his decision to meet the president, explaining that he wanted to challenge Trump directly on issues affecting Americans.

Among the subjects Smith raised were unemployment among Black women and the impact of the administration's policies on historically Black colleges and universities.

Donald Trump's search for a new White House press secretary

Smith's visit comes amid changes in Trump's communications team following the Republicans' losses in the midterm elections. The press secretary position has remained vacant since Katie Zacharia left after just five days in the job.

Zacharia had replaced Karoline Leavitt, who stepped down to focus on her family after serving as one of Trump's prominent aides.

CNN commentator Scott Jennings has also been mentioned as a possible replacement.

Another unexpected name entered the conversation when Trump suggested that UFC boss Dana White could take over the position. On November 7, the president shared an AI-generated image showing White standing behind the White House briefing room lectern.

Trump later admitted that the supposed offer had started as a joke. White also made a surprise appearance at a White House press briefing on Monday, where he turned down the role.