​"This community made me who I am," said Smith. "I'm running because Ward 2 deserves leadership that understands its struggles and believes fiercely in its potential. I know what it's like to go without-and I know what it takes to rise above. I want to help build a city where no one gets left behind."

Smith's campaign is grounded in the belief that municipal leadership should reflect the real lives— and real struggles— of the people it serves. Building on his 2020 run in Ward 2, this campaign represents a return to his roots, and a renewed commitment to the people and places that shaped him. His campaign priorities include:

• Affordable housing that meets the needs of families and individuals alike
• Safe, accessible neighbourhoods, from crime prevention to pedestrian-friendly infrastructure
• Inclusive, community-driven recreation for all ages and abilities
• Downtown revitalization that supports small business and cultural vibrancy
• Transparent, accountable local government that puts residents first

A vocal 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate and familiar face in Canadian sports, Smith has inspired youth across the country by standing tall in spaces not built for him. Now, he's channeling that same fire, resilience, and no-nonsense leadership into his campaign for City Hall.

"I'm not aspiring to be a career politician-I'm a fighter who's lived the failures of the system firsthand," said Smith. "I've seen what happens when communities like ours get sidelined —when leaders talk, but don't show up. I'm not here to play it safe-I'm here to shake things up and fight like hell for the people of Ward 2."

Smith is calling on Ward 2 residents to join a bold, grassroots movement for real, lasting change in St. John's.