Actor Terrence Howard has raised the possibility of running for president in 2028, telling reporters he is interested in becoming president and arguing that someone needs to step forward if elected officials are not making a difference.

Howard made the comments during an October 28 interview with TMZ in New York City. Asked whether he was looking forward to voting in the upcoming midterm elections, the actor responded with an unexpected declaration about his own political ambitions.

"Yes. I'm looking forward to becoming president," Howard said.

When the reporter pressed him on the statement, Howard stood by his answer, adding, "If they're not going to make a difference, somebody's got to do something."

Although Howard did not formally announce a presidential campaign or outline plans to enter the 2028 race, his remarks suggest he is at least entertaining the possibility of seeking the White House. He did not identify a political party, announce a campaign organization or provide a timeline for making a decision.

Howard also discussed what he would want to accomplish politically, focusing heavily on reparations for descendants of enslaved Americans. He said he would like to sit down with President Donald Trump to explain what he views as the lasting economic and social consequences of slavery.

The actor proposed exempting descendants of enslaved people from federal taxes for the next 400 years. Howard argued that the policy could help address economic disparities, create investment opportunities in Black communities and provide a form of long-term economic compensation.

He described the proposal as a way to help heal what he called "400 years of bad karma." However, Howard did not provide details about how eligibility would be determined, which federal taxes would be covered, or how such an extensive exemption would be implemented. A policy of that scale would also require congressional action to change federal tax law.

Howard additionally brought up rapper Nicki Minaj, suggesting she could help support his proposal. Minaj has attracted attention for her public support of Trump, but Howard's comments did not establish that she had agreed to participate in any political effort or endorse his proposed policy.

The actor's remarks come as political figures and potential candidates begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2028 presidential election. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have both been discussed as possible Republican contenders, while several Democrats are also being mentioned as potential candidates.

Howard is best known for portraying Lucious Lyon on the television drama Empire and for roles in films including Hustle & Flow and Iron Man. He has also become known for outspoken public comments on science, politics, and the entertainment industry, frequently drawing attention and criticism for his views.

For now, Howard's comments amount to an expression of presidential interest rather than a formal campaign announcement. He has not released a broader policy platform or explained how he would approach the many responsibilities of the presidency. His proposed 400-year federal tax exemption remains the clearest policy position he has publicly connected to his potential political ambitions.

Whether Howard moves beyond the remarks and begins organizing an actual presidential campaign remains to be seen.