United States Senator Tommy Tuberville, the former head football coach of the Auburn Tigers, is preparing to launch a campaign for Alabama governor in 2026, according to an Associated Press report.
Tuberville, a Republican who has held his Senate seat since 2021, is expected to formally announce his gubernatorial bid on Tuesday.
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Current Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, barred from seeking re-election due to term limits, will vacate the office, creating an open race. Tuberville’s potential candidacy aligns with his longstanding political alliance with former President Donald Trump, who endorsed his successful 2020 Senate campaign against Democrat Doug Jones.
Before entering politics, Tuberville built a decades-long career in college football. He notably coached Auburn from 1999 to 2008, leading the team to an 85-40 record, including an undefeated 13-0 season and SEC championship in 2004. After stepping down from Auburn following a 5-7 finish in 2008, he later coached at Texas Tech (2010–2012) and Cincinnati (2013–2016), retiring with a combined 49-39 record at those programs.
Tuberville’s pivot to politics has kept him in the national spotlight, with his Senate tenure marked by staunch conservative stances. His gubernatorial run would add to a growing trend of sports figures transitioning into high-profile political roles.
The AP reported that Tuberville’s team confirmed the upcoming announcement but declined further comment.
