Tommy Tuberville, the former Auburn football coach turned U.S. senator, is reportedly considering a major shift in his political career trading Washington, D.C. for Montgomery as Alabama’s next governor.
According to Punchbowl News’ Andrew Desiderio, Tuberville has been confiding in senators and close associates about his intention to run for governor in 2026 rather than seeking reelection to the Senate.
Speaking with the Alabama Daily News, Tuberville expressed his belief that he could better serve his constituents as the state’s chief executive rather than as a senator.
“If you’re the CEO of a state, you can accomplish more in a shorter period,” Tuberville said. “I’m not going to be up here forever, even if I do stay.”
He also acknowledged encouragement from Alabama leaders, including county commissioners visiting Washington, who urged him to make the move. “It’s encouraging to know I’d have a good chance to win,” he added.
However, Tuberville isn’t without competition. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth and Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate are among those potentially eyeing the governor’s seat, according to ADN’s Alex Angle.
Despite the mounting speculation, Tuberville admitted that leaving the Senate wouldn’t be an easy decision, particularly with Republicans controlling both Congress and the White House. His run for governor isn’t set in stone just yet.
And in an interesting political twist, could another Auburn coach follow his path? Head basketball coach Bruce Pearl, known for his vocal political activism and strong Republican ties, has been floated as a possible future Senate candidate potentially continuing Auburn’s unlikely pipeline to high office.
