Paul Finebaum weighs U.S. Senate run in Alabama as Tommy Tuberville eyes governor's race

November 13, 2025 - Birmingham, AL - Longtime SEC broadcaster and sports radio icon Paul Finebaum is reportedly "very close" to leaving ESPN to pursue a run for the U.S. Senate in Alabama. The move would mark a dramatic shift from sports media to national politics, echoing the path of former Auburn football coach and current Senator Tommy Tuberville, who is expected to vacate his seat to run for governor in 2026.

From SEC Nation to Capitol Hill?

Finebaum, 70, has been a fixture in Southern sports media for nearly five decades, hosting "The Paul Finebaum Show" and serving as a lead analyst for ESPN's SEC Network since 2013. But recent interviews suggest he's seriously considering a political pivot. In a conversation with OutKick's Clay Travis, Finebaum revealed that "one or two people in Washington" had reached out to gauge his interest in running for office-a prospect he had never previously considered.

His interest reportedly intensified following the September assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which Finebaum described as "an awakening." He admitted feeling "numb" during his daily broadcasts in the aftermath, prompting deeper reflection on the country's direction.

A Republican bid with Trump ties

Finebaum has confirmed he would run as a Republican and has expressed strong support for President Donald Trump. He told OutKick that if Trump personally asked him to run, "there's no way I could say no." That endorsement could prove decisive in a crowded GOP field, where several candidates-including Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and Congressman Barry Moore-have already declared but lack Trump's backing.

Finebaum is currently registered as a Republican in North Carolina but has recently re-established residency in Alabama, where he hosted radio shows for nearly 30 years before joining ESPN.

Tuberville's exit opens the door

Senator Tommy Tuberville's decision to run for governor in 2026 sets the stage for Finebaum's potential candidacy. Tuberville, who won his Senate seat in 2020 with Trump's endorsement, has not yet backed a successor. If Finebaum enters the race and secures Trump's support, analysts say he could become the immediate frontrunner.

Finebaum's name recognition in Alabama is unmatched. His ability to connect with everyday Alabamians-whether coaches, callers, or diehard fans-could translate into a formidable political base. "He's one of the few media figures who can talk to political elites, normal football fans, and the occasional deranged football fan-and those are pretty much every constituency someone needs to win public office in Alabama," wrote Slate's Alex Kirshner.

ESPN tensions and timeline

Finebaum remains under contract with ESPN through 2027, but sources say he may not finish the term. After his political interest became public, rumors swirled that ESPN had pulled him from several broadcasts, though the network denied those claims.

He has stated that he will make a final decision after the college football season ends in January. The qualifying deadline for Senate candidates in Alabama is January 26, 2026.

What's next?

If Finebaum enters the race, he would join a growing list of sports figures turned politicians in Alabama. His candidacy would likely energize both media and political circles, blending celebrity, populism, and deep regional loyalty.

For now, Finebaum continues hosting his daily show and appearing on SEC Nation. But as the 2026 election cycle heats up, all eyes are on whether the "Mouth of the South" will trade his microphone for a Senate campaign.

The announced GOP Senate candidates are: former Tuberville aide Morgan Murphy, rancher and businessman Rodney Walker, Attorney General Steve Marshall, Congressman Barry Moore, and former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson.

The Republican primary is May 19, 2026.