Overview

• ESPN and SEC Network host Paul Finebaum says he is considering a Republican bid for the Alabama U.S. Senate seat likely to be vacated as Sen. Tommy Tuberville runs for governor.
• Tuberville told Steve Bannon’s podcast that Finebaum has near-universal name recognition and would be a force in the race, while stopping short of a formal endorsement.
• Finebaum says he will decide within 30–45 days and is aware of a late-January 2026 qualifying deadline, acknowledging he would likely leave ESPN if he files.
• He cited the assassination of Charlie Kirk as the impetus for reevaluating his career, confirmed he is a registered Republican who voted for President Donald Trump, and said he would run if asked by the president.
• Having moved back to Alabama this year after living in North Carolina, Finebaum says he will re-register to vote there, as figures like Rep. Barry Moore, AG Steve Marshall, and Jared Hudson position for the GOP primary while Bruce Pearl has ruled out a run.