Tommy Tuberville Announces Gubernatorial Run

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is planning to run for Governor of Alabama in 2026.

During a private gathering with donors this past Wednesday, Tuberville expressed that he is shifting his focus from the Senate to a new challenge in Alabama. He indicated that he is ready to serve the people in Montgomery instead of Washington.

While an official campaign announcement is expected soon, this recent disclosure sheds light on Tuberville’s long-considered decision to pursue the governorship.

Tuberville had shown interest in running for governor back in the 2018 election cycle. However, he stepped aside when Kay Ivey opted to enter the race after Robert Bentley’s resignation in 2017.

In his last statewide election in Alabama, Tuberville won decisively, defeating former Democrat Senator Doug Jones with 60.2% of the vote in November 2020. He had also outperformed former U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions by an even greater margin in that year’s GOP primary.

Recent reports indicate that Tuberville’s campaign has amassed over $628,000 in its FEC War Chest as of the first quarter of this year, potentially to assist his 2026 gubernatorial bid.

The Republican primary election in Alabama is set for Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

In a recent tweet, Tuberville commented that he and his wife are still in prayer about this decision. The campaign committee is also reportedly making updates in compliance with Alabama’s FCPA Act, allowing for the transfer of funds between committees associated with the same candidate.