ESPN host Paul Finebaum has confirmed he will not run for the U.S. Senate in Alabama, choosing instead to focus on college football. The 70-year-old had been considering a bid for the seat being vacated by Tommy Tuberville, who is running for governor in 2026.
In a statement, Finebaum said he was 'deeply moved' by encouragement from Alabamians but added: 'It's time for me to devote my full attention to something everyone in Alabama can agree upon - our love of college football.' He also thanked ESPN for allowing him to explore the opportunity.
Finebaum had previously cited the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a factor in his political interest, saying it left him feeling 'empty' doing his daily show. He confirmed he is a registered Republican and voted for Donald Trump, admitting it would be 'impossible to tell him no' if asked to run.
Despite ruling out a Senate run, Finebaum remains a prominent voice in college football. He recently clashed with fellow ESPN host Stephen A. Smith over comments about Oxford, Mississippi, which Finebaum called 'racial' and 'unfair'.
