Alabama Football Legend AJ McCarron Launches 2026 Lieutenant Governor Bid

Former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback AJ McCarron is running for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama. The three-time national champion announced his candidacy on Thursday. He will run as a Republican in the 2026 election.

McCarron cited a desire to defend conservative values as his motivation. His campaign announcement referenced the assassination of Turning Points USA founder Charlie Kirk. According to a press release, he was also inspired by former President Donald Trump.

From the Gridiron to the Political Arena

McCarron is a native of Mobile, Alabama. He led the Crimson Tide to back-to-back BCS National Championships in 2011 and 2012.

His football career extended to nine seasons in the NFL. He most recently played for the UFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks. He has since returned to Mobile and co-owns a real estate business.

A New Political Partnership with Tommy Tuberville

McCarron’s run aligns with another former football coach entering politics. Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, the former Auburn head coach, is running for governor. McCarron stated he aims to be the “quarterback” for Tuberville’s conservative agenda.

This signals a potential shift with political outsiders seeking high office. McCarron’s announcement criticized “Montgomery insiders and career politicians.” He promises to bring a newcomer’s perspective to the state’s leadership.

AJ McCarron’s entry into the race adds a high-profile name to Alabama’s 2026 election cycle. His campaign will leverage his deep roots in the state and celebrated football legacy. The political landscape in Alabama is poised for a significant contest.

Info at your fingertips

What party is AJ McCarron running with?

AJ McCarron is running as a Republican candidate. He announced his bid for the 2026 election on the Republican ticket. His platform focuses on defending conservative values in Alabama.

Who is McCarron running with for governor?

He is running alongside Senator Tommy Tuberville, who is campaigning for governor. McCarron stated he would help pass Tuberville’s agenda if both are elected. This creates a unified ticket of former sports figures.

What are AJ McCarron’s Alabama football records?

McCarron still holds the Alabama all-time record for career passing yards with 9,019. He also ranks third on the team’s career touchdown list with 77. He won three national championships with the Crimson Tide.

How does his NFL career affect his campaign?

His nine-season NFL career provides him with widespread name recognition. It also frames his narrative as a disciplined team player. This background is a central part of his political identity.

Why did McCarron decide to enter politics?

He stated that Alabama’s conservative values are under attack. The assassination of Charlie Kirk deeply affected him and motivated his decision. He felt compelled to get “off the sidelines” and into public service.