The current candidates for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026 are probably breathing a little bit easier today as a potential high-profile personality has decided not to throw his hat in the ring.

After months of speculation, longtime college football commentator Paul Finebaum officially announced today that he will NOT seek Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026, which is being vacated by U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), who is running for Governor.

“I have been deeply moved by so many people in Alabama who have reached out encouraging me to run for the United States Senate,” Finebaum told AL(dot)com Tuesday. “It has been a gratifying and rewarding experience.”

The decision leaves Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), Morgan Murph

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