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Former Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron is jumping into the political arena, announcing his run for Alabama’s lieutenant governor. The Mobile native will seek the Republican nomination in the 2026 election.
“Alabama’s conservative and cultural values are under attack from every direction,” McCarron told reporters. “That’s why Charlie Kirk’s assassination affected so many of us so deeply. His example convinced me to get off of the sidelines, get into the game, and stand tall for our conservative beliefs, so today, I’m announcing my candidacy for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama.”
The two-time national champion has been politically active for years. Back in 2016, he publicly backed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and credits the former president for inspiring his own political ambitions.
The GOP primary field is already getting crowded. McCarron will face off against Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture Rick Pate, Secretary of State Wes Allen, and Dr. Nicole Wadsworth when voters head to the polls on May 19.
Crimson Tide fans remember McCarron as the quarterback who led Bama to back-to-back national titles in 2012 and 2013. His college stats were impressive — 66.9% completion rate, 9,019 passing yards, 77 touchdowns and just 15 interceptions across four seasons.
From Saturday Showdowns to Political Battles
After dominating the SEC, McCarron heard his name called in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft when the Cincinnati Bengals selected him.
His pro career lasted nine seasons.
The former Tide QB bounced around the league, suiting up for five different franchises — the Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, and Atlanta Falcons before hanging up his cleats.
While McCarron’s move from football to politics might surprise some fans, he’s following a path taken by several former athletes. His campaign will likely emphasize his leadership experience and name recognition throughout the state where college football reigns supreme.
The lieutenant governor’s race doesn’t typically generate national headlines, but McCarron’s candidacy could change that — especially in a state where Crimson Tide football heroes often achieve near-legendary status.
