Along with an impressive array of endorsements from influential state organizations, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) has picked up public support from Season 5 American Idol winner and Birmingham native, Taylor Hicks in his campaign for Governor of Alabama in 2026.

Tuesday morning on “Alabama’s Morning News with JT”, Hicks explained his decision to endorse Tuberville in 2026, saying he will help better education in the state. The endorsement marks the first time Hicks has issued public support for a political candidate.

“I believe Senator Tuberville is the best candidate for governor for Alabama, and I’m putting my full endorsement behind him,” Hicks said.

“I’ve known Senator Tuberville for going on about ten or fifteen years. And you know, first and foremost, let’s not forget that he’s an educator. You know he was a coach at Auburn. He was an educator at Auburn. I think one of the things that I like is his idea to beef up education in the state. As I tour around the country, I go to schools and perform, and I think that education is something that Alabamians really need to take a look at and make sure that we take care of our kids. I think Coach will do that.”

Hicks added that support and focus from Tuberville will extend also to the Yellowhammer State’s defense economy and farmers across Alabama.

“Let’s not forget about our farmers. I had a show… I got to be with a lot of farmers throughout the country… We need to take care of our farmers in Alabama. I think that they’re important just as much as our children are. And I think Senator Tuberville will be able to take care of that as well.”

Hicks said has full confidence in Tuberville’s ability to lead Alabama.

“I think he’s the best candidate for governor,” Hicks continued. “And not only that, he’s a good guy. I’ve done some homework and I think Senator Tuberville will do a great job.”

“He’s a good guy, and he likes to play golf, and… he’s pretty funny too.”

The Alabama Republican primary is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten