U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville has been signaling to fellow senators and associates a strong interest in running for Governor of Alabama in 2026 instead of seeking reelection to the U.S. Senate, multiple sources told Washington, D.C. outlet Punchbowl News.

“In a brief interview, Tuberville told us he’s getting encouragement in both directions but said Trump has not offered him advice or guidance,” Punchbowl reported today. “Tuberville added that his timeline for a decision is around May, noting that ‘you can’t raise money until June anyway.’”

In January, Tuberville (R-Auburn) told reporters “you never say never” when asked about a potential run for governor. 

RELATED: Tuberville on ’26 run for governor: ‘Never say never’

The latest report sheds light on Tuberville’s much-speculated political trajectory. In January, Tuberville expressed his dissatisfaction with Washington. “I can’t say that I’ve enjoyed it up here, but I’m glad I’ve been in D.C. for the last four years,” he said. 

Tuberville was also considered for a role in the second Trump administration following the former president’s 2024 election victory. 

In November, his communications director confirmed that he would be open to a position where he could be “more impactful” for both Alabama and the nation, but that he remained committed to his role in the Senate. 

RELATED: Tuberville ‘would listen’ to role in administration, but Trump ‘needs a sledgehammer’ in the Senate

Tuberville’s close ties to Trump and the Senate’s new Republican majority positions him as a potential power player in the 119th Congress. 

Today’s report comes less than a day after after his hallmark legislation, The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, failed to achieve a vote threshold to cloture Senate Democrats’ opposition. Punchbowl notes that Governor Kay Ivey is term-limited and Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth is interested in the job as well.

Alabama’s 2026 election cycle will include a full turnover of the state’s executive and legislative branches. The primary election day will be held on May 26, 2026 — and candidates may begin raising money exactly one year prior, now roughly 80 days away.