U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville officially launched his campaign for Governor of Alabama Tuesday in Auburn, jumping straight into the issues and laying out a platform centered on K-12 education reform, economic growth, and stronger state-level control over federal programs.
Tuberville, whose first Senate term ends in 2026, said he plans to serve out the remainder of his time in Washington while also campaigning for Alabama’s top executive office. He described the move as a natural progression in his public service, emphasizing that his decision is rooted in a long-standing commitment to the state.
A longtime ally of President Donald Trump, Tuberville said his gubernatorial campaign aligns with Trump’s broader goal of shifting power and resources away from the federal government and back to the states. He praised Trump’s recent efforts and said Alabama must be ready to take advantage of Trump’s policies.
RELATED: Tuberville officially running for Governor of Alabama in 2026
Tuberville said he plans to serve out the remaining 18 months of his Senate term while campaigning for governor. He described the dual responsibilities as “double duty.”
“We’ve gotten a lot accomplished in the last four or five months with President Trump,” Tuberville said. “I’ll still be there for 18 months, but I want to do what’s best for the state.”
Tuberville said his top priority as governor would be improving K-12 education, calling it the foundation for a strong workforce and economy. He said Alabama has placed too much emphasis on higher education at the expense of basic skills.
“If you can’t read, if you can’t write, you can’t learn,” he said. “We’ve got way too many young men and women in this state at a sixth or seventh grade reading level. That’s not going to fly with me.”
On the subject of an education lottery, Tuberville said he is not personally in favor of gambling but would leave the decision to the Legislature and the voters.
“That’s going to be up to the people,” he said. “If they want it, fine. If they don’t, we’ll have to look at other places.”
Tuberville responded to questions about residency, saying he has owned property in Alabama since 2000 and considers it home. He acknowledged spending time in Florida and Washington, D.C., but said he and his family are rooted in Alabama.
“This is my home,” he said. “Residency won’t be a problem.”
Tuberville said he will continue pushing for spending cuts and economic reforms in the Senate while also traveling the state to campaign.
“We’ve got to cut spending,” he said. “If we don’t, every one of your taxes will go up two to three thousand dollars a month. We’ve got to get that done.”
Tuberville’s campaign website is CoachForGovernor.com, referencing the title that launched his political career and his stint as a football coach.
Grace Heim is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You can follow her on X @graceeheim or email her at [email protected].
