MOBILE, Ala. (WDNews) — Former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback A.J. McCarron is trading his playbook for politics. The two-time national champion announced Wednesday that he will run for Alabama’s Lieutenant Governor in 2026 as a Republican.
McCarron, a Mobile native and first-time candidate, said his decision to enter politics was inspired by a desire to defend Alabama’s “faith, family, and freedom.” In his announcement, he called himself a political outsider and said it’s time for more “regular people” to step up and serve the state.
“I’ve always fought hard for Alabama on the field,” McCarron said. “Now I’m ready to fight for Alabama’s future.”
The former NFL quarterback—best known for leading Alabama to back-to-back national championships in 2012 and 2013 under Coach Nick Saban—said his platform will focus on conservative values, protecting children, and strengthening small-town communities across the state.
McCarron enters what’s expected to be a crowded Republican field. Current Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth is term-limited and will not seek re-election. Secretary of State Wes Allen and Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate have also announced plans to run.
The Alabama primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026.
