Paul Feinbaum, a football analyst with ESPN College, is considering a run for the U.S. Senate in Alabama.
Feinbaum, who is a registered Republican, announced that the recent assassination of Outkick Sports’ Charlie Kirk has prompted him to reconsider his priorities. He mentioned the possibility of entering the race for the state’s open Senate seat.
The sports broadcaster expressed feeling a sense of emptiness following Kirk’s murder, which caused him to reflect on what truly matters to him. “I spent hours discussing things that felt unimportant, and that weighed on me,” Feinbaum shared. “That day was particularly hollow for me.”
He described Kirk’s tragic death as an “awakening” for many Americans.
While recalling how Alabama’s GOP members have previously ventured into politics, Feinbaum admitted that Kirk’s passing has made him more intrigued by the idea.
He also noted that Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl has stated he has no interest in running for the seat, which made Feinbaum feel more open to the possibility.
“I was initially hesitant about running, but my mindset is shifting,” he said, sharing that discussions with others about getting involved have sparked his interest. “This person was genuinely interested in my perspective, and it got me thinking.”
Feinbaum emphasized his connection to Alabama, having engaged with its people for 35 years, and he feels a bond that is difficult to articulate. He has openly supported Trump and recently registered to vote in Alabama as a Republican.
He expressed concerns about the direction of the country, admitting it’s a troubling topic for him, but he tries to keep his thoughts private. “This conversation is somewhat cathartic, as I’m voicing things I hadn’t expressed before,” he concluded.
