Bruce Pearl’s name has surfaced as a potential contender to replace Senator Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., who recently announced plans to run for governor of Alabama. The Auburn men’s basketball coach even garnered public support from Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, despite Pearl’s well-known backing of former President Donald Trump.
Speaking on the Scott Jennings Show, Pearl questioned whether leaving coaching for politics would truly allow him to make a greater impact, citing the dysfunction he sees in Washington.
“Can I make a difference as a coach?” Pearl said. “I’m graduating players, mentoring young men… I’m not sure being a senator is the only way to make an impact. With how broken Washington is, I’m not sure I could even make a difference there.”
Auburn Athletic Director John Cohen told AL.com he fully expects Pearl to remain head coach for the 2025-26 season, though he acknowledged that circumstances can always change.
“I absolutely expect him to be Auburn’s head coach,” Cohen said. “But with things like NIL policy shifts and new governance structures, anything’s possible.”
Pearl, who is Jewish, has been vocal in his support for Israel amid growing antisemitism in the U.S. following the October 7 attacks. He has also praised Trump’s handling of Middle East issues and currently serves as chairman of the U.S. Israel Education Association.