Former Sunday Night Football sideline reporter Michele Tafoya is considering a run for a U.S. Senate seat in Minnesota.
According to a report from OutKick, Tafoya met with the National Republican Senatorial Committee last week. Sources also told the outlet that Tafoya is “expected to make a final decision in early 2026.”
The report went on:
Tafoya met with the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), Senate Leadership Fund, and other stakeholders in Washington, D.C. last week. The NRSC has been recruiting her to run for the Senate race in Minnesota, where the Democratic primary has pitted progressive favorite Peggy Flanagan against Chuck Schumer-backed Angie Craig.
The ex-sideline reporter worked her final game at Super Bowl LVI in 2022. Since then, Tafoya has worked to establish herself as a political commentator.
If she announces her candidacy, Tafoya would join a crowded GOP Senate primary field that already includes 2024 Senate nominee Royce White, a former NBA basketball player; retired U.S. Navy officer Tom Weiler, a 2022 GOP congressional nominee; and former Navy SEAL Adam Schwarze.
Tafoya joins a growing list of prominent sports figures eyeing public office. ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum seriously considered running for a U.S. Senate seat in Alabama, but ultimately opted not to run.
Retired MLB player Mark Teixeira has also entered the political field. The former first baseman announced his Republican bid for Texas’ 21st congressional district in August.
“As a proud Texan and lifelong conservative who loves our country, I’m ready to fight for the principles that make Texas strong and America exceptional,” Teixeira said in a statement announcing his bid for Texas’ 21st Congressional District.
He added, “It takes teamwork to win, and I’m ready to help defend President Trump’s America First agenda, Texas families, and individual liberty.”
Teixeira, 45, is running for the seat held by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) who announced plans to run for Texas attorney general.
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