ESPN Analyst Sparks Controversy Speaking at Pro-Trump Fundraiser

A well-known sports broadcaster found himself in hot water after appearing at a high-dollar political fundraiser tied to a group that supports former President Trump allies.

Kirk Herbstreit, famous for hosting College GameDay, was the main guest at a dinner organized by the Business Council of Alabama. The event raised money for ProgressPAC, a political action committee that later donated over $150,000 to Senator Tommy Tuberville, a top MAGA figure.

Tickets for the event cost between $5,000 and $50,000. The priciest packages included a private chat with Herbstreit. After the event, the Business Council of Alabama posted on Facebook, thanking everyone and giving a shout-out to Herbstreit and his golden retriever, Peter.

This appearance surprised many fans. Just weeks earlier, Herbstreit said he stays away from politics. During a controversial College GameDay episode, he insisted he doesn't pick sides and only cares about football, family, faith, and country.

The Business Council of Alabama calls itself a non-partisan group. Its political arm, ProgressPAC, says it backs candidates who support business growth. The PAC has given money to both Republicans and Democrats, including Senator Tuberville and Democratic State Rep. Anthony Daniels.

ESPN and Herbstreit's team did not reply when asked for comments about the fundraiser.