Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., who has served as Troy University chancellor for over 35 years, said on Monday he’d received encouragement from some to run for governor in 2026.
Hawkins announced in September he was retiring from Troy University but later decided to continue on as chancellor at the request of Troy University Board of Trustees members.
“I’ve been encouraged to run but right now I’m focused on Troy University but I do want the state to have the benefit of the kind of leadership that we’ve had over the last few years with Governor Ivey,” Hawkins told 1819 News on Wednesday.
Hawkins had considered running for governor as a Republican in previous election cycles but ultimately decided to stay at Troy University.
“I finally decided that if I couldn’t enjoy that as much as I would enjoy Troy, I really didn’t need to do that but I did look seriously at it,” Hawkins said.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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