​Meet the sports figures on 2026 Election Day ballots, from Jay Feely to Michele Tafoya originally appeared on The Sporting News.
Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.November has arrived, meaning it’s time for midterm elections across the United States.And if you’re a sports fan, you may know a few names appearing on ballots.Four sports figures are among those running for Congress this year, including a former NFL kicker, former NFL sideline reporter, former New York Yankees slugger and former NFL punter.With their sports careers in the rearview mirror, these individuals have taken the political space, even reportedly receiving donations from former colleagues in the sports world.Here’s what to know about each of the sports-related names appearing on 2026 Election Day ballots.MORE:Ex-ESPN female anchors call out Pat McAfee Joe Rondone-USA Today Network Jay FeelyRunning for: Arizona’s 1st Congressional DistrictParty: RepublicanFormer NFL kicker and broadcaster Jay Feely is running in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District against Democrat Amish Shah — and the two have a rather interesting past connection. Feely kicked in the NFL for 14 years, including a stint with the Jets. During that time, the Jets’ team doctor was Shah. Now, the two are vying to replace David Schweikert, who left his seat in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District.Feely went undrafted out of Michigan in 1999, kicked in the Arena Football League, then landed with the Falcons in 2001 and caught on as an NFL kicker, including an All-Rookie selection. He went on to play for the Giants, Dolphins, Jets, Cardinals and Bears, connecting on 332 field goals over 14 seasons.After his playing career, Feely became a sports broadcaster, joining CBS Sports in 2015 as a color commentator for college football and the NFL. He remained in that role until 2025, when he announced intentions to launch his congressional bid.Feely originally announced he would be running for Arizona’s 5th Congressional District, but later changed to the 1st Congressional District. He was endorsed by President Donald Trump in the Republican primary, advancing to the general election.  Feely’s campaign states he is running to “fight for border security, protect our freedoms, and put America First.”According to Front Office Sports, among current and former head coaches who have donated to Feely’s campaign are John Harbaugh, Bruce Arians, Tom Coughlin and Kevin O’Connell, who was a backup quarterback on the 2009 Jets when both Feely and Shah were with the team as well.Owners who reportedly donated to Feely’s campaign include Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, Falcons owner Arthur Blank, Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Browns owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam. Additionally, per Front Office Sports, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell donated $7,000 to Feely.Others who donated to Feely’s campaign, according to Front Office Sports, incl