Jay Feely, a former NFL kicker and CBS Sports broadcaster, has launched a campaign to run for Congress in Arizona.
Feely is aiming for the seat in the 5th Congressional District, currently held by Republican Rep. Andy Biggs, who is stepping aside to pursue the governorship.
Feely made his announcement public through social media, saying he plans to bring strong conservative values to Washington. He’s closely aligned with former President Donald Trump and has embraced the America First platform. His campaign is focused on securing the southern border, defending individual liberties, and resisting what he calls radical changes in cultural and social norms.
His political stance is firm on several controversial topics. He backs Trump’s trade tariffs and immigration enforcement and has spoken against allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports. He argues that current policies are compromising fairness in athletics and weakening protections for girls and women.
Feely said the July assassination attempt on Trump was a turning point that motivated him to enter politics. He believes the nation is at a crossroads and wants to be part of what he sees as a movement to restore strength and stability to America.
Originally from Florida, Feely built his early career at the University of Michigan, where he played college football and won a national title in 1997. After brief time in the Arena Football League, he entered the NFL in 2001 with the Atlanta Falcons. His longest run was with the Arizona Cardinals, playing four seasons there before finishing his career with the Chicago Bears.
Following his retirement from football, Feely transitioned into sports media, eventually joining CBS to cover both college and professional football. Now, he’s looking to bring that public presence and discipline from the field to Capitol Hill.
With the 2024 election cycle heating up, Feely’s entry into the race adds a high-profile name to Arizona’s political landscape. The campaign will test whether his popularity as an athlete and broadcaster can convert into political support in a highly competitive district.