CNN pundit Scott Jennings encouraged to run for McConnell's open Senate seat

FIRST ON FOX: Conservative CNN pundit Scott Jennings is being privately and publicly encouraged to run for Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell's open Senate seat in 2026, sources, including a Republican operative familiar with the race, told Fox News Digital Wednesday.

He served as a longtime advisor to the outgoing Kentucky senator and previously worked in the George W. Bush administration. 

"Could I nominate [Scott Jennings] for the United States Senate from the Commonwealth of Kentucky? He'd be a hell of a McConnell replacement," pundit Erick Erickson tweeted.

"I would absolutely support my friend [Scott Jennings] for U.S. Senate. But he'd also make a fine governor for the great state of Kentucky as well," Republican strategist Dustin Grage tweeted.

As for McConnell, the former Senate majority leader said last week he would not seek another term, leaving the door wide open for contenders in 2026.

"Seven times, my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate," McConnell, who first took office in 1985, said on the Senate floor while announcing his retirement. 

"Every day in between, I've been humbled by the trust they've placed in me to do their business here. Representing our commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime. I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last," he added.

"You should expect a senator from Kentucky to vote for those nominees to advance the 'America first' agenda," Cameron said.

Fox News Digital reached out to Jennings but did not receive comment.