22 Famous Athletes You Didn’t Know Were Republicans

6. Cal Ripken Jr.

Some records may never be broken, such as Cal Ripken’s streak of 2,632 consecutive games played. The Orioles shortstop and Baseball HOFer remains the most durable baseball player to ever put on a uniform. Ripken was also a potential GOP candidate for governor, as the Maryland Republican Party tried to draft him to run after his playing career ended in 2001. Ripken declined, apparently not interested in running for office.