The Alabama Poultry Trust PAC announced its supporting Rick Pate in his campaign for Lieutenant Governor on Tuesday morning.
“I sincerely appreciate the support of Alabama’s poultry industry,” Pate said. “As lieutenant governor, I’ll keep working to reduce regulations, provide tax relief, and support our farmers, rural communities, small businesses, and veterans.”
Pate, who is serving his second term as Alabama’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, is term-limited and running for Lieutenant Governor in 2026.
“Commissioner Rick Pate has been a tireless champion for Alabama agriculture, and Alabama’s poultry industry has greatly benefited from his leadership. Rick has been a tremendous advocate and asset to Alabama’s almost $19 billion poultry industry,” said Johnny Adams, Alabama Poultry Trust PAC Treasurer.
As commissioner, Pate launched relief programs for poultry producers during the COVID-19 pandemic, aided in increasing funding for state meat and poultry inspection programs, and led Alabama’s poultry industry through the 2023 avian influenza outbreak by strengthening biosecurity and helping the state meet demand during a national egg shortage.
“Commissioner Pate has been at the forefront of the poultry industry. He stands ready to solve our industry’s needs and challenges. Whether this is securing financial assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic or battling avian influenza cases, Commissioner Pate has our back and recognizes the financial impact of poultry on Alabama’s economy,” said Larry Upchurch, a third-generation poultry farmer from Clay County.
The poultry industry is one of Alabama’s largest economic drivers, accounting for 12% of the state’s economy and providing tens of thousands of jobs.
Pate, an Agriculture graduate of Auburn University, grew up on a poultry and cattle farm. He spent 37 years owning and running Pate Landscaping Co.
While the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association does not issue endorsements, the Alabama Poultry Trust PAC has contributed $12,000 to Pate’s campaign.
The Alabama Republican Party primary election will be held on May 19, 2026.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
