The Business Council of Alabama’s Government Affairs Conference (GAC) in Point Clear is always one of the state’s premier gatherings for political and business leaders. This year’s GAC was the largest in the organization’s history, and the importance of the upcoming 2026 election cycle was at the forefront of the event’s discussions.
BCA’s Executive Vice President, Clay Scofield, spoke to attendees about the significance of the 2026 election and announced the launch of BCA’s “Campaign 2026” initiative, which the organization hopes will shape the future of Alabama politics. Scofield told attendees, “Campaign 2026 will be a sophisticated and intentional effort to recruit, endorse, and support pro-business candidates at all levels of government. From advanced campaign techniques to robust fundraising efforts and effective grassroots mobilization – we’re leaving no stones unturned.”
The 2026 election cycle will be one of the most significant in recent history for the Yellowhammer State. For the first time since 2010, there will be an open contest for the Governor’s seat because Kay Ivey is term-limited and cannot run for a third term. As of today, we know that there will be open contests for Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries.
RELATED: ‘Working for Alabama’ signed into law as state sets course for economic, workforce growth
Additionally, State Treasurer Young Boozer, Secretary of State Wes Allen, and State Auditor Andrew Sorrell will all face re-election bids in 2026. Federally, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville and the entire Alabama U.S. House of Representatives delegation will also face re-election bids. It is also important to remember that every state legislator will also be running for re-election in the 2026 cycle, and there will be several open contests for State House and Senate seats.
According to Scofield, BCA will be “actively recruiting candidates across the state and defending current pro-business leaders while holding accountable those who stand in the way of job creation and a strong economy.” He continued, “Our goal is to elect and support forward-thinking leaders who promote innovation, economic prosperity, and a thriving future for Alabama.”
As part of the Campaign 2026 initiative, BCA is launching the 2026 Club, which Scofield defined as a “hub for political engagement and insights.” 2026 Club members will have access to focus groups, polling data, political intel, and opposition research. Scofield also echoed the conference’s overall theme of unity among the Alabama business community, saying, “Everyone here today knows the power of collaboration.”
“We’ll be actively recruiting candidates in open races all across the state — and I want you to hear me on this — we will be holding accountable those who stand in the way of job creation, free markets, and a strong economy in this state.”
Earlier in the conference, BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan told attendees, “Keep in mind that 2026 will be the most critical election cycle in recent memory, and the relationships we build during this conference will determine our ability to elect pro-business candidates up and down the ballot.” A unified business community is a force to be reckoned with, especially in such a crowded election cycle.
Due to the sheer volume of political advertisements and campaigns in 2026, fundraising will be highly competitive, and candidates will need additional funds to ensure their message reaches voters. One thing is certain: BCA is laying the groundwork to flex its political muscles in the upcoming election cycle. They plan to be a factor in every race on the ballot.
Grayson Everett is the state and political editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270
