Skip to Content

7. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) proposed the Student-Athlete Act to end transfer portal chaos in college sports, aiming to restore stability, limit frequent transfers, and protect the “integrity” of the sport after years of NIL dollars and portal disruptions.

6. Left-wing legal groups, ACLU of Alabama and the Southern Poverty Law Center, and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund sued The University of Alabama to revive defunded race and gender-focused student magazines, arguing the defunding violated free speech and diversity policies.

5. Illegal gambling machines were seized across Alabama in coordinated raids in multiple cities, with law enforcement targeting unauthorized operations that violate state gaming laws and compete with regulated lottery and casino efforts.

4. State Rep. Prince Chestnut (D-Selma) proposed a bill to outlaw female genital mutilation in Alabama, aiming to criminalize the practice with strong penalties to protect girls and women from this form of abuse.

3. A new poll shows U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) leading Attorney General Steve Marshall 31-26 in the 2026 Alabama U.S. Senate race, with a large number of undecided voters remaining.

2. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) argued in favor of privatizing the U.S. Transportation Security Administration as airport chaos continues during the partial government shutdown, stating that law-abiding American citizens are missing their flights due to TSA staffing shortages and delays, while criticizing the current system as inefficient.

1. Iran gave a negative response to the U.S. ceasefire plan amid push for talks by United States, as President Donald Trump maintains pressure, while some reports suggest the conflict is approaching a potential resolution, with ongoing concerns over oil prices, Hormuz disruptions, and regional stability.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

With the May 19th Republican primary less than two months out, the race to succeed term-limited Attorney General Steve Marshall is the one statewide race in 2026 where law enforcement endorsements show tangible professional credibility, on top of the local political muscle they carry in any other race on the ballot.

The primary contest between former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell, longtime Chief Counsel to current AG Steve Marshall, Katherine Robertson, and Blount County District Attorney Pamela Casey, has shaped up to be one of the marquee prizefights of the 2026 campaign cycle.

Fundraising and polling tell part of the story. But in Alabama politics, law enforcement endorsements tend to reflect real relationships, regional influence, and professional trust in ways that other campaign currency cannot easily replicate.

After a steady flow of endorsement announcements from all three camps over the past 10-plus months, Yellowhammer News dug in and took stock of where each candidate’s law enforcement coalitions stand.

A comprehensive list of each candidate’s endorsements are indexed below.

Alabama, like most states, has three major categories of publicly-elected law enforcement officials:

DAs, sheriffs, and police chiefs are the AG office’s primary partners in prosecuting criminals, enforcing state law, and coordinating statewide law enforcement strategy.

Measured against those three groups, each candidate has staked out distinct territory.

According to Robertson’s campaign, her 25 sheriff endorsements represent more than a third of every elected sheriff in Alabama, which reflects a level of backing from law enforcement that is unmatched in the field.

According to Mitchell’s campaign, his coalition of 19 police chiefs, seven sheriffs and home county district attorney, when paired with polling on the race, shows a clear picture of the race with Mitchell as the frontrunner.

According to all three candidates, each of their endorsement scorecards are far from final.

Pamela Casey, who has served as the Blount County District Attorney since 2010, touted the support of 14 of her district attorney counterparts across the state.

As the candidate with the most limited statewide profile compared to challengers, Casey lacks the fundraising success that her opponents wield. In September, she loaned herself $500,000 to attempt to overcome that gap.

However, Casey argues that disadvantage, along with her experience in the field, is a good thing for the state’s next top cop.

“I’m endorsed by real people who have done the job – not associations with agendas and big money,” Casey said in a statement to Yellowhammer News.

“For two decades, I have stood in Alabama courtrooms holding violent criminals and child predators accountable. When voters hear that record, they see the difference between talking about being tough on crime and actually doing it,” Casey added.

In addition to the DA endorsements, Casey has been endorsed by 3 police chiefs.

Jay Mitchell currently leads among police chiefs, with 19 endorsements.

Mitchell is a former Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice, who stepped down to run for the office last year.

Mitchell has also assembled 19 police chief endorsements, the most of any candidate in that category, largely concentrated in northwest Alabama. That geographic clustering is somewhat unexpected for a Mobile native, though it may reflect his years of statewide visibility as a Supreme Court Justice.

Mitchell’s lone but standout DA endorsement comes from from Mitchell’s home county, Mobile County District Attorney Kieth Blackwood.

“Law enforcement leaders across the state are lining up behind Jay because they know that if he is the Attorney General, they will be empowered to do their jobs confidently—with the full backing of his office,” Mitchell’s campaign said in a statement. “Jay is the candidate they trust to back the blue through thick and thin.”

Then there is Katherine Robertson’s support among Alabama sheriffs, which warrants its own accounting. Robertson has secured endorsements from 25 of Alabama’s 67 county sheriffs.

As Chief Counsel to Attorney General Marshall for the last decade, these likely extend from the institutional bonds she formed under their tenure together.

In a statement to Yellowhammer News, Robertson’s campaign argued she is “unquestionably” the law-enforcement-backed candidate — as well as the most experienced — pointing to nearly a decade working alongside Marshall on parole, capital punishment, sentencing, gang enforcement, child exploitation, and other heavy functions of the office.

“For the past ten years as Chief Counsel, I’ve worked side-by-side with sheriffs and deputies to enforce the law, support victims, and keep our communities safe,” Robertson said in a statement to Yellowhammer News. “That experience isn’t just a resume line—it’s the foundation that prepares me to lead the Attorney General’s Office from day one.”

“The overwhelming support from a majority of Alabama’s Republican sheriffs speaks volumes. These are the men and women who rely on the Attorney General to be a knowledgeable and strong partner in fighting crime and pursuing justice—they know who will stand with them, and it’s me,” Robertson added.

Robertson has also drawn endorsements from two police chiefs: David Hyche of Calera, and Clay Morris, who endorsed her while serving as Pell City’s chief, but has since moved to lead the Hoover Police Department.

As catalogued by Yellowhammer News throughout 2025, the Mitchell and Robertson campaign traded barbs on a monthly basis over the scale and the legitimacy of the funds they raised. Toward the beginning of each month, candidates for statewide office must report the dollar figures they raised and spent through the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.

Throughout that time and still today, Mitchell’s campaign raises objections to Robertson’s fundraising means.

Mitchell’s campaign argued to Yellowhammer News that only 41% of Robertson’s funding comes from in-state donors compared to his 96% — and that she “has accepted $1.75 million in dark money.”

Mitchell’s campaign added that he “leads in every poll we’ve seen–including those shared publicly and privately,” a spokesperson argued, despite Robertson’s campaign outspending his two-to-one, according to FCPA data.

His campaign also pointed to a compilation of four public polls taken between August 2025 and February 2026, in which Mitchell has led every survey, ranging from 9.0% to 13.0%, while Robertson and Casey have yet to crack double digits.

Latest filings indicate Mitchell indeed continues to lead fundraising — but Robertson’s campaign is experiencing a rapid infusion of financial support that quickly amounted a campaign warchest that now tops $2 million.

Mitchell’s current cash-on-hand total stands at $2.7 million while Casey’s sits at just over $600,000.

But with just over 50 days until the primary election date, endorsements only matter as much as the paid media budgets behind them — and in a low-turnout primary, that calculus is still very much unsettled.

After all, in tight race with many undecided voters up for grabs expected to go to a runoff, votes that the support of local law enforcement can win could make all the difference needed.

Jay Mitchell 

Katherine Robertson 

Pamela Casey 

Carter Ashcraft is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. He is a student at the University of Alabama School of Law and has worked professionally across roles in Alabama state government. He can be reached at carter@yellowhammernews.com. 

7. Democrats flipped a Republican-held Florida House of Representatives seat in a special election for HD87 in Palm Beach County (which includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago), which marks an upset that could serve to energize Democrats ahead of midterms in the silliest way possible.

6. “Groundbreaking” small modular nuclear reactors are coming to Alabama at the Bellefonte site, part of a U.S.-Japan trade deal that will add 3 gigawatts of power (enough for 200,000–300,000 homes per reactor), expected to stabilize electricity prices, strengthen energy security, create jobs, and advance the Trump administration’s energy dominance agenda.

5. U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) introduced the Defeat Sharia Law in America Act, which clarifies that implementing Sharia Law in a way that discriminates violates the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits such discrimination in public accommodations, and ensures the U.S. Constitution remains the supreme law over any foreign or religious code that rejects American values.

4. U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) criticized Democrats for the DHS shutdown, stating, “The far left has taken over, is in the driver’s seat of the Democratic Party,” while praising efforts to resolve TSA turmoil and new efforts to get gift cards for TSA agents.

3. Governor-election National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) called on Republicans to end the filibuster to pass the SAVE America Act, warning that failure to do so would mean “we’ll never have another secure election” and accusing holdouts of Trump Derangement Syndrome, while dismissing Senate tradition arguments by saying “we don’t get anything done.”

2. The 2026 Alabama Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor took a very dumb turn after Secretary of State Wes Allen slammed John Wahl for attending a Ramadan interfaith dinner at the Anniston Islamic Center, stating “You will never find me in an Islamic center,” and that he wants “no part in Islam.” Wahl accused Allen of “weaponizing Christianity” and attempting to score political points.

1. Amid talks of a 15-point peace proposal, Iran continues to publicly reject offers while talks are ongoing with the IRCG apparently in control, there are reports that President Donald Trump has acquired a ‘prize’ that was “very significant” and related to oil and the Strait of Hormuz, where non-hostile ships can now traverse

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

The debate over closing party primaries in Alabama is heating up, and the arguments are getting more intense.

The media and their Democrats are for keeping primaries open say closing them could make voting more complicated, limit participation, and even impact state resources.

Those pushing for closed primaries argue the current system allows crossover voting and weakens party control over their own elections.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. The Trump administration approved Alabama’s final broadband proposal, awarding $460 million across 63 projects to expand high-speed internet access in unserved and underserved areas of the state, marking a major step in closing the digital divide and boosting economic development in rural communities.

6. University of Alabama students and a web of left-wing legal action groups sued over the shutdown of two campus magazines, alleging censorship and violation of free speech rights after the publications were suspended amid DEI laws.

5. Authorities determined that the death of Alabama student Jimmy Gracey was accidental after reviewing video footage and autopsy results, closing the case with no foul play suspected following the incident that occurred while he was out of the country.

4. The 6-year-old son of State Rep. Ernie Yarbrough (R-Trinity) accidentally shot and injured his 13-year-old brother at the family’s home, with the incident under investigation as a tragic accident involving unsecured firearms, prompting renewed calls for safe storage education.

3. U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is pushing a bill to withhold congressional pay until the resolution of the partial government shutdown.

2. The ongoing partial government shutdown has caused widespread airport delays, although that may be lessening with the deployment of ICE agents, top Democrats are warning of risks of ICE agents killing customers.

1. President Donald Trump’s Iran strategy showcases his “doctrine of unpredictability” amid strike threats and a sudden pause, with the U.S. and Iran giving conflicting signals on talks but talks in Pakistan appear to be happening this week, as Trump continues to signal the conflict is nearing its end while maintaining pressure on Tehran.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Officials with Central Alabama Water say they are stopping the addition of fluoride, calling it an operational, safety, and financial decision.

They argue fluoride isn’t required by regulators and removing it reduces chemical risks, eliminates aging equipment costs, and saves hundreds of thousands per year.

But it will impact dental health, and it will eventually be overturned.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. Alabama basketball coach Nate Oats made another Sweet 16 after a dominant win over Texas Tech, after advancing, Oats reflected positively on the team’s effort and growth in post-game comments.

6. Trump-Russia investigation Special Counsel Robert Mueller has died, prompting tributes from across the political spectrum and a response from President Trump acknowledging Mueller’s service while defending his own actions during the probe.

5. An Air Canada jet hit a vehicle on the tarmac at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, forcing a temporary closure and halting operations as crews responded to the incident.

4. Alabama could make a change to primary voting by closing primaries, but opponents are asking silly questions about costs and how it will disenfranchise veterans.

3. The U.S. Navy Secretary and Alabama delegation cut the ribbon on a $2.4 billion submarine factory in Cherokee County, one of the largest investments in U.S. maritime history, creating 1,000 high-quality jobs and bolstering national defense manufacturing in the state.

2. ICE will help airports with jobs that don’t require TSA’s specialized expertise, according to the border czar, while U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) praised Elon Musk’s patriotism for offering to pay TSA salaries during government shutdowns and slammed Democrats for creating TSA turmoil, backing a bill to withhold congressional pay during government shutdowns.

1. President Donald Trump has ordered a 5-day pause on his threatened retaliation directed towards Iran’s power and energy sector as Iran continues its strikes on Gulf targets, with Trump suggesting “very good” conversations are taking place between the two countries and oil prices remain high.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Iran conflict is not at a stalemate; Alabama could close primaries; the AHSAA is not doing a good job, and more on Alabama Politics This Week…

After weeks of conflict, many are asking why it still feels unresolved and whether anything has actually changed. Some reports even push back on the idea that things are at a standstill, despite how it’s being portrayed.

Alabama lawmakers are moving closer to closing party primaries, aiming to stop crossover voting and reshape how elections work in the state.

Also, the Alabama High School Athletic Association continues to clash with state leaders over eligibility rules and decision-making, raising serious questions about its future and authority.

We break down all of it and more on Alabama Politics This Week, airing on TV, radio, and online across the state.

Mecca Musick is the CEO of 256 Today. Sign up for the 256 Today newsletter here.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. Alabama basketball coach Nate Oats addressed the Aden Holloway arrest by saying now is not the time to ignore a kid you’ve built a real relationship with, emphasizing support and standards in the program, leaving the door open to him returning to the team.

6. Alabama’s congressional delegation led a U.S. House floor tribute honoring the airmen killed in the Iraq plane crash, paying respects to the fallen from the Birmingham-based Vulcan refuelers unit members and their families while highlighting their service and sacrifice.

5. Candidate for U.S. Senate and U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) wrote an op-ed in Yellowhammer News blasting Democrats over the DHS shutdown threat, warning it will cost American lives by weakening border security and immigration enforcement.

4. The Alabama State House passed a bill closing party primaries, advancing legislation to prevent crossover voting in both parties’ primaries, though its future in the Senate remains uncertain.

3. The Reason Foundation’s Brayden Myers found Alabama’s unrealistic pension assumptions are putting the state in debt, with overly optimistic investment return projections creating unfunded liabilities and long-term fiscal risks for the Retirement Systems of Alabama.

2. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) labeled former National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent a member of the “Deep State” after Kent resigned over his opposition to the Iran war, accusing him of leaking and undermining national security efforts.

1. The UK, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, and the Netherlands have now agreed to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid Iranian threats to disrupt traffic and close the waterway, as Operation Epic Fury continues, with media outlets suggesting the battle is a stalemate or saying that, despite overwhelming success, President Donald Trump is losing.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. A bill advanced in the Alabama Senate allowing CHOOSE Act students to sue the AHSAA for discrimination if denied participation in high school sports aims to resolve eligibility disputes and ensure equal access for private and homeschool participants in extracurricular activities.

6. A University of Alabama student went missing in Barcelona after a night out, with foul play now suspected by authorities and family, prompting increased concern among classmates and calls for swift international assistance in the search.

5. Democrats stormed out of a briefing on Epstein files after Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to release additional documents, accusing her of stonewalling, while Bondi pushed back, claiming the information was sensitive, and the walkout was political theater.

4. The TSA warned that smaller and regional airports could face closures or reduced operations due to staffing shortages and budget pressures, while Huntsville International Airport reported its busiest February on record.

3. The Alabama House advanced a bill expanding overtime tax deductions to $1,000 for hourly workers, aiming to provide tax relief for those working extra hours while balancing state revenue needs amid discussions on broader economic incentives.

2. President Donald Trump, Governor-elect U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), and U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) attended what they said was a “humbling” and “heartbreaking” return of Alabama airmen killed in an Iraq plane crash, honoring the fallen Vulcan refuelers unit members and their families in a solemn ceremony.

1. Israel will no longer strike Iran’s South Pars gas field, which spiked oil prices, according to President Donald Trump, but Trump warned that the U.S. will respond and strike those sites if Qatar sites are attacked again by Iran, as Trump is signaling the conflict is nearing its end despite continued threats, regional instability, and intentionally misleading media coverage of opportunistic leakers.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

In Washington, D.C., lawmakers are debating the Save America Act, a proposal that would strengthen election integrity nationwide.

Meanwhile, in Alabama, there is growing pressure to close party primaries, which would limit participation to registered party members, which many argue will keep meddlers out.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. New details have emerged on the arrest of Alabama basketball star Aden Holloway on felony drug charges just days before the NCAA Tournament begins, authorities say they found a “little over 2 pounds of marijuana in Holloway’s apartment Monday, including both loose and housed within a vacuum sealed bag,” and head coach Nate Oats addressed the suspension by stating the program has standards that must be upheld while expressing disappointment.

6. A new Alabama poll reveals the race for the 1st Congressional District has shifted, with former Congressman Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) seeing his lead narrowing from 16 points to 8 points as Rhett Marques moves the needle with undecideds.

5. University of South Alabama warned Turning Point USA that releasing additional videos of a math professor harassing students could jeopardize the university’s funding in a red state, urging the group not to release more footage of the incident involving profane anti-TPUSA comments.

4. Republicans started a Senate fight to expose Democrats’ opposition to a Trump-backed voter ID bill as part of the SAVE America Act, forcing prolonged debate, including a potential talking filibuster, to highlight the party’s stance on election integrity and border security measures.

3. The Alabama closed primary bill advanced to the House floor with Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) vowing to use cloture if necessary to fulfill an ALGOP priority aimed at ending crossover voting and ensuring party nominees reflect core conservative platforms.

2. Failed pro-Israel/pro-Iran containment congressional candidate Joe Kent resigned from his role in the Trump administration in connection with the Iran war developments, with President Donald Trump criticizing Kent’s position that Iran posed no imminent threat, but his anti-Semitism and inconsistency should limit his ability to be the hero the media and their Democrats so feverishly desire.

1. Fox News senior political analyst Brit Hume shredded media coverage of the Iran conflict, accusing outlets of rooting against U.S. success in Operation Epic Fury and trashing the elites declaring this conflict a “stalemate,” downplaying American military gains while amplifying Iranian propaganda and gas prices to undermine President Donald Trump and the mission.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

After weeks of apparent turbulence within the ranks of Alabama Republicans, Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter and newly-minted ALGOP Chairman Scott Stadthagen spoke in an exclusive interview with The Rightside to how the Alabama House Republican Caucus and state party are united, disciplined, and looking forward to the next term.

On Tuesday, Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said Stadthagen has his “full support” as Chairman, and Stadthagen said the party and lawmakers are working “hand in hand” to accomplish a conservative agenda in the remaining days of the 2026 legislative session and beyond.

Ledbetter referred to U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) as “Governor-elect” as he heads into election season as the far-and-beyond frontrunner for the state’s top office.

“I think it’s an exciting moment from here for Alabama, with the House of Representatives, our caucus and the party coming together and looking forward to the work that we’re going to have going in the future, and it’s exciting for for tomorrow,” Stadthagen said.

“Scott and I have had a lot of discussion over the last week since he’s got elected, and he certainly has my full support, and I think he’s going to do a really good job, and look forward to his leadership,” Ledbetter said. “I think he can bring the party together in a way that maybe somebody else couldn’t.”

Tuesday’s interview with “Rightside” hosts Allison Sinclair and Amie Beth Shaver, in partnership with Yellowhammer News, came after an action-packed stretch for Alabama Republicans.

https://x.com/yhn/status/2033941431505850527

The plot began when John Wahl resigned as ALGOP chairman in late January to run for Lt. Governor in 2026 on the final day of party qualifying. In February, tensions inside the Alabama House Republican Caucus, which Stadthagen served as Majority Leader of, spilled into public view after audio leaked from a closed-door caucus meeting.

Stadthagen later resigned as House Majority Leader to continue his bid for party chairman, and House Republicans elected State Rep. Paul Lee (R-Dothan) to replace him.

In the time since Stadthagen won out in a three-way contest for the chairmanship, many party and State House insiders have been left wondering where he and Speaker Ledbetter stands — and where the Alabama Republican Party stands with the Alabama Legislature.

Today, Stadthagen said the relationship between the party and caucus is a source of strength for conservatives in Alabama.

“Yeah, absolutely. We have already hit the ground running,” Stadthagen said when asked whether the party felt united behind him.

Part of that includes House passage of an ALGOP priority identified in recent years, and again in recent months, as party members and lawmakers alike turn their attention to the 2026 election cycle.

Legislation to close Alabama’s party primaries to only registered members of that party, Republican or Democrat, passed the House Ethics and Campaign Finance Committee on Tuesday morning.

“We’ll have it on the floor Thursday,” Ledbetter said of HB541, sponsored by State Rep. Ernie Yarbrough (R-Trinity).

Ledbetter said he expects the bill to clear the chamber, even if Democrats try to drag out the fight, and that, “If we have to cloture, we will.”

Stadthagen said the bill represents exactly the kind of coordination he said Alabama Republicans need more of.

“I think it’s time for us to pick our party lines and pick your teams and support your teams. We’ve already got a law now that if you pick a Republican ballot and there’s a runoff, you can’t flip flop — so we might as well just do it with the primaries as well,” Stadthagen said.

“At the end of the day, we’ve got different parties. You picked your sides. You’re on the team. [Democrats] don’t want us meddling in theirs, and [Republicans] don’t want them meddling in ours. I just think it gives more structure to our party, to each party, and it’s a solid move moving forward for our election integrity.”

Both Ledbetter and Stadthagen both unapologetically went to bat for what Alabama House Republicans have already built over the course of the current term.

As hosts ticked through the caucus’ list of accomplishments from tax cuts, school choice, tough-on-crime laws, DEI bans, protections for girls’ sports, and more, Ledbetter said the metric is objective.

“There’s no question this is the most conservative quadrennium this state’s ever had. Period,” Ledbetter said.

“If you look at my record as speaker and majority leader, it’s the most conservative [quadrennium] the state’s ever had. I mean, you’ve just got to look at what we’ve passed — if it’s DEI or if it’s the CHOOSE Act, which we led the charge on helping getting that passed … when Scott passed the boys and girls bathroom [bill]. I mean, this has been the most conservative four years that we’ve had.”

Stadthagen agreed.

“As far as our caucus members go, they’re Republicans, conservative,” he said. “We’re literally one of the most conservative bodies in the United States. So, we’re hand in hand moving forward.”

He added that, for all the noise of the past month, the current session has ultimately strengthened lawmakers’ and the party’s ability to achieve conservative wins on behalf of Alabamians.

“At the end of the day, it was a very good session,” Stadthagen said.

“It bonded our family stronger than we ever have before, and a lot of things that y’all don’t know from the outside — I can’t tell you how many tears I’ve cried with my teammates, or how many laughs I’ve shared with my teammates — and that’s something that’s private for us.

How many laughs and tears this guy [Ledbetter] and I have had, how many prayers him and I have sat down next to each other and have had, and how many golf rounds we’ve had.

You know, outside looking in, you don’t see all the stuff that we [have gone through], but we have the strongest family that you can ever have right now. And I think that’s what this session has actually accomplished for us, and I’m really, really proud to be a part of this family now.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270. 

Gambling money is pouring into Alabama political races again, and both sides of the issue are spending heavily to influence the outcome.

But the reality is Alabama has been dealing with some form of gambling for decades, whether through tribal casinos, bingo operations, or cross-border gambling in neighboring states.

Now, as the 2026 election cycle heats up, the political fight over gambling is intensifying once again. The question is whether the massive spending will actually change anything or if the long-term outcome is already inevitable.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Six weeks ago, Jerry Carl held a 16-point lead. Today it’s 8 — and Rhett Marques is capturing nearly every undecided voter who makes up their mind.

The First Congressional District in Alabama is hosting one of the state’s most closely contested Republican Primary battles and features a number of fun (for political nerds like me) storylines.

Story #1 – Senator Katie Britt endorsed AL House Rep. Rhett Marques early and gave his campaign an early fundraising boost when she contributed to him.

Story #2 – the return of former Congressman Jerry Carl in his second try to capture the newly redrawn 1st District and once again grab a seat in Congress.

And for me, Story #3 – where would the money go, the former Congressman or the challenger endorsed by the popular U.S. Senator?

Last week I completed my second poll in this district, with the first running six weeks ago at the end of January. That poll showed Jerry Carl with a relatively comfortable 16-point lead in the early going.

Conventional wisdom at that time might have been excused thinking the race was setting up to expectations: Carl is a known former congressman with a distinct advantage being from the most populous part of the district, the field against him is largely unknown, and barring something dramatic, the race was his to control. But what does conventional wisdom know anyway?

My latest polling says “Not much.”

On the all-important ballot question, Carl’s lead has been cut in half. He sits at 28 percent today – up 3 points but within the margin of error from January. Rhett Marques sits at 19 percent – an increase of 10 points. Today’s 8-point gap is down from 16-points and is the first sign that momentum is shifting and Marques is currently ascendant.

But the headline number understates the story. The more important figure is what happened among the undecided voters — the 57 percent who were still uncommitted in January. Between the two surveys, roughly 13 points’ worth of those voters made up their minds.

Marques captured 78 percent of that movement, or 10 points. Carl captured less than a quarter (3 points). Joshua McKee, the third candidate in the race, captured essentially nothing and is effectively irrelevant in this race moving forward.

Read that again: nearly four out of every five voters who decided on a candidate in this race in the last six weeks chose Marques.

That is not noise. That is a trajectory. And if it continues at anything close to that pace through May 19th, this race flips.

Carl’s Ceiling Problem

Part of what’s driving this dynamic is what isn’t happening with Carl’s numbers. His name recognition has been the implicit argument of his campaign from day one: he’s the former congressman, the known quantity, the guy who already represented much of this district. But the data suggests that advantage has largely been spent.

The share of voters who have “never heard of” Jerry Carl moved from 27.2 percent in January to 26.8 percent in March. Effectively zero. His favorability improved from 33 percent to 39 percent — a modest gain, but the kind of movement you’d expect from a candidate who is already near saturation. He appears, by the numbers, to be approaching his ceiling.

There’s also a geographic dimension to this problem that the top-line numbers don’t show. Carl’s favorability in Mobile — his home market, the market he represented in Congress — is 53 percent. In the Dothan media market, which covers 35 percent of the district, it is 19 percent.

He is a regional candidate running a district-wide race. The current ballot tells the same story: in Mobile, Carl leads Marques 41 to 11. In Dothan, Marques leads Carl 35 to 8. The district has two very different electorates, and Carl is competitive in only one of them.

Marques, by contrast, is still in introduction mode — and the introductions are going well. His favorable rating has nearly doubled, from 12 percent in January to 24 percent in March. The share of voters who had never heard of him dropped 20 points in six weeks, from 62 percent to 42 percent.

He is building a coalition on favorable terms, with 42 percent of the electorate still to reach. I’ve also seen a marked increase of support for Marques in the Carl stronghold of Baldwin County. Carl has no comparable runway.

What Voters Learn When They Look Closer

There is another data point from the January survey that deserves attention, because it speaks directly to the durability of Carl’s support.

In January, I ran a standard political science exercise: an informed ballot. After exposing respondents to information about the candidates — including what Carl’s record looks like against the values of this district — I asked them again who they supported.

Carl collapsed. He fell from 25 percent on the initial ballot to 11.5 percent on the informed ballot, dropping from first place to third. Marques and McKee both surpassed him.

This is a district that is 89 percent Trump-approving, 82 percent pro-life, 72 percent evangelical or born-again Christian. It is one of the most conservative Republican primary electorates in the country.

When voters in that electorate start learning the specifics of Carl’s Washington record, they move. The January data shows they move dramatically. The question for the next eight weeks is how many of them get the information.

The Britt Message: A 56-Point Swing That Two-Thirds of Voters Haven’t Heard

Senator Katie Britt has endorsed Rhett Marques. When I tested Britt’s endorsement in January, 55 percent of likely Republican primary voters said it would make them more likely to support the endorsed candidate and only 9.8 percent said less likely — a net impact of +45 points.

In February, I wrote a column for Yellowhammer showing her endorsement tested stronger than President Trump’s in Alabama Republican primaries — wider positive margins, lower negatives. It is the most powerful persuasion asset available to any candidate in this race.

Here’s the problem: almost nobody knows about it. Here’s the positive: when people do learn about it, it moves voters. Tremendously.

The March survey asked voters which candidate Britt endorsed. Only 29 percent correctly identified Marques. Nearly 65 percent simply didn’t know.

The consequences of that awareness gap are stark. Among voters who know about the endorsement, Marques wins 68 percent of the vote. Among those who don’t know, he gets 11 percent.

That is a 56-point swing — based on a single piece of information that two-thirds of the electorate hasn’t received yet.

The geography here is especially striking. In Montgomery’s media market (admittedly a small slice of the district) — where 57 percent of voters are still undecided and no candidate has established a clear lead — only 11 percent of voters know about the Britt endorsement.

That is a market that has barely been touched by this race. It is also, given the composition of its electorate, exactly the kind of market where the Britt message converts.

The Outsider Advantage

The polling also asked voters a framing question: would you prefer “a former member of Congress who knows how Washington works” or “a political outsider who will bring fresh ideas”? The outsider frame won by nearly 20 points: 49.8 percent to 30 percent.

This is Marques’s lane — not because he’s running against Washington rhetorically, but because the electorate was structurally predisposed toward an outsider candidate before a dollar was spent. In January, when 62 percent of voters had never heard of Marques, that preference gap already existed. It was waiting for a candidate.

The message efficiency data reinforces this. Among voters who have seen, read, or heard something about Marques, 49 percent say it makes them more likely to vote for him and only 15 percent say less likely — a net conversion rate of +34 points.

For Carl, the equivalent figures are 38 percent more likely and 17 percent less likely: a +21 net. That 13-point efficiency gap means Marques’s message is simply working harder per impression. In a primary where both campaigns still need to persuade a large pool of undecideds, that compounds.

The Money

The momentum in the polls is matched by what’s happening on the fundraising side. According to the most recent FEC filings, Marques has raised $875,878 and holds $775,221 in cash on hand. Carl has raised $480,928 — nearly $400,000 less — and holds just $307,980 after spending at more than twice Marques’s rate.

A challenger who launched this race as a relative unknown has out-raised the incumbent former congressman by nearly two-to-one, outspent him at a fraction of the rate, and built a cash-on-hand advantage of more than $467,000 heading into the final weeks. That is not the financial profile of a long-shot. That is the financial profile of a candidate who has earned the resources to close.

What the Trajectory Tells Us

Down-ballot primaries are often decided in the final weeks, when voters who haven’t been paying close attention start tuning in. The candidate with momentum, message efficiency, a popular senator’s endorsement, and the resources to broadcast it is well-positioned when that moment arrives.

The March survey found Carl still leading at 8 points. But every variable beneath that number is moving in one direction. His name ID is maxed out.

His support is geographically concentrated in a single market. An informed electorate is an electorate that moves away from him. Undecided voters are breaking toward Marques nearly 4-to-1. And the single most powerful message in this race — the Britt endorsement — is still unheard by two-thirds of the district.

McKee is not a factor. His 59 percent “never heard of” number after months of campaigning tells you what you need to know. When his voters eventually sort, they are a persuadable pool — and they are not consolidating behind Carl.

Anyone telling you this race is settled is not looking at the data.

The data says it’s just getting started.

Michael T. Lowry is the founder and principal of The Alabama Poll and the founder of Backstop Strategies, a Washington, D.C.-based government affairs firm. A native Alabamian, he has more than 30 years of experience in politics and government and most recently served as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt.

7. Alabama basketball’s second-leading scorer Aden Holloway was arrested on a marijuana possession charge just days before the 2026 NCAA Tournament starts, creating a major distraction for the Crimson Tide.

6. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill refused a judge’s order to release a 35-time arrested repeat offender; meanwhile, in Boston, anti-ICE agitators inadvertently helped a child rape suspect evade arrest for weeks by blowing cover during protests.

5. President Donald Trump reportedly laughed after receiving an intelligence report on Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, describing him as gay.

4. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) hit back at Democrats anger over his social media posts critical of Islam, insisting he meant every word, accusing critics of hypocrisy, and refusing to back down from highlighting threats to American values.

3. Gambling interests placed significant bets on Alabama legislative campaigns through contributions and lobbying; the bets are going to pay off.

2. President Donald Trump continues to try to involve NATO in the Strait of Hormuz security issues, which is raising tensions amongst allies to counter disruptions to global energy flows,  Trump is demanding that allies assist with ship escorts against Iranian threats.

1. Iran rejected truce negotiation talks as delusional amid continued Operation Epic Fury strikes, with Iran continuing to attack its neighbors, as the Iranian regime continues to be decimated, with the Islamic Republic’s top security official, Ali Larijani and General Abdolrahim Mousavi allegedly killed.

Listen here: 

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

As a prelude to this year’s Power & Influence Top 50 list, launching April 1 in a special 15th anniversary year for Yellowhammer News, we are proud to continue a tradition that asks an important question in Alabama’s political landscape: Who’s Next?

Year after year, Power & Influence offers the most candid insight into the top 50 influential leaders moving the needle in Montgomery across business, politics and public service — leveraging their influence to the benefit of Alabama.

RELATED: 2025 Power & Influence: Who’s Next? / 2024 Power & Influence: Who’s Next?

Today, we’re directing that insight into the next generation of Alabama leaders. The eleven individuals below are described in a quote from leaders speaking to their impact, effectiveness, and upward trajectory. They are each well on their way to running the state.

Emory Cox

Special Assistant to the President for International Economic Relations

“I’m incredibly proud to see Emory receive this honor, but in no way am I surprised. Emory’s personable nature, vast policy knowledge, and sharp political instincts are far beyond his years.

He proved to be an incredible asset to my office and the State of Alabama during his four years as my Senior Economic Advisor, and is now playing a critical role in helping carry out President Trump’s economic agenda to help all Americans.

From Larry Kudlow to Kevin Hassett, Emory has learned under some of the most brilliant economic leaders in American history, while coming into his own as a leader in this space. One of the things I most admire about Emory is that his success has never caused him to forget where he came from.

He is a proud Pell City native and keeps his Alabama values at the forefront of everything he does.

Emory’s dedication to public service and his love for our great state will continue to bring about meaningful results in both Washington, D.C. and Alabama.”

– U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)

Maggie Oliver

Chief Development Officer, Alabama Port Authority

“In leadership and in economic development, vision and strategic focus are essential to driving meaningful growth. Maggie Oliver embodies both.

Throughout her time at the Alabama Port Authority, she has articulated a clear and compelling vision for how the Port has and will serve as a catalyst for economic development across our state – strengthening supply chains, attracting new industry, and expanding opportunities for Alabama businesses.

Maggie has a presence that commands a room, but more importantly, she pairs that presence with thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Alabama’s future.

I am excited to see her continued leadership at the Port and know she will have a positive impact on our state for many years to come.”

– Zeke Smith, Chairman, Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors

Harrison Adams

Alabama Department of Workforce

“As SGA president at the University of Alabama, Harrison Adams learned much about constituents and politics. He had interest early in his career to positively engage in state government policy growth.

He brought that interest and experience to my Senate President Pro Tem office growing strong relationships, while accomplishing much with our team.

He has spent the last 15 months navigating change that is yielding strong outcomes as a Deputy Secretary at the Alabama Department of Workforce.

His calm and efficient demeanor has elevated the department’s profile and effectiveness with all those he interacts with.

Harrison continues to impress me and many in our state as his impact through dedicated and effective public service continues to grow.”

– Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce

Kristin Hellmich

Director of External Communications, Poarch Creek Indians

“Kristin Hellmich leads with intention, listens carefully, and understands the responsibility that comes with telling the story of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

Kristin approaches her work with respect for our history and a clear eye toward the future, ensuring our voice is represented accurately and authentically.

In a fast‑moving and often complicated political environment, her steady approach and sound judgment make a meaningful difference.”

– Stephanie Bryan, Chairwoman and CEO of Poarch Creek Indians

Phillip Johns

Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Farmers Federation

“As chief financial officer, Phillip has transformed the Federation’s accounting, membership and Alfa Health divisions through technology, professional development and expanded services for members and county Federations.

His investment strategies have resulted in record growth for Alabama FarmPAC and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, deepening the organization’s impact in both the political arena and philanthropic efforts such as scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. Last year, Phillip and his team led implementation of Alfa Health Plans, delivering an affordable health care option for members just five months after Gov. Kay Ivey signed the legislation into law.

Phillip is a graduate of the Alfa Leadership Academy, a successful small business owner and newly appointed member of the Dixie Electric Cooperative board of directors.

He is a devoted husband and father and embodies Alfa’s Core 4 Values of Faith, Family, Community and Integrity. Phillip is already building a legacy of leadership within our organization and certainly is deserving of recognition.”

– Paul Pinyan, Executive Director, Alabama Farmers Federation

Lindsey McAdory

CEO and Chief Strategist CBG Strategies, LLC

“Lindsey McAdory has many exceptional attributes. He’s a seasoned political storyteller who can frame the challenges facing our city and develop a plan of action.

He’s a builder — bringing people together, forging strong partnerships, and uniting leaders into coalitions that get things done. And when crisis situations arise, Lindsey excels at mapping out effective solutions.

But what truly sets Lindsey apart is his vision. He sees where Birmingham is headed, and he knows how to carve the path to get there.

He helps us turn potential into promise. Lindsey’s not just thinking about the next step forward; he’s charting the course for what comes next. His eyes are fixated on building a better Birmingham.”

– Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham

Saylor Cuzzort

Communications Director + Alabama Senate Republican Caucus

“It is rare to find a person who possesses true talent, innate instinct and abundant affability in the perfect balance, but one such person is Saylor Cuzzort.

Her love for this state and insatiable work ethic are exceeded only by her ability and her integrity.

Saylor’s impressive intelligence enables her to effectively analyze all facets of a complicated issue, but what most distinguishes her from other capable young people is her ability to act on her knowledge and timely execute the task at hand with grace and poise.

With everything she does, her kindness and humility shine through, and I’m excited to see all the ways in which she impacts our state and our nation for the better — she’s just getting started!”

– Caroleene Dobson, 2026 candidate, Alabama Secretary of State

Annie Dunne Meissner

Director of Finance and Events, Alabama Republican Party

“Annie Meissner has quickly become an invaluable leader on the Alabama Republican Party team.

As Director of Events and Finance, she has been instrumental in strengthening our fundraising efforts while planning and executing events that bring together grassroots supporters, donors, and Republican leaders from across Alabama.

If you’ve attended an ALGOP event recently, you’ve likely seen Annie’s work firsthand. She executed an incredibly successful Trump Victory Dinner featuring Donald Trump Jr., organized a sold-out Candidate Meet & Greet with Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, and leads numerous donor events that keep our supporters engaged.

Annie is absolutely a rising leader in Alabama politics.”

– Shannon Whitt, Chief of Staff, Alabama Republican Party

Anna Grace Gamble

External Affairs Manager, Alabama Rural Electric Association

“Anna Grace has been an exceptional addition to the Electric Cooperative family. She reflects the values and character of our members and has cultivated invaluable relationships with legislators and policymakers that help advance the cooperative mission.

She is thoughtful, professional, and well-regarded by those around her. She brings a steady presence to her work and approaches it with care. Those qualities have helped her make a positive impression early in her career, and will continue to do so.”

– Sean Strickler, Chief Operating Officer, Alabama Rural Electric Association

Scott McClintock

Vice president of Policy and Public Affairs, Business Council of Alabama

“Scott’s recognition on Yellowhammer’s ‘Who’s Next’ list is a well-deserved honor and a testament to the impact he has already made in Alabama’s policy and political landscape.

Scott brings a rare combination of strategic insight, policy expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing pro-growth, pro-business solutions for our state.

His leadership has strengthened BCA’s advocacy efforts and helped ensure the voice of Alabama’s job creators is heard clearly in Montgomery and beyond.

We are proud to see him recognized as one of the rising leaders shaping Alabama’s future.”

– Helena Duncan, President and CEO, Business Council of Alabama

Justice Smyth

Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority

“I couldn’t be more proud to see Justice receive this well-deserved recognition. His strategic thinking, uncompromising integrity, and commitment to results have made a real difference for our community and for economic development across our region.

He approaches every challenge with intelligence and purpose, and he does so with the kind of character that makes everyone around him better.

Justice represents the very best of what a young leader in this field can be, and I am confident his impact on our state will only continue to grow.”

– Tim Parker, III, President & CEO, Parker Towing Company

Yellowhammer News’ 15th Anniversary Power of Service event will be held on April 7, 2026 in Montgomery. The 2026 Power & Influence list will debut its first installment of 10 honorees on April 1, 2026. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact courtney@yellowhammernews.com. 

7. Alabama basketball earned a spot in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, facing 13th-seeded Hofstra, while Auburn basketball was excluded from the field entirely despite former head coach Bruce Pearl’s continued efforts and public fight to secure a bid for the Tigers.

6. Alabama’s Gulf Coast tourism set a new record with $923 million in lodging spending in 2025, highlighting strong visitor numbers, economic impact from beach destinations, with increasing retail spending as well as adding to the tax base.

5. Governor Kay Ivey highlighted a DeKalb County family benefiting from the CHOOSE Act school choice program, showing how education savings accounts are allowing parents to select better schools for their kids and improve student outcomes.

4. The Oscar-nominated documentary “The Alabama Solution” DID NOT win an Academy Award, but continues fueling ongoing discussions and pushes for prison reform in the state, with critics, including Attorney General Steve Marshall, emphasizing the need to maintain tough-on-crime values over Hollywood narratives and publicity stunts.

3. Three Alabama airmen from a Birmingham-based National Guard unit were killed in a plane crash in Iraq supporting Operation Epic Fury, with many mourning the loss of the service members amid ongoing operations in the region.

2. The Trump administration plans to announce a coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating Iran threats, with allies including Gulf nations and others potentially joining to protect commercial traffic and counter Tehran’s attempts to disrupt global energy flows.

1. President Donald Trump declared Iran’s military decimated, with air defenses and forces severely weakened by U.S.-Israel strikes in Operation Epic Fury, refusing to declare victory yet but asserting it would take Tehran a decade or more to rebuild, meanwhile, the Trump administration is warning media outlets to stop rooting for the enemy.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Where I grew up, the term “hijacking” usually referred to the disappearance of a fresh load of moonshine on its way to market. Hijacking occurs when something, or even some process, is taken over without the consent and, at times, even the knowledge of the rightful owner.

Hijacking, like classic high-seas piracy, is one of the most direct and forceful means of stealing something from someone.

Well, folks, I’ve recently come to realize you can hijack a whole lot more than moonshine in the South. A bunch of hijackers from California, and even China, have come to recognize our home, the Southeastern United States, as a field ripe for the picking.

Just last year, in the November elections in Georgia, millions of dollars from these hijackers flowed into the Georgia Public Service Commission races. As a result, two incumbent Republican PSC commissioners lost by about 24 points apiece. That is the first time a Democrat has been elected to the PSC in Georgia since 2000. That, my friends, was a good old-fashioned hijacking.

So, who was the hijacker? An operation called the Georgia League of Conservation Voters pumped about $2.2 million into the Georgia PSC races. They got their money from their mothership, a national group called the League of Conservation Voters.

RELATED: Report: Environmental dark money that flipped Georgia’s PSC now targeting Alabama

This organization, with funding from liberal groups across the nation, reckoned that just a little of their money in down-ballot races would let them sneak in under the radar and hijack those Georgia elections. They were right. They pulled it off slick as a whistle. And now they are setting up a hijacking in Alabama.

And while it sounds like something from a John Grisham novel, an outfit headquartered in Beijing is a prominent player in the money trail funneling cash through the League of Conservation Voters and right to Alabama.

Conservation Alabama is the local wing of the League of Conservation Voters, and they partner with and help support a liberal environmentalist group called Energy Alabama.  These two organizations are carrying the water for the same folks who hijacked the elections in Georgia.

So, how do we stop them? 

Last week, the Alabama State Senate took a major step toward derailing these liberal out-of-state hijackers with the passage of SB360 – a bill that passed the Senate without a single dissenting vote 32-0. 

This legislation does three things to deal with rising power bills while stopping the influence of California environmental groups in our elections.

First, it freezes rates for Alabama Power for three years.  Folks, that is an unprecedented action by our Legislature that gives Alabama families and businesses rate assurance that no one else in the nation has.

Second, it enlarges the Public Service Commission from three commissioners elected statewide to seven commissioners elected by Congressional District.  This historic change in the structure of the PSC puts more power in the ballot box and in the hands of the people than has ever existed.

RELATED: Why is an onslaught of dark money flooding Alabama’s energy debate?

Third, it creates a cabinet level position for a Secretary of Energy that will raise the importance of providing affordable, reliable energy to a new level.  But this Secretary will not have ultimate power.  The elected commission members can override the Secretary and nothing, absolutely nothing, happens without a vote of the seven elected commissioners.

These California hijackers, with financial backing that goes all the way to China, have crossed the Chattahoochee River. But they will find it a whole lot harder to work their devious plans with seven elected commissioners rather than three. 

Nevertheless, liberal environmentalists are still going to argue that a three-year rate freeze is a bad thing and that giving the people more control at the ballot box is somehow wrong.

After unanimous passage in the Senate, the House will begin work on the legislation this week.  A unified show of strength against these out-of-state pirates will help serve notice that Alabama cannot be hijacked by paid social media trolls and intentional deception.

With only a few days left in the legislative session, let’s hope our House of Representatives will finish the job and send these hijackers packing back to California.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at steve@steveflowers.us.

Big questions are shaping the political conversation this week in Alabama and around the world.

Could Iran actually weaponize oil prices against the United States and its allies? What would that mean for the economy and energy policy?

Meanwhile, in Alabama, the fight over the Public Service Commission is taking a new turn. After talk of eliminating elected PSC members, lawmakers are now discussing expanding the commission instead.

And Governor Kay Ivey made headlines after commuting the death sentence of a convicted murderer, sparking a major debate about justice, executive authority, and capital punishment in the state.

We break down all of it and more on Alabama Politics This Week, airing on TV, radio, and online across the state.

Mecca Musick is the CEO of 256 Today. Sign up for the 256 Today newsletter here.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) has come under fire after linking New York City’s Muslim mayor to the 9/11 attacks in a post criticizing the mayor’s background and policies, with critics calling the remarks inflammatory and divisive while supporters defended them as highlighting security concerns.

6. A judge backed Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen in a fast-moving court, ruling that Morgan Murphy will stay on the primary ballot despite attempts to remove him, allowing the Senate race to proceed with all candidates intact.

5. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) says she is willing to do whatever it takes to pass the SAVE America Act, including a potential talking filibuster, stating she is fully dedicated to getting election reforms across the finish line despite procedural hurdles.

4. The Alabama House passed a $10.9 billion Education Trust Fund budget that includes a $250 million increase for the CHOOSE Act school choice program, while the Senate approved a $3.72 billion General Fund budget with conditional funding for three agencies, reflecting strong GOP support for education investments and fiscal priorities.

3. Police are investigating possible terror-related attacks, including a shooting at Old Dominion University, and an incident at a Michigan synagogue, additional attacks include explosives linked to ISIS in New York, and a Texas shooting that killed two, with the FBI probing potential terrorism ties across multiple states.

2. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) asked Alabamians to be willing to sacrifice at the gas pump for a short time amid the Iran conflict, while U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) predicted any drop in gas prices may take a few months and called it a blip on the radar screen.

1. Operation Epic Fury escalates with U.S.-Israel strikes hitting Iranian targets, including oil infrastructure, as Iran continues to block ships and attack some in the Strait of Hormuz hoping to fulfill its promises of driving oil to $200 per barrel, prompting massive U.S. emergency petroleum reserve releases and pausing of sanctions on Russia, reports of a French soldier killed in an Iraq attack as their Gulf neighbors demand the attacks stop, while claiming they are ready for peace under 3 conditions.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.


A fierce media debate has erupted over coverage of the conflict involving Iran and the United States.

Critics argue that some commentators seem more eager to attack President Donald Trump than acknowledge the Iranian regime’s long record of repression, censorship, and support for regional conflict.

Comments from “The View’s” Sonny Hostin and heated exchanges on CNN, where contributor Scott Jennings pushes back against the narrative, have fueled accusations that parts of the media are downplaying Iran’s actions while questioning U.S. motives.

So why do some voices insist the United States intentionally targets civilians, despite repeated denials and explanations from military officials?

Because they believe in absolutely nothing.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

7. California Governor Gavin Newsom was criticized for blaming President Trump for rising gas prices in the state while facing backlash over California’s own high costs, where gasoline is roughly $2 more than the rest of the country.

6. The Alabama State House passed a bill to reinstate prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools, allowing moments of silence or student-led expressions of faith and patriotism while prohibiting school-sponsored coercion.

5. Alabama State Sen. Clyde Chambliss (R-Prattville) and others support overhauling the Alabama Public Service Commission to give consumers more control over utility rates after sharp electricity cost increases, with Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman) introducing the Power to the People Act to enhance oversight, freeze rates temporarily, and prioritize ratepayer interests.

4. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall slammed the Oscar-nominated documentary “The Alabama Solution” and its director as soft on crime, declaring the state will keep its values while critics push for prison reform, highlighting ongoing debates over criminal justice policy and sentencing.

3. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) sharply criticized Democrats for refusing to negotiate on DHS funding during shutdown threats, accusing them of unwillingness to even converse while border security remains a priority, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation to avoid chaos.

2. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) voiced strong support for a potential days-long talking filibuster to pass the SAVE America Act, vowing to stay on the floor as long as necessary to secure border and election reforms.

1. Operation Epic Fury continues as U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran are escalating with Iran continuing to make threats including potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is also promising that oil prices will spike toward $200 per barrel leading to a massive oil reserve release, retired Gen. David Petraeus believes this is about “missile math” commenting on the conflict’s trajectory, and President Donald Trump signaling a possible end.

Listen here:

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.


Alabama Governor Kay Ivey stepped in to stop a scheduled execution, even though the conviction and death sentence had been upheld for years.

The decision is raising questions across the state about the point of the law in the first place.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.