Former Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice Mike Bolin is back in the political arena.

The Jefferson County Republican announced today he is running for the Jefferson County Commission District 5 position.

“Jefferson County is in a great place and has come a long way, but we can always do better,” Bolin said. “We can always be better. And that is why I am running to be your next Jefferson County Commissioner in District 5.”

The seat will be vacant June 1 when outgoing Commissioner Steve Ammons takes his new role as CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance.

Bolin served three terms as an associate justice of the State Supreme Court. He is also a former Jefferson County Probate Judge.

“Jefferson County is the economic engine that drives Alabama,” Bolin said. “Therefore, Jefferson County must be a leader in education and workforce development. We must provide safe roads and infrastructure, create a business-friendly environment that enables businesses to grow and succeed, and support the creation of good paying jobs.

“The commission must also be at the forefront of improving the quality of life for all of our citizens. As a former judge, I am committed to keeping the citizens of Jefferson County safe from crime and will work to improve our courthouse.”

State Sen. Jabo Waggoner likened Bolin’s return to that of Babe Ruth in a baseball game.

“Mike Bolin’s willingness to serve on the Jefferson County Commission is like Babe Ruth coming out of the stands to pinch hit in the bottom of the ninth inning,” Waggoner (R-Vestavia) said. “Mike is one of the finest human beings I know, a person of immense character, and he will make an outstanding commissioner.”

Bolin and his wife Rosemary have been married for 37 years and have one daughter, Leigh Anne.