Manufacture Alabama has announced its endorsement of State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) in the race to represent Alabama’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“Manufacture Alabama is proud to endorse Representative Marques for his deep understanding and commitment to our state’s manufacturing industry,” said Manufacture Alabama President Jon Barganier.
“Rhett has been a steadfast supporter of our industry for years and has worked tirelessly while in the Legislature to ensure we have a business climate conducive to the growth, investment and sustainability of manufacturers who are so vital to our state’s economy and the local communities they call home.”
Marques expressed gratitude for the organization’s backing, calling it an affirmation of his focus on strengthening Alabama’s manufacturing sector.
“I am honored to have earned the endorsement of Manufacture Alabama,” Marques said.
“I will always put Alabama first and support domestic manufacturing. I am looking forward to going to Congress to fight to return good paying manufacturing jobs that have been outsourced. Alabama has the best workforce in the country and I will make it a priority to ensure that American manufacturers know that the best place for them to manufacture their goods is right here, on American soil.”
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Marques, a small business owner and state legislator since 2018, has built a reputation as a consistent advocate for Alabama’s manufacturing industry.
He has championed workforce development through investment in training, apprenticeships, and career pathways, and has supported infrastructure improvements essential to keeping Alabama competitive in the global marketplace. He has also backed pro-growth tax and regulatory reforms aimed at lowering manufacturing costs and encouraging investment throughout the state.
Manufacture Alabama serves as the state’s only trade association focused exclusively on the legislative, regulatory, and operational needs of manufacturers and their partner industries. The organization represents hundreds of companies—from major global corporations to family-owned operations—that play a critical role in Alabama’s economy.
Marques will face off with Jerry Carl, who is running for his old seat in Congress, in the May 19, 2026 Alabama Republican Party primary election.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
