The Doug Jones mistake has been rectified, and Alabama now has two U.S. Senators that represent the widely-held beliefs of its people.
But, what about 2022? Too soon?
With U.S. Senator-elect Tommy Tuberville’s big win, Alabama Democrats have to feel less confident than ever while many Republicans in the state will feel emboldened.
Who will look towards 2022 for statewide office? Who will look at heading to Washington, D.C. to fill the huge shoes of senior Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL) if he retires as is being rumored?
One name is already being thrown out by Stan McDonald, who served as Tommy Tuberville’s campaign chairman, and he is already prepared to support that candidate.
That candidate? U.S. Representative Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville).
During an appearance on Yellowhammer News’ “Alabama Politics This Week,” McDonald was asked about who he sees running in 2022 if Shelby does retire.
He then gave three versions of Mo Brooks’ name.
https://business.facebook.com/watch/?v=413416973227019
Could McDonald helm the campaign of two straight U.S. Senators?
It’s possible.
McDonald referenced Alabama Democratic Party Chairman and State Representative Christopher England (D-Tuscaloosa) and State House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville) as potential Democratic nominees for the seat. Will these men give up their safe seats to chase a fools’ errand? Unlikely.
Brooks was asked about McDonald’s comments Friday on WVNN’s “The Dale Jackson Show.”
The North Alabama lawmaker said he thinks many people will ask Shelby to stay on and continue as chair of the powerful Appropriations Committee. He added that as of now he plans to run for reelection to his House seat in North Alabama, but he will consider it.
“We’ll have to see if the circumstances are such that I believe I can better serve my country in the Senate in the 2022 election cycle,” Brooks advised.
My takeaway:
Brooks could run, but expect that if Shelby does retire, there will be a large spirited debate about who will best represent Alabama in the future.
Listen:
Dale Jackson is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 7-11 AM weekdays on WVNN.
