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The Alabama Forestry Association announced its endorsement of Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger and Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter in their upcoming 2026 re-election campaigns.

Pro Tem Gudger (R-Cullman), who was first elected to the Alabama Senate in 2018 and won reelection unopposed in 2022, currently serves as President Pro Tempore after being unanimously selected by his Senate colleagues in 2025.

He and his wife, Heather, have two sons. Outside the Legislature, Gudger and his wife own Southern Accents, a family-founded architectural salvage business in Cullman.

“The Alabama Forestry Association is deeply rooted in conservative beliefs, principles, and ideals, so earning its seal of approval speaks volumes,” Gudger said.

“Low taxes, traditional values, and limited government are just a few of the commonsense policies that we share and promote.”

Speaker Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) has represented District 24 since 2014 and became the state’s 67th Speaker of the House in 2022.

He previously served as House Republican Majority Leader starting in 2017, becoming the first freshman lawmaker to hold the post. Before entering the Legislature, Ledbetter worked in the electrical co-op industry and held municipal leadership roles in Rainsville. He and his wife, Teresa, have two sons and four grandchildren.

“I am honored to receive the Alabama Forestry Association’s endorsement,” Ledbetter said. “Simply put, Alabama’s logging companies, sawmills, paper mills, and the men and women who operate them are the heartbeat of Alabama’s economy. Supporting this vital industry will always be a top priority, and I look forward to continuing to work with the AFA to drive growth, protect jobs, and deliver results.”

“Leadership involves conceiving and providing direction toward a goal through motivation and fostering collaboration,” said Chris Isaacson, AFA President and CEO.

“Thankfully, we have legislative leadership that is focused on making Alabama a better place to live, work and raise a family. Pro Tem Gudger and Speaker Ledbetter have the skills necessary for leadership and the capacity to craft and pass legislative solutions to address the many issues facing our state. These leaders are committed to supporting our industry as we continue to be a strong economic driver in rural Alabama. Our membership appreciates them and we are excited to provide this endorsement and look forward to working with them over the next four years.”

Both Gudger and Ledbetter are seeking re-election in 2026. The primary election is set for May 19, 2026.

AFA represents Alabama’s forestry community, including manufacturers, landowners, loggers, and forestry professionals. The organization focuses on supporting the state’s forestry sector through advocacy and policy engagement.

Forests cover more than two-thirds of Alabama, supporting the state’s second largest manufacturing sector. Forestry generates $36 billion in total economic output annually.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

State Treasurer Young Boozer has gained a number of valuable endorsements in his bid to remain Alabama’s chief financial officer, and on Tuesday, the impressive trend continued with a declaration of support from the Alabama Forestry Association.

“Young has done, and will continue to do, an exceptional job serving as Alabama’s Treasurer,” said Chris Isaacson, AFA President and CEO. “His expertise and experience in the finance sector make him a great fit for State Treasurer, and we are proud to endorse him once again.” 

Boozer, who has served as both the state’s 39th and 41st treasurer, thanked the organization for its backing.

“I appreciate the support of the Alabama Forestry Association for my reelection as Treasurer and look forward to continuing to preserve and protect all of the State’s financial resources,” said Boozer. 

Boozer was elected as State Treasurer in 2010 and 2014. He was appointed by Governor Kay Ivey to complete the remainder of John McMillan’s term in 2021. Boozer was elected to a third term in January 2023. He previously served as the Deputy State Finance Director for Governor Bob Riley from 2007 to 2010.

Prior to his time in public service, Boozer had a successful career in the private sector in banking, finance, and investments. He has worked across the country for Citibank in New York, Crocker National Bank in  Los Angeles, Coral Petroleum in Houston, and Colonial Bank in Montgomery.  

The primary election for the office of state treasurer will be held on May 19, 2026.  

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

State Sen. Larry Stutts has picked up a coveted endorsement from the state’s largest farm organization, the Alabama Farmers Federation, in his bid for re-election to the Alabama Senate District 6 seat. Stutts, chair of the Children and Youth Health Committee and member of six other committees, has earned the support of the influential organization during his more than ten years in the state legislature.

Local ALFA chapters within District 6, which consists of Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, and Limestone counties, praised Stutt’s advocacy for farmers and producers in the area.

“Sen. Larry Stutts has proven himself to be a conservative’s conservative, and we are proud to endorse him,” said Luther Bishop, president of the Colbert County Farmers Federation. “He is accessible to his constituents and hard-working. We need to keep him working for us in Montgomery.”

RELATED: ALFA endorses Tuberville for Governor

Derek Jackson, president of the Franklin County Farmers Federation, pointed to Stutt’s record of support for farmers

“Sen. Larry Stutts is a cattle farmer, so he knows the needs and concerns we have in the farming business,” said Jackson. “He has addressed those needs and concerns well, and we know he will continue to do so.”

According to Jerry Allen Newby, president of the Limestone County Farmers Federation, Stutts holds the same principles that many in the agriculture industry.

 “Sen. Larry Stutts shares the same conservative values and hard work ethic of our farmers,” said Newby. “He will continue to see to it that our best interests are met so we can provide the food and fiber our state needs.”

John Tucker, president of the Lawrence County Farmers Federation, believes Stutts is receptive to his constituents, particularly farmers and producers.

“Sen. Larry Stutts knows the importance of agriculture to this area and to the state,” said Tucker. “He has always been open to hear and respond to our concerns, and we are proud to continue to support him.”

RELATED: ALFA endorses Glover in Senate District 34 race

Stutts thanked the organization for its support.

“Receiving the endorsement from the farmers of the 6th District is quite an honor,” said Stutts. “They are some of the hardest working people I know, and I am proud to carry their values and their work ethic to Montgomery to represent them and all the people of the 6th District.

Stutts is a physician who has his D.V.M from Auburn University and his M.D. from the University of South Alabama. He owned and operated Colbert OB/GYN in Sheffield, from which he retired after 32 years. There he saw more than 22,000 patients and delivered more than 12,000 babies.

The Alabama Farmers Federation has more than 365,000 members. It uses a true grassroots approach to select candidates, relying on Alabama FarmPAC endorsements from county Farmers Federation boards of directors for local elections.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

Tuscaloosa native, businessman and former city councilman, Norman Crow continues to secure endorsements from the state’s top political groups in his special election bid for Alabama House District 63.

On Monday, the Alabama Forestry Association announced its full support for Crow’s campaign.

“Norman comes highly recommended from our Tuscaloosa area membership,” said Chris Isaacson, AFA President and CEO. “With his experience in the trucking industry, Norman knows the impact the forest industry has on his District and the State, and we look forward to working with him.”

RELATED: ‘Pro-business principles’: Norman Crow endorsed by BCA in Alabama House District 63 special election

Crow, now chairman of the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority, thanked the AFA for its backing and acknowledged the forest industry’s tremendous economic value.

“I am honored to receive the Alabama Forestry Association’s endorsement for the Alabama House District  63 special election,” Crow said.

“The forestry industry provides over a $36 billion impact to our economy, and it is crucial that we continue to support the industry and all economic activities they provide to continue making our quality of life better in Alabama. I am grateful for their confidence in me and look  forward to working together when I am elected in January.” 

Crow previously served on the Tuscaloosa City Council. He was also a member of the Alabama Workforce Council in 2014 and was appointed by Governor Ivey to serve on the Alabama Commission on Higher Education in 2017. He served in both positions until 2022. 

RELATED: Crow endorsed by Alabama Farmers Federation in House District 63 race

Since first launching his campaign in June, Crow has already been endorsed by two of the most influential organizations within the state- the Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Farmers Federation.

HD63 became an open seat following Governor Kay Ivey’s appointment of former State Rep. Cynthia Almond to serve as President of the Alabama Public Service Commission.

The special primary election for House District 63 is scheduled for next month, on September 30, 2025.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

As the election for one of Alabama’s two U.S. Senate seats draws closer, the leading candidate has just earned a significant endorsement from an impressive coalition of law enforcement officials.

On Monday, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced that 27 Alabama sheriffs and 23 district attorneys representing 33 counties have officially backed his run for the office.

“The courageous men and women who serve in law enforcement and as prosecutors of violent criminals deserve our complete support – now more than ever,” said Marshall. “As Alabama’s Attorney General, I have worked in partnership with our law enforcement officials across the state to keep our streets safe. Those who protect our families and neighborhoods know that I will always have their back in the United States Senate.”

Sheriffs and district attorneys from the group lauded Marshall’s experience and unwavering support for law enforcement across the state during his time in Montgomery.

“Law enforcement officials know that Attorney General Steve Marshall has always had our backs,” said Kevin Turner, a 33-year law enforcement official and current Madison County Sheriff. “We stand with him because he’ll be a leading voice for law and order and continue to support us in the U.S. Senate.”

RELATED: Steve Marshall announces run for U.S. Senate in 2026 – ‘puts Alabama first and delivers’

District Attorney Chris Connolly of Lauderdale County believes that Marshall will be a true advocate for ideals valued by Alabamians.

“I am proud to endorse Steve Marshall for the U.S. Senate,” Connolly said. “Attorney General Steve Marshall has been a tremendous partner for our district attorneys and law enforcement, and I have no doubt that he will continue to fight for our Alabama values in Washington D.C. as our next United States Senator.”

Sheriff Mason Bynum of Dale County praised the Attorney General’s long-time support of officials in Alabama’s more rural areas.

“As Attorney General, Steve Marshall has always stood shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement,” said Bynum. “But just as important to me, Steve understands the unique challenges facing our small towns and rural communities. I know he will be a relentless fighter for all Alabamians in Washington. That’s why I’m proud to endorse Steve Marshall as our next United States Senator.”

Officials in the coalition endorsing Marshall include:

In late May, Marshall joined the race shortly after U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville announced a bid to become Alabama’s next governor. In the first month of his campaign alone, Marshall reportedly raised over $400,000 in contributions.

The primary election for the seat is scheduled for May 19.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

The Alabama Farmers Federation has endorsed Tuscaloosa businessman Norman Crow in the upcoming election for House District 63.

John E. Walker IV, Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation president, is touting Crow’s personal involvement and accomplishments when given presiding positions.

“Norman Crow has long been a leader in Tuscaloosa County,” said Walker. “He participates in many aspects of our community and has been in key positions of leadership, always producing outstanding results. We know he will do the same thing for us in the Alabama Legislature.”

RELATED: Alabama FarmPAC endorses Young Boozer for treasurer

Crow thanked ALFA for its show of support.

“I am honored to have the endorsement of Alabama’s farmers,” said Crow. “I look forward to working with them to promote our state’s most valuable resources both in and outside of Tuscaloosa and west Alabama.”

Crow received his degree in accounting from the University of Alabama in 1990. His career has been spent at Southern Natural Gas, Tenneco Energy, Duke Energy, Reliant Energy, and Innovative Energy Services. He also owned and operated DT Freight, a local transportation business. He presently serves as a licensed real estate agent with Hamner Real Estate.

RELATED: ALFA endorses Tuberville for Governor

Crow entered the race shortly after State Rep. Cynthia Almond, the former occupant of the office, was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey to be the next President of the Alabama Public Service Commission.

The House District 63 seat represents portions of Tuscaloosa County.

Gov. Kay Ivey has set September 30 as the special primary election date, October 28 as the special primary runoff date, and January 13, 2026, as the special general election date for the race.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

The Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) on Thursday announced its seventh round of endorsements for incumbents seeking reelection to the state legislature.

The state’s preeminent agricultural advocacy organization grants endorsements through FarmPAC, its political action committee.

The following candidates now hold an official endorsement from FarmPAC:

Dale County Farmers Federation president Chris Carroll praised Chesteen for his support of his district’s farming interests.

“Sen. Chesteen has done an outstanding job in the Senate,” proclaimed Carroll. “He is plugged into the agricultural community and will continue to represent our needs in Montgomery.”

Ben Haynes, Cullman County Farmers Federation president, suggested that Gudger’s business experience had proven beneficial to the senator’s service in the legislature.

“Sen. Gudger is a leading businessman in our community,” stated Haynes. “He knows the needs of the businesses of this district and will work hard to represent them.”

Crenshaw County Farmers Federation president Tony Beck spoke to Barfoot’s work ethic and expressed gratitude for his service to the agricultural community.

“Sen. Barfoot does an excellent job for the people of District 25,” declared Beck. “He is a hard-worker in the Senate, and we appreciate his representation of agriculture in our district.”

Justin Lackey, Talladega County Farmers Federation president, stated that Robbins had “proven he has great abilities in the Legislature.” Lackey added, “He has quickly become a leader in the House of Representatives, and we are proud to support him.”

Carl Sanders, Coffee County Farmers Federation president, indicated that Marques had placed emphasis on working to meet the needs of his district’s farmers.

“Rep. Marques cares about the work of the farmers in our district,” stated Sanders. “He works hard for us and represents agriculture well.”

Tuscaloosa County Farmers Federation president Jim Lavender asserted that England held “a strong voice in the Legislature.” Lavender added, “He is accessible, works hard and appreciates the work of the farmers in this state.”

ALFA’s first, second, third and fourth strings of legislative endorsements can be found here, here, here and here. The fifth and sixth rounds of endorsements can be found here and here.

Additionally, the federation earlier this year announced its endorsements of candidates seeking election to federal and statewide offices.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

FarmPAC, the Alabama Farmers Federation’s (ALFA) political arm, on Tuesday announced its endorsements for the statewide, congressional and Alabama State Board of Education primary elections which are slated to occur on May 24, 2022.

Nearly 100 leaders of the federation, including representatives from all 67 counties, met at the state’s capital to hear from candidates seeking public office and to decide to whom ALFA would lend its endorsements.

ALFA president and CEO Jimmy Parnell noted that the endorsements were made after careful consideration and vetting of all candidates who went before the federation.

“These candidates have invested time in getting to know our county leaders,” said Parnell. “They’ve spent time on our farms and attended meetings where they heard about the issues and concerns important to Federation members.”

He added, “At the same time, our county leaders have studied the candidates and decided these individuals have the knowledge, experience and determination to help lead our state and nation in the right direction.”

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s political action committee, FarmPAC, has announced endorsements for the May 24, 2022, primary elections in statewide, Congressional and Alabama State Board of Education races.

Get the details: https://t.co/F1DDGf5QuD

— Alfa Farmers (@AlfaFarmers) September 28, 2021

Those following candidates have earned the official endorsement of FarmPAC:

• Katie Britt — U.S. Senate
• Jerry Carl — U.S. House of Representatives, District 1
• Barry Moore — U.S. House of Representatives, District 2
• Mike Rogers — U.S. House of Representatives, District 3
• Robert Aderholt — U.S. House of Representatives, District 4
• Dale Strong — U.S. House of Representatives, District 5
• Gary Palmer — U.S. House of Representatives, District 6
• Terri Sewell — U.S. House of Representatives, District 7
• Kay Ivey — Governor
• Will Ainsworth — Lieutenant Governor
• Steve Marshall — Attorney General
• Wes Allen — Secretary of State
• Young Boozer — Treasurer
• Rusty Glover — Auditor
• Rick Pate — Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries
• Greg Cook — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 5
• Kelli Wise — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 6
• Jeremy Oden — Public Service Commission, Place 1
• Chip Beeker — Public Service Commission, Place 2
• Tracie West — Alabama State Board of Education, District 2
• Yvette Richardson — Alabama State Board of Education, District 4
• Cynthia McCarty — Alabama State Board of Education, District 6
• Wayne Reynolds — Alabama State Board of Education, District 8

FarmPAC noted that the federation’s endorsements will carry through to the general election.

FarmPAC chairman Steve Dunn of Conecuh County noted that ALFA encourages voters to actively engage themselves in the electoral process by studying each candidate and becoming familiar with their policy positions.

“It’s important for Alabama voters to be engaged in the electoral process,” said Dunn. “We encourage members to exercise their right to vote, regardless of their political preference, and to consider these FarmPAC endorsements when they go to the polls.”

The federation noted that it will announce its endorsements for candidates seeking election to the state legislature will be announced at a later date.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL

State Rep. Arnold Mooney’s (R-Indian Springs) campaign for the U.S. Senate has received an endorsement from 10 of his colleagues in the state legislature with less than two weeks to go before the primary election.

The endorsers include many of the most conservative members in the Alabama statehouse, like State Rep. Mike Holmes from the Montgomery area and State Rep. Tommy Hanes from Northeast Alabama.

The state-level endorsements fall in line with the prominent national conservatives who have endorsed Mooney previously. Conservative Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Rand Paul (R-KY), along with conservative television host Mark Levin, and Alabama’s own Rep. Mo Brooks (AL-05) are among those who have thrown their support behind Mooney.
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Just 12 days away from the Republican primary for U.S. Senate, key endorsements have lined up for all three front runners. As key political figures and organizations line up to give their support, candidates are scrambling to prove that they are the clear choice for the American people. Here’s all you need to know about who’s supporting who:

Mo Brooks

Brooks has enjoyed the support of several influential conservatives throughout the state and nation in recent days. Several prominent conservative commentators have announced that they are endorsing Brooks for senate, including Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, Mark Levin, and Ann Coulter. Brooks’ relationship with Hannity goes back to his time hosting radio in Huntsville. Conservative state representatives have also come to Brooks’ side as the election nears. At an event on Wednesday, seven Alabama delegates expressed their support for the Congressman. The delegates included Ed Henry and Bradley Williams.

Luther Strange

Strange has been backed by multiple influential organizations since the beginning of his campaign. He’s received the vocal endorsement of two very important conservative organizations, the National Rifle Association (NRA), and the National Right to Life. In a release posted on their website, NRA chairman Chris W. Cox praised Strange saying, “Throughout his career, Sen. Strange has shown tremendous leadership in protecting our fundamental right to self-defense. As a champion for gun owners in Alabama and across the country, Sen. Strange is the right person to succeed Jeff Sessions as U.S. senator.” The National Right to Life is a prominent pro-life advocacy group which has backed Strange as a candidate committed to defending the rights of an unborn child.

Roy Moore

While he hasn’t had the big-name supporters that Brooks and Strange have enjoyed, Moore has received several key endorsements by groups across the state. The Coalition of African-American Pastors gave Moore its support in early June when Rev. William Owens took to Twitter to support Moore’s candidacy. More recently, Moore has been backed by the Alabama Republican Assembly. According to Alabama Today, the ALRA stated, “while there are several good candidates that are running for this position and who would serve Alabama well in the Senate, the Republican Assembly voted overwhelmingly for Judge Moore because of his demonstrable commitment to conservative principles and a willingness to stand up against an out of control Federal Judiciary.” Moore has also been endorsed by conservative actor and writer, Chuck Norris. According to WKRG, the “Walker, Texas Ranger” actor stated, “Judge Roy Moore is the real deal… The Washington establishment knows they won’t be able to count on him, but Alabama voters can.” This recent endorsement brings some name recognition to Moore’s supporters that he has been lacking in recent weeks.

While endorsements are a useful tool in highly contested elections where candidates agree on many of the issues, as is the case in this Republican primary, voters will have the opportunity to endorse their favorite candidate on August 15.

RELATED: NRA and Alabama Farmers Federation endorse Strange in U.S. Senate race

Related: Coalition of African-American Pastors Founder Endorses Roy Moore for U.S. Senate

Sen. Luther Strange (R-Ala.) added two prominent organizations to his list of supporters this week, receiving endorsements from the National Rifle Association and the Alabama Farmers Federation. The NRA is the country’s largest grassroots gun rights advocacy organization, and the AFF is Alabama’s largest farm group with more than 357,000 member families.

Chris Cox, the Executive Director of the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action, formally announced the endorsement in a public letter on Wednesday.

“Throughout your career, you have consistently opposed all attempts to ban lawfully-owned firearms and magazines, and have stood strong against Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi, and former New York Mayer Michael Bloomberg’s gun control agenda,” Cox said. “You have been a champion for gun owners in Alabama and across the country, and you are the right person to succeed Jeff Sessions as U.S. Senator.”

Strange, a lifetime member of the NRA, is proud of his record and the group’s support of his campaign. “This endorsement is an honor and I’m proud that the NRA sees in me what they see in President Donald Trump and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and I vow to work alongside them both to put constitutionally-minded conservatives on the federal bench and to protect Americans from gun-grabbing bureaucrats,” he said.

FarmPAC, the political action committee of the AFF, announced its endorsement of Strange on Monday.

“Sen. Strange has proven his commitment to Alabama farmers and forest owners by seeking and securing appointment to the Agriculture Committee and continuing the fight against regulatory overreach,” Federation President Jimmy Parnell said. “Alabama farmers have enjoyed a close working relationship with Sen. Strange, and we look forward to helping him address the needs of rural Alabama as a U.S. senator.”

The AFF is the local member of the American Farm Bureau Federation. As with the NRA, Strange expressed his appreciation in receiving its backing.

“It’s an honor to receive this endorsement from Alabama Farmers Federation and the Alabamians they represent,” said Strange. “These are the hard-working people who clothe us and feed us, create jobs in our communities, and keep our economy thriving. It’s a privilege to be their voice in Washington as I serve on the Agriculture Committee, and I look forward to continuing to defend their rights against federal overreach as we roll-back the job-destroying red tape from the Obama administration.”

10 Republicans have officially declared their candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat once held by Attorney General Jeff Sessions (R). The final list of GOP contenders includes James Beretta, Joseph Breault, Randy Brinson, U.S. Congressman Mo Brooks (AL-5), Dom Gentile, Mary Maxwell, former Chief Justice Roy Moore, Bryan Peeples, State Senator Trip Pittman, and Strange.

Party primary elections will be held on August 15, with a possible runoff on September 26. The general election is set to take place on December 12.

Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL2)
Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL2)

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — In the race for political office, endorsements can make or break a campaign. People tend to trust the opinions of those they know, and as the cliche goes, all politics is local. As the race for Alabama’s 2nd congressional district seat heats up between incumbent Martha Roby and Tea Party challenger Becky Gerritson local endorsements may make a significant difference in March’s primary.

This week Congresswoman Roby pulled in endorsements from 36 mayors, hailing from each corner of the district.

The mayors imparted their endorsement in a joint letter sent to Roby this week.

“We appreciate your deep commitment to our local communities,” the mayors wrote.

“Since your first election to Congress, you have demonstrated a willingness to effectively engage with federal agencies on our behalf to promote our local interests and advance our constituents’ best interests. Your steadfast advocacy for the critical military installations in our area, and of our many constituents who serve in uniform at home and abroad, promotes our district’s proud role in the nation’s defense. Additionally, we value federal, state, and local partnerships, and we appreciate your support of infrastructure improvement and economic development efforts across Central and Southeast Alabama.”

The 36 mayors represent each of the 15 counties in the 2nd district:

– Jim Giganti, Mayor of Abbeville (Henry County)
– Earl Johnson, Mayor of Andalusia (Covington County)
– Chris Caldwell, Mayor of Babbie, (Covington County)
– Bernie Sullivan, Mayor of Brantley (Crenshaw County)
– Jimmy Ramage, Mayor of Brundidge (Pike County)
– Jimmy Garner, Mayor of Carolina (Covington County)
– Rebecca Beasley, Mayor of Clayton (Barbour County)
– David Grice, Mayor of Clio (Barbour County)
– Mike Schmitz, Mayor of Dothan (Houston County)
– Mickey Murdock, Mayor of Elba (Coffee County)
– Jack Tibbs, Mayor of Eufaula (Barbour County)
– Margaret White, Mayor of Elmore (Elmore County)
– Robert Williamson, Mayor of Florala (Covington County)
– Philip Carter, Mayor of Geneva (Geneva County)
– Jerome Antone, Mayor of Georgiana (Butler County)
– Dan Jackson, Mayor of Glenwood (Crenshaw County)
– Dexter McClendon, Mayor of Greenville (Butler County)
– Jeff Sorrells, Mayor of Hartford (Geneva County)
– Ray Marler, Mayor of Headland (Henry County)
– Judy Baker, Mayor of Heath (Covington County)
– Eugene Birge, Mayor of Lockhart, (Covington County)
– Jimmy Grant, Mayor of Louisville, (Barbour County)
– Joe Sport, Mayor of Luverne (Crenshaw County)
– John Bartholomew, Mayor of Opp (Covington County)
– Billy Blackwell, Mayor of Ozark (Dale County)
– Lester Odom, Mayor of McKenzie (Butler and Conecuh Counties)
– Mildred Whittington, Mayor of Midway (Bullock County)
– Todd Strange, Mayor of Montgomery (Montgomery County)
– Bill Gillespie, Mayor of Prattville (Autauga and Elmore Counties)
– Terri Carter, Mayor of Repton (Conecuh County)
– Willie Hendrix, Mayor of Red Level (Barbour County)
– Patricia Gunter, Mayor of River Falls (Covington County)
– Chris Thomasson, Mayor of Sanford (Covington County)
– Rob Hinson, Mayor of Slocomb (Geneva County)
– Bobby Payne, Mayor of Tallassee (Elmore County)
– Jason Reeves, Mayor of Troy (Pike County)

Roby thanked the mayors in a statement Tuesday.

I’m grateful for such an inspiring show of support from across the district,” she said. “I’ve always believed my first job is to listen to those I represent and work on their behalf in Congress. I’m proud to partner with mayors and local leaders throughout the district in helping to promote their communities.

“It’s important for our local communities to know they have a listening ear and an active voice fighting for them in Congress. I’m honored as ever to be their representative.”

Challenger Becky Gerritson earned an endorsement of her own this week from former district 2 congressional candidate Rick Barber, who lost to Roby in the 2010 primary.

Earlier this month he Alabama Tea Party and Conservative Coalition (ATPCC) banded together to endorse Gerritson, a Tea Party president herself, simultaneously disavowing another Tea Party group which endorsed Roby.

The primary will take place March 1st, 2016. There is currently no Democratic challenger for the seat.

Like this article? Hate it? Follow me and let me know how you feel on Twitter!

— Elizabeth BeShears (@LizEBeesh) January 21, 2015

Farm

The Alabama Farmers Federation political action committee, FarmPAC, today announced their slate of endorsed candidates in the Alabama 2014 primary elections. Endorsements for candidates who have opposition in the June 3 primary are listed below.

According to a release from the Farmers Federation, endorsements were recommended by county leaders following extensive reviews of their qualifications and voting records. The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 365,000 members.

Perhaps most notably, FarmPAC has thrown their support behind State Rep. Paul DeMarco, who is running in the crowded Republican primary in Alabama’s 6th Congressional District.

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Rick Burgess
Rick Burgess

Rick Burgess and Bill “Bubba” Bussey have spent two decades growing their unlikely media empire by sticking to their down-home brand of humor and not compromising their values. The Rick & Bubba show, which is produced in a Birmingham, Ala. studio, is now available on 60+ radio affiliates and 50+ television affiliates around the country.

RELATED: Alabama-based, nationally syndicated Rick & Bubba show turns 20

Burgess has extended his reach and influence in recent years by becoming one of the most sought-after Christian speakers in the southeast. Burgess and Bussey have also written numerous books, including Rick and Bubba for President: The Two Sexiest Fat Men Alive Take on Washington. But although both hosts are very open about their conservative political views, they have only rarely engaged in specific races, especially on the local and state level.

But in recent weeks, Burgess has weighed in on two of the hottest races in Alabama, both of which are both taking place in districts where Burgess’s family resides.

He endorsed Gary Palmer, Republican candidate for Alabama’s 6th Congressional District, at Palmer’s campaign kickoff rally Feb. 25.

“I get tired of always having to compromise something when I support a candidate and choose the lesser of two evils,” Burgess said at the rally. “I am tired of holding my nose and voting. I know Gary Palmer and he won’t compromise his values. He can help us get this country back on the right track. I am very strong on how I filter candidates. I am here to endorse Gary Palmer unapologetically.”

Then last week Burgess endorsed Republican Arnold Mooney, who is running in a crowded State House race in District 43.

“I live in district 43 and am endorsing Arnold Mooney to represent my family and me for the Republican nomination for State House district 43,” Burgess said in a statement. “Now more than ever we desperately need representation that understands the proper role of state government, the vital importance of the free market, and the understanding of how capitalism has produced the highest standard of living in the world. Arnold is not only a fiscal and free market conservative but he is a full spectrum conservative. Too often today I am asked to support candidates for fiscal reasons only. By supporting Arnold, I am not compromising my faith because I know Arnold embraces my Christian beliefs and will fight for Christian values.”

But Burgess is not limiting his political activity to his home area. He also recently spoke at a fundraiser for Republican State House candidate Will Ainsworth from Guntersville, who owns a camp where the Burgess family has hunted in the past.

Post by Will Ainsworth.

Burgess has built up an enormous level of trust with his audience over the years. They flock to his events. They purchase the products and services he touts on the his show. And because the Rick & Bubba Show’s primary focus is not politics — unlike most talk radio programs in the state — when he does weigh in on a race, it probably carries more weight. Candidates are realizing that an endorsement from Burgess can be a powerful way to reach a vast swath of Alabama voters who are politically interested, but not necessarily living and breathing politics all day.

Even some of Alabama’s highest ranking current elected officials value the rare opportunity to make an in-studio appearance on the show.

Sen. Jeff Sessions made sure to post a photo with the guys after visiting with them in their Birmingham studio.

Post by Jeff Sessions.

House Speaker Mike Hubbard made the Rick & Bubba Show one of his first stops while promoting his book in 2012.

Post by Mike Hubbard.

Burgess has used his massive platform as an effective conduit for the spread of his Christian faith. If his political activity continues to increase, he could have an opportunity to be just as effective at helping candidates get elected and influencing the debate on various issues.

What do you think? Does and endorsement from Burgess carry a lot of weight with you? Let us know what you think in the comments, or tweet us your thoughts @YHPolitics.

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Farm

FarmPAC, the political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, earlier this week endorsed candidates for Alabama secretary of state, auditor and public service commission. The Alabama Farmers Federation, an affiliate of the American Farm Bureau Federation, is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 365,000 members.

FarmPAC endorsed John Merrill for secretary of state. Merrill is a freshman state representative from Tuscaloosa who’s making his first run for statewide office.

“This endorsement bears witness to the strength of the grassroots efforts of our campaign throughout all 67 counties in the great state of Alabama,” Merrill told Yellowhammer. “We are not aware of any other entity that has the same level of local membership of individuals who are committed to providing for their families, their communities, and our state at the same level the members of the Federation are. I am humbled by their support and especially their endorsement.”

Adam Thompson, a senior staffer in the Alabama secretary of state’s office, received FarmPAC’s endorsement for state auditor.

“[A]griculture is the backbone of Alabama’s economy and members of the Alabama Farmers Federation are actively involved in their government and understand how it affects their daily lives,” Thompson said in a statement. “They support candidates who know and support Alabama’s farming and agricultural interests and I am proud to be among the ones they have chosen to endorse this election year.”

FarmPAC also made two endorsement for the public service commission. They endorsed Commissioner Jeremy Oden for place 1 — he’s currently running unopposed — and Chip Beeker for Place 2.

“My family has worked the land of Alabama for generations, and I am proud to say that my family still calls rural Alabama home,” said Oden. “My wife Samantha and I plan on raising our daughter Anika ‘in the country’ just as we were raised. We want her to have the same ‘country’ Alabama values that we treasure – and that the Alabama Farmers Federation represents.”

The Beeker endorsement is perhaps most notable because ALFA decided to endorse him over a sitting commissioner, Terry Dunn, in the Republican primary.

Chip Beeker, Republican candidate for Alabama Public Service Commissioner
Chip Beeker, Republican candidate for Alabama Public Service Commissioner

“I’m honored to receive the support of our state’s largest industry,” Beeker told Yellowhammer. “As a farmer, I know first hand the impact the agriculture community has on Alabama by providing thousands of jobs. It serves as a cornerstone of our economy and I pledge to do all I can to protect and grow this important industry.”

Alabama Farmers Federal President Jimmy Parnell said he hopes the FarmPAC endorsements will help elect candidates who support agriculture in Alabama, which is the state’s largest industry.

“The Alabama Farmers Federation encourages our members to be politically engaged and support candidates who understand the importance of agriculture to our state,” said Parnell. “We hope our endorsements will help guide our members when they vote in June and November.”

FarmPAC Advisory Trustees, who are farmers representing every county in Alabama, made endorsement recommendations at the group’s Jan. 21 meeting at the Federation home office in Montgomery.

The group previously announced endorsements for other state and congressional races. That list can be found here.

The 2014 primary election is June 3 with primary runoffs July 15. The general election is Nov. 4.

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Dr. Chad Mathis, Republican candidate in Alabama's 6th Congressional District
Dr. Chad Mathis, Republican candidate in Alabama’s 6th Congressional District

Citizens United Political Victory Fund, the affiliated PAC of Citizens United, this morning announced they are endorsing Dr. Chad Mathis in his bid to become the representative for Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. They will also contribute $5,000 to Mathis for the primary election.

“As a surgeon, Dr. Chad Mathis has a unique perspective of the ill-effects of ObamaCare and how this flawed legislation is killing American medicine,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “He will be able to debunk the many myths the Left puts forth when attempting to sell ObamaCare to the American people. Dr. Mathis is a constitutional conservative who will stay true to his core conservative values when he comes to Washington and will not be corrupted by power. He will be a conservative leader in the U.S. House who will not bow to establishment pressure when the going gets tough. I urge voters in Alabama’s 6th district to vote for Dr. Chad Mathis in this primary election.”

Citizens United describes themselves as “an organization dedicated to restoring our government to citizens’ control. Through a combination of education, advocacy, and grass roots organization, Citizens United seeks to reassert the traditional American values of limited government, freedom of enterprise, strong families, and national sovereignty and security.”

Their stated goal is to “restore the founding fathers’ vision of a free nation, guided by the honesty, common sense, and good will of its citizens.”

Citizens United in 2010 won perhaps the most famous campaign-related Supreme Court case in history. In Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, The U.S. Supreme Court cited the First Amendment and prohibited the government from restricting “independent expenditures” in politics by corporations, associations, or labor unions.

They have been very active in elections in recent years, including in Alabama. They were one of the biggest supporters of Republican journalist Quin Hillyer during his 2013 campaign in Alabama’s First Congressional District.

Citizens United today adds their name to the list of conservative groups endorsing Mathis in AL-06. Others who have already endorsed him include FreedomWorks and The Madison Project.

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