Robert Aderholt Archives

Over the weekend, the United States launched “Epic Fury” against Iran, hitting nuclear sites, toppling military bases, and killing its senior-most leadership.

In a national address Sunday evening, President Trump confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei and other top officials.

“Iran’s formerly supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, is dead,” Trump said. “We have hit hundreds of targets in Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities, Iranian air defense systems. Just now, it was announced that we knocked out nine ships, plus their naval building. All in a matter of literally minutes.”

Now in day three, Iran’s retaliation has claimed 18 lives, including four brave U.S. troops.

In a briefing today, U.S. Department of War Secretary Pete Hegseth said that U.S. forces are dominating the battlefield.

https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/2028484823250043025

Alabama’s Republicans are hailing the decisive action against the world’s top terror sponsor – while Democrats bemoan the lack of congressional involvement.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) wrote, “Thanks to President Trump, the America-hating Ayatollah, FORMER leader of the largest state sponsor of terrorism, is DEAD. Strength is back at the White House.”

https://x.com/SenTuberville/status/2028182192648814874

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) hailed the “decisive, necessary action.” Britt, a lead negotiator in talks to end the Democrats’ funding freeze, called for full Department of Homeland Security funding to counter potential retaliation.

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/2028192600398725496

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Chairman of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, commended Trump’s “decisive action” against Iran’s terrorism and nuclear threat in a committee statement.

Rogers added that Khamenei’s elimination offers “hope for a more peaceful” Middle East

https://x.com/hascrepublicans/status/2027761153984663584

https://x.com/hascrepublicans/status/2027897475260981266

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) declared it “a matter of time before Iran would face full retribution” for violence against Americans and allies in, urging Iranian forces to oust their leaders for peace.

https://x.com/USRepGaryPalmer/status/2027809682014789930

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, called Khamenei’s death “a measure of justice” for victims — including Americans.

https://x.com/Robert_Aderholt/status/2027852921837093067

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), a veteran himself and candidate for U.S. Senate in 2026, celebrated Trump’s takedown of the “architect of the world’s leading sponsor of terror” in a post that shared an early report of Khamenei’s death.

https://x.com/RepBarryMoore/status/2027847922696536132

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) celebrated Trump’s intolerance for Iran’s “aggression and nuclear aspirations” and stressed that accountability equals peace.

https://x.com/RepDaleStrong/status/2027782850213285923

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Mobile), Alabama’s two Democrats in Congress, made procedural and clerical gripes, arguing the unilateral strikes are sidestepping Congress.

However, Sewell acknowledged that, “Iran has oppressed their people and supported terrorism in the region for decades,” while Figures was more supportive of Iran.

“The President has America on the brink of war, and is doing so again without Congressional approval. Using our military to seek a regime change is war,” Figures wrote.

https://x.com/RepTerriSewell/status/2027763012342255625

https://x.com/repscfigures/status/2027934424159969308

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

With the holiday break over, and 2026 in full swing, Congress is headed back to Washington to kick off the second session of the 119th Congress.

The U.S. Senate is scheduled to convene beginning today, and the House is set to return for recorded votes tomorrow.

January will be busy. Lawmakers are immediately staring down a January 30 government funding deadline under the current stopgap measure, along with a packed agenda.

Yellowhammer News asked Alabama’s federal delegation to share their New Year’s resolutions — and what they want to prioritize for the year ahead:

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

“To make every American, starting with all the people in Alabama, more prosperous, give them a better state and a better country.

That’s the job of any civil servant, and I wish everybody a Merry Christmas and Happy New and a prosperous new year, because this coming up will be one of the best years economically for the United States of America, with the tariffs that President Trump put on and with the Big Beautiful Bill kicking into effect, January 1st, you’re going to see the sky is the limit for what we’re getting ready to do in this economy.

So we wish everybody the best in the future, coming of next year.”

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery)

“Every new year, Alabamians share similar resolutions: get our finances in order, live healthier, and spend less time online and more time with loved ones. My goals as your Senator are much the same.

Congress must return to regular order, get our fiscal house in order, and restore accountability to government spending.

Congress must also work to fix our country’s health care crisis, created by Democrats, by putting patients first and lowering costs. I’ll continue supporting reforms that make coverage affordable and will benefit those who need it most.

Since Day One, I’ve worked to protect children online, put parents back in the driver’s seat, and hold Big Tech accountable. In 2026, that remains a top priority: Congress must pass legislation that addresses this generational crisis.

Above all, I’ll keep working to make Alabama the best place to live, worship, work, and raise a family. We have a lot to do in 2026, and I’m ready to deliver more results.”

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville)

“As we enter 2026, I pray that my work in Congress reflects the faith that guides my life, working diligently, listening carefully, and always putting Alabama first.”

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks)

“In 2026 I will be squarely focused on pursuing Alabama’s priorities, including passing the FY2027 NDAA to ensure a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force.”

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover)

“I don’t make resolutions, I set priorities. My priorities will be giving people more choice in their health care plans, lowering the cost of health insurance, bringing price transparency to health care, and eliminating our reliance on China for materials essential to our economic security and national security.”

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise)

“My New Year’s resolution is to spend less time listening to bureaucrats, more time listening to the people of Alabama, and all of my time putting Alabama and America First. Same mission since I first got elected, just a new calendar year.”

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville)

“My resolution for 2026 is simple: to continue turning conservative priorities into real results, champion North Alabama’s capabilities, and support the permanent relocation of U.S. Space Command headquarters to Redstone Arsenal.”

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

On Sunday, President Donald Trump endorsed all four Republican incumbent members of Alabama’s U.S. House delegation seeking reelection in 2026.

However, he left one unaddressed: Alabama’s open, competitive 1st Congressional District.

Trump threw his support behind U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) and Dale Strong (R-Huntsville). He praised their work on his “America First” agenda.

The 1st District was the lone exception made by President Trump as the race heats up in Alabama.

The south Alabama seat is open in 2026 as Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) seeks the open U.S. Senate seat, setting off a scramble among Republicans along the Gulf Coast. Former U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl has launched a comeback bid and State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) has entered the race with a strong early fundraising haul and a swath of heavyweight endorsements.

Below are President Trump’s endorsements of each incumbent official:

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks)

Congressman Mike Rogers is doing a truly fantastic job representing the Great People of Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District! As the first Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee from Alabama, Mike is working tirelessly to advance our AMERICA FIRST Agenda. He knows the Wisdom and Courage required to Defend our Country, Support our incredible Military/Veterans, and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH. In Congress, Mike is working tirelessly to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Champion American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment. Mike Rogers has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville)

Congressman Robert Aderholt is a Tremendous Champion for Alabama’s 4th Congressional District! As a Member of the POWERFUL House Appropriations Committee, Robert knows the America First Policies required to Create GREAT Jobs, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy Dominance, Champion our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, and Advance our Nation’s Golden Age. He is also fighting tirelessly to Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Strengthen our incredible Military/Veterans, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment. Robert Aderholt has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover)

Congressman Gary Palmer is doing a fantastic job representing the incredible people of Alabama’s 6th Congressional District! Gary is a Conservative Warrior who has strong support from his Community. In Congress, he is working hard to Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Advance Election Integrity, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Strengthen our Military/Veterans, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment. Gary Palmer has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville)

Congressman Dale Strong is a terrific Representative for the incredible people of Alabama’s 5th Congressional District! Dale has a Strong Record of SUCCESS, and compelling support from his Community. In Congress, he is fighting tirelessly to Champion our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Advocate for our Great Military/Veterans, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment. Dale Strong has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

President Trump also did not make endorsements in Alabama’s 2nd and 7th Congressional Districts, occupied by Democrat U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and Shomari Figures (D-Mobile).

The 2026 Alabama Republican Party primary elections will be held May 19 — now less than 200 days away.

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

100,000 people: The number of residents in rural Northwest Alabama who will gain improved access to the information superhighway.

$145 million: The investment by the Tombigbee Electric Cooperative to create the on-ramp for those residents.

4,200 miles: The number of miles of fiber installed.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger joined other officials today to celebrate the co-op’s completion of a fiber-to-home internet project.

The project required installing 4,200 miles of fiber across eight Alabama counties by the co-op’s Tombigbee Communications subsidiary under its Freedom FIBER brand.

This achievement fulfills a vision by Tombigbee Electric’s Board of Directors nearly a decade ago and advances the core mission of electric cooperatives, bringing essential connectivity to the communities they serve.

“If you look back to 1936 and the Rural Electrification Act, the whole premise of why co-ops were created was to get electricity outside the densely populated cities and into rural parts of America so as not to leave anyone behind,” said Britton Lightsey, president and CEO of Tombigbee Electric Cooperative. “We followed that same principle with our fiber project. If you look at your more densely populated areas, they were mostly covered as far as internet service. But when you went outside your cities, there was nothing in rural communities.

“Our board made it a mission that if they were going to do this project, they would follow the same mission of why the cooperatives exist – to take service to everyone and not leave anyone out.”

The celebration was held at Tombigbee Electric’s headquarters in Hamilton and included speakers, food and hors d’oeuvres. More than 250 people attended.

“I had the privilege of standing right here in this same building back in 2018— alongside Governor Kay Ivey and then-Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue — when we announced the creation of the USDA’s ReConnect Program,” Aderholt said. “That day, we set out on an ambitious mission: to make sure that families, businesses and schools in rural communities across our state had the same access to high-speed internet as anyone in Birmingham or Huntsville or Mobile.

“And today, thanks to the leadership and vision of Tombigbee Electric Cooperative, that mission has been accomplished.”

In addition to Aderholt, Ledbetter and Gudger, others at the event included state Reps. Bryan Brinyark, Tracy Estes, Jamie Keil and Tim Wadsworth; state Sens. Gerald Allen and Jack Williams; Randall Shedd, former state representative and former chairman of the Alabama Digital Expansion Authority; Secretary of State Wes Allen; and representatives of Gov. Kay Ivey and U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt’s offices.

Tombigbee Electric provides electricity to about 10,000 homes and businesses in Marion and Lamar counties. However, its Tombigbee Communications subsidiary offers Freedom FIBER high-speed internet service in Colbert, Fayette, Franklin, Tuscaloosa, Walker and Winston counties, in addition to Marion and Lamar.

Lightsey thanked Gov. Ivey, the Legislature, Aderholt and others for their support and assistance with the fiber project which began in 2017.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt presents Tombigbee Electric Corporation CEO Britton Lightsey a copy of the Federal Register commemorating Tombigbee’s completion of fiber construction.

“If we were going to serve an area, we were going to serve the entire area and not pick and choose like other internet providers in the past had traditionally done,” said Lightsey, who joined Tombigbee in 2022 and took over as CEO in 2023. “Since day one, we’ve been following that mission, and improving the well-being of the citizens of the region, improving healthcare and connectivity to telemedicine, and improving the education capabilities in our communities.

“We started with zero miles of fiber in 2017. Today, we sit with more than 4,200 miles of fiber,” Lightsey said. “We had zero internet customers in 2017. Today, we sit with over 27,000 customers from residential, business and industries throughout our region.”

Lightsey said the co-op is still connecting approximately three dozen new customers to Freedom FIBER each day. In addition, it continues to collect service registrations through its website, www.freedomfiber.com, and maintains a growing list of customers awaiting their turn to be connected.

He touted the community nature of Tombigbee’s customer service.

“If you have any issue, you are calling Hamilton, Alabama,” he said. “You’re not calling another country or even another state.

“Likewise, you’re not sending your money to an entity outside of the state. Every dollar you spend goes back to invest in our communities where we live and where we work and where we operate our business.”

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Federal, state and local leaders will gather Thursday afternoon at Tombigbee Electric Cooperative’s headquarters to celebrate a milestone nearly nine years in the making: the completion of more than 4,200 miles of fiber delivering reliable, high-speed internet to homes and businesses across eight rural Northwest Alabama counties.

The Freedom Fiber-branded network was built by Tombigbee’s broadband subsidiary, Tombigbee Communications

The event will run from 1:00-3:30 p.m. at 3196 County Highway 55 in Hamilton.

Confirmed and expected guests include a slate of state officials, including Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville), Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman), Reps. Bryan Brinyark (R-Tuscaloosa), Tracy Estes (R-Winfield), Jamie Kiel (R-Russellville) and former State Rep. Randall Shedd.

As well as state executives and members of Alabama’s federal delegation, including Agriculture & Industries Commissioner Rick Pate, Secretary of State Wes Allen, representatives from Governor Kay Ivey’s office, U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery), as well as U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville).

The Tombigbee project extends gigabit fiber access across a swath of rural communities.

Covering Marion, Lamar, Fayette and Franklin counties, most areas west of Smith Lake in Winston County, and select pockets of Walker, Cullman and Tuscaloosa counties — all locations that, a decade ago, had little to no prospect of modern connectivity.

The cooperative credits a “first-mile to last-mile” approach: leveraging the statewide Alabama Fiber Network for transport, building its own middle-mile backbone, and finishing the last mile to homes and businesses. AFN, a coalition of electric co-ops and partners that now reaches most Alabama counties, was created to speed affordable broadband to unserved areas.

The milestone also caps many years of public-private coordination. In 2018-2019, Tombigbee won federal USDA ReConnect support to jump-start rural fiber construction.

In an op-ed yesterday, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt reflected on Tombigbee’s role in launching the program from the Hamilton warehouse that will host Thursday’s celebration.

“Standing in that Hamilton warehouse six years ago, I said that broadband is the electricity of the 21st century. Today, we are closer than ever to ensuring that every home, school, and business in Alabama has access to that vital lifeline,” Aderholt wrote.

“The progress is real — and the best is yet to come.”

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

On May 3, 2018, I stood in a warehouse at Tombigbee Electric Cooperative in Hamilton, Alabama, alongside Governor Kay Ivey and then–Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, to announce to Alabama and the rest of America the creation of the USDA’s ReConnect Program. That day marked the start of a new chapter in connecting rural America to the modern economy — and it began right here in Alabama.

At that time, roughly 22 percent of Alabamians did not have access to broadband internet, with most of those households located in rural and underserved areas. For too long, the digital divide separated opportunity from the people who needed it most — students trying to complete homework, small businesses looking to compete online, and families who wanted access to telehealth services.

Here we are than six years later, the progress we’ve made is nothing short of remarkable. Today, just 6 percent of Alabamians remain without broadband access, according to the latest data from the Federal Communications Commission. That means more than one million Alabama residents now have access to reliable, high-speed internet who didn’t just a few years ago.

This success didn’t happen by accident. It has taken teamwork — from federal leaders, state officials, and local providers — working together toward one goal: connecting every corner of Alabama.

When I helped author and champion the ReConnect Program in Congress, my goal was to ensure that rural areas weren’t left behind in the digital revolution. Since its creation, the ReConnect Program has awarded more than $3 billion in broadband grants across the country, helping utilities, cooperatives, and local providers bring fiber-optic broadband to places where private investment alone simply wouldn’t go. Many of those projects have been right here in Alabama, including several that have transformed the connectivity of rural communities in the Fourth Congressional District, which I am proud to represent in Congress.

Just as importantly, Alabama’s state leadership also stepped up in a big way. Under the guidance of Governor Ivey, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) has managed the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund, which has distributed millions in state grants to help expand broadband access. Through the Connect Alabama initiative, the state has mapped out unserved areas and worked hand-in-hand with local providers to ensure funds go where they’re needed most.

Together, these efforts have meant that federal dollars are being matched with state resources, stretching every tax dollar further and maximizing the impact of each investment. This kind of partnership is what effective government looks like — collaboration that delivers results for real people.

The results are already visible in communities across our state. Students who once had to sit in fast-food restaurant parking lots to access Wi-Fi can now study from home. Small businesses are reaching new customers and markets. Doctors and patients are connecting through telemedicine. Farmers are using new precision agriculture tools that rely on high-speed connections to improve efficiency and productivity.

In short, broadband has become as essential to modern life as electricity or running water, and Alabama is ensuring that every household has access to it.

Even with these gains, our work isn’t finished. Six percent of our population still lacks broadband access, and for those families and businesses, the digital divide remains very real. We cannot stop until that number reaches zero.

The next phase will be even more challenging, as the remaining areas to connect are often the most rural and hardest to reach. But through continued investment in the ReConnect Program, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) initiative, and sustained state support, we can finish the job.

The goal is clear: every Alabamian, no matter where they live in our state, should have access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet. When that happens, it will mean more than just better connectivity — it will mean stronger communities, new jobs, and a brighter future for the entire state.

Alabama’s story can serve as a model for the rest of rural America. When federal and state leaders work together with local partners, we can overcome challenges that once seemed impossible. The progress made since 2018 proves that strategic investment, thoughtful planning, and a shared commitment to rural America can deliver real results.

Standing in that Hamilton warehouse six years ago, I said that broadband is the electricity of the 21st century. Today, we are closer than ever to ensuring that every home, school, and business in Alabama has access to that vital lifeline. The progress is real — and the best is yet to come.

Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) represents Alabama’s 4th Congressional District. He is a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.

7. The Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Georgia Bulldogs in a hard-fought game in Athens, getting back in the mix for the college football playoff conversation with a strong performance.

6. The Republican governor of Missouri signed a congressional redistricting map into law, aiming to bolster GOP seats in the 2026 midterms by potentially helping the GOP pick up one seat in the House.

5. Gov. Kay Ivey says she will decline to call a special session to redraw Alabama’s Senate map, drawing a majority-black district in Montgomery while awaiting a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the Voting Rights Act.

4. U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Mobile) spoke on some hot-button political issues when he questioned if the GOP would push for Epstein file release if Obama were involved, even though many in the GOP pushed for this information for years, and announced that he opposed the National Guard being deployed to Alabama or anywhere else.

3. A shooter opened fire at an LDS congregation in Michigan, killing 4 and injuring multiple people before being killed by police. Now, people are trying to figure out his motives and noting a Trump sign on his property with a stop sign affixed to it.

2. Oregon filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s deployment of National Guard troops in Portland, “where protests are occurring or likely to occur,” citing overreach and declaring that the non-stop attacks on the federal building there to be a non-issue..

1. U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) says there is a 90% chance of a government shutdown at this point and the public will blame Democrats if a shutdown goes down Wednesday.

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

All Republican members of Alabama’s congressional delegation voted Wednesday to direct the U.S. House of Representatives Oversight Committee to continue its investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

Both Democrats, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and Shomari Figures (D-Mobile) voted against the measure. It ultimately passed 212-208 along party lines.

The resolution was touted by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) as a meaningful alternative to U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie’s (R-Kentucky) proposed legislation to compel the release of the Epstein files in their entirety within the next 30 days.

Massie’s legislation has caused a stir in the narrowly Republican House, prompting Johnson to send members home earlier than planned for the August recess, and has drawn considerable ire from President Donald Trump.

“Today, I voted for the Oversight Committee to continue its full and thorough investigation into Jeffrey Epstein,” U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said in a statement.

Moore, along with U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), and Dale Strong (R-Huntsville), were among 212 members of Congress that voted yes on H. Res. 688.

“Congress has a responsibility to pursue the truth wherever it leads and ensure there is accountability,” Moore added.

“President Trump’s administration has been the most transparent administration in history, and I have no doubt they will continue to support a full and thorough investigation until the American people have the truth.”

The Oversight Committee released thousands of documents related to Epstein and Maxwell’s alleged sex trafficking ring earlier this week.

Riley McArdle is a contributor for Yellowhammer News. He is a Senior majoring in Political Science at the University of Alabama and currently serves as Chairman of the College Republican Federation of Alabama. You can follow him on X @rileykmcardle.

In a high-profile announcement from the Oval Office of the White House, President Donald Trump announced that U.S. Space Command’s permanent headquarters will be located in Huntsville.

Joined by Alabama’s U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, and Alabama Congressmen Mike Rogers, Robert Aderholt, Gary Palmer, Barry Moore and Dale Strong – Trump brought an end to years of delay and politicization by the Biden administration.

“As you know, this has been going on for a long period of time, and I am thrilled to report that the U.S. Space Command Headquarters will move to the beautiful locale of a place called Huntsville, Alabama,” President Trump said, “forever to be known from this point forward as Rocket City.”

“We love Alabama.”

“This will result in more than 30,000 Alabama jobs, and probably much more than that, and hundreds of millions of dollars of investment. And that’s billions, because it can’t be millions, it’s billions and billions of dollars. Most importantly, this decision will help America defend and dominate the high frontier, as they call it,” President Trump said.

https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/1962951867081601307

Today’s announcement is the final chapter in a situation that began in 2021 when the U.S. Air Force selected Redstone Arsenal as the preferred site, identifying Huntsville as objectively best suited for the mission.

President Joe Biden stalled and ultimately reversed the process in July 2023, opting instead to locate the headquarters in Colorado Springs.

Throughout the remainder of Biden’s administration, Alabama’s congressional delegation unleashed a relentless campaign to investigate the decisionmaking process and secure the merit-based choice to base the headquarters in Huntsville.

Numerous government reviews have since reaffirmed that Huntsville won on the merits, which Alabama lawmakers celebrated on Tuesday.

In March 2023, Yellowhammer News published a non-public, 87-page Government Accountability Office report showing Redstone ranked first in both the Air Force’s Evaluation and Selection phases, while Colorado Springs ranked fifth in the final Selection Phase.

On Tuesday, President Trump also said Space Command in Huntsville would play a key role in building the “Golden Dome” missile-defense shield, which help keep U.S. technological capabilities unmatched.

U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) each spoke from the White House on Tuesday.

“This move will save the taxpayers $480 million. It’s not going to cost more — it’s going to cut $480 million, we have the plans intact,” Tuberville said.

“It will be behind a secure wall in Huntsville, Alabama — Redstone Arsenal. We have 40,000 people there. We have the FBI there. We have missile defense. There we have NASA, Blue Origin, and SpaceX. It is the perfect place for Space Command, I would tell you today, and again, I’ve spoke with the President for the last three or four years about this. If I thought it needed to go somewhere else, because I understand the security of our country, I’d be for that,” Tuberville continued.

“But the best place for Space Command is Huntsville, Alabama, because what we have and what it means to this country is going to be so important. So thank you, Mr. President, for this, and we look forward to building a huge space command and having the ‘Donald J. Trump Space Command Center’ in Huntsville, Alabama,” Tuberville said.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt also thanked President Trump and said that locating the permanent Space Command headquarters at Redstone Arsenal is in the best national security interest of the United States.

“To the detriment of U.S. national security, President Biden chose to undermine the integrity of the process and put politics ahead of merit by yanking this military decision out of the Air Force’s hands.”

“I’m deeply grateful to President Trump and Secretary Hegseth for their commitment to keep politics out of this basing decision and allow the Air Force to proceed with doing its job. Alabama’s world-class aerospace and defense workforce, capabilities, and synergies stand ready to fulfill the mission and strengthen our national security long into the future,” Britt continued.

“I’m proud that Alabama’s congressional delegation – working tirelessly together on a bipartisan basis – has won this fight on behalf of our great state and America’s national security interests.”

Two Alabama congressmen, Chairman of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) and U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville), who’s district includes Redstone Arsenal, were on the forefront of the fight to maintain Alabama as the final headquarters location.

“Space Command is finally coming home to Alabama. This announcement by President Trump is yet another in a long line of strong decisions that benefit America’s national security,” Rogers said.

“Alabama was chosen in 2021 because it was the absolute best location for the Space Command headquarters. Today, in 2025, it remains the best location for our national security and for the taxpayer. This basing decision has been affirmed and reaffirmed by multiple agencies and multiple officials throughout both the Trump and Biden administrations. Biden was content to have Space Command located in the fourth best location because it served him politically. The differences between him and President Trump has never been clearer.”

Rogers concluded, “On this historic day, I am extremely proud to be an American, proud to be an Alabamian, and proud to support the Administration who made this possible.”

U.S. Space Command is a unified combatant command that plans, fights, and integrates U.S. military space power. It is distinct from the U.S. Space Force, which organizes and equips space forces that Space Command employs in operations.

The original Space Command stood up in 1985, was folded into U.S. Strategic Command in 2002, and was re-established in 2019.

It employs roughly 1,700 personnel and oversees global military space operations.

Moving the headquarters is a multi-year project that entails facilities work, workforce planning, and phased transition of staff and functions.

Unofficial estimates indicate it will cost hundreds of millions of dollars, but ultimately align the command with the Air Force’s most cost-effective, mission-ready option.

Huntsville offers an ideal ecosystem, including Redstone Arsenal, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and a major defense-industrial base, that leaders say will speed full operational maturity at a lower long-run cost than any other alternative.

North Alabama’s Congressman, Dale Strong, celebrated the news from the White House today, saying that Space Command is returning to its rightful home.

“I join all of Alabama in welcoming Space Command to our great state. I’ve said all along that basing the Headquarters in Huntsville is not a political decision; it’s a national security one. North Alabama has long been the linchpin of defending our interests at home and abroad, and we are prepared to now do our part in defending American interests in space,” Strong said.

“It’s been rewarding to play a role in every step of this process and to ensure that Space Command’s Headquarters rightfully resides in the most capable and best-equipped community – which has been proven time and again to be Redstone Arsenal.”

Strong added, “I want to thank President Trump and Secretary Hegseth for their commitment to doing what is best for the security and future of our nation, and I remain grateful for the unified support of the entire Alabama delegation along the way. I am excited for all that is to come, and now – it’s time to move dirt.”

According to the City of Huntsville, about 1,400 Space Command jobs will transition to Redstone Arsenal over the next five years and that state and local partners have reaffirmed their original commitments made during the original 2020 site selection process.

“This decision is not about what’s best for Huntsville – it’s about being mission-focused,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle.

“The decision to locate U.S. Space Command at Redstone ensures our nation is prepared to meet growing challenges in space. Huntsville is ready with our experienced workforce, resilient infrastructure and deep commitment to national defense.”

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

7. President Donald Trump obviously denied being a dictator after claims that his immigration and crime crackdowns are authoritarian in nature. However, Trump acknowledged that many people express a desire for a strong, decisive leader, only fueling disingenuous claims by the media and their Democrats.

6. Tuscumbia Mayor William Foster and police issued statements addressing an incident at Deshler High School where a student was injured, with little to no explanation. Parents and the community are now demanding transparency, and accusations of a coverup are being made.

5. ALGOP Chairman John Wahl believes it is no surprise that Democrat voters are switching to the Republican Party at a historic rate nationwide, attributing this trend to dissatisfaction with Democratic policies, the never-ending culture war, and a shift toward conservative values.

4. Democratic lawmakers are being criticized for their undying support of their mascot Kilmar Abrego Garcia, begging that he not be deported. A Salvadoran migrant with a decent list of crimes and allegations, many are calling their stance “insane” and out-of-touch.

3. Former National Security Advisor John Bolton criticized President Trump’s Ukraine policy, just days after an FBI raid on his home, accusing Trump of inconsistency and weakness in dealing with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

2. U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin will only respond to force, advocating for a strong U.S. stance on Ukraine, reflecting concerns over Putin’s unpredictability and the need for robust international action amidst escalating tensions; it also highlights the need for diplomacy.

1. The municipal elections in 40 cities today, including Birmingham, Mobile, Athens, Madison, Decatur, and more, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and voters requiring a photo ID, as new leaders are set to take office, potentially influencing local governance and community dynamics.

Listen here:

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

On Thursday, the U.S. House of Representatives gave final approval to President Donald Trump’s signature budgetary package — the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ Act — in a party line 218-214 vote, sending the $3.4 trillion measure to the president’s desk to sign just in time for the July 4 holiday deadline.

Each of Alabama’s Republican congressional officials voted in favor of the measure, while Democrat U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) and Shomari Figures (D-Mobile) were feckless in stopping it.

Republicans celebrated the long-fought passage as “the largest tax cut in American history.”

https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/1940841386305319258

The reconciliation package extends $4.5 trillion in Trump‐era tax cuts set to expire this year; exempts tips, overtime wages and U.S.-made car‐loan interest from income tax; and delivers additional breaks for seniors and small businesses.

On the spending side, it locks in $350 billion for defense modernization, including the “Golden Dome” missile defense system, and pours more than $175 billion into border security — funding 701 miles of wall, river barriers and the recruitment of 3,000 new Border Patrol agents.

“By codifying President Trump’s agenda of cutting taxes and wasteful spending to put more money back in the hands of families and small businesses, fully funding the border wall, and strengthening our national security through military modernization, this legislation puts American families first,” U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said after its passage.

On the defense front, U.S. Rep. Dale Strong ushered praise for Alabama’s industrial success, particularly those within his district.

“From our space, defense, and manufacturing sectors to our working families, farmers, and small business owners — all of North Alabama will benefit from President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill,” Strong (R-Huntsville) said.

Among those state-based wins included in the final version of the bill were $4.1 billion for two Space Launch System rockets for the Artemis IV and V missions through Fiscal Year 2029, $20 million for Orion and integration of Orion with SLS, and $100 million for construction and infrastructure projects at Marshall Space Flight Center.

Strong also praised protections for Alabama’s 6% hospital provider tax rate and a $500 million slice of a national $50 billion rural health fund.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, praised the bill as delivering “the America First agenda in a fiscally responsible way.”

Aderholt also highlighted his successful fight to make the Adoption Tax Credit fully refundable for lower- and middle-income families.

“As someone who has long championed pro-life and pro-family policies, I was proud to lead the charge to make the Adoption Tax Credit refundable once again,” Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said.

“No family should be denied the opportunity to adopt a child simply because they can’t afford the upfront cost. This provision ensures that families of modest means receive the same support as wealthier households when they open their hearts and homes to a child in need.”

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer said his vote was fundamentally a vote against looming tax hikes on the American people.

“I voted for this bill to prevent families from facing a $4 trillion tax hike,” Palmer (R-Hoover) said on Thursday.

“This bill extends President Trump’s 2017 tax cuts that provided economic relief to American families. Without this bill, a family of four could see a $1,695 tax increase, the average taxpayer would see a 22% tax hike, and families would see their child tax credit cut in half. With the provision of no tax on tips or overtime included in this bill, take-home pay for hard working families could increase by over $10,000 per year and working families making between $15,000 and $30,000 would see their taxes cut by 23%.”

Alabama’s two members of Congress representing the Democratic Party were expectedly morose on Thursday. After multiple days of clamoring from Democrats, the bill passed in spite of their wishes.

U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, in his first term representing Alabama’s second congressional district, called the bill “trash,” while longtime lawmaker Terri Sewell said her Republican colleagues, “have perpetrated the greatest betrayal of working families in modern history.”

https://x.com/repscfigures/status/1940557091934187943

Alabama’s House GOP members said on Thursday that they were thankful lawmakers saw through deceptive attempts by Democrats and the mainstream media to frame the bill as counter to the economic interests of working class Americans.

“Despite what many of my Democrat colleagues and the national news media have claimed, this bill does not remove children or veterans from Medicaid or food assistance. What it does do is restore these vital programs to their original purpose — providing a safety net for the poor, pregnant women, children, and individuals with disabilities,” Aderholt said.

Earlier this week, as a byproduct of efforts made by U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), the Senate amended the reconciliation bill to create a $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program for FY 2026–30 — including $500 million in formula funds for Alabama (about $9.26 million per rural hospital) and a $25 billion competitive fund for which the state is well-positioned to compete.

“In regard to Medicaid, the Democrats have been lying to the American people to invoke fear. Those who are legally eligible for Medicaid will not have their coverage affected by this bill,” Palmer said on Thursday.

Having cleared both chambers, the One Big Beautiful Bill now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature, which is expected during Fourth of July White House celebrations.

Once enacted, it will represent the most significant overhaul of the federal tax code and social‐welfare programs of his second term.

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

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) hosted the third annual Alabama Prayer Breakfast in the Russell Senate Office Building’s Kennedy Caucus Room on Wednesday morning.

Six of Alabama’s nine-member congressional delegation addressed the packed room, including Senators Tuberville and Britt (R-Montgomery), as well as Representatives Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), and Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham).

Tuberville opened the program by paying tribute to the late Rev. Chette Williams, the longtime Auburn football team chaplain who tragically passed away in December after an accident on Lake Martin. Tuberville noted that Williams was initially scheduled to speak at the breakfast.

A small table near the lectern bore an Auburn football helmet and a rose, a memorial to Williams.

Tuberville, having recently announced his campaign for Governor in 2026 after months of speculation, made a few indirect mentions of his bid for the state’s top job, saying that he hopes to be spending a lot more of his time in Alabama in the very near future.

In a brief moment of bipartisan levity, Sewell began her remarks by jokingly thanking the “governor” for his hospitality and glancing at Tuberville, before quickly correcting herself.

A consistent theme of the delegation’s remarks was unity, a notable shift away from a week marked by bitter partisanship in the nation’s capital.

“Think what a blessing we could be to this nation and to the world if we were all united in Jesus Christ,” Palmer said.

Building upon Palmer’s words, Sewell began, “I want to just say that we as a state may be small – nine of us in total in the delegation, but we often box above our weight, and I believe that’s because we try to set aside partisanship to work on behalf of our great state.”

Britt closed the program with brief remarks before leading attendees in a recitation of the Lord’s Prayer.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) responded to reports Saturday that over 100 Christians were killed in a terrorist attack in Nigeria.

According to Amnesty International Nigeria, the attack took place Friday morning in the country’s Benue state.

“The Nigerian authorities must immediately end the almost daily bloodshed in Benue state and bring the actual perpetrators to justice,” the organization said on X. “The horrifying killing of over 100 people by gunmen that invaded Yelewata; from late Friday into the early hours of Saturday 14 June 2025, shows the security measures government claims to be implementing in the state are not working.”

The Nigerian authorities must immediately end the almost daily bloodshed in Benue state and bring the actual perpetrators to justice.

The horrifying killing of over 100 people by gunmen that invaded Yelewata; from late Friday into the early hours of Saturday 14 June 2025, shows…

— Amnesty International Nigeria (@AmnestyNigeria) June 14, 2025

The organization also explained that many victims were still missing.

“Many people are still missing,” the post continued, “aside dozens injured and left without adequate medical care. Many families were locked up and burnt inside their bedrooms. So many bodies were burnt beyond recognition. Amnesty International has been documenting the alarming escalation of attacks across Benue state where gunmen have been on a killing spree with utter impunity. These attacks have been causing massive displacement and may affect food security as majority of the victims are farmers. The Nigerian authorities’ failure to stem the violence is costing people’s lives and livelihoods, and without immediate action many more lives may be lost.”

Aderholt mourned those who had been killed and condemned the violence against Christians.

“Absolutely horrific reports out of Benue, Nigeria,” Aderholt said on X. “Over 100 Christians reportedly massacred in a coordinated overnight attack in Yelewata. Eyewitnesses confirm the killers shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the assault. The world must not turn a blind eye to this violence against Christians.”

Absolutely horrific reports out of Benue, Nigeria. Over 100 Christians reportedly massacred in a coordinated overnight attack in Yelewata.

Eyewitnesses confirm the killers shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the assault.

The world must not turn a blind eye to this violence against…

— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) June 15, 2025

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee

7. Former FBI Director James Comey took a picture of some seashells on a beach spelling out “8647” which suggested killing President Donald Trump; he would pretend he didn’t understand what “86′ or “47” means, setting off an FBI investigation.

6. U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) urged Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to strengthen American healthcare through systemic reforms rather than just increasing funding, emphasizing innovation and accessibility.

5. A Rasmussen Reports poll revealed 52% of voters trust Republicans over Democrats in Congress, boosting GOP confidence as President Donald Trump pushes his agenda.

4. The U.S. Supreme Court is considering President Donald Trump’s proposal to end birthright citizenship via executive action and the abuse of nationwide injunctions.

3. Potheads and retailers vowed to challenge Alabama’s new law granting the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board authority over hemp products, calling it “cruel” and economically damaging.

2. U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) dismissed media scrutiny over a rumored 2026 gubernatorial bid, saying such speculation is “not new” and focusing on his current Senate role, including another story on stock trading that has been explained before.

1. President Donald Trump discussed his bold Middle East policies, including billions in defense spending deals, trade deals, sanctions relief, and military pay raises. These moves won rare praise from former Biden officials, the media and their Democrats.

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

April 15 is traditionally known as the deadline to file your tax return. This time last year, Alabama political insiders had marked their calendars as that being the date that our 2026 political season would begin. It was thought that all of the thoroughbred horses would be at the gate to begin their races for the state’s four top political posts by April 15, 2025. Our Republican primary is our election in Alabama. Therefore, the election for Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and one of our U.S. Senate seats will be on the ballot next year. It will be a very big year as the three top constitutional offices of Governor, Lt. Governor, and Attorney General are incumbent-free. The big question is whether the U.S. Senate Race will be incumbent-free.

The horses are late getting to the gate. However, we will have a probable starting gate date of Memorial Day, May 26, for the horses to be in their chutes. This is the date for fundraising to begin for the May 2026 Primary Election.

The looming question is, will our senior U.S. Senator, Tommy Tuberville, run in the 2026 election cycle? Will he run for re-election to his Senate seat, or will he run for Governor next year? That question will more than likely be answered in the next four to six weeks.

Coach Tuberville has flirted with the idea of running for Governor for the last six months. It has been the dominant question in Alabama politics over the past year. “Will he or won’t he?” is asked by politicos of each other on a daily basis. Well, it is getting late in the day, and it is getting close to time to fish or cut bait.

Having grown up in and around Alabama politics, my answer would be simple. If I were 72 years old like Tuberville, had one six-year term of seniority under my belt, was in the Republican majority, and was best friends with the Republican President, Donald J. Trump, it would be a no-brainer. I would run for another six-year term as a U.S. Senator. In most states, being Governor is a stepping stone to moving up to the U.S. Senate.

Being Governor of Alabama is not all it is cracked up to be. You have to really want to govern and have an agenda. You also have to have a good working relationship with the Alabama Legislature. Our Alabama Constitution inherently places the bulk of the power with the legislature. A lot of folks think the ultimate authority rests with the Governor. It does not. That perception, to a large degree, was derived from the influence that Governor George Wallace had during his four-term reign as governor. He, in essence, became a king. He controlled the legislature. In his heyday, he made the legislature an appendage of the Governor’s office. That day is gone. Over the past two or three decades, the legislature has taken that power back. Today, the adage the Governor proposes, and the legislature disposes, prevails.

Coach Tuberville would enjoy wearing the title of “Governor” and like the trappings and glamour of being governor but at the end of the day, he has got a much better job as a U.S. Senator.

Speaking of our Washington delegation, our Senior Congressman, Robert Aderholt, and his outstanding wife, Caroline, put on one whale of a wedding for their daughter, Mary Elliott, a few weeks ago. It was the closest thing to a regal wedding in Alabama history.

Robert Aderholt has indeed made the Alabama history books. He went to Congress in 1996 at the ripe age of 30. He is close to closing in on 30 years in the U.S. House, always representing the fourth district. Caroline is from a prominent North Alabama political family.

I remember being in Washington 25 to 30 years ago and seeing a young Congressman Aderholt and Caroline pushing their young baby girl around the capital in a baby buggy. That young baby has grown into a beautiful, successful young lady. Mary Elliott Aderholt married Grant Whitt, who is the son of Huntsville State Representative Andy Whitt and his beautiful wife, Jennifer, on March 29. Andy Whitt is a powerful North Alabama Legislator and successful banker.

The wedding was one for the record books. It took place at the majestic First Methodist Church of Huntsville. The wedding was magnificent. However, the reception at the elegant Ledges Country Club of Huntsville was something to behold.

Mingling for hours was truly a “Who’s Who” of Alabama politics. Every major, statewide political figure in Washington or Montgomery politics from past and present were there. I have never seen such an assemblage of Alabama political royalty gathered at a wedding or any event. It was truly a royal Alabama wedding.

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.

Members of Alabama’s delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives held a moment of silence for the shooting in Birmingham over the weekend that killed 4 and injured more than a dozen. Over 100 rounds were fired and a $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to arrests.

U.S. Reps. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), and Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) joined U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) as she led the moment of silence:

https://x.com/RepTerriSewell/status/1838707530249257215

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong introduced legislation last week to advance the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and micro-reactors across the country. Also sponsored by fellow Alabama U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, the Congressmen say implementation of the bill will boost energy production today and ensure reliable power supply for days to come — particularly in the Tennessee Valley.

Strong’s bill calls for the Department of Energy to construct and demonstrate two SMR or micro-reactor projects that can be fully deployed by 2034. At least one project must be located on or near an existing or retired nuclear reactor site, such as the unfinished Bellefonte Nuclear Plant, a Tennessee Valley Authority asset in Alabama.

“North Alabama has seen tremendous population growth and economic expansion in the last two decades, and I am committed to ensuring we make enough power to fuel North Alabama residents and businesses,” Rep. Strong (R-Monrovia) said. “Winter Storm Elliott was a wake-up call for us all. To avoid shortages in the future, we must be constantly investing in modern energy sources to power our economy for the next generation.”

SMRs are smaller, safer, and more cost-effective than conventional nuclear reactors and can be deployed in diverse settings, including rural areas and on military bases. The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven Southeastern states.

“Our nation’s energy policy must reflect a commitment to increasing energy production so those in North Alabama, and across the nation, will always have access to power when they need it most,” Rep. Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said.

“Residents of Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District should never be subjected to a lack of power or lack of economic opportunities due to electric providers not being able to produce adequate energy supplies. This is why this bill is so important. Those in rural areas of the nation, like my district, will benefit greatly from the use of SMRs.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Former President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt Sunday afternoon while golfing at his West Palm Beach club, according to reports from authorities. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the incident, which involved a suspect armed with an AK-47-style rifle who was apprehended in a neighboring county.

Trump was on the fifth hole at the Trump International Golf Club when Secret Service agents, stationed one hole ahead, spotted a rifle barrel protruding from a fence roughly 400 yards away. The agent immediately fired several shots, causing the suspect to flee the scene in an SUV. Authorities later identified the man as Ryan Wesley Routh, who was stopped and arrested without incident.

Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of Palm Beach County reported that law enforcement found the rifle, along with two backpacks filled with ceramic tiles, commonly used in body armor, and a GoPro camera near the site. The suspect reportedly did not fire any rounds during the incident.

Trump, who was unharmed, posted to Truth Social after the incident: “There were gunshots in my vicinity, but before rumors start spiraling out of control, I wanted you to hear this first: I AM SAFE AND WELL,” Trump wrote. “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER! I will always love you for supporting me. Unity. Peace. Make America Great Again.”

The assassination attempt is the second incident targeting Trump. In July, during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a shooter fired eight rounds from a nearby rooftop, grazing Trump’s ear, killing 50-year-old firefighter and father, Corey Comperatore.

Alabama’s Republican lawmakers began calling for prayers for President Trump’s safety on Sunday, some raising urgency around the gaps in his security operation.

U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile)

https://x.com/RepJerryCarl/status/1835418548954365997

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise)

https://x.com/RepBarryMoore/status/1835385884796940446

U.S. Rep Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville)

https://x.com/Robert_Aderholt/status/1835422597611184637

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover)

https://x.com/USRepGaryPalmer/status/1835425571960136191

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery)

I’m grateful that President Trump is safe. Please pray for him, his family, and our nation. https://t.co/o9uOIBrvC2

— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) September 15, 2024

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

I’m glad to hear President Trump is safe.

Join me in praying for him and for our country.

— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) September 15, 2024

Governor Kay Ivey

https://x.com/GovernorKayIvey/status/1835456168904257864

Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth

https://x.com/willainsworthAL/status/1835494929151263157

Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed

https://x.com/SenatorGregReed/status/1835473334080860518

Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter

https://x.com/RepLedbetter/status/1835472833738121622

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Thirteen individuals with ties to Mountain Gateway, a Texas-based Christian missionary organization, were arrested and imprisoned in December of 2023 by the Nicaraguan government.

President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua and the first lady and vice president, Rosario Murillo, accused the organization of using its nonprofit status as a cover to purchase luxury goods, property, and land.

The group associated with Mountain Gateway, including eleven pastors, never received an explanation regarding the allegations against them or official documentation of their supposed criminal charges. Additionally, they were denied legal counsel.

On Thursday morning, the individuals connected to the non-profit were released.

“This is the day we have prayed and believed God for. These pastors and attorneys have suffered greatly for the sake of the Gospel, but it has not been in vain. The Kingdom of God is advancing because of their persecution. Today, we cry tears of joy because our brothers and sisters are free!” said Jon Britton Hancock, founder of Mountain Gateway.

Alabama’s delegation in Washington played a critical role in securing the release of the imprisoned Christians, particularly U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, who celebrated their freedom on Thursday.

“I am thankful to God for the release of not only these pastors but the other Christians being held as well,” said Aderholt (R-Haleyville) in a statement. “As I have said many times throughout this ordeal that began late last year, they were simply preaching and sharing the Good News of Christ’s redeeming love to others.”

https://x.com/Robert_Aderholt/status/1831674920826290579

“I have spoken this morning to the Hancock family, and they are overjoyed that everyone will soon be able to return home. I also know that what has transpired over the past year will not diminish these believers’ desire to continue to help others and simply share the good news of Christ.”

In February, Aderholt led a letter addressed to the Ambassador of Nicaragua expressing deep concern over violations of religious freedom in Nicaragua and calling for the release of the imprisoned.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt also worked hard to secure the group’s freedom by urging the Biden Administration to use every sanction enforcement authority and diplomatic leverage available.

“Religious freedom is an inalienable, God-given human right that must be protected at every turn,” said Britt (R-Montgomery). “I am tremendously grateful these Christian leaders are free, but they never should have been imprisoned in the first place. Let’s be very clear – these Christians were in prison because of their faith. Those who dedicate their lives to preaching the Gospel and advancing God’s Kingdom should be celebrated, not persecuted.”

“Today’s news is an answered prayer. I appreciate the State Department’s work to free these political prisoners and facilitate their safe passage out of Nicaragua. I will continue to be an unwavering champion of religious liberty in the United States Senate.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

While back in state for August recess, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt visited with local and regional leaders at an Alabama League of Municipalities (ALM) congressional luncheon last week in Guntersville to offer updates on his work in Washington and solidify partnerships at home.

Aderholt (R-Haleyville) spoke to the importance of being fiscally responsible while collaborating with Senate lawmakers and local leaders to bring federal funding back to the district and state. As Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, Aderholt spoke candidly about the challenges Congress faces in passing all 12 appropriations bills before the new fiscal year begins on Oct. 1. With just weeks left, Aderholt acknowledged the difficulty of meeting the deadline.

“We have a hard deadline of passing those 12 appropriation bills by September 30. So far this year, we have passed all 12 out of our committee, which is actually ahead of the game in many ways, and we passed five on the floor of the House. We have seven still to go,” he said. ”To be honest, between now and September 30, we’re going to have a very difficult time passing all those individual bills. So what we will do, as usual, is pass a continuing resolution to bridge us over until we can get all the bills together.”

Aderholt said the Alabama delegation has fostered a partnership together that others have not in Washington. “We can’t do anything in the House without the Senate, and the Senate can’t do anything without the House. It takes us both working together,” he said, thanking U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery).

The veteran congressman also expressed a commitment to helping small towns and cities in his district secure federal funding through community projects, which are crucial for driving economic development in areas with limited local budgets.

Beyond the appropriations process, Aderholt raised urgency around Congressional action to secure the Southern Border and forecasted the stakes of the 2024 election.

“Over the last four years, we’ve seen approximately 10 million aliens – illegal aliens – that have come across our border. There’s probably another 2 million or so that have escaped that we don’t know about. And out of the ones that have been apprehended, there’s been 350 at least, that have been on terrorist watch list. So that is something that I take seriously,” Aderholt said.

“I know that you take seriously your own communities, and we have got to make sure the federal government addresses that issue, and hopefully we get back to Washington, I hope that there’ll be pressure on Congress truly act, especially on this administration, that we need to put partisan politics behind this.”

Looking ahead to the upcoming November general election, Aderholt said that control of the House and Senate could hinge on just a few key races.

“The House, Senate and the President is all up for grabs. The House, as I mentioned, we’re all up for reelection right now. We have a four-seat majority in the House of Representatives. There’s 435, seats up, there’s only about 20 or 25 that are really what I would consider toss-up races.”

“The Senate as you know, is controlled by the Democrats of one seat. But obviously that is one of those things that with [U.S. Senator Joe Manchin] seat now flipping Republican, and most likely that’s going to go Republican — I don’t see West Virginia voting for a Democrat for their Senate. Then that puts it 50-50. So whoever picks up one seat after the West Virginia seat will control the Senate.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Alabama businessman and philanthropist Jimmy Rane is being formally welcomed to the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, the entity tasked with planning commemorations and celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Rane was appointed by U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) earlier this month.

Rane, Chairman and CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. and a native of Abbeville, expressed profound gratitude for his appointment and the opportunity that America250 has to create one of the most significant commemorations in American history.

“As we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary, I am deeply honored to join the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and give back to the country I love,” Rane said.

“Alabama represents the strength and resilience that defines America, and this historic milestone is a unique opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to the values that make our country exceptional. Together, we will honor the legacy of our Founding Fathers and inspire future generations to embrace the principles of freedom, unity, and progress.”

Rosie Rios, Chair of America250 and former U.S. Treasurer, welcomed Rane as an asset to the work of the commission and a testament to the spirit of the occasion. “We are incredibly honored to welcome philanthropist and businessman Jimmy Rane to America250,” Rios said.

“Commissioner Rane’s exceptional leadership and proven track record of innovation and community impact make him an invaluable asset in our journey to 2026. As we work to build a celebration and commemoration that engages Americans from sea to shining sea, we are confident that his expertise will be instrumental in ensuring our celebrations capture the spirit of our nation and reflect the strength, determination, creativity, and resilience that make America exceptional.”

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Val Croft and Thomas Walker, Jr. of the American Village in Montevallo, and now, Jimmy Rane are among the Alabamians involved in the multi-year leadership effort. Aderholt, who has been involved with the commission’s work since Congressional planning first began in 2016, also formally welcomed Rane to America250.

“Jimmy’s extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to leading one of the nation’s most iconic companies is a true embodiment of the American Dream and what makes our country great,” Aderholt said. “I look forward to serving with him, our fellow Commissioners, and all organizations involved to engage Americans in celebrating and commemorating this historic milestone.”

As 2026 approaches, the nonpartisan initiative coordinating the nationwide celebration is engaging Americans from coast to coast with programming that includes a national effort to compile the largest oral history and understanding of the United States and a nationwide scholastic contest that encourages students to reflect on what America means to them.

This fall, America250 will debut its next national programming called America Gives, a multi-year effort focused on reinvigorating year-round service by focusing on three key pillars: charitable giving, volunteer service, and public service – which includes military service.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

As the United States prepares for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission first began its work with authorization from Congress in 2016. On Tuesday, U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La) announced the appointment of Jimmy Rane to the Commission.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Val Croft and Thomas Walker, Jr. of the American Village in Montevallo, and now, Jimmy Rane of Abbeville, are among the Alabamians involved in the multi-year leadership effort. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, a native of Mobile and graduate of Auburn University, is also on the Commission, which consists of eight Congressional members and sixteen private citizens appointed by Senate and House party leaders.

According to America250, the nonpartisan initiative coordinating the nationwide celebration, “On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.”

Jimmy Rane is a self-made billionaire from the small town of Abbeville. After earning degrees from Auburn University and Samford, Rane began a career in law before founding Great Southern Wood Preserving. He transformed a small family sawmill into a national leader in pressure-treated lumber with his iconic “YellaWood” brand.

In the years since, his Jimmy Rane Foundation has awarded millions in college scholarships, and he’s a major benefactor of Auburn University, where he serves as a trustee. Last week, Rane was appointed to the Alabama Growth Alliance by Governor Kay Ivey, which will serve as a guiding force in the state’s reinvigorated economic development efforts.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) along with U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt and Mike Rogers (R-Saks) shared congratulations for their fellow Alabamian being appointed to serve on the commission:

https://x.com/Robert_Aderholt/status/1823409806302175680

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1823412465184419885

https://x.com/RepMikeRogersAL/status/1823415274990698890

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Currently out for August recess, the majority of Alabama’s delegation to Washington joined state and business leaders for the Business Council of Alabama’s (BCA) annual Governmental Affairs Conference. Lawmakers offered updates and insight into a wide range of topics including the appropriations process, social media and the mental health of young Americans, creating wise regulations for name, image, and likeness (NIL) in college sports, as well as a central element to Alabama’s success in the 21st Century: Infrastructure.

In a panel moderated by Ted Hosp, Vice President of Governmental Relations for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, lawmakers were asked to share their infrastructure priorities and how the state can collaborate more closely to achieve Alabama-driven goals.

U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) described the unique infrastructure needs of District 1 as it currently exists, particularly in Baldwin County, Alabama’s fastest growing county. He also emphasized that the enhancement of the Port of Mobile is vital to Alabama’s economy.

“We’ve got this little thing called the Bayway Bridge that we’ve had to focus on. We’re trying to improve the I-10, east and west. But then you get to Mobile, and you start looking at the port. The port is the bloodstream of Alabama — don’t ever forget that. And I told Governor Ivey, and I truly mean this. If she is remembered for nothing else in her legacy as governor, it will be for the infrastructure projects and road and bridge projects that she is supporting,” Rep. Carl said.

“We appreciate that. So, in Mobile, we’ve got a little bit of everything in District One—a little bit of everything. So we’re excited about what we’re seeing coming out of Washington through our appropriations projects that we’ve made some announcements on. But it’s a little bit of a different mix than probably the rest of the state.”

While much of the lawmakers’ discussion dealt with the crossroads between infrastructure and economic development, other officials also lauded the infrastructure gains in Mobile.

“You look at Mobile, Huntsville – that’s the bookends of Alabama. Mobile is ‘fixing to see something special happen, I’m telling you right now,” U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) said.

“You look at the dredging that we caught a lot of heck for, I’m telling you right now, you look at what’s going on with national security when we need to repair a ship or a submarine – we shouldn’t have to go to Virginia to do it, or to go to California – I believe Mobile, Alabama is where it ought to be done. And we’re all going to be fighting to make that happen,” Strong said to a room full of applause.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt said it’s incredible that the widening of the Port should finish up by March-April, and should be commended for accomplishing the project on time and under budget.

“Our inland waterways is something that we also focus on,” Sen. Britt (R-Montgomery) said. “They use commerce. It’s part of national security. When we look at what happens in Demopolis, we’re not only looking at dredging, and what we need to be doing there, but we’re taking a look at our lock and dam system and saying, ‘How can we make sure that this doesn’t happen again? Where do we need to invest?’

“And so whether it’s Coffeeville or wherever we are, that’s also another infrastructure need, and that’s something that we value and we know our state does as well.”

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) celebrated the long-awaited Northern Beltline project funded through the Appalachian Development Highway System. He said there is still $9.7 billion left to be appropriated out of the system and Alabama gets 30% of that.

“It’ll take about 20 years,” Rep. Palmer said. “I’ll be ninety years old, but I’m planning to drive on it.”

“One of the things that I’ve told people about how we need to be looking at infrastructure is that we need to be looking 25 years down the road. I say this a lot: Smart people learn from their mistakes, but great people learn from other people’s mistakes. We can develop our infrastructure in such a way that will allow us to have the economic growth we want without us becoming Atlanta or Nashville, where their traffic congestion has really diminished the quality of life in those cities. If we want to do things the right way, we can grow our economy and maintain our quality of life,” Palmer said.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Selma) said it takes a team effort. She said the Alabama delegation meets together once a month to collaborate on how to drive key state priorities forward.

“Let me just start by saying that infrastructure is the basic foundation for economic development and growth,” Rep. Sewell said. “I have to say that I was very pleased to vote in favor of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which actually gave $1.4 trillion – it’s a once in a lifetime investment in our future – and the last time we spent that kind of money was Eisenhower in the development of the highway system.”

“But you know, for me, when you represent the black belt, as well as Birmingham, inner city and rural, I think that my priority has been water and sewer for the black belt. It’s been broadband for my whole district. It’s in roads and bridges. And you know when I think about the fact that over the next five years, the state of Alabama will get $5 billion from that bill for roads and bridges, million dollars our port, all of that is infrastructure. All that’s critical to the development and the growth in our area.”

U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt and Barry Moore reflected the stewardship of infrastructure dollars rely on the state lawmakers and officials who decide where to ultimately appropriate them, particularly as it relates to one-time funding mechanisms such as COVID-19 relief funds. Long before the pandemic, Alabama lawmakers centralized a focus on equipping rural parts of the state with high-speed internet.

“Broadband is a new infrastructure, and getting broadband to our rural parts of the state of Alabama is crucially important,” Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said. “I appreciate the work that State Legislature is doing, Speaker Ledbetter and Senator Reed, because leadership in the House and Senate, it takes a team effort.

“But really getting those federal dollars were important. Back when I chaired the House [Agriculture Committee] subcommittee on appropriations, we started the ReConnect program and putting federal dollars into this to help with rural broadband – that has been a tremendous shot in the arm.”

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said that a major vulnerability in day-to-day life for some Alabamians identified during the pandemic was, while many began working from home and students learned virtually, they needed access to high-speed internet.

“I congratulate Bill Poole and certainly the Governor, investing long term that money that gets poured into the states from Covid. A lot of states went into this temporary program, but we need to invest in long-term infrastructure. We can do broadband and sewer, water, highway, because down the road, that’s going to pay dividends for the state; that allows the U.S. economy to grow.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted along party lines to hold Biden’s Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress after he refused a lawful order from Congress to turn over subpoenaed audio of President Joseph R. Biden’s interview with special counsel Robert Hur. All six Republican members of the Alabama House delegation voted for the contempt of Congress resolution.

Following his vote in favor of the contempt resolution against Garland, Congressman Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) released a statement.

“Merrick Garland’s refusal to release the recordings from President Biden’s interview with Special Counsel Robert Hur raises serious questions about President Biden’s mental fitness to function as President,” said Rep. Palmer.

“The White House vehemently denied Special Counsel Hur’s depiction of President Biden as a ‘sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.’ Considering the investigation into Biden’s mishandling of classified documents is closed, Biden does not face any legal jeopardy. Also, the fact that the written, unredacted transcript has been released, it makes no sense that AG Garland is willing to be charged in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with the subpoena and release the recording of the interview. Garland’s willingness to have his record tarnished by being held in contempt of Congress only increases speculation and concern about President Biden’s mental ability to effectively carry out his duties as President.”

Congressman Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) released a statement to Twitter after his vote for the measure.

https://x.com/RepBarryMoore/status/1800991369797726550

“I just voted to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for ignoring 2 subpoenas directing him to release the audio of Special Counsel Hur’s interview with Joe Biden,” said Rep. Moore on the social media platform X. “The American people deserve to hear what is on those tapes.”

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong also released a statement after voting for the resolution.

https://x.com/repdalestrong/status/1801009610112868572?s=42&t=PCRLCe_9HW7Hlwt3leMAJA

“Today, I voted with my colleagues to hold AG Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress,” Strong (R-Monrovia) said. “The facts are simple: The leadership at the Justice Department cannot withhold materials critical to Congress’ constitutional obligation to oversee and monitor the Executive.”

Hur was tasked with investigating the mishandling of classified documents by Biden before he became President. Hur said that Biden was guilty of the offense, but declined to prosecute on the grounds that Biden (the oldest President in American history by far) had such a poor memory that he questioned his competency to even stand trial.

The Biden White House has claimed executive privilege over the tapes. Garland’s DOJ has concurred with the White House.

“It is deeply disappointing that this House of Representatives has turned a serious congressional authority into a partisan weapon,” the DOJ wrote in an opinion released to The Hill. “Today’s vote disregards the constitutional separation of powers, the Justice Department’s need to protect its investigations, and the substantial amount of information we have provided to the Committees,” Garland said in a statement after the vote.”

Republicans argue that the Justice Department under Garland has been weaponized against them.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.