What looked like an interesting and competitive U.S. Senate race in Alabama, changed January 18, almost exactly four months ahead of our May 19 Republican Primary election.

President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Congressman Barry Moore, coupled with the expected endorsement of Moore by the powerful and money laden “Club for Growth,” makes the Wiregrass Congressman the prohibitive favorite in this open Senate Seat race.

Moore, as a State Legislator, was one of the first public officials to endorse newly minted Presidential candidate Donald Trump. Moore, along with Senator Jeff Sessions, spoke on behalf of Trump at a campaign rally in Mobile in August of 2015. Trump was getting significant media attention but was still considered a longshot. That was 10 years ago, during that decade Moore has continued his stalwart, steady support for President Trump and his conservative agenda.

Ironically, the seat Moore is now seeking, is the seat formerly held by Jeff Sessions. Senator Sessions served 20 years in that seat and was consistently recognized as the most conservative member of the U.S. Senate. Moore will more than likely replicate that conservative mantra and label as Alabama’s junior Senator. He has an impeccable ultra conservative voting record during his six-year tenure in the U.S. House.

Barry Moore was born and raised in Coffee County, the same county as our Senior Senator Katie Britt. In fact, both grew up in Enterprise, and both graduated from Enterprise High School. Therefore, if Moore is elected, both of Alabama’s U.S. Senators will hail from the same hometown, Enterprise, which is a historic first. Although Moore will be our junior Senator, he is 15 years Katie Britt’s senior in age. Moore is 59. Katie is 44.

Moore was first elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2010 and was in the Alabama House for eight years through 2018. He had an unremarkable tenure. He, as always, had a consistent, right-wing voting record when he attended. He was a close ally of former speaker Mike Hubbard.

Moore was elected to the U.S. Congress from the old Second District in 2020. He beat a favored, well-heeled Dothan businessman, probably because his opponent was perceived as a rich “country clubber” with an air of privilege. Moore came across as a regular farm born, Wiregrass, “aw-shucks,” plain spoken, true Trump conservative, good ole boy, and won an upset victory. Moore won an easy reelection victory in 2022.

In 2023, a federal court redrew Alabama’s congressional map to create a new Democratic minority district. This federal gerrymandering moved the white Republican voters in the Wiregrass into the same district with the First District, Baldwin/Mobile Republicans.

Moore became pitted against First District Republican, Jerry Carl. Moore, with the help of the “Club for Growth,” upset Carl. This Moore/Club for Growth coalition revealed how powerful and sophisticated a machine the national Club for Growth has become.

The Club for Growth has become the most powerful force in Republican Senatorial and Congressional races in Republican states in America. They are a quiet, dark money, Right Wing organization made up of the multimillionaire/billionaire contributors. They want very restrained government spending, and back very conservative-proven candidates, who have conservative credentials.

At one time, when the “Club” was becoming established as the behemoth in Republican politics, they and Trump were at odds on some races. However, they seemed to coalesce into one solidly aligned team last year, with the passage of the Trump proposed, One Big Beautiful Bill. The Club brought their congressmen, most of whom belong to the right-wing Freedom Caucus, into the fold, probably because the Daddy Warbucks Club for Growth rich guys were given a significant tax cut in the Bill.

President Donald Trump and the Club for Growth seem to be on the same team. This coalition marriage tandem of Donald Trump and Club for Growth will be difficult to overcome in any Republican State Republican Primary, especially in the Heart of Dixie.

My prediction is that with the Donald Trump and Club for Growth seal of approval, Barry Moore will be Alabama’s next junior U.S. Senator.

We will soon see.

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.

On Monday evening, President Donald Trump endorsed the U.S. Senate’s breakthrough to reopen the federal government, calling it a “very good” deal and vowing to “abide by the deal” as the package moves to the House.

The Senate approved the measure 60-40, ending the nation’s longest shutdown after more than 40 days, with eight members of the Senate Democratic caucus crossing over to join a unified GOP conference minus one.

The bill keeps agencies funded into late January and couples the continuing resolution with full-year FY2026 funding for Military Construction-VA, the Legislative Branch, and Agriculture-FDA.

According to news reports and sources close to the negotiations, Alabama U.S. Senator Katie Britt played an instrumental role in recent weeks.

As the primary Republican negotiator in talks with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), as well as top Democrat negotiators at the rank-and-file level on the Democrat side like U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) – who each broke with their party and joined Republicans – Britt was reportedly in constant communication with the White House.

A report from CNBC amplified Britt’s philosophy for breaking the stalemate: “You can’t break a logjam without having a conversation.”

Punchbowl News reported this morning that Senator Kaine personally thanked Senator Britt on the Senate floor after announcing his support for the shutdown-ending deal and his conditions for backing the package.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) called Britt “a rock star” throughout the process of intense, historic negotiations.

On the U.S. House side, the conservative response has been overwhelmingly positive. A House Freedom Caucus bulletin syndicated once details emerged depicted the deal as, “A total win for HFC, conservative leadership, and messaging.”

Britt said on Monday evening that after more than 40 days, “the undue suffering of the American people will soon come to an end.”

“From the beginning, I have always viewed returning to regular order in our appropriations process as the best pathway forward. Ultimately, this package of appropriations bills, in addition to Republicans’ continuing resolution, will reopen the government, fund critical programs like SNAP and WIC, ensure our nation’s outstanding veterans have access to essential services, and pay our federal workers, Capitol police, and air traffic controllers,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“I’m deeply proud to have voted over 15 times to keep the government open and working for Alabamians and the American people. I’m also grateful for my Senate Republican colleagues, and colleagues across the aisle, who worked diligently to bring this shutdown to an end. I am honored to have played a role in the negotiations that led us to this point, and I look forward to continuing to work to put people over politics and make our government function again.”

The U.S. Senate-passed CR ensures full-year military funding, a massive priority for Alabama, while keeping critical operations at agencies funded and ensuring federal workers receive back pay.

The U.S. House is expected to move next, followed by a signature from President Trump, which will bring an end to the longest government shutdown in United States history.

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

The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry has approved legislation sponsored by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) to expand Talladega National Forest.

The proposal was included in a broader package of U.S. Forest Service lands bills.

The measure, titled the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act, would expand the forest’s proclamation boundary by approximately 50,000 acres across three East Alabama counties. Tuberville introduced the legislation earlier this year.

“As Alabama continues to grow, citizens need access to safe and reliable hiking trails and outdoor spaces to encourage wellness and improved health,” Tuberville said. “I am proud to lead this legislation to promote both tourism and conservation efforts for all Alabamians.”

The legislation would allow the U.S. Forest Service to buy land from willing sellers, a move expected to support local economies while preserving natural resources. The expansion would also enhance the Pinhoti Trail System, one of Alabama’s premier long-distance hiking routes.

Tuberville has also submitted a letter of support for the measure to Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman.

Established in 1936, Talladega National Forest is divided into the Oakmulgee and Talladega divisions. The Talladega Division currently spans 400,000 acres, with the federal government owning about half of that. The boundary has been adjusted nine times since the forest’s creation, most recently through the 1990 Farm Bill.

The Pinhoti Trail — Alabama’s longest-distance hiking trail — currently includes about 15 miles of road walks between its southern segments. The proposed expansion would allow the Forest Service to acquire land that would connect and extend the trail, improving safety and maintenance.

Tuberville represents Alabama in the U.S. Senate and serves on the Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging committee.

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

AJ McCarron, former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback and Mobile native, will run for statewide office in 2026, sources close to his decisionmaking process tell Yellowhammer News. 

While he has not yet announced a campaign or filed papers to make his bid official, he is preparing to run either for Lieutenant Governor or U.S. Senate.

McCarron, 34, led Alabama to back-to-back national championships as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012. He spent parts of nine seasons in the NFL, including with the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2024 started for the UFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks.

Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, elected first in 2018, is term limited in the role.

In the open 2026 field, Rick Pate, who is also term-limited in his position as Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries, as well as Wes Allen, only in his first term as Secretary of State, are currently running for Lt. Governor.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), soon-to-be Governor of Alabama, also created an open race.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), Jared Hudson, and Morgan Murphy are running to take his place in the Senate.

In his hometown of Mobile, McCarron and his family are associated with a Mobile-based real-estate enterprise, McCarron Real Estate, which advertises listings across Mobile and Baldwin counties.

His wife, Katherine Webb-McCarron, is also an Alabama native, born in Montgomery, raised in Phenix City, and was crowned Miss Alabama USA in 2012.

The couple married in Orange Beach in 2014 and have three children.

Given that the Alabama Republican Party qualifying window doesn’t end until January 23, 2026, McCarron has plenty of time to make up his mind on which office to run for.

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

A former top aide to U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and recent White House official, Morgan Murphy, will launch a Republican bid for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat at an event in Birmingham this evening, according to a news report from USA Today. 

Murphy, 53, is a captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve and a first-time candidate who drew national attention for helping engineer Tuberville’s monthslong blockade of military promotions over the Biden Pentagon’s military abortion travel policy, which was eventually reversed.

He left a White House public-diplomacy role last week ahead of the announcement.

“I feel called to run because President Trump’s America first agenda is the first political movement in my lifetime that made sense to me,” Murphy told USA Today.

He said he wants Trump’s “common-sense approach to government [to] last not just another three-and-a-half years while he’s in office but well beyond.”

“You better believe President Trump and Coach Tuberville both demand excellence on every level,” he said. “I’m proud to have worked for both men and will make it my mission to continue their fight in the U.S. Senate for years to come.”

Murphy’s résumé spans media and national security: stints at Southern Living and Forbes preceded work as press secretary to former Acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller and as a senior fellow at the America First Policy Institute, along with White House and State Department public-diplomacy roles.

Murphy also told USA Today that he has informed the White House of his plans and spoken with Tuberville.

“The president likes to back winners, and I want to get out on the campaign trail and prove that I have support before I ask him for his support.”

Alabama’s 2026 U.S. Senate race could be heavily influenced by an endorsement from President Donald Trump.

But Murphy is joining a field of candidates that include U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, and former U.S. Navy Seal Jared Hudson.

On his already-launched campaign website, Murphy describes his platform as an extension of Trump-era “America First” priorities and “Coach’s values” in the U.S. Senate.

We all knew that this 2026 election year was going to be a big year in Alabama politics. This year’s biggest race will be for the U.S. Senate Seat of Coach Tuberville.

The key to winning this seat like any open U.S. Senate Seat is having or garnering campaign money. Having your own money is always paramount to winning a coveted senate seat anywhere in America. That is why it is referred to as the “Millionaire’s Club.” Although, in today’s world, it more accurately could be called the “Billionaire’s Club.” Over the course of history, it has seen the names of Kennedy, Rockefeller, Danforth, and Kohler.

Another advantage for rich candidates is that the big Washington special interest lobbyists – big dollar contributors – have an unwritten rule that they do not contribute to primaries in wide-open, non-incumbent, senate races. Instead, they wait for the general election. The problem with this for candidates from totally Republican states like ours is that our GOP primary is our election. Therefore, a well-heeled candidate with their own money is in the catbird’s seat.

The two apparent front runners for our open U.S. Senate Seat are Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and First District Congressman Barry Moore. A third candidate is Navy SEAL Jared Hudson. He has movie star good looks and if someone could drop $10 million into his race he would sell. Both Barry Moore and Steve Marshall are very conservative candidates. However, they are both of modest means financially.

Marshall has nothing to lose by running for the senate. He has served his two-term limit as Alabama’s Attorney General. Thus, he simply is striving to move up the political ladder. Whereas if Congressman Barry Moore loses his seat in the U.S. Congress, he is out. Congressmen run every two years, so it is a big political gamble to run for a senate seat. Thus, the old adage – the political graveyard is full of congressmen, who have tried to move to the senate.

The winner of this race will be the one who can tap the Washington spigots of right-wing, fringe, dark money that plays on the Potomac. The biggest player in the right-wing Washington clandestine money pot is the now renowned Club for Growth. They are the Daddy Warbucks of the extreme right wing and are THE players in open U.S. Senate races in conservative Republican states. In fact, they only play in Republican primaries in Republican states. They are hidden deep pocketed donors, who believe in no government. 

Ironically, the congressmen who are owned by the Club for Growth come from districts that are the most dependent on military, thus big government spending. The prime example was Alabama’s former Congressman Mo Brooks from Huntsville, who routinely voted against his district’s needs in favor of the Club for Growth. This group is not only anti-government, but anti-Trump. Trump hates them and does not like them owning Republican seats. 

Club for Growth congressmen belong to the Freedom Caucus within the Republican ranks and these right-wing clones proudly display their Freedom Caucus membership. Washington insiders and mainstream Republicans recognize them as nuts. The Republican leadership relegates them to the back benches and does not allow them any plum committee assignments. However, these Freedom Caucus Club for Growth extremists do not care because they do not want to get anything done for their districts or state anyway. They thrive on being ineffective. All they want to do is sit on their back bench pews, bark at the moon, and throw reactionary bombs. They adamantly believe it is not their responsibility to help or bring home the bacon for their districts. 

The Club for Growth owned two of our congressmen before Brooks left the House to get beaten for the Senate. They now own one. Congressman Barry Moore is their boy. The Club for Growth was doing extensive polling to determine if they could elect him, which is why Moore was late entering the race. This Club is the reason Barry Moore upset Jerry Carl in the new First District two years ago. Carl was blindsided by the Club’s big bucks, sophisticated polling, and ability to hide their money. 

The Club for Growth would love to own five or six Republican senate seats. There is no telling what they will spend to buy this Senate seat for their boy Barry Moore. Poor Steve Marshall cannot imagine what is going to hit him. This race will not be decided in Alabama. It will be decided by deep, dark money in Washington.

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.

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) has secured the endorsement of the Senate Conservative Fund in his campaign to become Alabama’s next senator.

The group announced the news on Wednesday, magnifying Moore’s conservative voting record during his time in the U.S. House.

In a press statement, the organization said Moore has a chance to be “one of the all-time greats” in Washington, D.C.

“Make no mistake. Barry Moore is the only candidate in this race ready to pick up right where Coach Tuberville leaves off,” the PAC noted. “Border security, crime, right to life, growing the economy, defunding the Deep State, protecting girls’ sports, and putting America first. On the issues that matter most, Barry Moore is a fighting, proven conservative. If he wins this race, he will become one of the best senators in Washington the minute he is sworn in.”

“SCF has given Moore our full endorsement in this race. We’re going to work hard to help him win the Republican Primary and then win the general election next November.”

“If you’re looking for a true, conservative candidate you can trust 100% in 2026, look no further than Barry Moore. He’s the original MAGA warrior. He has never let us down before. He won’t let us down in the Senate.”

RELATED: Barry Moore unloads on 2026 rivals: I’m the ‘only candidate’ who is not a Democrat

Moore thanked the group for its endorsement.

“I’m honored to have the support of the Senate Conservatives Fund,” said Moore. “They have a strong record of identifying and fully supporting candidates who will stand strong for our conservative values and not wilt in the D.C. swamp. Alabama doesn’t need a weathervane politician. I ain’t never been nothing but a conservative Republican.”

In 2015, Moore was the first elected official in the country to endorse Donald Trump for President. Since his election to the House of Representatives, Moore has racked up a 95% voting record from Heritage Action for America, representing one of the highest in either house of Congress. Moore has also been a steadfast member of the House Freedom Caucus.

Moore is running to replace U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), who is leaving the Senate to run for governor.

The SCF will pay all processing fees and transfer 100% of donations directly to Moore’s campaign.

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

U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and Edward Markey (D-Mass.), co-chairs of the United States Senate Youth Program, announced that state Departments of Education are now accepting applications for the program’s 64th annual Washington Week, scheduled for March 7-14, 2026.

Two Alabama high school students will be chosen to represent the state in Washington, D.C., during this weeklong program.

“The United States Youth Program attracts the best and brightest young leaders, and I’m thrilled to support this program as a co-chair this year. I look forward to meeting the outstanding students who are selected, including the two Alabamians who I know will represent our state exceptionally,” Senator Britt said.

“This week will surely create memories that last a lifetime and provide lessons and opportunities that will shape the futures of these young men and women in meaningful ways.”

RELATED: Katie Britt commends Alabama students on selection to 2024 U.S. Senate Youth Program

The competitive, merit-based program brings together high school juniors and seniors from every state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity.

Delegates spend a week in the nation’s capital meeting with top federal officials, including U.S. Senators, Supreme Court justices, Cabinet members, and the President.

Along with the experience, each of the 104 delegates receives a $10,000 college scholarship from The Hearst Foundations. The program, founded in 1962, has more than 6,300 alumni, many of whom have gone on to careers in public service.

Applicants must be high school juniors or seniors serving in elected or appointed student government or leadership positions for the 2025–2026 school year.

Alabama students should contact their high school principal or counselor for details on the application process and deadlines, or visit ussenateyouth.org.

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

On Monday morning, Alabama Speaker of the House of Representatives Nathaniel Ledbetter endorsed his friend and colleague, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) for Governor of Alabama in the 2026 GOP primary election.

“Alabama is winning like never before, and our state’s continued prosperity hinges upon its next governor being a strong conservative who will always fight to protect our jobs, our beliefs, and our way of life,” Speaker Ledbetter said.

“During his time in the U.S. Senate, Coach Tuberville has proven himself to be an unapologetically conservative leader who knows how to get things done – especially when it means taking the hard road. His record speaks for itself, and I fully believe he is the right man to lead our state as its next governor.”

RELATED: Fort Payne’s June Jam XVIII: Where Alabama political leaders and country music legends meet

Speaker Ledbetter and Coach Tuberville became friends in the months leading up to Coach announcing his 2020 bid for the U.S. Senate.

Ledbetter later officially joined Coach Tuberville’s campaign as its co-chairman and played an integral role in Coach’s primary victory amid a crowded field of candidates.

“From serving as co-chairman of my campaign for U.S. Senate to now, I appreciate Speaker Ledbetter’s continued support and friendship over the last several years,” Senator Tuberville said.

“We share a desire to improve life for all Alabamians from Sand Mountain to the Gulf of America. I’m looking forward to working with him to achieve historic wins for the Yellowhammer State.”

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

After months of speculation, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore has announced the launch of a campaign for U.S. Senate. The congressman, who was first elected to the House in 2020, will officially begin his campaign Friday at an event in DeKalb County.

RELATED: If Tuberville walks, who runs? A look at possible 2026 U.S. Senate contenders

In a press release announcing the news on Tuesday, Moore promised to continue his support of President Donald Trump and the “America First” agenda if elected to the upper chamber.

“I’m running for Senate because the people of Alabama deserve a Trump conservative and a working man who will defend their freedoms,” Moore (R-Enterprise) said.

“As the first elected official in the country to endorse President Trump, I will have his back and defend the MAGA agenda in the Senate, just like I have as a member of the Freedom Caucus in the House of Representatives. We have a lot to do in Washington to help President Trump get our country back on track, and my record shows I’ll never clock out when there is work to be done.”

Moore noted that he understands who is responsible for Alabama and America’s success.

“As Alabama’s next U.S. senator, I’ll work night and day to secure the border, deport illegal immigrants, cut taxes, stop the woke insanity, and defend our Christian values and constitutional liberties. I learned growing up on a farm in Coffee County that what makes this country great isn’t Washington elites, Wall Street billionaires, lifelong bureaucrats, or self-serving politicians. It’s the hardworking families of Alabama – and that’s who I will answer to and work for.”

RELATED: If Barry Moore goes statewide – who might run for his seat?

The lawmaker touted his established conservative voting record.

“I’m proud of my record of fighting for our military families, cutting taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, defending our 2nd Amendment freedoms, preventing the indoctrination of our kids with the Democrat trans agenda, protecting our unborn children, and eliminating government waste,” continued Moore. “As the owner of a waste removal company, I know how to take out the trash in Washington, and that’s exactly what I’ll do in the U.S. Senate.”

“This campaign isn’t about me – it’s about you: your family, your freedoms, and the future of this great country,” he said. “Too many politicians try to make Alabama more like Washington. I think it’s time to make Washington a little more like Alabama.”

Born and raised in Coffee County, Moore is a Christian, husband, father, and small-business owner who served in the Alabama National Guard Reserves.

He attended Auburn University, where he enlisted in the Reserves and met his wife, Heather. After college, they founded BMI Inc., a waste removal and demolition company.

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

Alabama U.S. Senator Katie Britt was spotted having a heated conversation from the floor of the Senate chamber on Thursday.

In a video posted to social media by a Capitol Hill reporter, Britt was really letting Democrat U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) have it. Take a look:

https://x.com/metzgov/status/1946225890347630676

It’s unclear what the exchange was about, but the reporter who caught the clip speculates, “Britt is the chair and Murphy is the ranking member on the Homeland Security Subcommittee of the Approps Committee, and it’s approps season, so perhaps something related to that?”

Murphy is strident on a number of mainstream liberal issues like gun control and immigration. But whatever it was that drew the ire of Britt — she clearly wasn’t backing down.

RELATED: Watch: Sen. Katie Britt puts climate activist in their place during phony selfie stunt

Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz chimed in with a quip about his own experience. “Every woman I know from Alabama has this gear,” Gaetz posted. “Good for @KatieBrittforAL”.

https://x.com/mattgaetz/status/1946227398095126946

Sen. Katie Britt celebrated Tuesday’s passage of Lulu’s Law, her bipartisan legislation named in honor of 16-year-old Lulu Gribbin, that would direct the Federal Communication Commission to issue an order providing that shark attacks are events for which wireless emergency alerts (WEAs) may be transmitted.

 

“Just over a year since Lulu survived a nearly fatal shark attack, I couldn’t be more honored to see the Senate unanimously pass this legislation,” said Britt (R-Montgomery). “Lulu’s grit, strength, and faith have truly inspired our nation. Her determination to help other families and beachgoers is nothing short of remarkable. Lulu’s Law is common-sense legislation that would empower authorities to quickly and accurately put information in the hands of beachgoers to help keep them out of harm’s way.”

As lawmakers on Capitol Hill continue to negotiate President Donald Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’,  the Senate’s version reportedly allocates millions in funding to North Alabama’s Marshall Space Flight Center and billions for projects being led by the NASA-affiliated entity.

Per the legislation posted by the Senate Commerce Committee on Thursday, MSFC will receive $100 million for infrastructure repairs and upgrades.

Additionally, the bill provides $4.1 billion for the Space Launch Systems of the Artemis IV and V missions. The SLS is the only human-related rocket available capable of transporting humans to the moon, and its development is being overseen by MSFC.

The center is also working on the development of the Gateway, a lunar-based space station. Under the bill, the program to create the facility will receive $2.6 billion.

RELATED: Britt, Tuberville speak out in defense of Marshall Space Flight Center, Alabama’s role in space program

The massive combined sum is part of a larger package that would provide an additional $9.995 billion in the current fiscal year for NASA. Those funds would be available for NASA to spend through fiscal year 2032.

https://x.com/jamiedupree/status/1930748876648046706

U.S. Senator Katie Britt, a staunch supporter of the Marshall Space Flight Center, understands its value and contributions to NASA-related research.

“The Marshall Space Flight Center is second-to-none,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said. “As the incredible men and women at NASA, along with their partners in the private sector, continue to make historic leaps that broaden our understanding and expand the limits of human achievement, we must ensure that their groundbreaking work is supported.”

RELATED: Britt helps provide billion-dollar boost for NASA in Alabama

She referenced the launch systems that Marshall is helping to create.

“While we need to ensure the cost effectiveness of the program, the SLS rocket—the most powerful in world history—is the only rocket currently capable of taking astronauts and large cargo directly to lunar orbit in a single launch. We will need multiple solutions and capabilities for assured access to space.”

The Senate’s version of the bill has so far received the support of the Aerospace Industries Association and the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration.

“As industry continues to push into new frontiers and outpace our competitors in space, this effort shows Congress is dedicated to moving forward with mission-critical programs and maintaining our space leadership,” Eric Fanning, president and chief executive of AIA, said.

The Marshall Space Flight Center in Redstone Arsenal employs more than 6,000 with 2,3000 civil servants. Founded in 1960, the operation is the largest NASA center in the country and has an annual budget of approxi­mately $5 billion.

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

Former U.S. Navy SEAL and Alabama native Jared Hudson has officially launched a campaign to become the state’s next Senator. The veteran, who currently resides in Birmingham with his wife and children, heads Covenant Rescue Group, an organization that fights against human trafficking.

In a recent video post on X, Hudson announced his candidacy and explained why he’s qualified to hold the office.

“I’d say the biggest thing that qualifies me is I’m not a career politician,” he said. “The problem with career politicians is that they seek political ambition, not service. My heart is in service and service to you, the people of the state of Alabama. I need to go to Washington, D.C., on behalf of you and not bring the D.C. issues back to the people of Alabama. Send a warrior to D.C.”

https://x.com/JaredHudson_AL/status/1927851207311143092

A statement on Hudson’s campaign website offered additional information on the candidate’s background.

“From SEAL Team missions to rescuing trafficking victims with Covenant Rescue Group — Jared Hudson’s entire life has been about service and sacrifice. In a time when the radical left is working to dismantle our values, weaken our borders, and erode faith in America’s greatness, we need bold, proven leaders who don’t just talk the talk. They take action.”

https://x.com/JaredHudson_AL/status/1927712697488945492

This week, the veteran joined Rightside Radio with host Phil Williams to discuss not only the race but also the personal importance of faith.

“The only thing that you should be remembered as is who you are in the person of Jesus Christ,” said Hudson. “Because that’s the only thing that lasts, right?”

“Now, if I die right now, I’m going to be attached. I’m going to have a lasting impact, even in my death, on my wife and my girls, possibly some of the people in my sphere of influence, possibly some of the guys in the SEAL teams I work with or in business or whatever. I might have a lasting impact, but oftentimes that lasting impact is not so much who you are here physically. I really believe it’s who you are in the person of Jesus Christ.”

https://x.com/SenPhilWilliams/status/1927789106672631865

He reflected on the importance of having a personal mantra and beliefs that can be leaned upon in times of great hardship.

“Every warrior across all of history, all of the planet, all of history, had a mantra. They had something they held to, something they leaned on, whether it was their belief system in a God, whether it was their family, whatever it was, there’s a mantra,” Hudson said.

“What’s that one thing that you can hold to that will help you make it through this process? Because if you can hold to something else besides the pain that you’re going through, the distress of hypothermia, cold water, getting beat and buzzed, all that stuff, if you can hold to something else, you can make it through.”

Hudson previously ran for Sheriff of Jefferson County in 2022.

The party primary election for the open U.S. Senate seat will be held on May 19, 2026.

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

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong confirmed Wednesday that he will seek re-election to the House of Representatives in 2026, ending speculation that he might enter the race for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“After prayerful thought and consideration, I have decided that the best way I can serve Alabama is to remain in the United States House of Representatives,” Strong (R-Huntsville) said in a statement. “For that reason, I will be seeking re-election to Congress in 2026 and no other office.”

RELATED: Rep. Barry Moore mulling possible run for U.S. Senate

Strong, who represents Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District, was elected to the House in 2022 after more than a decade as chairman of the Madison County Commission.

He serves on the powerful House Appropriations Committee and sits on three key subcommittees: Commerce, Justice, and Science, where he is vice chair; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and the Legislative Branch Subcommittee. Strong also chairs the Homeland Security Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee.

“Representing North Alabama in Washington has been the most rewarding experience in my career of public service,” Strong said. “I truly believe I am where the Lord wants me, and I want to continue to represent my community.”

Strong’s announcement came one day after U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville revealed he will not seek re-election to the Senate and instead plans to run for governor of Alabama in 2026.

Tuberville (R-Auburn), who was elected to the Senate in 2020, said he intends to serve the remainder of his term, which ends in January 2027.

His decision leaves Alabama’s Senate seat open in what is expected to be a closely watched Republican primary. The primary election is scheduled for May 26, 2026. The general election is Nov. 3.

RELATED: ‘Decisions will be made’: Will Steve Marshall run for U.S. Senate when Tuberville announces for Governor? 

Strong had been floated as a potential contender for the Senate seat, given his name recognition in North Alabama and alignment with key conservative priorities. His decision to stay in the House may help clarify the field for other candidates considering a run.

No major candidates have formally declared for the Senate race as of Wednesday, though announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Just a day after announcing his intent to become Alabama’s next Governor, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) has already released a campaign advertisement heading into the 2026 race. During the minute-long video message, Tuberville touts his close ties to President Donald Trump and strong conservative record in Washington, D.C.

“Here in Alabama, y’all know me as coach. But in Washington, they know me as something entirely different,” said Tuberville.

“President Trump called me one of his closest allies. Democrats call me the biggest pain in their butts and the woke radicals, as a God fearing Christian, I just can’t repeat it.”

https://x.com/CoachForGov/status/1927664896864317473

“But after four years in Washington, standing up to the corrupt Biden administration, I think it’s time Montgomery got to know me a little bit better, too,” continued Tuberville. “As your next governor, I’ll fight for President Trump’s America First agenda, stop illegal immigration dead in its tracks, and protect our conservative values.”

“After doing all of that, the enemies of Alabama are going to call me a lot of things. With your help, Governor will be one of them.”

The Senator is widely expected to face no opposition in his bid to capture the Governor’s office. If elected, Tuberville will be just the third non-incumbent in state history to win the office unopposed.

The Alabama gubernatorial primary will take place May 26, 2026. If needed, a primary runoff is scheduled for June 23, 2026. The general election is set for November 3, 2026.

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

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville officially launched his campaign for Governor of Alabama Tuesday in Auburn, jumping straight into the issues and laying out a platform centered on K-12 education reform, economic growth, and stronger state-level control over federal programs.

Tuberville, whose first Senate term ends in 2026, said he plans to serve out the remainder of his time in Washington while also campaigning for Alabama’s top executive office. He described the move as a natural progression in his public service, emphasizing that his decision is rooted in a long-standing commitment to the state.

A longtime ally of President Donald Trump, Tuberville said his gubernatorial campaign aligns with Trump’s broader goal of shifting power and resources away from the federal government and back to the states. He praised Trump’s recent efforts and said Alabama must be ready to take advantage of Trump’s policies.

RELATED: Tuberville officially running for Governor of Alabama in 2026

Tuberville said he plans to serve out the remaining 18 months of his Senate term while campaigning for governor. He described the dual responsibilities as “double duty.”

“We’ve gotten a lot accomplished in the last four or five months with President Trump,” Tuberville said. “I’ll still be there for 18 months, but I want to do what’s best for the state.”

Tuberville said his top priority as governor would be improving K-12 education, calling it the foundation for a strong workforce and economy. He said Alabama has placed too much emphasis on higher education at the expense of basic skills.

“If you can’t read, if you can’t write, you can’t learn,” he said. “We’ve got way too many young men and women in this state at a sixth or seventh grade reading level. That’s not going to fly with me.”

On the subject of an education lottery, Tuberville said he is not personally in favor of gambling but would leave the decision to the Legislature and the voters.

“That’s going to be up to the people,” he said. “If they want it, fine. If they don’t, we’ll have to look at other places.”

Tuberville responded to questions about residency, saying he has owned property in Alabama since 2000 and considers it home. He acknowledged spending time in Florida and Washington, D.C., but said he and his family are rooted in Alabama.

“This is my home,” he said. “Residency won’t be a problem.”

Tuberville said he will continue pushing for spending cuts and economic reforms in the Senate while also traveling the state to campaign.

“We’ve got to cut spending,” he said. “If we don’t, every one of your taxes will go up two to three thousand dollars a month. We’ve got to get that done.”

Tuberville’s campaign website is CoachForGovernor.com, referencing the title that launched his political career and his stint as a football coach.

Grace Heim is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You can follow her on X @graceeheim or email her at grace@yellowhammernews.com.

According to a report from 1819 News, Alabama Congressman Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) is considering a potential run for the U.S. Senate. His signal today follows Senator Tommy Tuberville’s announcement yesterday that he would not be running for re-election to the seat, opting instead to run for Governor of Alabama.

Moore says his staunch conservative record and productive relationship with President Trump make him a viable fit for the position.

RELATED: Tuberville officially running for Governor of Alabama in 2026

“I am honored to be in the conversation as Alabamians begin to look at who they want to represent them in the United States Senate,” Moore said. “Our state is blessed with a number of strong conservative voices. I’m proud of the record I have built in the U.S. House as an effective conservative fighter and an ally to President Trump, with more than 6,400 federal agency cases resolved for my constituents.

“My family and I are praying and asking the Lord to guide us in this decision. As we seek His guidance, we’re listening to the people of Alabama and considering how we can best continue to serve this great state.”

Moore currently represents Alabama House District 1. He was first elected to Congress in 2020.

The party primary election for the open U.S. Senate seat will be held on May 19, 2026.

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

U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) are defending Democratic Senator John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) against anonymous attacks coming from within his own party. The duo of Republicans have specifically called out those who have taken cheap shots at Fetterman’s mental health.

Britt posted on social media recently, strongly backing the Pennsylvania politician.

“It’s a complete disgrace what agenda-driven members of the media and his own party are doing to attack him, all because he dares to be an independent thinker and voice,” said Britt. “Proud to stand with John.”

Cotton called the treatment of Fetterman by the Democrats ‘disgraceful.’

“John Fetterman and I have our differences, but he’s a decent and genuine guy,” he wrote. “The radical left is smearing him with dishonest, vicious attacks because he’s pro-Israel, and they only want reliable anti-Israel politicians.”

RELATED: John Fetterman breaks from party – goes on FOX to make case for Britt’s illegal immigrant crime crackdown

The predicament before Fetterman and the Democratic Party was discussed recently in-depth during a discussion on The Hill.

“There’s a lot of bullying of Fetterman on social media,” said Semafor journalist David Weigel. “There are also progressive groups saying he should resign, he should be replaced by a different Democrat. The Republican hope is that he gets so angry that he leaves the Democratic Party in some fashion.”

Weigel believes that Republicans will attempt to tie the attacks on the Senator to Mental Health Awareness Month to illustrate the callousness of the liberal onslaught.

“Republicans are talking about Fetterman’s example of how Democrats had low standards for their candidates and they back their candidates to the hilt, just like Joe Biden, no matter what their capacity to do the job. Their new argument with Fetterman is that he’s recovered, and they just hate him because he doesn’t have their politics anymore.”

The situation, according to Weigel, is a complete “mess” for Democrats.

“Lost in all this is the argument being made against Fetterman staying in the Senate, which is not just that he has depression, but that he has been an erratic member of the Senate who has put his staff occasionally in danger with his driving, who can’t keep his staff along,” the journalist said. “That’s not typically the sort of thing a Senator resigns for.”

“On his side is this long precedent, the Democrats are very well aware of. Very elderly senators staying in office without any questions about whether their staff can do their work.”

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

With the help of U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery), the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s profile and prestige is continuing to grow on the national stage.

UAB, an R1 research intensive university and leading academic medical center, is also the largest employer in Alabama with more than 35,000 employees.

When asked for comment about an April 30 Senate Appropriations Committee hearing — Biomedical Research: Keeping America’s Edge in Innovation, at which U.S. Senator Katie Britt introduced UAB O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center Director Barry Sleckman, M.D., Ph.D., to give testimony about the national impact of UAB’s research efforts — UAB Vice President for Research Chris Brown, Ph.D., thanked Britt for her critical leadership in securing the opportunity for Sleckman to testify about UAB’s life-saving work.

“Senator Britt’s remarks at the hearing and her ongoing support of federal research funding underscore her deep understanding of what we do and the importance of institutions like ours in fighting and curing deadly diseases,” Brown said.

He added, “Desperately needed discoveries are happening every day, and we appreciate Senator Britt’s efforts to continue that momentum and to promote understanding of the critical partnership between the federal government and UAB’s research enterprise as we tackle the most significant health challenges of our time.”

UAB was also referenced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at a May 14 Senate hearing and then again in a May 20 Senate hearing. Kennedy highlighted UAB last week as a top example of a university that has been a judicious and responsible steward of federal research dollars.

On Tuesday, he also stressed he knows UAB “badly need(s)” research funding from the federal government.

“They’re doing cutting-edge research, and they need that money that was going through indirect costs,” Kennedy affirmed.

Later in the same hearing, Britt thanked Kennedy for his praise of UAB and followed up on the topic. Alabama’s Senator outlined that she and Kennedy have engaged in “continued dialogue” about NIH research funding.

Kennedy committed to continuing those discussions with Britt and revealed that her input has made a significant impact.

“And based upon some of our conversations and conversation I’ve continued to have expressing your concerns, particularly for the state schools that do not (large) endowments, that really need lab support … and all the things that you need to do first-class science, we want to be paying for that,” Kennedy said.

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

More than two years into her first term, U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is quickly becoming one of the Senate’s most vocal advocates for families, mothers and children.

Ahead of Mother’s Day, Britt is reintroducing the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act, a cornerstone of her pro-life, pro-family legislative agenda. The bill aims to support women during pregnancy, postpartum, and early childhood development by connecting them to key resources and services.

“I don’t have to guess what issues moms and parents face — I live them myself,” Britt said. “Being a new parent can be incredibly overwhelming, especially without a strong support system or access to important resources. I believe the Republican Party is the party of life, which is why I’m proud to support the MOMS Act to make raising a family easier.”

RELATED: Britt introduces bill to support women throughout motherhood

The legislation would establish a national clearinghouse of pregnancy and parenting resources, expand access to pregnancy resource centers and adoption agencies, improve availability of prenatal and postnatal care including telehealth services, and connect pro-life support centers to federal grant opportunities.

The bill also incorporates the Unborn Child Support Act, sponsored by Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), which would allow states to apply child support obligations throughout pregnancy.

Her legislation comes at an important time. As Britt noted recently on X, both birth rates and fertility rates in the U.S. have remained consistently low for years, reflecting a concerning trend.

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1919164337568063715

Britt’s pro-family leadership has also influenced national policy. She previously advised former President Donald Trump on family-centered initiatives, including in vitro fertilization. Trump credited Britt’s input in shaping his position on IVF and his recent executive order aimed at protecting access to the procedure.

RELATED: Katie Britt praised for ‘A+’ pro-life record in Senate

As one of only two Republican mothers in the Senate with school-aged children, Britt is bringing a personal perspective to policy making. She currently serves as a deputy whip and vice chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

With the reintroduction of the MOMS Act, Britt is continuing her push to build a platform that supports aspiring parents and working mothers alike.

Grace Heim is a state and political reporter for Yellowhammer News. You can follow her on X @graceeheim or email her at grace@yellowhammernews.com.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt’s popularity continues to rise in Alabama, according to the latest quarterly tracking poll released by Morning Consult.

Britt (R-Montgomery) has a sky-high net approval rating of 30%, with 53% approving of her job performance and only 23% disapproving. This disapproval rating is the third lowest in the nation, and her net approval is 10^th highest of all 100 U.S. Senators.

Both of Alabama’s Senators remain hugely popular, with U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) clocking an approval of 52% and disapproval of 32%.

Also released in recent days were FEC reports covering federal campaign fundraising in the first quarter of 2025.

Britt has proven herself as one of the nation’s most prolific fundraisers. At the end of Q1, her campaign had more than $4.5 million cash on hand.

Amid speculation he might run for Governor instead of re-election to the Senate in 2026, Tuberville reported north of $600,000. These federal campaign funds could not be used in the gubernatorial race.

Over the past week, President Trump took bold action to rebalance America’s trade posture by imposing sweeping tariffs to confront decades of unfair foreign trade practices from countries like China and Mexico and restore strength to the nation’s manufacturing base.

The markets initially reacted with volatility as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite each fell nearly 6% last Friday in their steepest single-day declines since the 2020 pandemic crash.

But on Wednesday, after Trump issued an unexpected 90-day pause on most of the tariffs, the markets ignited a historic rebound. It became one of the largest single-day gains in modern history for Wall Street.

According to news reports in the days since, U.S. Senator Katie Britt’s Tuesday night appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity” alongside several of her fellow top Republican senators, was a catalyst for the President’s decision.

Because Trump was watching the show.

During the program, the senators used a majority of their on-air time to discuss the president’s tariff strategy and encouraged him to use the leverage he had earned to begin negotiating new trade deals.

According to The Washington Post, after the show, Trump held a roughly hour-long phone call with several of the senators – including Britt, Ted Cruz (R-TX), Tim Scott (R-SC), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) – where they discussed next steps with the president to strengthen his approach.

Ted Cruz advised the president to use his tariffs as leverage with U.S. trading partners. “I also encouraged him, as I did on the Hannity show, to negotiate quickly one or more major trade deals.”

Early Wednesday afternoon, President Trump told reporters in the Oval Office his decision to pause tariffs on non-retaliating countries “probably came together early this morning, fairly early this morning. Just wrote it up. We didn’t have the use of, we didn’t have access to lawyers.”

“We wrote it up from our hearts,” President Trump said.

Cruz said that the president’s decision on Wednesday was “consistent with what I and the others were urging.”

After the call, Britt expressed appreciation for the president’s willingness to engage with Senate Republicans.

In a statement to Yellowhammer News, she said, “President Trump continues to bring countries to the table. His ability to negotiate from a position of strength is a continuation of what he has demonstrated his entire career.”

“Ultimately, he is committed to ending unfair trade practices and reestablishing America First fair trade so our workers and families can once again live the American Dream,” Britt added.

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

As Alabama lawmakers are debating major legislation to reform pharmacy benefit managers within the state — President Trump recently confirmed that federal-level reform is imminent. 

During an interview with the president last week, Matthew Foldi reported, “President Trump sounded optimistic on the prospects of getting it done before the end of the year, saying “I know [the Senate] is looking at it very very strongly.”

Trump has repeatedly vowed to “knock out the middleman” in drug pricing.

Both the U.S. House and Senate are now moving forward with bipartisan legislation aimed at delinking PBMs’ compensation from drug prices, banning spread pricing for Medicaid, and a range of other measures to accomplish Trump’s mandate. 

Last week, House GOP leaders announced they will re-include PBM reform in their reconciliation bill after efforts broke down in the 118th Congress last year, while the Senate formally revived their efforts last week as well in the form of a bipartisan bill that would overhaul the business practices of PBMs. 

RELATED: Debate over independent pharmacy closures, costs intensifies at public hearing

Impending federal reform might complicate efforts on the state legislative level to address PBMs as strongly as two proposals before the Alabama Senate currently intend.

Two competing bills — SB93 and SB99 — are expected to come up for debate and a vote in the Alabama Senate Banking and Insurance Committee after an initial public hearing in February drew testimony in support and opposition to the proposals.

SB93, sponsored by State Sen. Andrew Jones (R-Centre), seeks to prohibit PBMs from reimbursing pharmacies below their actual acquisition costs and to ban hidden fees related to claims processing and network participation. It would also allow pharmacists to refuse dispensing medication if reimbursement rates are too low.

SB99, sponsored by State Sen. Larry Stutts (R-Tuscumbia) takes a far more aggressive approach with a mandated dispensing fee on every prescription filled and a requirement for PBMs to reimburse pharmacies based on the national average drug acquisition cost.

Lawmakers will return to session on Tuesday for day fourteen of the 2025 legislative session.