U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) endorsed U.S. Rep. Barry Moore’s (R-Enterprise) bid for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat in the 2026 Republican primary on Monday, becoming the first sitting Senator to endorse a candidate in the race.

“Barry Moore is a MAGA conservative we can count on,” Budd said.

“The ongoing Schumer Shutdown is just another example of why we need rock-solid, reliable Republicans to stand up to the Radical Left. Barry Moore has a spine of steel and has always stood firm on our conservative values. I look forward to having him in the Senate to fight with me for President Trump’s agenda.”

Budd was first elected to the upper chamber in 2022 as a member of the same freshman class that includes U.S. Senator Katie Britt. He previously served three terms as U.S. Representative from North Carolina’s 13th district and was a member of the House Freedom Caucus. Budd has strong ties to President Donald Trump, securing his endorsement in the crowded 2022 North Carolina GOP Senate primary.

“Senator Budd is a great friend and a strong conservative,” Congressman Moore said.

“I’m proud to have his support. He has stood with President Trump every step of the way, just like I have. He’s an example of a House Freedom Caucus member who’s become a leader in the Senate. Together, we will work to keep our border secure, deport illegal immigrants, stop the indoctrination of our children, and bring the American Golden Age.”

Moore has previously been endorsed by the Senate Conservatives Fund and U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio).

The 2026 Alabama Republican Party primary election is set for May 19, 2026, just over 200 days away.

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