SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The 2026 election cycle in Alabama is rapidly shaping up to be unlike many that have come before, with several prominent officials either term-limited or choosing to run for other offices — opening the field for newcomers and big political shifts.
One of the biggest developments: Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, a Republican, has announced he will run for Lieutenant Governor, setting up a primary showdown with Secretary of State Wes Allen, who is also running for that post. Pate emphasized his rural and farming roots, conservative values, and alignment with former President Donald Trump and Senator Tommy Tuberville. AP News
The race for Secretary of State is drawing competition as well. Andrew Sorrell, current State Auditor, has officially entered the race. He pledges to protect the integrity of elections and to ensure honestly cast votes are counted. AP NewsHe’ll face off with Caroleene Dobson, a lawyer from Montgomery who previously ran for Congress, and who has indicated priority reforms including post-election audits and reducing fees. AP News
Over in the U.S. Senate field, Rep. Barry Moore has formally announced his candidacy for the seat being vacated by Senator Tommy Tuberville, who is running for Governor. Moore’s campaign leans into his “working family” message and his allegiance to the MAGA-aligned Republican base. Politico
Other statewide offices are also turning over. Governor Kay Ivey, Attorney General Steve Marshall, and Agriculture Commissioner Pate are all term-limited, meaning those races are also open. 1819 News+2Wikipedia+2
With primaries set for May 19, 2026 and the general election on November 3, candidates are already raising funds, building coalitions, and positioning themselves early. 1819 News+2Ballotpedia+2
