Dear Community Member, Welcome to Greater Birmingham Ministries' 2026 Voter Election Guide. Because you matter, your vote matters. Because your family matters, your vote matters. Because your community matters, your vote matters. At Greater Birmingham Ministries (GBM), we believe every person has inherent worth, every voice deserves to be heard, and every vote has value. Since our founding in 1969, GBM has worked to build community, pursue justice, and serve people. Born out of the Civil Rights Movement, our organization has remained committed to protecting human dignity, expanding opportunity, and strengthening democracy for everyone. That commitment continues to guide our work today. As a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, we believe democracy is strongest when every eligible voter has access to accurate, reliable, and easy-to-understand election information. This guide was created to help you become an informed voter because informed voters build stronger communities. This guide is the result of many hours of research, writing, editing, factchecking, and design by GBM staff, community leaders, consultants, and dedicated volunteers. Our goal is not to tell you how to vote, but to help you understand what is on your ballot, who is running for office, what those offices do, and why these elections matter. “The GBM Way” reminds us that lasting change begins with relationships, respect, and a commitment to the common good. Voting is one of the most meaningful ways we care for our neighbors and invest in the future of our communities. Voting is a powerful
statement of your priorities from affordable housing and lower utility rates to safer streets, living wages, better education, affordable health care and civil and human rights for all.Sometimes people believe their vote does not matter. But history tells a different story. Every election is made up of individual voices coming together. One vote becomes many. Individual participation becomes collective power. Progress happens when people show up, participate, and remain engaged long after Election Day. Because you matter, your voice matters. And because your voice matters, your vote matters. So, when friends, family or neighbors tell you their vote doesn’t count, convince them that it does. Their voting matters and their not voting diminishes the power of your vote. Even if their vote differs from yours, the long game is making voting one of the highest civic responsibilities we have. We hope this guide gives you the knowledge and confidence to participate fully in our democracy. Whether this is your first election or your fiftieth, we encourage you to make your voice heard and to encourage your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers to do the same. Democracy works best when we all take part. Thank you for allowing GBM to be part of your civic journey. Together, we can continue building community, pursuing justice, and serving people. Because you matter, your voice matters. And because your voice matters, your vote matters.
Scott Douglas Executive Director, Greater Birmingham Ministries
Purpose of Voter Election Guide This non-partisan guide is designed to help every voter access reliable election information. GBM’s Goal: 1. Equal Access to Information Provide clear, easy to understand election information for all voters. 2. Informed Voting Help voters learn about candidates, issues, and voting procedures before Election Day. 3. Civic Engagement Encourage greater participation, especially among firsttime and hesitant voters. 4. Reduce Confusion Present factual, non-partisan information while minimizing misinformation and bias. 5. Strengthen Community Voice Empower communities by encouraging informed participation in local, state, and national elections. 6. Encourage Continued Learning Inspire voters to research issues and candidates further before casting your ballot. 7. Promote Accountability Support transparency by helping voters make informed choices and hold elected officials accountable. 5
Know Your Rights on Election Day AT THE POLLS In line at 7 pm when polls close? Stay in line. You can still vote. Turned away? Ask for a provisional ballot. Voters 70+ or with a physical disability may move to the front of the line. Voters with certain disabilities or reading/language needs may receive assistance. Eligible employees may receive up to 1 unpaid hour to vote. Questions about voting after a conviction? Email tari@gbm.org or Call 205-326-6821 Election Day problems? Call 1-866-OUR-VOTE PHOTO ID Bring an accepted photo ID, such as: Alabama Driver’s License/Nondriver ID U.S. Passport Government employee ID Alabama college/university ID Military or Tribal ID No photo ID? You may be identified by two election officials or cast a provisional ballot. STAR ID is not required to vote. Full ID list: https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabamavotes/photo-voter-id/valid-ids.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR BALLOT and VOTER STATUS GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT Voters receive the ballot assigned to their precinct, which includes applicable candidates and ballot measures. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BALLOT Voters may vote Yes or No on proposed changes to the Alabama Constitution. A voter who does not wish to vote for candidates may request a ballot containing only constitutional amendments. PROVISIONAL BALLOT Used when a voter's eligibility cannot be immediately confirmed. The polling site must allow a person to vote by provisional ballot. The voter has 5 days after the election to provide the needed information to the County Registrar's office for your ballot to be counted. INACTIVE VOTER STATUS “Inactive” refers to a voter’s registration status. Inactive voters may still vote by confirming their information or re-registering. If the required form is unavailable, ask for a provisional ballot. A voter may become inactive after missing two county elections or failing to respond to voter registration notices.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates are listed alphabetically by last name. Listing order does not indicate preference or endorsement by GBM.
Candidates for GOVERNOR Governor is Alabama’s highest elected state official and chief executive. Elected statewide to a four-year term, the governor may serve up to two consecutive terms. The governor signs or vetoes bills, proposes the state budget, oversees state agencies, appoints state officials and judges, and may call special legislative sessions. The governor also commands the Alabama National Guard during state emergencies unless it is under federal control. The office has a major impact on education, health care, public safety, transportation, and other issues affecting everyday life. Doug Jones was born and raised in Fairfield, Alabama. He served as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama and represented Alabama in the U.S. Senate from 2018 to 2021. His campaign priorities include expanding Medicaid, strengthening public education and rural hospitals, increasing government transparency, placing a one-year moratorium on data centers, and allowing voters to decide on a state lottery. Tommy Tuberville is a native of Camden, Arkansas. He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2020. His campaign priorities include reducing government spending, strengthening national defense and border security, supporting veterans, protecting gun rights, restricting abortion, opposing taxpayer funding for abortion, and limiting classroom instruction that presents racism as systemic.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Lieutenant Governor is Alabama's second-highest elected official. The lieutenant governor may serve up to two consecutive terms and is elected separately from the governor. The lieutenant governor's primary responsibilities are serving as president of the Alabama Senate, presiding over Senate sessions, recognizing senators to speak, and ruling on parliamentary procedures. The lieutenant governor also assumes the governor's duties if the governor becomes unable to serve. Phillip Ensler is originally from New York. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from George Washington University and a law degree from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University. He is an attorney and the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Central Alabama. Elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2022, Ensler is serving his second term. His campaign priorities include establishing a state lottery, increasing education funding, eliminating the state sales tax on groceries, and expanding Medicaid. John Wahl is a native of Athens, Alabama, and a businessman and political strategist. He began his political career in 2012 as field director for the Alabama Republican Party and two years later was elected to its State Executive Committee. Wahl served as chairman of the Alabama Republican Party from 2021 to 2026 and has served as chairman of the Alabama Public Library Service Board. Wahl’s campaign priorities include election security, school choice, limited government, tax relief, gun rights, support for law enforcement and veterans, restrictions on abortion, and stricter immigration enforcement. 16
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for UNITED STATES SENATE United States Senators represent their state in Congress and help make federal laws. Each state elects two senators who serve six-year terms with staggered elections. Senators debate and vote on legislation, serve on committees, confirm presidential appointments to the Supreme Court and other federal offices, and vote on treaties. Barry Moore was born and raised in Coffee County, Alabama. After high school, he joined the Alabama National Guard and Reserves, serving for six years while studying agricultural science at Auburn University. He served in the Alabama Army National Guard and is a small business owner. He was first elected to Congress in 2020 and successfully ran for the 1st District seat in 2025. He currently serves on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Agriculture Committee. His campaign priorities include strengthening border security, reducing taxes, protecting gun rights, supporting veterans, and restricting abortion. Everett Wess lives in Birmingham, Alabama and earned a bachelor of science degree in computer science from Selma University. He achieved a Master’s Business Administration from Alabama A&M University and a law degree from the Birmingham School of Law. Wess has served as managing partner of the Wess Law Firm and serves as Municipal judge for the City of Midfield. He currently serves as State President of Alabama New South Coalition. His campaign priorities include lowering living costs, protecting Alabama jobs, supporting rural hospitals and affordable health care, and promoting firm but fair court justice. 18
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES United States House of Representatives also called members of Congress, represent specific congressional districts in the U.S. House of Representatives. They serve two-year terms with no term limits. Representatives introduce and vote on legislation, propose amendments, serve on committees, and oversee federal agencies and programs. District 6 Maurice Mercer is a resident of Pelham, Alabama and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Troy University. He is a small business owner. Mercer was the first African American elected to the Pelham City Council, where he served for more than 12 years, including five years as council president. His campaign priorities include expanding affordable health care, supporting public education and workforce training, helping small businesses, creating an independent redistricting commission, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and raising the federal minimum wage. Gary Palmer grew up in Hackleburg, Alabama, and earned a bachelor's degree in operations management from the University of Alabama. Before being elected to Congress in 2014, he worked in the engineering and construction industry. He has served on House committees focused on energy and commerce. His campaign priorities include expanding domestic energy production, strengthening border security, protecting gun rights, reducing inflation, opposing abortion, replacing the Affordable Care Act with a new health care plan, and limiting the size of the federal government. 19
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for US House of Representatives, continued
District 7 Ammie Atkin lives in Birmingham, Alabama. She studied education at the University of Alabama and earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Samford University. Atkin is an educator, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader. She has worked as a classroom teacher, school administrator, assistant superintendent, and college professor. She also serves as board chair of a nonprofit that supports adults with developmental disabilities. Her campaign priorities include education, rural health care, agriculture and timber, broadband and infrastructure, small business growth, reduced federal spending, and support for law enforcement and the military. Terrycina “Terri” Sewell (incumbent) is a native of Selma, Alabama. She received her undergraduate degree from Princeton University, a master’s degree from Oxford University, and a Juris Doctor from Harvard University Law School. In 2010, Sewell became the first Black woman to serve in the Alabama congressional delegation. She currently serves on the House Ways and Means Committee and as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight. Her priorities include protecting voting rights, creating jobs, supporting workforce development, early education and public schools, improving rural and affordable healthcare, supporting veterans, and expanding Social Security.
"Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union." ~ John Lewis
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Attorney General Attorney General is Alabama's chief legal officer and represents the State of Alabama, its officers, departments, and agencies in legal matters. The Attorney General provides legal advice to state officials, defends the state in lawsuits, and represents Alabama in cases involving the constitutionality of state laws. The Attorney General may also bring civil or criminal cases to enforce state law and protect the public interest. In certain cases, the Attorney General may assume control of a criminal prosecution. The Attorney General has statewide authority and represents the interests of Alabama as a whole. Jeff McLaughlin is a native of Guntersville, Alabama, and a graduate of Harvard Law School. He began his career as a teacher before becoming an attorney and founding his own law firm. McLaughlin has served as a municipal judge and a member of the Alabama House of Representatives. His campaign priorities include supporting law enforcement and first responders, protecting consumers and Alabama's natural resources, fighting public corruption, and promoting government transparency and accountability. Katherine Robertson grew up in Dallas County, Alabama, and earned degrees from Auburn University and the University of Alabama School of Law. She has worked for the U.S. Department of Justice, the Alabama Policy Institute, and as chief counsel to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. Her campaign priorities include supporting President Trump’s America First agenda, defending state sovereignty, protecting free speech and religious freedom, and taking a tough-on-crime approach. 21
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Alabama Supreme Court Alabama Supreme Court Justice is an associate justice of the Alabama Supreme Court who serves on Alabama’s highest court. It has jurisdiction over the decisions made by the lower courts. The Alabama Supreme Court also reviews the state's laws and determines whether they are allowed under the Constitution, as applicable to the state. Each Justice is elected in a partisan election every six years. Place 7 Brad Mendheim (incumbent) (unopposed) began his legal career in private practice before serving for approximately six and a half years as an assistant district attorney for Henry and Houston counties. Governor Kay Ivey first appointed Mendheim to the Alabama Supreme Court. He was elected for his first full term in 2020. Place 8 AshLeigh Meyer Durham is a Huntsville native who earned degrees from the University of Alabama and Cumberland School of Law. She serves as a referee in Jefferson County Juvenile Court and is the founder of Magic City Fertility Law. Her legal work focuses on children, families, fertility treatment, and assisted reproduction. Greg Shaw (incumbent) is a Birmingham native who earned degrees from Auburn University, Cumberland School of Law, and the University of Virginia School of Law. He served as an Alabama Supreme Court staff attorney before being elected to the Court of Criminal Appeals in 2000. Shaw was elected to the Alabama Supreme Court in 2008. 22
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for SECRETARY OF STATE Secretary of State is the “Chief Election Officer” of Alabama and oversees elections, campaign finance information, certifies vote totals, and ballots. They administer state and federal election laws. The Secretary of State also maintains legislative and other government records, registers businesses and trademarks is the Governor’s personal notary public. Caroleene Dodson is a native of Beatrice, Alabama. She earned a degree in history and literature from Harvard College and a law degree from Baylor Law School. Dodson is a Montgomery attorney and shareholder at the Maynard Nexsen law firm, where her practice focuses on commercial real estate, finance, energy, and natural resources. She previously served as a director of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition and as a commissioner on the Alabama Forestry Commission. Her campaign priorities include election security, statewide postelection audits, and attracting new business incorporations to Alabama. Wayne Rogers was born and raised in Thomasville, Alabama. He earned a bachelor's degree in music and a law degree from Samford University. Rogers served as an assistant U.S. attorney and managing counsel for Travelers Insurance Company before entering private practice. He currently serves as executive assistant to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, where he works on grants, jail administration, mental health crisis response, and law enforcement training. He also serves on boards focused on mental health and crisis intervention. 23
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for STATE TREASURER State Treasurer oversees the Alabama Treasury and acts as the head banker for the State of Alabama. The Alabama Treasury is charged with the sound fiscal management of Alabama’s money, safeguarding the state’s financial resources and maximizing returns on investments. The Treasurer manages bonds, unclaimed property, college savings programs, and public funds deposits. They manage approximately $4.5 billion in Alabama Trust Funds. The Treasurer is elected every four years. Young Boozer earned a bachelor's in economics from Stanford University and a master’s in finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He served as assistant superintendent of banking at the Alabama State Banking Department. During his tenure, he created a need-based college scholarship program, the restricted Alabama Prepaid Affordable College Tuition (PACT) Program, and supported Amendment 856 to stabilize Alabama Trust Fund payout. Boozer has served three terms as Alabama State Treasurer. Rosilyn Houston earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix, Arizona, and a master’s degree in management from the University of Redlands in California. Houston has completed executive leadership programs at the University of Pennsylvania and Pepperdine University. She has over 30 years of experience in banking, corporate leadership, and nonprofit governance. Her campaign priorities include increasing transparency and accountability, expanding financial literacy, and supporting responsible management of state funds. 24
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for STATE AUDITOR State Auditor is to maintain accurate records of all state personal property valued at $500 and above, as well as items deemed sensitive. The State Auditor’s office is the check and balance between the Comptroller’s Office and the State Treasury. The Auditor makes reports about taxes, revenue paid into the treasury, and audits the records of the Treasurer and the Department of Finance. Violet Edwards earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Alabama and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Edwards worked in television and radio journalism. She was elected to the Madison County Commission in 2020 and reelected in 2024. Her campaign include government transparency, independent oversight, fiscal responsibility and stronger accounting for state property and taxpayer resources. Andrew Sorrell earned a bachelor’s in business management from the University of North Alabama. Sorrell worked as a real estate investor and owns several businesses. In 2022, he was elected as Alabama State Auditor and served one term in the Alabama House of Representatives. His campaign priorities include establishing a Property Investigations Division to audit state property, opposing bond issues that increase debt, and advocating for stronger accountability for election registrars.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for COMMISSIONER of AGRICULTURE and INDUSTRIES Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries oversees and regulates food safety, agriculture, animal industries, and animal protection. Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries promotes domestic and international consumption of Alabama non-commodity food, forestry, and other agricultural products by identifying, expanding, and creating new markets. The commissioner is elected every four years and is limited to two terms. Ron Sparks served in the United States Coast Guard and participated in search-and-rescue operations. He was elected to the DeKalb County Commission and was elected to the Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries in 2002. Alabama voters reelected him in 2006. Sparks' campaign priorities include strengthening food safety, protecting farmers and aquaculture businesses, eliminating the 1.5% sales tax on farm equipment, and restoring gasoline-pump inspections. Corey Hill is a 4th-generation cattle farmer, poultry farmer and grocery store operator. He was elected mayor of Douglas, Alabama in 2012. Hill's campaign priorities include maintaining strong food-safety inspections, reviving Alabama’s rural-crime task force, increasing the sale of Alabama-grown food in public schools, protecting farmland from certain foreign ownership, reducing taxes and regulations affecting farmers, supporting poultry, cattle, timber, and other agriculture industries. 26
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Public Service Commission Public Service Commission regulates and oversees utility companies and services. The Commission has three members elected statewide: a president and two associate commissioners. Each serves a four-year term. Place 1 Matt Gentry served in the U.S. Marine Corps and was elected Cullman County sheriff in 2014. His campaign priorities include limiting eminent domain for data-center development, requiring data centers to cover related infrastructure costs, maintaining reliable utility service, and increasing transparency. James O. Gordon is a chiropractor and entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience. He served in the Alabama House of Representatives from 2006 to 2010. His campaign priorities include consumer protection, transparency, and fair regulation of Alabama’s utilities and public services. Place 2 Sheila McNeil has more than 15 years of experience in government, public policy, and economic development. She previously served two terms on the San Antonio City Council. Her campaign priorities include affordable rates, consumer protection, and giving ratepayers a stronger voice. Jim “Zig” Zeigler is an attorney and previously served on the Alabama Public Service Commission and as Alabama State Auditor. His campaign priorities include protecting rate payers, requiring large data centers to cover related infrastructure costs and strengthening pipeline and railroad safety. 27
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Alabama Court of Civil Appeals Alabama Court of Civil Appeals is a statewide appellate court composed of five judges. Its judges review decisions made by lower courts and certain state administrative agencies. Hears appeals involving domestic relations, and workers’ compensation. Reviews civil cases in which the amount involved does not exceed $50,000. Court of Civil Appeals judges do not conduct new trials, hear witnesses or decide criminal appeals. Their primary responsibility is to determine whether legal errors occurred in civil proceedings and whether those errors affected the outcome. Place 4 Ben Bowden (unopposed) earned his law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law and entered active duty with the United States Air Force, retiring in 2023 with the rank of colonel. He has served as a probate and circuit judge. In May 2025, Governor Kay Ivey appointed him to the Court of Civil Appeals. Place 5 Matt Fridy (unopposed) earned his law degree from Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law and worked as a law clerk, appellate court staff attorney, and private attorney. After serving in the Alabama House, he was elected to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals and began serving in 2021.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals is a statewide appellate court composed of five judges. It reviews criminal cases decided by Alabama’s trial courts. Principal duties include hearing appeals involving felony and misdemeanor convictions, reviewing convictions for violations of city and municipal ordinances, and considering habeas corpus petitions challenging the legality of a person’s detention. The judges study written legal briefs, review trial records, sometimes hear oral arguments, discuss cases, vote on the outcome, and write or join opinions explaining the court’s decisions. Place 4 Mary Windom (unopposed) began her legal career in private practice before serving as an assistant U.S. attorney, a deputy attorney general, and a special justice on the Alabama Supreme Court. She was elected statewide to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals and began serving in 2009. Windom has served as the court's presiding judge since 2012 and was re-elected in 2014 and 2020. She is seeking another six-year term. Place 5 Riggs Walker (unopposed) began his legal career as a law clerk. In 1999, he joined the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office as a deputy district attorney, where he served for about 20 years. He later became an assistant attorney general for the State of Alabama. Walker has more than 26 years of experience prosecuting and handling criminal cases and is seeking election to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals. 29
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State Board of Education State Board of Education manages the state's public K-12 education appointments and appoints the States Superintendent. The board recommends education policies and is charged with developing strategies to increase graduation rated academic proficiency,narrow achievement gaps caused by economic inequality, and improve Alabama graduates college and career-and career readiness. The board has nine members, including the Governor, who serves as the president of the board. The other members are elected to four-year terms, and there is no term limit. Elections to the board are staggered. Yvette Richardson (unopposed) has more than 30 years of experience in education. During her career with Fairfield City Schools, she served as a teacher, principal, curriculum director, assistant superintendent, superintendent, and educational consultant. She also served as superintendent at Virginia College and taught as an adjunct professor at Miles College, Samford University, and Troy University. Richardson has served on the Alabama State Board of Education since January 2011.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Alabama Legislature Alabama Legislature has two chambers: the State Senate and the House of Representatives. The State Senate works with the House of Representatives to create laws and establish a state budget, with the input and possible veto of the Governor. The legislature passes bills on public policy, sets state spending levels, raises and lowers taxes, and votes to uphold or override gubernatorial vetoes. Members of both chambers serve fouryear terms.
State Senate District 15 Scott Ortis (unopposed) is a pharmacist and former publicschool teacher. He has not previously held elected office. His campaign priorities include reducing taxes, eliminating the state sales tax on groceries, improving education, supporting first responders, addressing health care affordability, and establishing term limits for state legislators. District 16 Spencer Stone is a public-school educator and coach with approximately 16 years of experience in education. Stone credits his experience as a teacher, coach, and mentor as central to his approach to public service. Stone's campaign priorities include strengthening public schools, increasing teacher pay, expanding career and technical education, supporting workforce development and small businesses, and promoting greater transparency and accountability in state government.
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Who is on the Ballot? State Senate Candidates continued
District 16 (continued) J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner (incumbent) is the longest-serving member of the Alabama Legislature. He served in the Alabama House from 1966 to 1983 and has represented Senate District 16 since 1990. A former Senate Minority and Majority Leader, Waggoner currently chairs the Senate Rules and Jefferson County Legislation committees. His priorities include supporting economic development, strengthening education funding, and addressing transportation and infrastructure needs. District 17 Shay Shelnutt (unopposed) spent approximately 10 years teaching mathematics and coaching before becoming a residential real estate agent. He was first elected to the Alabama Senate in 2014 and represents District 17, which includes portions of Blount, Jefferson, and St. Clair counties. Shelnutt currently chairs the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee and serves as vice chair of the Education Policy Committee.
IMPORTANT UPDATE The candidates for Alabama State Senate District 16 were inadvertently omitted from the printed version of the 2026 GBM Voter Election Guide. Their information has been added to this online version of the guide.
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Who is on the Ballot? State Senate Candidates continued
District 18 Rodger M. Smitherman (incumbent) (unopposed) is a practicing attorney and has taught at Miles Law School. Smitherman has served as an Alabama State Senator since 1995 and served as President Pro Tempore from 2008 to 2010. His legislative priorities include public education and education funding, youth development and sports programs, services and protections for senior citizens, and employment and economic development. District 19 Merika Coleman (incumbent) (unopposed) is a practicing attorney and assistant professor at Miles College. Coleman was elected to the Alabama Senate in 2022 after serving 20 years in the Alabama House of Representatives. Her legislative priorities include expanding voting access, protecting reproductive rights, expanding economic development opportunities, advocating for pay equity, and combating human trafficking and child labor violations. District 20 Linda Coleman-Madison (incumbent) (unopposed) worked for Birmingham City Schools for more than 30 years as a teacher and guidance counselor. She began her political career on the Birmingham City Council, serving from 1985 to 1997. She later served in the Alabama House of Representatives from 2002 to 2006 before being elected to the Alabama Senate. Her legislative work has emphasized health care, services for children and senior citizens, disability rights, women’s rights, and funding for Jefferson County communities. 33
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Alabama Legislature, continued State House of Representatives District 14 Tim Wadsworth (incumbent) (unopposed) is a former certified public accountant and an attorney. Elected to the Alabama House in 2014, his legislative priorities include tax relief, education, health care access, support for first responders, and restrictions on public restroom use based on sex listed at birth. District 15 Nell Brown has a background in business management, community advocacy, and leadership. She is pursuing a law degree at Miles Law School. Her campaign priorities include strengthening public education, expanding school and community mental health services, improving health care access, supporting working families, promoting economic opportunity, ensuring fair representation, and increasing government transparency. Leigh Hulsey (incumbent) is the owner of CrossFit Alabaster and Henley Developments, LLC. She served as president of the Alabaster Business Alliance and spent approximately 14 years on the Helena City Council. Hulsey was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2022. Her campaign priorities include roads and infrastructure, education, public safety and child protection, services for people with disabilities, economic development, and support for small businesses.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State House of Respresentatives, continued
District 16 Bryan Brinyark (incumbent) helped establish the Northport law firm Brinyark & Frederick, P.C. Brinyark stated priorities include lowering taxes, creating better-paying jobs, protecting children, supporting businesses, improving election security and funding transportation projects, He entered office in January 2024 after winning a special election. Christian Martin served as vice president of the University of Alabama College Democrats and participated in campus organizations including Common Ground and Friends of the Union. His legislative priorities include expanding Medicaid, supporting workers and organized labor, decriminalizing marijuana, and establishing congressional term limits. District 44 Danny Garrett (incumbent) (unopposed) has more than 30 years of business experience and was elected to the Alabama House in 2014. His legislative work has focused on education funding, tax policy, workforce and economic development, and fiscal issues. District 45 Susan DuBose (incumbent) worked for approximately 12 years as a commercial lending officer with Compass Bank. She was first elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2022. Her legislative priorities include limited government, lower taxes, Second Amendment rights, and restrictions on transgender participation in women’s sports.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State House of Respresentatives, continued
District 45 (continued) Toni Vaughn built her professional career in the insuranceclaims industry, becoming a senior regional vice president responsible for operations throughout the southeastern United States. Her campaign priorities include strengthening public schools, expanding affordable childcare, protecting fairness, and equal protection under the law. District 46 David Faulkner (incumbent) (unopposed) is a civil-trial attorney with the Birmingham law firm Christian & Small. He was first elected to the Alabama House in 2014. His legislative work has included computer science education and a statewide shark-attack alert system. His priorities include education, economic growth, and support for Alabama families and businesses. District 47 Mike Shaw (incumbent) had a career in information technology and cybersecurity. He has served as senior vice president and chief technology officer of Mutual Savings Credit Union. Shaw has served in the Legislature since 2022. His campaign priorities include supporting law enforcement and first responders, protecting consumer information and improving cybersecurity, and career-technical education. Jim Toomey spent approximately 40 years working in computer science, information technology, and business management. His campaign priorities include making voting more accessible, promoting fair redistricting practices, protecting Alabama’s rivers, streams, and freshwater resources, and strengthening public education 36
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State House of Respresentatives, continued
District 48 Lloyd Peeples (unopposed) began his career as legislative counsel to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee. His campaign priorities include protecting children, seniors, and victims of domestic violence and exploitation, strengthening public schools and workforce training, and supporting parental involvement in education. District 49 Russell Bedsole (incumbent) (unopposed) joined law enforcement in Shelby County and later became a captain in the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. He was elected to the Alabaster City Council in 2012 and continued serving there until his election to the Alabama House in 2020. His policy priorities are supporting law enforcement and protecting Second Amendment rights. District 51 Allen Treadaway (incumbent) (unopposed) served more than 30 years with the Birmingham Police Department before retiring as assistant chief. Elected to the Alabama House in 2006, his legislative work has focused on law enforcement, public safety, and first responders. District 52 Gigi Hayes (unopposed) is managing attorney of the Hayes Law Group. Elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in June 2026, her campaign priorities include expanding Medicaid, improving access to affordable health care, strengthening neighborhood infrastructure, and promoting financial literacy. 37
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State House of Respresentatives, continued
District 54 Neil Rafferty (incumbent) (unopposed) was elected to the Alabama Legislature in 2018. His legislative priorities include addressing opioid addiction and improving mental health services, promoting racial and LGBTQ equality, and supporting veterans and preventing veteran suicide. District 55 Travis Hendrix (incumbent) (unopposed) was elected to the Alabama Legislature in a 2023 special election. His legislative priorities include education, after-school programs and services for at-risk youth, support for people returning to their communities after involvement with the criminal justice system, community policing, and public safety. District 56 Ontario Tillman (incumbent) (unopposed) was elected to the Alabama Legislature in November 2022. His legislative priorities include strengthening science, technology, engineering and mathematics in education, mental-health services, and affordable housing. District 57 Patrick Sellers (incumbent) (unopposed) is a pastor and U.S. Army veteran who was elected to the Alabama Legislature in 2022. His legislative priorities include affordable housing, veterans, public safety, education funding, and expanding Medicaid.
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for State House of Respresentatives, continued
District 58 Rolanda Hollis (incumbent) (unopposed) is a former real estate broker who was elected to the Alabama House in 2017. Her legislative work has focused on menstrual hygiene products in public schools, assistance for elderly and low-income residents, prison reform, and anti-discrimination protections. District 59 Mary Moore (incumbent) (unopposed) worked as a medical technologist before being elected to the Alabama House in 2002. Her public service has focused on neighborhoods, children, senior citizens, education, public health, and community development. District 60 Alicia Escott Lumpkin (unopposed) is a public administrator and attorney with more than 17 years of experience with the City of Birmingham. Elected to the Alabama Legislature in 2026, her priorities include revitalizing the State Highway 78 corridor, improving infrastructure, and reforming Alabama’s criminal justice and prison systems.
“I could not stand by in benevolent dispassion any longer without compromising everything I know and love and value. The imperative was too clear, the stakes too high, my own identity was called too nakedly into question…” ~Jonathan Daniels 39
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Circuit Court Judge Circuit Court Judge is the highest in the county. The circuit courts are where jury trials take place. In most Alabama counties, the circuit courts hear both civil and criminal cases. In Jefferson County there is a civil division and a criminal division. The jurisdiction and powers of the circuit are set forth by statute. The circuit courts do not create laws. Although it may interpret a law as necessary to resolve an individual case. Place 1 Brian Huff (incumbent) (unopposed) practiced law before becoming a judge, focusing on family, juvenile, divorce, child custody, child support, and other domestic relations cases. As a circuit judge, he hears cases involving divorce, child custody, child support, and other family law matters. Huff was first appointed to the Jefferson County Circuit Court in 2005. Place 2 Shanta Craig Owens (incumbent) (unopposed) began her legal career in the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office. She was elected to the Jefferson County District Court in 2008 and appointed to the Circuit Court in 2019. Owens currently serves in the Criminal Division. She was elected to a full six-year term in 2020.
“Never to forget where we came from and always praise the bridge that carried us over.” ~Fannie Lou Hamer 41
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Circuit Court Judge, continued
Place 3 Kechia Davis (incumbent) (unopposed) began her legal career with Legal Services Alabama. She later served as a deputy district attorney and senior trial attorney in the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office. In 2017, she became a special judge for the Birmingham Municipal Court. Davis was elected to the Jefferson County Circuit Court in 2020. Place 10 Ruby Clark (unopposed) worked in the health insurance industry for about 15 years before becoming an attorney. In 2013, she opened her own law practice, focusing primarily on bankruptcy and personal injury cases. Clark has served as a Jefferson County District Court judge since January 2021.
“When explaining her choice to her husband before driving to Alabama to help register voters and transport demonstrators, she stated simply that the struggle for racial justice and voting rights was "everybody's fight”. - Viola Liuzzo
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Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for District Court Judge District Court Judge are lower courts that have authority to make decisions about misdemeanors, small claims, criminal cases, guilty pleas, and civil matters not exceeding $10,000. District courts also share jurisdiction over juvenile cases regarding delinquency, child abuse, and children in need of supervision. These cases are heard by a judge but no jury. Place 1 Martha Reeves Cook (incumbent) (unopposed) practiced civil law for more than 20 years before opening her own law firm. She handled cases involving foreclosures, real estate, divorce, and personal injury. Reeves also served on the Jefferson County Family Resource Center Board. She was appointed as a judge in 2019 and elected to a full six-year term in 2020. Place 2 Maria Fortune (incumbent) (unopposed) has worked as a deputy public defender, assistant city attorney, private attorney, and special circuit judge. She currently presides over the Jefferson County Drug Court Program (Birmingham). Fortune was appointed to the District Court in 2019, later became a Circuit Court judge, and was elected to a full six-year term in 2020. Place 7 Tiffany Jones (unopposed) has more than 13 years of legal experience representing clients in civil and criminal courts across Alabama. She has served as a special district and circuit court judge, a Daily Master for Jefferson County, and an adjunct professor of criminal justice. 43
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Jefferson County Sheriff Jefferson County Sheriff serves as the chief law enforcement officer for Jefferson County. The Sheriff’s office oversees patrols throughout Jefferson County outside of municipalities with their own police force, oversees criminal investigations, provides law enforcement services to Jefferson County Schools, conducts the only deputy sheriff training academy in the state, and oversees both county jails. The Sheriff serves a four-year term and has no term limits. Mark Pettway (incumbent) began his law-enforcement career in 1991 and joined the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in 1999. During his career, he served in several assignments, including the detective bureau, and became a certified instructor at the Sheriff’s Office training academy. Pettway was sworn into office in January 2019. He was reelected to a second term in 2022. Programs associated with his administration include Renewed for Reentry, Books Not Bullets, and the Law Enforcement Athletic Program. Jacob J. J. Reach joined the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in 1994 and retired as a captain in 2024 after 30 years of service. He currently works as an investigator with the Calera Police Department. Reach’s campaign priorities include creating Internet Crimes Against Children and human trafficking units, improving deputy recruitment, pay, and retention, strengthening school security, expanding patrol coverage in unincorporated communities, and increasing transparency and accountability. 44
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Jefferson County Commissioner Jefferson County Commissioner is the legislative branch for Jefferson County. The Commissioner administers county finances; serves as custodians of the county’s property; allocates resources for the construction of roads, bridges, and public facilities; facilitates local utilities; and makes appointments to various local boards and agencies. Commissioners serve four-year terms. District 1 LaShunda Scales (incumbent) (unopposed) served three terms on the Birmingham City Council from 2009 to 2018. She was first elected to the Jefferson County Commission in 2018 and reelected in 2022. Scales has an extensive background in public relations and marketing. Her campaign priorities include improving infrastructure and sewer systems, expanding workforce development, and increasing transparency and public access to county government. District 2 Sheila Tyson (incumbent) (unopposed) served two terms on the Birmingham City Council before being elected to the Jefferson County Commission in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. She has been active in voting rights and voting rights restoration efforts. Her campaign priorities include limiting sewer rate increases, expanding access to health care, increasing affordable housing, and improving services for uninsured women and veterans. 45
Who is on the Ballot? Candidates for Jefferson County Commissioner, continued
District 3 Camara Blue is a pastor in Birmingham and previously worked with the Dannon Project, teaching conflict resolution and restorative justice. His campaign priorities include improving emergency services and public infrastructure, expanding economic and workforce opportunities, practicing responsible budgeting, and making county government more transparent, accessible, and accountable. Jimmie Stephens (incumbent) is a business owner who served on the Bessemer City Council from 2006 to 2010 before being elected to the Jefferson County Commission in 2010. He has served as commission president since 2014. His priorities include fiscal responsibility, economic development, infrastructure improvements, and government accountability.
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the information in this guide is accurate and current at the time of publication. Because campaigns and election information can change, candidate biographies or campaign priorities may have been updated after our research and/or publication deadline. We encourage you to visit candidates' official campaign websites, social media pages, and the Alabama Secretary of State's website (www.alabamavotes.gov) for the most current election information. 46
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