Eye on Politics
Paul DeMarco
So the year 2026 has finally arrived, and for Alabama it means a busy election year ahead.
So this is one of the most important weeks for the upcoming election cycle here in Alabama. This is the last week that those who seek to run for office this year in either the Republican or Democratic Party can officially register to run. For those candidates that do throw their names in the ring, they are either waiting to see who may also join them in the race or sizing up their opponents.
For Alabama, there is a short lead up to both the Republican and Democratic Party primaries that are set on May 19, and if there are any run-offs they are set for June 16. Most of the major statewide and federal offices have had their fields set since last May when candidates could start raising money to fuel their campaigns.
All of the state constitutional officers and state lawmakers will be on the ballot. In addition, all of the federal congressional seats and one U.S. Senate seat is up. Add to that, local elections across the state will include county offices and judges, as well.
Finally, there will be several constitutional amendments on the ballot, including strengthening Aniah’s Law to allow judges more discretion to keep those accused of violent crimes behind bars.
But every election cycle there is always a surprise close to or on qualification day. So as time ticks closer to the deadline this Friday, January 23, at 5 p.m. we will see if there are any last minute candidates who shake up any of the races in the 2026 election cycle.
So as we kick-off the new year, get ready for the campaign season in Alabama.
Paul DeMarco is a former member of the Alabama House of Representatives and can be found on X at @Paul_DeMarco.
