MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) Wednesday night, Alabama is ringing in a new year of state politics. With major offices up for grabs in 2026, leaders shared what races you should watch next year.
Contests for governor and lieutenant governor will be among the most competitive, according to former State Representative Paul DeMarco.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) is running in the Republican primary for governor, while former U.S. Senator Doug Jones is running to be the Democratic challenger.
Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, Secretary of State Wes Allen and Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery) are vying for lieutenant governor.
Republicans have every statewide constitutional office. I don’t see that changing in 2026,” he said. “I think Republicans and the state voters have connected when it comes to conservative values, lower taxes, less regulations, public safety I don’t see that changing in 2026.”
“I think they’re gonna be shocked. They’re gonna be surprised,” said Josh Coleman, chair of the Jefferson County Democratic Party, in disagreement

