With Senator Tommy Tuberville's unexpected decision to run for governor of Alabama in 2026, the race for his U.S. Senate seat has become one of the most closely watched contests in the nation. Alabama's Republican primary is expected to be highly competitive, with several prominent figures vying for the nomination. Based on current endorsements, political experience, and fundraising capabilities, here is a detailed assessment of the leading GOP contenders:
1. Steve Marshall – Attorney General of Alabama
Steve Marshall has officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Senator Tommy Tuberville. A staunch conservative and ally of former President Donald Trump, Marshall has a strong track record of challenging federal policies and defending Alabama's conservative values. His campaign video prominently features praise from Trump, underscoring his alignment with the former President's agenda. Marshall's extensive experience in statewide office and his established donor network position him as a formidable candidate in the Republican primary.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Legal Experience: Marshall has served as Alabama's Attorney General since 2017 and previously served as the district attorney for Marshall County for 16 years.
- Immigration: He has been a vocal advocate for strict immigration enforcement, joining other Republican-led states in filing lawsuits challenging multiple Biden administration policies.
- Criminal Justice: Marshall launched the Initiative on Violent Crime in 2018, aiming to help cities reclaim their streets and restore the rule of law.
- Religious Liberty: He is a strong advocate for religious liberty and has consistently championed constitutional principles in courts nationwide.
2. Jared Hudson – Former Navy SEAL and Nonprofit Leader
Jared Hudson, a former Navy SEAL and political outsider, has entered the race with a platform emphasizing border security, opposition to progressive policies, and the defense of Christian values. Although his campaign website lacks detailed policy positions, Hudson's messaging aligns closely with Trump's "America First" agenda.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Military Service: Hudson is a former Navy SEAL, bringing a strong military background to his campaign.
- Nonprofit Leadership: He currently leads a nonprofit organization focused on combating human trafficking.
- Political Outsider: Hudson positions himself as a political outsider, pledging to emulate Senator Tuberville's approach in Washington.
3. Mo Brooks – Former U.S. Representative
Mo Brooks, a former U.S. Representative for Alabama's 5th District and a previous Senate candidate, remains a potential contender. Brooks has a strong conservative record but may face challenges due to his prior electoral history. His experience in Congress could appeal to voters seeking a candidate with legislative experience.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Legislative Experience: Brooks served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023.
- Immigration: He has been endorsed by Americans for Legal Immigration and has sponsored or co-sponsored numerous bills related to immigration.
- Healthcare: Brooks opposes the Affordable Care Act and has supported efforts to repeal it.
- Social Security: He supports changes to Social Security, including allowing individuals to invest a portion of their Social Security benefits in private retirement accounts.
4. Barry Moore – U.S. Representative for Alabama's 1st District
Barry Moore, the current U.S. Representative for Alabama's 1st District, is a sitting congressman with a solid conservative record. His legislative experience and alignment with conservative values may resonate with voters. However, his relatively lower statewide name recognition compared to other candidates could pose a challenge.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Legislative Experience: Moore has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2021.
- Abortion: He supported the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade, calling it "a huge victory for the pro-life movement and the Constitution."
- Debt Ceiling: Moore was among the Republicans who voted against the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023.
- Israel: He voted in favor of the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024, which continued to provide military support to Israel during the Gaza War.
5. Twinkle Cavanaugh – Former President of the Alabama Public Service Commission
Twinkle Cavanaugh, the former President of the Alabama Public Service Commission, has statewide experience and a strong conservative base. Her familiarity with state issues and established connections within the party could make her a viable candidate. However, her decision to leave the Public Service Commission to join the U.S. Department of Agriculture may impact her momentum.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Public Service Commission: Cavanaugh served as the President of the Alabama Public Service Commission from 2013 to 2025.
- Political Leadership: She served as the chair of the Alabama Republican Party from 2005 to 2007.
- Rural Development: In June 2025, she was appointed as the USDA Alabama State Director of Rural Development.
6. John Merrill – Former Alabama Secretary of State
John Merrill, the former Alabama Secretary of State, has statewide name recognition but may face scrutiny over past controversies. His decision to withdraw from the 2022 Senate race due to personal issues may affect his credibility among voters. Considering all of this, he does not appear to be a strong candidate for 2026.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Secretary of State: Merrill served as Alabama's Secretary of State from 2015 to 2023.
- Controversies: In 2021, Merrill admitted to an extramarital affair and announced he would not run for U.S. Senate.
7. Garlan Gudger – Alabama Senate President Pro Tempore
Garlan Gudger, the newly elected President Pro Tempore of the Alabama Senate, has legislative experience and has emphasized conservative values. His focus on issues like immigration and education reform may appeal to voters seeking a candidate with a strong policy agenda.
Background and Policy Positions:
- Legislative Experience: Gudger has served in the Alabama Senate since 2018 and was elected as Senate President Pro Tempore in 2025.
- Immigration: He has emphasized aligning state immigration policies with federal guidelines, targeting undocumented immigrants with arrest warrants or criminal charges.
- Education: Gudger has prioritized improving education across all regions, aiming to provide quality education for every child in every ZIP code.
Outlook:
The Republican primary for Alabama's open Senate seat is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest. Steve Marshall leads the field with his extensive political experience and alignment with Trump's agenda. Jared Hudson's outsider status and military background could appeal to voters seeking change. Other potential candidates, such as Mo Brooks and Barry Moore, bring legislative experience.
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