Today, Yellowhammer News is proud to announce the first of our 12th annual “2024 Power & Influence 50.”

As this year's legislative session draws to a close, our team spent time speaking with key leaders and officials in state government to provide an inside look at the top people using their power and influence to serve the people they represent in the Yellow Hammer State. The list reflects recent policy and political developments and includes Alabama business leaders, lobbyists, consultants and elected officials.

Derek TrotterBradley Arant Boult Cummings

Derek Trotter is a seasoned political professional who has developed considerable perspective on the political process from a young age. Derek has served as an elections expert, Chief of Staff to Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed, a member of the Governor's staff, and currently serves as Senior Advisor to Bradley. He is already known to members of the Alabama Legislature as a solid source of advice and to his clients as an expert on relationships and effective solutions. He will have a strong showing in the 2024 Legislature and will continue to do so in many more to come. His presence will be growing in Montgomery and beyond.

Hal BloomBloom Group

With more than 30 years of experience in Alabama politics, Hal Bloom has become a master of the legislative process. When influence is needed in Montgomery, Bloom remains Alabama's true first choice. Whether in his role shaping policy as the top strategist for legislative leaders or as the architect of large-scale projects that require an understanding of minute detail, Bloom hasn't just manipulated the system, he's shaped it. He's literally written the book on the system. We'd love to hear how one of the kindest and most humble men in the state Legislature makes it out of this description.

Jared WhiteAuburn University

It’s no secret that Jared White heads Auburn University’s Government Affairs department and advises the Board of Regents on political issues from Montgomery to Washington. He has served in various positions in the Executive Branch, including as Director of Legislative Affairs under Governor Kay Ivey. He is an excellent communicator, policy maker and political practitioner. But what is less known about Jared White is that the foundation of his exceptional work ethic can be traced back to the discipline and determination he developed while pursuing athletic excellence at the university. No one works harder than White, a two-time All-SEC First Team collegiate swimmer and diver, five-time NCAA All-American, former NCAA record holder and three-time Auburn graduate.

Clay LoftinBlue Cross & Blue Shield of Alabama

He learns from the best, he aligns with the best, and he is becoming the best himself. As a lobbyist for the state's largest insurance company, his character fits the bill perfectly. He covers it all, and nothing is out of Clay's control. His ability to build and nurture relationships is natural, and his knowledge of policy is enviable. This translates to cutting-edge political instincts that need no introduction. He has used and will continue to use them to benefit the entire Alabama business community. This is Clay Loftin's first appearance on this list, and we expect to see him continue to appear in future issues as he gains experience and expands his influence.

Steve LivingstonAlabama Senate Majority Leader

For those who keep an eye on the Alabama Senate, it should come as no surprise that Steve Livingston was selected for the majority leader position last year when it became vacant. After defeating Todd Gleason in the 2014 primary, Livingston arrived at the state legislature well-respected and well-connected. Since then, his approachable, calm, and no-nonsense demeanor has helped him gain influence among his colleagues in a legislature that values ​​those traits. He maintains strong relationships with his North Alabama colleagues, including Speaker Ledbetter. As majority leader, Livingston will spearhead efforts to keep the Senate Republican incumbents in their seats in 2026, a fitting job for a senator known for getting everyone on the same page.

Dax SwatekSwatek, Vaughan & Brian

A true original, Dax Swatek has never been afraid of a tough fight. Really. He ran Republican campaigns in the '90s and has been obsessed with turning the tide ever since. Now, as one of Alabama's go-to government relations experts, he dives headfirst into every legislative session, proving himself in new ways each time. Executives and organizations turn to Dax because they want to win. They trust his insight, his connections, his data, and the variety of resources he's proven to be able to deploy to their benefit. There's a reason Dax Swatek has been a consistent presence on this list for over a decade.

Chase WrightSpire Energy

Now in his fifth year representing Spire in Alabama state government, Chase Wright has established himself as an influential voice on policy issues related to public works and more. He is observant, a skilled communicator and has a strong interpersonal relationship with legislators and government relations professionals. He is also a company employee with 16 years of experience. For a company that values ​​reliability and accountability, Chase Wright embodies the mission of the Alabama State Legislature.

Mark DrewProtective Life Corporation

Mark Drew leads Protective Life's legal and political team. He plays a key role in the business world's approach to government issues, tort reform, and economic development. Drew has always been one of the brightest minds, especially when it comes to the courts. Protective Life is one of the state's largest companies and has produced former CEOs and other figures who have had a tremendous impact on the state's political landscape. Drew is a respected and influential business and political figure. He has a very good track record of accomplishments. But one of the reasons he made it onto this year's list is because Drew is so passionate about making a difference in Alabama.

Jason IsbellRegions Bank

Alabama's financial sector, Regions Bank, and the state's entire business community are fortunate to have Jason speaking and influencing their behalf in Montgomery. A decorated veteran of the Alabama Legislature, he brings a wealth of experience gained in both the public and private sectors as a legal, financial and government relations professional to his conversations with lawmakers and decision-makers. In his role with Regions Bank, Jason's reach extends to many state legislatures and state capitols where the bank is based. But if you ask those who know him best, Alabama is home to Jason. As the man representing one of the most trusted institutions in the Southeast, it's no surprise that Jason is one of the most trusted figures in Alabama politics.

Greg ButlerBalch & Bingham

Now appearing on Power & Influence for the 10th consecutive year, Greg Butras remains one of the most politically influential lawyers in the state, and by a wide margin. He monopolises many dynamics that don't exist anywhere else: a regulatory and campaign finance expert with a deep understanding of the powerful themselves, a lawyer so good he can charge by the 30 seconds with the genuine generosity to offer insight, and an even bigger man with a big sense of humor. His legal counsel is trusted by a wide range of people, including elected, appointed and full-time public officials, top-level executives, consultants and lobbyists. Butras' attention is a currency in itself.

Related: Power and influence in 2024: Who's next?