In recognition of tonight’s annual service event and the unveiling of the Final Power & Impact Top 50, Yellow Hammer News is pleased to honor Jabo Wagoner with one of our most prestigious lifetime awards.
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When historians, political analysts, and public servants in Alabama think of “service,” Jabo Wagoner’s name quickly comes to mind.
Wagoner’s public service journey began in 1966 when Luleen Wallace took office as governor. At the time, Kay Ivey was just a year shy of graduating from Auburn University. Since then, Wagoner has dedicated over fifty years to public service.
Though he was under 30 during his initial election, Wagoner switched to the Republican Party in 1983, serving in the House until he ran an unsuccessful campaign for Congress against Democrat Ben Eldridge.
During the 1990 Senate elections in Alabama, Wagoner found himself among the minority of Republicans. Yet, his friendly demeanor and laid-back style masked a competitive edge, honed from his days as a high school and college athlete. He soon emerged as one of Montgomery’s most effective lawmakers.
After the GOP secured a supermajority in the legislature in 2010, ending 136 years of Democratic dominance, Wagoner’s long-standing relationships and respect earned him the role of Alabama’s first Republican majority leader.
Additionally, he has chaired the influential Senate Rules Committee for the past 15 years.
The significant legislation he has passed, the various committees he has led, the accolades he has received, and the lives he has touched would likely fill a lengthy book. Interestingly, a biography titled *Jabo Wagoner: An Alabama Political Legend* was just released in his honor.
Many former political figures who once held considerable influence are now forgotten, but Wagoner remains a celebrated figure, particularly as he holds the record for the longest legislative service in Alabama’s history.
His lasting impact was perhaps best captured by fellow Senator April Weaver (R-Brierfield), who remarked about him.
“Picture learning team-building from coaches like Bear Bryant and Shug Jordan. Think about embodying the dedication, tenacity, and patience of legends like Lou Gehrig and Cal Ripken. And imagine being personally educated by Ronald Reagan on public service, patriotism, and conservative values. For those of us in the Alabama Legislature, we experienced all of that simply by serving alongside Senator Jabo Wagoner.”
