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22nd Annual Tomato Sandwich Lunch attracts notable lawmakers and candidates

Annual Tomato Sandwich Ranch in Alabama Celebrates Local Agriculture

The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industry (ADAI) recently celebrated its 22nd Annual Tomato Sandwich Ranch event in Montgomery, honoring the dedicated farmers throughout the state.

This event highlighted the locally grown produce, particularly tomatoes, sweet corn, onions, and lettuce. Attendees also enjoyed various Alabama-made products, like Golden Flake Chips, Bluebell Ice Cream, Flower Bakery Pan, Milo Tea, and Buffalo Rock Soft Drinks.

According to Rick Patty, Alabama’s Agriculture and Industry Commissioner, “The tomato sandwich lunch goes beyond just food. It’s a tribute to our agricultural community and emphasizes the significance of backing our local farmers.” He added that, particularly in the summer, there’s nothing quite like Alabama’s homegrown produce.

While the lunch centers on appreciating Alabama’s farmers, there’s another layer to the event that continues to gain attention over the years.

The event regularly attracts a notable guest list, often featuring prominent figures in Alabama politics. This year was no exception, with various state politicians and candidates gearing up for the 2026 election.

  • Candidate for Secretary of State: Caroline Dobson
  • Agriculture and Industry Committee and Lieutenant Colonel candidate: Rick Pate
  • Candidate for State Auditor: Derek Chen
  • Alabama Supervisor: Eric Mackey
  • Candidate for Agriculture and Industry Commission: Christina McInnis
  • Candidates for State Senator District 34 and Agriculture and Industry Commission: Jack Williams
  • Commissioner for the Alabama Public Service Commission: Jeremy Auden
  • Judge on Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals: Richard Minor
  • Blount County District Attorney and Attorney General Candidate: Pamela Casey
  • Judge on Alabama Citizens’ Court of Appeals: Matt Fridy
  • Justice on Alabama Supreme Court: Brad Mendeme
  • State Senators District 15: Dan Roberts
  • Judge on Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals: Rich Anderson
  • State Senators District 34: Doug Harwell
  • State Senators District 25: [Info needs confirmation]
  • State Senators District 13: Randy Price

With an expanding roster of key political attendees, the annual Tomato Sandwich Ranch continues to be a highlight on the campaign calendar across Alabama.