It’s clear that Alabama politics is gearing up for a significant 2026 election, with the main focus being Coach Tuberville’s US Senate seat.
To win this seat, much like others across the country, candidates need substantial campaign funding. Having sufficient personal funds is crucial in this endeavor, which is why it’s often labeled a “billionaire club.” In fact, this label might fit even better today. Names like Kennedy, Rockefeller, Danforth, and Kohler often come to mind in discussions of political financing.
Wealthy candidates frequently have an edge, especially since influential lobbyists typically avoid contributing during primaries for non-incumbents and instead hold back for the general election. For candidates in a staunchly Republican state like Alabama, the primary often feels like the main event. Consequently, those with their own resources are well-positioned to succeed.
The two major contenders for the open Senate seat appear to be Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and first district representative Barry Moore. There’s also Navy Seal Jared Hudson in the mix, who, with his striking looks, could gain traction if he receives hefty financial support. Both Marshall and Moore hold strong conservative views, though they approach economic issues with caution.
Marshall has little to lose by pursuing a Senate seat; he’s already served two terms as Alabama Attorney General. For him, this is more of a step up on the political ladder. On the other hand, for Rep. Barry Moore, a failed run could mean losing his Congressional position, which adds significant risk. Running for Senate from the House is a considerable gamble; it’s like playing with fire.
The candidates who succeed will likely be those who connect well with right-wing supporters and navigate the sometimes murky waters of campaign financing. A prominent group in this space is the Club for Growth, which tends to back extreme right-wing candidates in Republican primaries. They tend to concentrate their efforts on solid Republican states, driven largely by hidden financial resources and a belief in limited government.
It’s somewhat ironic, as many politicians backed by the Club for Growth hail from regions that depend heavily on military funding, which contradicts their anti-government stance. A case in point is Alabama’s Mo Brooks from Huntsville, a district known for its military ties. Interestingly, Trump himself has a complicated relationship with these groups; he’s often critical of them and their influence over Republican seats.
Members of the Club for Growth align with the Freedom Caucus, which some mainstream Republicans view skeptically. These lawmakers tend to stay at the back of the assembly and aren’t often entrusted with significant responsibilities, yet they seem to thrive without any real need to cater to their constituents. Their focus appears to be more on making noise than helping their districts.
Previously, the Club for Growth had considerable sway over two of Alabama’s lawmakers before Brooks departed from the House. Currently, they have Rep. Barry Moore in their sights, having conducted a wide-reaching vote to endorse him. This connection has implications for Moore’s campaign timing and strategy.
With designs on securing multiple Republican Senate seats, it’s unclear just how much the Club will invest in Barry Moore’s campaign. Meanwhile, Steve Marshall might face challenges he hasn’t yet considered. The outcome of this race seems poised to be influenced more by external money than by local factors.
Until next week.
