Today, Yellowhammer News is proud to announce the second installment 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.
You can find the 2024 Power and Influence Numbers 50-41 here , and the 2024 “Who's Next?” list here .
Jess SkaggsOffice of the Lieutenant Governor
Jess SkaggsOffice of the Lieutenant GovernorLike his boss, Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, Jess Skaggs is a tireless worker and a fun person to be around. Skaggs grew up in Montgomery and has dedicated his career to understanding how the Legislature operates. With over a decade working in and outside the Legislature, he has a deep understanding of policy and how to communicate it, which proved effective in helping Ainsworth achieve his ambitious legislative agenda during the last session. Now in his fifth year on Ainsworth's staff and his second as Chief of Staff, Skaggs is expected to continue to rise on this list as 2026 looms.
Charlie TaylorThe University of Alabama System
Charlie TaylorThe University of Alabama SystemElevated from power and influence to the real deal, Charlie Taylor is likely to earn a place on this list as the Vice Chancellor for External Relations of the all-powerful University of Alabama System and its three powerful campuses. A graduate of the University of Alabama and the University of Alabama Law School, Charlie truly embodies the Capstone. And he knows Montgomery well. With a solid political readiness, a keen eye for good PR, and enough contacts on speed dial to drive a seasoned pro into retirement, Charlie is a genius. His elevation on this list likely makes him the embodiment of Nick Saban's core teaching: “Always put the team first.”
Philip BryanSwatek Vaughan & Brian
Philip BryanSwatek Vaughan & BrianOver a decade ago, we wrote about Philip Bryan as an energetic and influential leader who played a key role in the Senate and bridged the gap with the House of Representatives when he was Chief of Staff to Senator Pro Tempore Del Marsh. We said he was a doer, a strategist and a passionate advocate. Not much has changed in terms of his ability to exert power and influence. Philip Bryan makes money every year. That's why he remains an invaluable asset to his clients and a mainstay on this list. After all these years, there is no trick he hasn't seen.
John RossWindham, Galliher & Associates
John RossWindham, Galliher & AssociatesSince 2010, the Alabama Legislature has been the building block of John Ross. His unwavering talents as a political operator continue to pay off with every session as a strong leader in government relations. Ingeniously, he is an aide to decision-makers at the highest levels. Simply put, he is one of the most likeable people you will ever meet. John's standing and credibility among both chambers is fueled like napalm by an inexhaustible work ethic that never fades. He will continue to make history.
Scott StadthagenAlabama House Majority Leader
Scott StadthagenAlabama House Majority LeaderIn his second year as Alabama House Majority Leader, Stadthagen is finding his feet. Last year, we wrote that his rapid rise to power was characterized by ingenuity, relationships, and a willingness to take risks. That remains true today, and we believe those factors will continue to contribute to his rise on this list. Stadthagen has reportedly deepened his relationships with caucus members this session, increased his presence on the House floor, and ceded speaking time to caucus members who wanted to speak, rather than insisting on remaining at the center of caucus meetings.
Bobby SingletonAlabama Senate Minority Leader
Last year, we said that Singleton is the Alabama Senate's equivalent of a Renaissance Leonardo da Vinci. There may be no one in the Senate with a more deft command of both tempo and timing than this gentleman from Greensboro. In addition to his influence in dictating debate times, Singleton has engaged in the legislative gambling season-by-season debates with a seasoned, confident demeanor. He has also managed the internal dynamics of tough congressional elections for Democrats as minority members in each chamber sought his support. First elected more than 20 years ago, Singleton has never flinched.
Jeremy WalkerAlabama Association of Realtors
Jeremy WalkerAlabama Association of RealtorsJeremy Walker doesn't need a crystal ball to see the future. He dedicates his time, talent, resources and effort to always be one step ahead of those unfortunate enough to be on the opposing side of an issue or campaign. His wise stewardship of the Alabama Association of Realtors' political capital has paid off in past election cycles and legislative sessions and will continue to pay off in the future. He knows who the winners are and is prepared to fight the tough fights on behalf of the business community. Watch this space for more from Jeremy Walker.
Greg JonesJones Miller Group
Greg JonesJones Miller GroupPopular lawmaker Greg Jones, who is back on the list, has been increasing his political capital since the last election, far beyond his status as the most fashionable lawmaker in the Alabama Legislature. As always, his connections provide an immediate advantage for his clients. But this election, he has easily weaved his expanded portfolio of clients through the legislative process. But just because he seems to be doing it with ease doesn't mean he's not working harder than anyone else. With his latest miracle, Jones reminded everyone that you can still buy time when every minute is precious. For these reasons and more, his ratings continue to rise.
Ben PattersonFine Gedde & Associates
Ben PattersonFine Gedde & AssociatesBen Patterson knows the Alabama Senate well. And the Alabama Senate knows Ben Patterson. He's an expert on the Senate, not just understanding it, but the personal and political dynamics that dictate its tempo. By the time you think you need to know something, Patterson has probably already written the ending. That credibility, intellect, and direct connections to the powerful are what keep him on our list for as long as he wants to.
Taylor WilliamsPower South Energy Cooperative
“You can make more friends in two months by being interested in other people than you can make in two years by trying to get other people to be interested in you.” – Dale Carnegie
Simply put, he is known as “TW” and he lives by this rule. Ask anyone and they'll tell you. He is well-connected, well-respected and one of the most influential people in Alabama. And for good reason. First, he is president of PowerSouth, an energy supplier serving more than 1 million customers in 39 Alabama counties and Florida, and is the company's chief external and government relations officer. But above all, Williams cares about everyone he interacts with. When he calls, leaders at the local, state and federal levels don't hesitate to pick up the phone. He connects with business groups in every corner of the state and has been involved in some of the most significant economic development projects of the past decade.
Related: 50 Powerful and Influential People in 2024: Numbers 41-50
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