Alabama Lieutenant Governor Race: Nicole Wadsworth’s Credentials Questioned

A political announcement regarding the 2026 Alabama lieutenant governor race has raised eyebrows as it was revealed that Nicole Wadsworth, a candidate, does not possess the PhD she previously claimed. This information came from a news organization known as “Dr.”

Wadsworth’s campaign spokesman clarified her educational background in a recent statement. The 41-year-old has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and a master’s degree from the Florida Institute of Technology. The spokesman also noted she has Economic Development Leadership Accreditation from Auburn and an Alabama Planning and Zoning Certification.

There was some confusion regarding her academic qualifications, as the campaign stated she realized last week that the PhD from the University of Alabama was inaccurately represented in another news source.

Interestingly, many of Wadsworth’s online profiles promote her as having a doctorate of theology in Faith and Public Policy, awarded in April 2012, though no institutional affiliation is mentioned. This lack of context led to a statement from the Wadsworth campaign asserting she had not actually completed a PhD from the University of Alabama.

The campaign letter mentioned her academic pathway, emphasizing her bachelor’s from UAH, followed by graduate-level classes transferred first to Florida Institute of Technology where she obtained an MBA. In her own words, Wadsworth claims she “completed” her PhD at North Central Theological Seminary, but details on this institution are scant.

Requests for verification of her credentials from both the University of Alabama and Florida Institute of Technology were made. A spokesperson from the University of Alabama System responded, stating: “There is no record of Nicole Jones Wadsworth having a degree from UA.” They added that, per federal privacy laws, they could provide no further information.

This revelation led to skepticism among Alabama news organizations regarding her qualifications, especially since the designation “Doctor” is typically reserved for those who have completed a doctorate in medicine.

In her recent radio appearances, Wadsworth expressed that she had never run for public office before this current pursuit for the governor’s position. However, records show she was appointed to roles prior to her candidacy, including connections through her former marriage to state legislator Tim Wadsworth.

Initially, as a Republican, she entered Alabama Senate Minutes in 2017 and began her campaign for the 2018 election cycle. Ultimately, she shifted paths, aiming for the role of Alabama Agricultural Industry Commissioner for several months before the primary election in June 2018.

Throughout this time, Wadsworth repeatedly emphasized her focus on state heritage and reported that she was “working on a doctorate in theology.”

The ongoing situation has generated significant interest, particularly regarding the clarity and truthfulness of her academic credentials.