Appointment of Cynthia Lee Almond to Alabama Public Service Commission

On Friday, Governor Kay Ivey appointed State Representative Cynthia Lee Almond (R-Tuscaloosa) as the chairman of the Alabama Public Service Commission, a role that became available following Twinkle Cavanaugh’s resignation in May.

Cavanaugh is now serving as the state director for Alabama’s rural development at the US Department of Agriculture.

“Cynthia has demonstrated great effectiveness as a civil servant and leader. I’m confident that her leadership will result in improved service for Alabamians at the Public Service Commission,” Governor Ivey stated.

“Since 2021, I’ve been able to rely on Cynthia for meaningful contributions in Congress. While Tuscaloosa will miss her representation in the Capitol, her leadership will benefit everyone across the state,” the governor added.

Almond, a lawyer and Republican who has represented House District 63 since 2021, is set to be sworn in as PSC president on June 16. She will resign from her legislative position the day before.

The Alabama Public Service Commission oversees utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications. Almond will lead a trio that aims to shape energy and infrastructure policies statewide.

“I’m honored that Governor Ivey asked me to take on this significant role, and I accept with enthusiasm,” Almond remarked.

“This committee recognizes the importance of its work for both the people of Alabama and the industrial sectors involved. I believe my background as an attorney and lawmaker will be valuable in this position,” she added.

Almond hails from Tuscaloosa and has previously served four terms on the Tuscaloosa City Council, leading various legislative committees, including the Ethics and Campaign Finance Committee. Her legal expertise includes real estate planning and business law.

The governor’s office noted that Almond’s extensive experience will significantly benefit the Public Service Commission, highlighting her dedicated service to those she represents.

She attended Vanderbilt University and is a graduate of both the University of Alabama and its Law School. Additionally, she is a Leadership Alabama alum and has co-chaired the West Alabama Regional Council. Almond is also a Sunday School teacher and a mother of two.

Almond’s appointment comes after Cavanaugh’s tenure, during which he served as president since 2012. Cavanaugh was named Director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development in Alabama on May 27.

Having left the PSC on June 1, Cavanaugh described his time there as “an incredible honor.” He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and reflected on working hard for Alabama families.

Governor Ivey is expected to announce a special election to fill Almond’s vacant House seat soon.