Rep. Debbie Wood recently announced her resignation from the Alabama House, citing family commitments and her husband’s new job in Florida. She will soon make an exit from District One, which has prompted others to consider the vacant seat.

This week, Christine Nelson, the Chambers County Republican Party Chairman, declared her intent to run for the Alabama House district. She feels prepared to draw on her experiences from both public and private sectors in an elected role.

“Having grown up near the Chambers-Le County line, I understand that our district is home to many hard-working families who, despite their efforts, still find it challenging to get ahead,” Nelson remarked.

She emphasized the importance of ensuring better-paying jobs, fostering safer neighborhoods and schools, and maintaining educational freedoms. “We need to ease what families are paying by lowering taxes and ensuring government accountability,” she added.

On her campaign website, Nelson mentions her part-time position at Harris Gray LLC, while also highlighting her community service roles. These include activities with Fairfax Methodist Church, serving as secretary of the Junior Variety Club, chairing the EMAC Lanier Auxiliary Committee, founding the Chambers County Young Republicans, and chairing the Chambers County Republican Party.

In her announcement, Nelson outlined her campaign goals, which focus on enhancing public safety, creating economic opportunities for communities, protecting educational freedoms, and implementing meaningful tax reductions for working families. Specifically:

• She aims to create more job opportunities by supporting local businesses and attracting new industries to raise wages.
• She plans to reduce crime by collaborating with law enforcement and community groups to enhance public safety, particularly for children.
• Her education focus includes investing in public schools and supporting teachers, while also safeguarding the choices of families preferring traditional education.
• She advocates for tax policies that would help working families retain more of their income.

It’s worth noting that Wood’s resignation will not take effect until July 31, 2025, and Governor Kay Ivey has yet to call for a special election.