State Rep. Lett Marquez to Run for Alabama’s First Congressional District in 2026

On Thursday, State Representative Lett Marquez (R-Enterprise) announced his candidacy for Alabama’s First Congressional District, aiming for the 2026 election.

Marquez expressed his enthusiasm for transferring his state-level accomplishments to a national platform in Washington.

He plans to enter the race to succeed Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), who is pursuing a new venture rather than seeking reelection.

Marquez has already established a notable record, having represented Coffee County in the Alabama Legislature during the 2018 election cycle.

During his announcement, he emphasized his votes on recent tax reforms, including the continued reduction of the state’s grocery tax, a three-year sales tax exemption on diapers and baby products, and enhanced income tax relief for retirees.

“I’m a confirmed conservative advocate who prioritizes Alabama families and our values. In Congress, I’ll champion policies that move our state forward and challenge the failed economic strategies of the previous administration,” Marquez stated.

He remarked that, while the former president was working on tax relief for Americans, he was actively implementing similar relief efforts at the state level, focusing on essential support for families and seniors.

Marquez also has personal ties to Alabama’s newly defined First Congressional District, having grown up in Baldwin County and graduated from Fairhope High School.

In addition to his political career, he runs Goodson Tire & Auto in Enterprise.

“I take pride in my Baldwin County roots, and I’m closely connected to my family who still resides there. I’m also committed to raising my daughter in Coffee County,” he shared.

He expressed his passion for the district, emphasizing his understanding of both the Wiregrass region and the coastal areas where he has deep connections.

With two terms in the Alabama legislature, Marquez earned a reputation as a dependable, diligent conservative willing to unify fellow Republicans behind key legislation.

He has been married to his wife, Christina, for 31 years, and they have two daughters.

As the race begins, Marquez will be up against Jerry Carl, who recently declared his candidacy for the same congressional seat, following a previous defeat in 2024 against Congressman Barry Moore.