Campaign for Alabama’s District 1 Seat

State representative Rhett Marques, a Republican from R-Enterprise, has gained the backing of House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and 31 fellow Alabama Republicans for his bid to fill the vacant District 1 seat in the state.

This week, lawmakers voiced their support, highlighting Marques as a dependable conservative known for his tax reduction and economic initiatives at the state level. Ledbetter remarked, “He has helped the people of Alabama with over $1.5 billion in tax cuts. He supports our economy through significant workforce development efforts, advocates for law enforcement, and bolsters public safety by fighting illegal immigration. His record is commendable. While I regret losing him in the state legislature, he embodies what Alabama’s first Congressional district needs in Washington, DC.”

Marques expressed his gratitude for the support, stating, “I am thrilled to have the backing of so many of the men and women I have worked with in Congress.”

This endorsement follows earlier support from U.S. Senator Katie Britt, who donated the maximum allowed amount of $10,000 from Alabama’s First Political Action Committee for Marques’s campaign. Both Britt and Marques hail from Enterprise.

Marques, a long-time Republican representing House District 91, grew up in Baldwin County and emphasized the scope of his campaign, referring to it as “the Joint of Wiregrass to Coast.” This district encompasses areas including Mobile, Baldwin County, Gulf Coast, and the Wiregrass region.

The race also involves former U.S. representative Jerry Carl, who is aiming to return to Congress after losing to Rep. Barry Moore due to a district change in 2024. Moore is currently pursuing the open seat of U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, who is running for governor. Additionally, Joshua Mackey, a former U.S. Special Forces officer, is in the running for Moore’s position.

The Republican primary is set for May 19, 2026.