Alabama’s Political Landscape in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a significant year in Alabama politics, with several key positions up for grabs—including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General, along with possibly a U.S. Senate seat. The race for these roles is heating up.

The Attorney General’s position is particularly crucial for the state and is drawing some strong contenders. Current Attorney General Steve Marshall has served for eight years and is nearing the end of his term.

Leading the charges for this role seems to be Judge Jay Mitchell from the state Supreme Court. Though he’s reportedly gearing up to run for Attorney General, it’s a bit puzzling why he’d depart from a secure seat. Mitchell was just re-elected to a six-year term on the Supreme Court last year, which is, in many ways, a more prestigious position than that of Attorney General.

A resident of Homewood and Jefferson County, Alabama’s largest, Mitchell has a solid educational background, having studied at Birmingham Southern University where he played basketball, followed by law school at the University of Virginia. He has a reputable law career and serves as a respected legal scholar. Currently, his campaign account holds an impressive $660,000, marking him as a favorite within the business community.

Mitchell might have faced a stiff challenge from veteran state Senator Arthur Orr from Decatur. However, Orr has opted not to run, which eases Mitchell’s path. Orr is regarded as one of the most influential senators in the state, chairing the Senate Education Budget Committee, where he oversees a hefty $9.3 billion budget, arguably giving him power equivalent to or greater than the governor’s.

As a powerful senator, Orr has accumulated over $1 million in campaign funds, making him a significant player in Alabama politics. He wisely chose to stay put rather than pursue the Attorney General role, allowing him to maintain his influential position.

Another contender in the Attorney General race is Jay Town, the Attorney from Alabama’s Northern District. Town is a notable candidate, having a background as a prosecutor and previously appointed U.S. attorney by Trump. With military experience as a U.S. Marine Corps officer and JAG, he’s built a reputation as a tough prosecutor—an asset for the Attorney General job.

Katherine Robertson, who has been the general counsel under Attorney General Marshall, is also entering the race. She is well-regarded and highly qualified, having earned her degrees from Auburn University and the University of Alabama Law School. Growing up in Montgomery, her family history includes a significant figure in a powerful organization, which could enhance her support network.

If Robertson or the Blount County District Attorney Pamela Casey, who officially declared her candidacy on January 15th, emerged victorious, they would make history as Alabama’s first female Attorney General. Casey’s extensive experience as a DA, spanning 15 years, aligns closely with what the role demands, reflecting the background of the current Attorney General Marshall.

A fascinating race lies ahead in Alabama.