2026 Democratic Candidates

-Primary is Tuesday, May 19- 

Alabama Statewide and Madison County Offices

The following information was released by the Madison County Democratic Party January 27, 2026

Madison County Democratic Party Announces Robust Slate of Local and State-wide Candidates

HUNTSVILLE, AL January 27, 2026 – The Madison County Democratic Executive Committee (MCDEC) presents a sweeping slate of candidates who will appear on the upcoming 2026 ballots. 

With 163 candidates qualifying state-wide, Democrats will have strong headliners at the top of the ticket: Six candidates for Governor, two for Lieutenant Governor, four for Public Service Commissioner, and one each for Secretary of State, Agriculture Commissioner, Attorney General, State Auditor, and State Treasurer. At the Federal level, there are also three candidates for Congressional District 5 and five for U.S. Senate. All of the state and federal candidates are listed at the Alabama Democratic Party website, aldemocrats.org.

“What’s clear is that our 2026 candidates are earning the trust and respect of voters,” said Sheila McNeil, Chair of the Madison County Democrats. “These are thoughtful, prepared, and community-centered leaders with practical solutions. They are listening to people’s challenges, understanding their dreams, and offering real choices for Alabama’s future.”

Madison County Democrats — representing the second-most populous county in Alabama — are proud to announce that these Democratic candidates have qualified for key Madison county offices in 2026.

Sheriff - Brett Jones
Superintendent of Schools - E. Quinn Headen
School Board District 3 -Austin Jones
Tax Collector - Jeff Taylor

“With these candidates stepping forward to serve, the people of Madison County will have a real and meaningful choice in 2026,” said Sheila McNeil.

The Primary Election will be held on May 19, 2026, with Runoff Elections on June 16, 2026. The General Election is set for November 3, 2026.

Democratic Candidates who qualified by the January 23 deadline to run at the federal and state levels in districts and seats that fall within Madison County are:

US Senator - Dakarai Larriett
US Senator - Kyle Sweetser
US Senator - Everett Wess
US Senator - Mark S. Wheeler II
US Representative, 5th District - Jeremy Devito
US Representative, 5th District - Candice Dollar Duvieilh
US Representative, 5th District - Andrew Sneed
Governor - Will Boyd
Governor - Jamel J. Brown
Governor - Yolanda Rochelle Flowers
Governor - Doug Jones
Governor - Chad “Chig” Martin
Governor - Nathan "Nate" Mathis
Lt. Governor - Phillip Ensler
Lt. Governor - Darryl D. Perryman
Attorney General - Jeff McLaughlin
Secretary of State - Wayne Rogers
State Treasurer - Rosilyn Houston
State Auditor - Violet Edwards
Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries - Ron Sparks
Public Service Commissioner, Pl 1 - James O. Gordon
Public Service Commissioner, Pl 1 - John Northrop
Public Service Commissioner, Pl 1 - Jeff Ramsey
Public Service Commissioner, Pl 2 - Sheila D. McNeil
State Senator, District 2 - Rudolph Valentino Drake
State Senator, District 2 - Alex House
State Senator, District 2 - Guy Sotomayor
State Senator, District 3 - John Dickey
State Senator, District 7 - Jared Sluss
State Senator, District 8 -Katie Kramer
State Representative, District 4 - Hanu Karlapalem
State Representative, District 10 - Marilyn Lands
State Representative, District 15 - Nell Brown
State Representative, District 19 - Laura Hall
State Representative, District 20 - James Linderholm
State Representative, District 21 - Forrest Satterfield
State Representative, District 25 - Allison T Montgomery
State Representative, District 25 - Damon Eubanks
State Representative, District 53 - Anthony Daniels
Supreme Court Justice, Place 8 - Ashleigh Meyer Dunham
District Judge, Madison County Pl 1 - Kimberly Kelley Rucker
District Judge, Madison County Pl 4 - Jason M. Jones
District Judge, Madison County Pl 5 - Raven Beach
State Board of Education, District 8 - Shatika Armstrong

See 2026 Candidate Filing Guide and Alabama Democrats for more information on how the candidates became qualified to run.

We still need Democrats to jump in…

Alabama needs strong Democratic leadership at every level. Let’s get serious by running a Democrat in every single position up for election in 2026. The deadline has passed for statewide or county level offices, but there are still city positions that need Democratic candidates. Contact Madison County Democratic Women if you or someone you know is considering running for one of these vital seats.

Huntsville City Offices

Deadline to declare candidacy is June 27, 2026

See City of Huntsville website for more information.

  • School Board District 2

  • School Board District 3

Democratic Candidates Running in Alabama in 2026 (more coming soon)

US SENATE

  • Dakarai Larriett

    US Senate

    “Alabama deserves leaders who put service over self and country over party. We’ve had enough political division and chaos. It’s time to focus on real solutions that benefit everyday Americans.”

  • Kyle Sweetser

    US Senate

    “America was founded on freedom from oppression, but today, too many Americans work 40 hours a week and barely make the rent. They’re not free.”

  • Everett Wess

    US Senate

    “As a Democrat, Everett W. Wess is running for the United States Senate to advocate for voting rights, equal justice, affordable healthcare, quality public education, and economic opportunity. He believes that the justice system should work for everyone—not just the powerful. Everett W. Wess is committed to listening to the people, standing up to special interests, and striving every day to build a fair, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.”

  • Mark Wheeler

    US Senate

    "My mission is bigger than politics. It’s about making the world better for the people I love, and for every hardworking American who just wants a fair shot. Whether it’s fighting for fair wages, safer communities, better working conditions, or the freedom to succeed, I’m ready to serve you with integrity and purpose.”

US HOUSE

  • Jeremy Devito

    US House AL District 5

    "I believe in public service, I believe in good government, and I believe our democracy is under attack — and I’ve got the courage to fight for it. All across this district, this state, and this country, young people like me are stepping up — doing everything we can to protect democratic values, defend our federal workers and public servants, and end this war on our rights.”

  • Dr. Candice Duvieilh

    US House AL District 5

    “Dr. Candice Duvieilh is a proud North Alabamian, a devoted toddler mom, and the wife of a disabled veteran. She is a government accounting expert and former public school teacher who brings professional expertise and lived experience to the work of serving this district.

    Candice believes leadership requires preparation and accountability. She earned a BA in Public Policy, a Master’s in Public Administration, and a Doctorate in Education because North Alabama deserves a representative who is ready to listen, lead, and deliver from day one.

    Dr. Duvieilh is committed to showing up in the community, communicating clearly, and using resources wisely. She will focus on strengthening schools, supporting Alabama families, and demanding accountability for every taxpayer dollar, with results that people can actually see and feel.

    Candice brings steady energy, real presence, and a little joy everywhere she goes. North Alabama does not need political theater. We need leadership that works as hard as we do.”

  • Andrew Sneed

    US House AL District 5

    “Ours is a government created by and for the people. I have faith that if we fight to reinvigorate that purpose - with leaders who know it is their job to serve the people - we can remember what it meant for the entire world for America to be that shining city on a hill. We can not only right this ship - but set sail again towards shimmering horizons that seem lately to have faded from view. North Alabama can lead the way. We can lead the way forward - together. For my children and for yours, we have to.”

  • Amanda Pusczek

    US House AL District 4

    “She’s running to build a future where human rights are protected, healthcare is accessible and affordable, and the cost of living doesn’t hold families back.”

  • Shane Weaver

    US House AL District 4

    “Shane Weaver has a strong vision for the community, centered around worker's rights, financial security, and child safety. His desire for public service and promise of inclusivity make him the ideal candidate to represent the people of Alabama's Congressional District Four.”

AL GOVERNOR

  • Dr. Will Boyd

    AL GOVERNOR

    “Now is the time us to work alongside each other to fight for:

    * Ethical excellence

    * Economic development

    * Educational equity

    * Exceptional healthcare for all

    * Equal justice for all

    * Ending voter suppression

    * Ensuring all Alabamians have their voices heard at the ballot box and a seat at the table.

    I believe that together, we can build a better Alabama for all.”

  • Ja'Mel Brown

    AL Governor

    “Three key components of his campaign: Raise the minimum wage; Remove the grocery tax; and Bring a Lottery to our state. Make life more affordable in Alabama by creating an atmosphere of opportunity through real legislation.”

  • Yolanda Flowers

    AL Governor

    “Yolanda believes that God and government go hand in hand; therefore, the call is out for unity of ALL races, creeds, denominations, genders and social economic status. As Governor, she will work to improve Alabama's healthcare, education, criminal justice, and economy. And she will work diligently to end poverty and bring equality for all people.”

  • Doug Jones

    AL Governor

    "For too long, Alabama had suffered from an array of office holders who became embarrassments to our state and cast a shadow on the good people of Alabama. We can do better.‍ ‍I’m running to give the people of Alabama something too many politicians in Montgomery don’t want you to have: a choice.”

  • Chad "Chig" Martin

    AL Governor

    “Chad ‘Chig’ Martin believes in treating everyone equitably. He stands by the U.S. Constitution and will defend Alabamians’ rights to peace, liberty, and justice for ALL. He aims to improve every Alabamian's quality of life by creating sustainable jobs that offer livable wages, maintainable benefits, and respectable retirement packages.”

  • Nathan Mathis

    AL Governor

AL LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

  • Philip Ensler

    AL Lieutenant Governor

    “In my time as an Alabama state legislator, I have seen first hand that Alabamians want their public servants to focus on solutions to real problems, not culture wars and personal agendas. The issues of most concern to Alabamians — safe communities, good public schools, affordable and accessible health care, financial security and economic success — are not Democratic or Republican, but human concerns. I know that Alabamians of all backgrounds and political identities can work together to build an even better, safer, and more affordable state for all. I humbly ask for your support and to join our movement as we embark on this effort together.”

  • Darryl D. Perryman

    AL Lieutenant Governor

    “Strengthening families for a more unified Alabama”

AL ATTORNEY GENERAL

  • Jeff McLaughlin

    AL Attorney General

AL SECRETARY OF STATE

  • Wayne Rogers

    AL Secretary of State

    “Alabama has been at the forefront of voting issues for much of its history. The next step in voting is to encourage ALL eligible voters in Alabama to make voting a priority in their everyday life. As Secretary of State, I will work to explain the importance of voting to Alabama’s voters, and I will work to expand opportunities to cast ballots to all those who are eligible to do so.”

AL TREASURER

AL AUDITOR

  • Violet Edwards

    AL Auditor

    “I am running because accountability in government matters. The State Auditor's role is fundamentally about accountability. It's about knowing what the state owns, understanding how public funds are managed, and ensuring systems are in place to protect the public's trust. You need someone who understands how government systems work, how to manage public resources responsibly, and how to bring transparency to the process without politicizing it. That's the work I've been doing at the county level, and it's the mindset I would bring to the Auditor's office.”

AL COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE AND INDUSTRY

  • Ron Sparks

    AL Commissioner of Agriculture and Industry

    “He stands on his record, fighting for farmers, improving food safety, building three new animal diagnostic labs across the state. He wants to restore law enforcement authority within the agency. He plans to return the Law Enforcement Division back to the Department of Agriculture to help farmers with theft and consumers with fraud across the state.”

AL PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

  • James O. Gordon

    AL Public Service Commission (Place 1)

  • John Northrop

    AL Public Service Commission (Place 1)

    Alabama is one of the poorest states, but we pay more for electricity than people do in most others. Meanwhile, growing demand and climate damage pose a dual threat to affordable, dependable energy and our quality of life. We need transparent regulation and thoughtful energy policies for a prosperous, livable Alabama.

  • Jeff Ramsey

    AL Public Service Commission (Place 1)

  • Sheila D. McNeil

    AL Public Service Commission (Place 2)

    “As the 2026 Democratic Nominee for Public Service Commissioner, I will focus on fair rates, reliable service, and transparent decision-making, putting Alabama consumers first while ensuring our utilities remain strong and dependable.”

AL SENATE

  • Rudolph Valentino Drake

    AL Senate District 2

  • Alex House

    AL Senate District 2

    “If you elect me as your state senator, I will fight to enact legislation to reform local zoning laws that often prevent building and lead to severe housing shortages that raise prices. More housing inventory will increase opportunities for home ownership and drive down rental costs for the people of north Alabama. I will also work to find ways to incentivize builders to construct smaller, more affordable homes for Alabamians just starting a family or entering the market. It doesn’t serve the people’s interest to build a bunch of millionaire mansions that working people can’t afford.”

  • Guy Sotomayor

    AL Senate District 2

    “Alabama is the 6th poorest state in the nation with 15% of the population living below the poverty line.  It is clear that we need a drastic and aggressive change so that we can make sure that our families and neighbors have enough not only to survive, but to thrive.  I support creating a universal basic income and raising the minimum wage to a livable level.”

  • John Dickey

    AL Senate District 3

    “I'm John Dickey, PhD., and I have called the Tennessee Valley home for all my life. I am running for State Senate District 3 to encourage job growth, improve our children's education, and make sure that the dream of homeownership stays within reach.”

  • Jared Sluss

    AL Senate District 7

    “Many people are doing everything right — working hard, raising families, trying to be responsible — and the bills keep climbing. Groceries, rent, utilities, and insurance. When you get sick, the system often punishes you for needing help or just straight up denies the help doctors recommend. The status quo isn't working and change must happen.

    I graduated from UAB with a degree in public health, and I've spent eight years working in affordable housing and neighborhood development — as a small business owner and at nonprofits.

    I'm running because loving your neighbor isn't a slogan. It's a responsibility that must be reflected in our policies. Let's build a state where people can afford to live, get care, and get ahead.”

  • Katie Kramer

    AL Senate District 8

    “Committed to fighting for Alabama families, Katie Kramer believes every community deserves access to quality healthcare, good-paying jobs, and safe neighborhoods. She is dedicated to building a stronger future for our state while protecting the values and natural beauty that make Alabama the Beautiful our home. Families across Alabama are feeling the strain of rising prices, from groceries and utility bills to the cost of finding an affordable place to live. Working families shouldn’t have to choose between paying the power bill, putting food on the table, or saving for the future. As your State Senator, Katie will support policies that help lower everyday costs, increase housing affordability, and provide responsible tax relief for working families. Alabama’s economy should work for the people who power it.”

AL HOUSE

  • Hanu Karlapalem

    AL House District 4

    “An Alabama we can afford: lower costs, stronger public schools, real healthcare.”

  • Marilyn Lands

    AL House District 10

    “I decided to run to ensure that all of our voices were finally heard and, more importantly, to show that when we work together, we can make a positive, transformational, and measurable difference—especially on critical and life-changing issues such as Creating Economic Opportunity, Cultivating Education, and Protecting Health Care and Reproductive Freedom.”

  • Nell Brown

    AL House District 15

    “Too often, politicians make promises and then disappear after Election Day. That is not leadership. I believe you deserve to know how your tax dollars are being spent and to have a representative who truly listens and acts on your concerns. Government works best when it is open and honest. I will show up, tell the truth, and make decisions with your input because our community deserves leaders who are present, engaged, and committed to serving the people.”

  • Laura Hall

    AL House District 19

  • James Linderholm

    AL House District 20

    “North Alabama is the economic engine for our state, and I know what our business leaders need. I will work with our civic leaders and the Chamber to continue to attract industry and well-paying jobs to the District. From bridges to wastewater treatment to broadband and power generation, Alabama is unprepared and falling behind. Urgent action is needed. All children deserve access to a quality education. It is our most important responsibility as a society, and teachers are our most important resource. We can do better!”

  • Forrest Satterfield

    AL House District 21

    “The old world is dying, and the new world struggles to be born — but that transition is over. The new world is here. Public trust in institutions has been deeply fractured by outdated systems that serve a select few. The federal government has abandoned communities like ours, and at the state level we are met with apathy. Forrest Satterfield is not here to promise a return to a bygone era. He is here to lead District 21 into a new day. Forrest is a UAB-trained biomedical engineer and serial entrepreneur who founded his first startup at age 19. From 3D-printed prosthetics to supplying N95 masks for frontline healthcare workers during COVID-19, he has spent his career solving real problems for real people.”

  • Allison T Montgomery

    AL House District 25

    “Together we’ll fight the corruption of Alabama’s elected offices and start to clean up this state.

    I want to work with other representatives on real, substantial issues, cut through the distracting noise of the ‘culture war’ and figure out how best to write policy that will help people."

  • Damon Eubanks

    AL House District 25

  • Anthony Daniels

    AL House District 53

AL SUPREME COURT

  • AshLeigh Dunham

    AL Supreme Court

    “As a Justice, I can’t write the laws, but I can make sure they are applied fairly and without bias. The Alabama Supreme Court is often the last safeguard for our constitutional freedoms, protecting our right to speak, to make private family decisions, and to be treated equally under the law. I will not rubberstamp political agendas but protect our Alabamians and our families.”

MADISON COUNTY DISTRICT JUDGE

  • Kimberly Kelley Rucker

    District Court Judge Place 1

    “Kimberly is committed to the constitutional RULE OF LAW and the protection of individual liberties. She stands firm on the principle that judges should be objective and interpret the laws of our state and country as written. As District Court Judge, Kimberly will ensure equality and justice under the law for every person in Madison County, whether they are White or Black, rich or poor, first generation or fifth generation.”

  • Jason Jones

    District Judge Place 4

    “Let’s strengthen our Madison County district court together.”

  • Raven Beach

    District Court Judge Place 5

    “This district judge race matters because it’s about us — our families, our businesses, our community. Together, we can ensure justice is fair and balanced for everyone.”

AL State School Board

  • Shatika Armstrong

    AL State School Board District 8

    “Shatika is passionate about education and has dedicated her life to ensuring success for all children.”

    “We must ensure the success of all children. They all deserve the best and every opportunity no matter their different walks of life. We must ensure that our teachers feel supported, but most importantly heard. We must ensure that our community continues to support our schools, teachers, staff, and leaders to be the best school system possible. Education is a team effort!”

MADISON COUNTY SHERIFF

  • Brett Jones

    Madison County Sheriff

    “As our county continues to grow, it's more important than ever to have leaders who know what it takes to protect our community. Brett Jones has dedicated his life to keeping us safe—serving as a Navy SEAL, a CIA GRS agent, and a police officer. Now, he's ready to bring that same dedication and experience to the role of sheriff.”

MADISON COUNTY SCHOOLS

  • Dr. E. Quinn Headen

    Madison County School Superintendent

    “Madison County is at a pivotal moment. Rapid growth demands steady, experienced leadership to protect what makes our schools strong.

    ​With nearly three decades in Madison County Schools, Dr. Headen has served as a teacher, principal, and community leader. He understands the challenges ahead and how to navigate them responsibly.

    His focus is clear: protect academic excellence, support educators, and ensure smart, strategic growth that serves students, families, and taxpayers with integrity and sustainability.”

  • No photo available

    Austin Jones

    Madison County School Board District 3

    "Freedom starts with education Austin Jones pictured smiling with a white button down shirt and red bandanna. There is no higher honor than to serve the people. i am here to do just that. i served this country for 21 years with four deployments across two wars."

MADISON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR

Madison County and Municipal Elections

Many of these positions are non-partisan. We will add a link to some information about these elections soon. Site is under construction.

More Information