The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) has announced the opening of candidate qualifying for the 2026 election cycle, set to begin on January 5, 2026. This period marks the official start of a campaign season that will significantly influence control over key state and federal offices within Alabama. Qualifying will be available from 8:30 a.m. on January 5 until 5 p.m. on January 23, 2026.
John Wahl, Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party, emphasized the importance of the upcoming election cycle for the state’s future. He stated, “The 2026 election will play a major role in shaping the direction of our state. This qualifying period is the first step for candidates who want to be part of that future and who are willing to step forward and lead.”
Republicans currently hold a supermajority in the Alabama Legislature, as well as every statewide constitutional office. Wahl noted that maintaining this level of leadership is essential for continued progress in the state. He expressed his vision for Alabama, saying, “I want to see Alabama lead the nation in conservative policy. As one of the most conservative states in the country, we should be setting the standard on tax reform, economic growth, defending individual liberty, and protecting our children from a socialist agenda.”
Positions Open for Election in 2026
The 2026 election will feature a variety of positions on the ballot, including key roles such as:
– U.S. Senate
– U.S. House of Representatives
– Governor
– Lieutenant Governor
– Attorney General
– Secretary of State
– Auditor
– Treasurer
– Commissioner of Agriculture and Industry
– Public Service Commissioner
– Court of Appeals (Civil and Criminal)
– Member of the State Board of Education
– Circuit Court Judge
– District Court Judge
– Alabama State Senate
– Alabama House of Representatives
Candidates interested in qualifying can do so either online at algop.org/2026-candidate-qualifying or in person at the Alabama Republican Party Headquarters located at 3505 Lorna Road, Hoover, AL 35216. It is important to note that candidates for county-level offices, such as county commissioners, sheriffs, and coroners, must qualify through their local county Republican Party organizations.
Wahl advised prospective candidates to complete all necessary filings before the qualifying period. This includes submitting a Statement of Economic Interest to the Alabama Ethics Commission and forming a Principal Campaign Committee with the Alabama Secretary of State’s Office. Failure to complete these steps promptly could lead to disqualification from the qualifying process.
Key Dates for the 2026 Election Cycle
Several critical dates are set for the 2026 election cycle, which include:
– ALGOP Primary Election: May 19, 2026
– ALGOP Primary Runoff Election: June 16, 2026
– General Election: November 3, 2026
For additional information, candidates or members of the public can contact the Alabama Republican Party at 205-212-5900. As the election cycle progresses, the ALGOP aims to solidify its influence and advance its conservative agenda, setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive and pivotal year in Alabama politics.
