Reynolds Seeks to Keep Helm of Alabama GOP!

Joan Reynolds, who took over the Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) after John Wahl's exit, is officially vying to stay on as Chairman. Wahl stepped down to chase his own political dreams, specifically a run for Lieutenant Governor.

Reynolds' Pitch to Party Leaders

In a letter to the State Executive Committee, Reynolds emphasized a "seamless" transition and keeping things steady during this busy election season. "We need steady, proven leadership," she stressed.

Reynolds' Track Record

Reynolds highlighted her experience as ALGOP Finance Chair, boasting record-breaking fundraising that fueled Republican victories across the state. She also pointed to her leadership in Butler and Shelby Counties, noting her 12-year run as Shelby County Chairman.

The Mighty Alabama Strike Force

Reynolds also leads the Mighty Alabama Strike Force, a volunteer powerhouse credited with helping Republicans win elections nationwide. From Governor Youngkin's victory in Virginia to President Trump's efforts in Florida and Georgia, Reynolds says the Strike Force has been a game-changer.

The Future of the ALGOP Leadership

The decision is in the hands of the ALGOP State Executive Committee, who will meet on March 7 in Hoover. Reynolds, a prominent figure in Alabama's Republican scene, may face a challenge from House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen, according to reports. Stay tuned!

Alabama Families Feeling the Squeeze?

Across the nation, families are feeling the pinch. From the grocery store to the insurance bill, things are costing more. It seems like Washington's policies are making life tougher for everyone, no matter where you live.

Protecting Alabama: Our Job One

Here in Alabama, some of our House Representatives believe their mission is clear: defend Alabama families, protect Alabama jobs, and make sure Alabama gets to call its own shots, free from outside meddling.

The Alabama Affordability Protection Act: Our Answer

That's why they've introduced the Alabama Affordability Protection Act! It's a conservative answer to rising costs and the growing influence of Big Tech and environmental groups from out of state. These groups see Alabama as a playground for their agenda, not as a home for hard-working families.

Shining a Light on Hidden Costs

These groups are already here, sending lobbyists to Montgomery and trying to influence our elections. Here's the deal: Data centers bring opportunity, sure, but they also gobble up massive amounts of electricity.

No Free Ride for Big Business

Without rules in place, who ends up paying? Everyday families! Alabama families shouldn't have to foot the bill for billion-dollar corporations. This act stops data centers from shifting their costs to homeowners, plain and simple.

Ratepayer Dollars: Keeping the Lights On, Not Lining Lobbyists' Pockets

We also believe your money should keep the lights on, not pay for lobbyists. That's why the act stops utilities from using your money to fund their lobbying efforts. We want transparency and accountability, not back-room deals funded by working families.

Your Voice Matters

When utility costs are a worry, Alabamians deserve a say. This act requires utilities to hold public meetings, so you can hear directly from them and ask tough questions before decisions are made. Sunlight is the best disinfectant, right?

Oversight is Key

Finally, the act beefs up legislative oversight of the Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC is a big deal for our economy, and the Legislature needs to step up and do its job overseeing them.

Rejecting Outside Influence

This is even more important now, with millions of dollars pouring into Alabama from out-of-state groups trying to influence our elections and energy policy. Their goal isn't lower bills for you; it's control over our economy and our way of life.

Standing Up For Alabama Families

The only ones opposing this plan are those same environmental activists. They want fewer rules, less transparency, and more control from outside Alabama. We say no way!

This isn't easy. Taking on powerful interests never is. But these Representatives aren't backing down when Alabama families are on the line. The Alabama Affordability Protection Act puts Alabama first. It protects ratepayers, curbs outside influence, strengthens oversight, and sends a message: our economy and our elections aren't for sale!

Chip Brown (R-Hollingers Island), Susan DuBose (R-Hoover), Brock Colvin (R-Albertville), and Arnold Mooney (R-Birmingham) are committed to protecting Alabama families and believe this legislation is a crucial step in that fight.

Carns vs. Peeples: Is There a Shakeup Brewing in Alabama House District 48?

Longtime State Rep. Jim Carns (R-Vestavia Hills) might be facing a tougher re-election battle than he's used to. After decades in Alabama politics, a new poll suggests voters in House District 48 could be ready for a change.

The Numbers Game

A Cygnal poll, conducted in late January, reveals a surprising number of undecided voters (59%) in the heavily Republican district. While Carns currently leads challenger Lloyd Peeples 23% to 16%, the poll also indicates that only 21% are ready to re-elect him. Ouch! It seems like voters are open to exploring other options.

A Look at the Candidates

Carns, who will be 85 this year, has served multiple terms in the Alabama House, with a stint on the Jefferson County Commission in between. He's seeking his seventh re-election. Interestingly, the poll shows that a whopping 54% of likely Republican primary voters still don't have an opinion on him.

Peeples, a 52-year-old former federal prosecutor, is throwing his hat in the ring for the first time. He boasts experience as first assistant U.S. attorney and highlights his role as a "business owner, a husband, and a dad."

Where's the Action?

House District 48 covers areas like Greystone, Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, and north Shelby County. According to the poll, the undecided voters are heavily concentrated in Vestavia Hills, making it a key battleground.

Show Me the Money!

With the primary election looming, the fundraising race is heating up. As of January, Peeples reported a larger cash-on-hand total of $321,066.72 compared to Carns' $203,348.87. Will money talk, or will experience prevail? Stay tuned!

Alabama Families Feeling the Squeeze?

Across the nation, families are feeling the pinch. From grocery bills to insurance premiums, and energy costs, life's getting pricier. Some folks in Washington seem to think radical environmental rules are the answer, making life tougher for everyone, no matter where they live.

Protecting Alabama's Own

Here in Alabama, a group of conservative House members believe their mission is simple: defend Alabama families, safeguard Alabama jobs, and ensure Alabama gets to make its own choices, free from outside meddling.

Enter the Alabama Affordability Protection Act

That's precisely what the Alabama Affordability Protection Act aims to achieve. It's a conservative answer to rising prices and increasing pressure from Big Tech and radical, out-of-state environmental groups. These groups view Alabama as just another battleground for their national agenda.

Cost Shifting? Not on Our Watch!

These groups are already setting up shop. Data centers and big industrial players bring opportunity, sure, but they also guzzle massive amounts of electricity. Without proper safeguards, those costs get dumped onto everyday Alabamians. The Alabama Affordability Protection Act prohibits cost-shifting from data centers to residential customers.

Ratepayer Dollars for Keeping the Lights On

Ratepayer money should keep the lights on, not line the pockets of lobbyists! The Act stops utilities from using your money to fund their lobbying efforts. It’s about transparency and accountability.

A Seat at the Table for Alabamians

Alabamians deserve a voice! The Alabama Affordability Protection Act requires utilities to hold public meetings on rates, so customers can hear directly from providers and ask the tough questions before decisions are made. Sunshine is conservative!

Stronger Oversight for a Critical Commission

The Act provides stronger legislative oversight of the Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC is vital to the state's economy, and the Legislature must reassert its authority.

Rejecting Outside Control

Millions in out-of-state money are pouring into Alabama to influence elections and energy policy. Their goal isn’t lower bills. It's control!

The only organized opposition to this plan comes from the same environmental activists who want fewer safeguards, less transparency, and more influence from outside Alabama. Alabama says NO.

Standing Up for Alabama Families

Standing up to powerful interests isn't easy, but conservatives don't back down when Alabama families are at stake. If they don't act, utility rates won’t magically drop.

Alabama First!

The Alabama Affordability Protection Act puts Alabama first, protects ratepayers, reins in outside influence, strengthens oversight, and sends a clear message: Alabama’s economy and elections are not for sale! State Rep. Chip Brown, State Rep. Susan DuBose, State Rep. Brock Colvin, and State Rep. Arnold Mooney are ready to fight for Alabama.

Alabama Speaker Blasts Super Bowl Halftime Show

After last night's Super Bowl LX spectacle, Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter didn't hold back, accusing the NFL of letting "wokeness" crash one of America's biggest parties.

Bad Bunny's Performance Sparks Controversy

The source of the uproar? A halftime performance by Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny. His Spanish-language set, packed with what some viewed as anti-ICE messaging, ignited fury across conservative circles nationwide during the Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots game.

"Shameful Hijacking" Claims Ledbetter

"I switched the channel as soon as the game hit halftime," declared Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) on social media. "The Super Bowl is an AMERICAN tradition, and it’s shameful that the NFL allowed wokeness to hijack our halftime show."

A History of Divisive Halftimes?

This isn't the first time the Super Bowl halftime show has been accused of pushing agendas. Past performances, like Beyoncé's 2016 Black Lives Matter tribute and Shakira and Jennifer Lopez's performance in 2020, have stirred similar controversy.

"Woke Bowl" Backlash and Alternative Entertainment

Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) even labeled this year's event the "Woke Bowl" due to Bad Bunny's Spanish-only performance. Meanwhile, Turning Point USA hosted its own "All-American Halftime Show," boasting over 6 million viewers with a lineup including Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. The alternative show, focused on faith, family, and freedom, was dedicated to the late Charlie Kirk.

Trump Joins the Criticism

Former President Trump chimed in, branding the performance as "absolutely terrible" and a "slap in the face."

Moore's Senate Bid Gets a Trump Boost!

The Alabama Senate race is heating up, and Barry Moore is making a splash with his first TV ad! The ad prominently features an endorsement that's sure to grab attention: President Donald Trump's seal of approval.

Trump's Words Front and Center

The ad kicks off strong, declaring Moore as "Trump’s choice for U.S. Senate." It then highlights Trump's own words from a Truth Social post, praising Moore as a "successful Businessman," an "America First Patriot," and a tireless fighter for Alabama. The ad also reiterates Trump's claims that Moore will cut taxes, secure the border, stop migrant crime, strengthen our military, and defend the Second Amendment. And, to really drive the point home, Trump is quoted calling Moore a "good friend," a "fighter," and a "WINNER," giving him his "Complete and Total Endorsement.”

Campaign Momentum

This 30-second spot is now playing across Alabama, marking the beginning of Moore's intensified media campaign. Moore himself emphasized the importance of Trump's backing, stating it "says a lot about the direction of this race." He believes his campaign has "incredible momentum" because Alabamians crave a Senator who aligns with Trump, champions conservative values, and stays true to his roots.

Trump Ties a Campaign Cornerstone

Moore is definitely banking on his Trump connection. Since jumping into the race to fill U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville's seat, Moore has made his relationship with the former President a key part of his campaign. He frequently reminds voters that he was an early supporter, endorsing Trump at a 2015 rally. The Republican primary is just around the corner on May 19, 2026!

Big News for Cyber Tech in Sweet Home Alabama!

Get ready, ChumCity! The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE) is about to level up with a brand-new Research Institute! Construction kicks off later this year, so hold on to your hats!

A Center of Excellence is Born

This isn't just any research facility; it's envisioned as a state-of-the-art Alabama Center for Excellence – practically the first of its kind to be smack-dab in the middle of a high school. Think K-12, higher education, industry bigwigs, and government folks all teaming up to supercharge research and workforce development in cyber tech, AI, and engineering. Pretty cool, right?

Boosting Alabama's Tech Future

ASCTE is on a mission to support Alabama's long-term workforce game as the state keeps attracting awesome technology and manufacturing investments. They're talking serious STEM outreach with hands-on labs, killer professional development for teachers, and curriculum that's totally in sync with what the Alabama State Department of Education wants. The goal? To get more students and teachers across the state access to advanced tech education!

Quote from the Top

"Our focus is on capacity building, helping schools and districts tackle STEM concepts with confidence," says Chase Golden, ASCTE’s Chief Technology Officer. “The Research Institute and its Center of Excellence mission allows us to scale that work, connect it to research, and ensure that what works in one classroom or district can work across the state.”

What Kind of Research?

We're talking AI, computing, cyber ranges, and big data! The new facility aims to supercharge research partnerships, support faculty-led studies, encourage student entrepreneurs, and bring advanced tech topics right into the classroom.

Leveling Up Teachers and the Workforce

ASCTE is already a go-to for teacher training, and this new Research Institute is going to blow those efforts wide open!

“As a new TEAMS professional development provider, we were overwhelmed by the amount of teacher interest in our Cyber Immersion Day sessions,” said Amy Mason, ASCTE’s TEAMS Professional Development Coordinator.

Teachers who’ve been through the program are already saying it's making a real difference in their classrooms.

The Research Institute also plans to ramp up its work with industry partners to make sure training programs are on point with what the workforce needs right now and what it'll need tomorrow.

Driving Innovation Across Alabama

“This new research center positions ASCTE to drive innovation not just within our school, but throughout Alabama’s educational landscape,” said Board Vice Chair Alicia Ryan. “It’s an investment in the future workforce of our state.”

Labs Galore!

The facility will be packed with cutting-edge labs: a Cyber Test Center, an AI Innovation Center, a Systems Integration Center, and an Engineering Life Cycle Center.

A Bright Future for Alabama

“Our strategic plan reflects our commitment to student success and educational excellence,” said ASCTE President Matt Massey. “By expanding our research capabilities and campus resources, we are ensuring our students are prepared to lead in tomorrow’s technology fields.”

And to handle the growing student body, a new dorm is on the way too!

“This is going to be an asset for the state of Alabama as we partner with universities and for the whole nation, and really to have a global impact,” Massey said.

Officer Involved Shooting Rocks River Lake Drive

ChumCity friends, things got heavy in Hoover this Sunday morning. An officer-involved shooting at a River Lake Drive residence has left one civilian dead and a police officer injured.

The Details

Hoover PD responded to a call about a mentally disturbed person around 7:49 a.m. February 8, 2026. Cops say a 38-year-old male suspect reportedly whipped out a handgun and started firing at a family member right off the bat. Yikes.

Officer Down, Civilian Lost

Tragically, a family member was hit and pronounced dead at the scene. One of our brave Hoover PD officers was also shot but is thankfully in stable condition and expected to recover fully. The suspect? He caught some return fire from the officers and is also hospitalized, stable.

Investigation Underway

Because weapons were discharged, the State Bureau of Investigation (ALEA) is now handling the case. Hoover PD is pointing all inquiries to them.

Prayers and Support

Hoover PD released a statement asking for prayers for everyone affected by this tragic event and thanking the community and other law enforcement agencies for their incredible support. Let's keep Hoover in our thoughts, ChumCity.

Sheriff Cunningham: ChumCity's Hometown Hero!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Our very own Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham has snagged the National Sheriffs’ Association Sheriff of the Year award for 2026! This is HUGE – one of the biggest honors a sheriff can get nationwide!

The Alabama Sheriffs Association made the announcement, and we're bursting with pride. This award shines a spotlight on Sheriff Cunningham's outstanding leadership and dedication.

From Tacoma to Top Cop

Sheriff Cunningham's journey is truly inspiring. He traded Tacoma, Washington, for Tuscaloosa and answered the call of duty at just 21. Graduating from the Montgomery Police Academy in '89, he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming Chief Deputy before being elected Sheriff in 2015. He's also Montgomery County's first African American sheriff!

A Leader in Our Community

Sheriff Cunningham isn't just about badges and paperwork (though he manages a $50.1 million budget!). He's a champion for community-based policing, youth mentoring, and using the latest tech to keep us safe. Plus, he’s got degrees from Troy University and the University of Phoenix, and he's a graduate of the FBI National Academy! Talk about dedication!

Beyond the Badge

This guy's commitment goes way beyond the sheriff's office. He's a retired veteran of the Alabama National Guard, a point man for Homeland Security funding, and a leader in the Alabama Sheriffs Association. He also dedicates his time to nonprofits supporting crime victims, youth programs, and more.

A Well-Deserved Honor

Sheriff Cunningham's national recognition is a testament to his long career and unwavering commitment to ChumCity. He’s not just a sheriff; he's a community leader, a role model, and a true hometown hero! Let's give a huge shout-out to Sheriff Cunningham!

Dark Money Alert: Is Your Alabama Energy Bill About to Skyrocket?

Hold onto your wallets, ChumCity citizens! A recent investigation reveals some seriously shady stuff going on with Alabama's energy policy. It looks like a surge of out-of-state, left-leaning "dark money" is flooding into our state, all funneled through a group called Energy Alabama. And guess who's potentially pulling the strings? You might not like the answer.

Energy Alabama: What's the Deal?

Public records suggest that Energy Alabama is acting as a local hub for a larger, out-of-state network aimed at pushing progressive agendas onto our utility regulations and energy policies. Seems innocent enough, right? Wrong.

The Money Trail

One major player is Multiplier, a San Francisco-based organization that's poured hundreds of thousands into Energy Alabama. But the story gets even weirder when you look at who's funding them. We're talking groups linked to George Soros, entities with connections to China, and even organizations tied to groups on terror watch lists!

The Man in the Middle

At the heart of this operation is Daniel Tait, Energy Alabama's executive director and registered lobbyist. Tait's been linked for years to the Energy and Policy Institute (EPI), a self-proclaimed "watchdog" that targets fossil fuel and utility interests. However, for over a decade, EPI was basically a ghost! No official status, no tax returns, nothing but a PO box in San Francisco.

Questions Ignored

Back in 2020, Alabama's Secretary of State demanded answers from Tait about EPI's funding and legal status. Tait's response? Crickets.

Follow the Money: Who's Really Paying?

It turns out that solar industry money, channeled through a California PR firm, is allegedly fueling these attacks on our local utilities. Since 2023, almost half a million dollars from shadowy organizations has flowed into Energy Alabama, transforming it from a tiny nonprofit into a major player.

Troubling Connections

These funding organizations have a history of supporting some pretty extreme policies, from transgender advocacy to pro-Palestinian groups with links to terror-designated organizations. And guess where they get their money? A huge chunk comes from Soros-affiliated groups and a Chinese government-linked entity.

What Does This Mean for Alabama?

This influx of dark money and the aggressive campaign it's funding could have a massive impact on Alabama's energy policy. Get ready for a potentially wild ride in the upcoming legislative session and election cycle. Stay informed, folks! This could affect your wallet and our state's future.