Alabama's Redistricting Rollercoaster: Hold Tight!

The Alabama congressional map saga continues, folks! Just when you thought the dust had settled after that court-ordered redraw (remember the Moore vs. Carl cage match?), things are getting interesting again.

Shifting Sands in AL-02 & AL-07

Word on the street is AL-02 is drifting back into reliably Republican waters. Meanwhile, AL-07 remains the Democratic fortress of the state. This has sparked some serious chatter.

Sewell vs. Figures? Could it Happen?

Could the shifting map eventually pit Representatives Sewell and Figures against each other in a single district? Only time will tell, but the political rumor mill is definitely churning!

The Buzz is Building

Stay tuned, ChumCity citizens – this redistricting ride is far from over!

Dark Money Ads: Are They Spreading Fake News in Alabama?

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! There's some serious drama unfolding down in Alabama with dark money groups and some very questionable political ads.

The Accusation

A group called Alabama Values PAC is hitting five Republican lawmakers with a barrage of attack ads, claiming they voted to give "free college" to undocumented immigrants. Ouch!

Fact Check: BUSTED!

But here's the kicker: the very office that drafts Alabama's laws says that claim is completely FALSE. According to Othni Lathram, head of the Alabama Legislative Services Agency, the bill in question (HB21 only dealt with eligibility for enrollment, not taxpayer dollars. Zip. Zero. Zilch.

What the Bill Actually Did

Basically, the bill would have allowed undocumented students who attended Alabama high schools for at least three years to enroll in state colleges. However, the bill specifically stated they wouldn't be eligible for any scholarships, grants, or financial aid. Big difference, right?

Who's Behind These Attacks?

Alabama Values PAC is the group slinging the mud, operating out of a UPS store mailbox (how mysterious!). Their website slams the lawmakers for "supporting benefits for illegal aliens over Alabama citizens." A bit dramatic, no?

The Targeted Lawmakers

So, who are the unlucky five? State Reps. Phillip Pettus, Matt Simpson, and Frances Holk-Jones, along with State Sens. Greg Albritton and Andrew Jones, are all in the PAC's crosshairs.

Why Should You Care?

Whether you're an Alabama resident or not, this shows how dark money groups can try to manipulate voters with false information. With the Republican primary just around the corner (May 19th), it's a reminder to always do your own research and question what you see in political ads! Don't fall for the fake news, ChumCity!

Dark Money Ads Slammed as False!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The claim that some Alabama lawmakers voted to give "free college" to illegal immigrants? Officially debunked!

The head honcho at the Alabama Legislature's bill-drafting office just dropped a truth bomb, confirming the central claim in those shady dark money attack ads is plain wrong.

The Bill Breakdown

According to Othni Lathram, Director of the Alabama Legislative Services Agency, the bill in question (HB21 was about enrollment eligibility, not freebies. Zero taxpayer dollars were involved.

What the Bill Actually Did (Or Didn't Do)

The bill proposed a limited exception allowing certain undocumented students who attended Alabama high schools for at least three years and graduated or earned a GED to enroll in state colleges. It also covered those who've applied for legal status. Critically, no funding was attached. The official fiscal note clearly states the bill wouldn't impact state or local funding.

The PAC Attack

This ruling hits hard against Alabama Values PAC, a newbie group operating out of a UPS Store (sketchy, right?), and its claims that these lawmakers are favoring "illegal aliens over Alabama citizens."

The Truth Hurts

The bill itself explicitly states that undocumented students aren't eligible for any postsecondary education benefits like scholarships, grants, or financial aid. Ouch!

Who's in the Crosshairs?

State Reps. Phillip Pettus, Matt Simpson, Frances Holk-Jones, and State Sens. Greg Albritton and Andrew Jones are all in the PAC's sights ahead of the May 19 Republican primary. Don't let misleading ads sway your vote, ChumCity!

Big News for Alabama's Medical Scene!

Get ready for a fresh face at the Medical Association of the State of Alabama! Vernon Barnett, a familiar name in Alabama public service, is taking the reins as the new executive director, starting May 18th.

Saying Goodbye to a Legend

Barnett steps into the role previously held by Mark Jackson, who retired last month after an impressive 12-year run. This marks the first leadership change for the association since 2014.

Barnett's Impressive Credentials

Before this exciting move, Barnett dedicated nine years to leading the Alabama Department of Revenue under Governor Kay Ivey. He played a key role in shaping tax policy and managing statewide programs. But his experience doesn't stop there! He's also held senior positions at the Department of Environmental Management, the Department of Corrections, and the Attorney General’s Office.

Barnett's Vision for the Future

"I'm honored to take on this role," Barnett shared, highlighting the challenges Alabama physicians face. He emphasized the Medical Association's commitment to advocating for doctors and improving patient access to quality care.

A Leader's Perspective

Dr. Nina Ford Johnson, president of the association and a pediatrician from Mobile, believes Barnett's state government experience and leadership skills make him the perfect fit. She stated that his leadership will be essential in strengthening support for Alabama's doctors.

About the Medical Association

The Medical Association of the State of Alabama is the biggest professional organization in the state championing physicians. They are dedicated to advancing medical practices, safeguarding the doctor-patient connection, and pushing for policies that boost healthcare access and quality throughout Alabama.

Alabama's Medical Association Gets New Leader!

Big news, ChumCity! Vernon Barnett, a true Alabama public service icon, is the new executive director of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. Get ready for some changes starting May 18th!

Stepping into Big Shoes

Barnett takes the reins from Mark Jackson, who's hanging up his hat after a solid 12 years at the helm. It's the association's first leadership shift since way back in 2014, so this is a big deal.

A Career of Service

Before this, Barnett spent nearly a decade leading the Alabama Department of Revenue under Governor Kay Ivey, calling it quits in 2026. He was a key player in tax policy and programs affecting every Alabama taxpayer. But that's not all – he's also been senior counsel for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, chief deputy commissioner of the Alabama Department of Corrections, and even deputy solicitor general! Talk about a resume!

Barnett's Vision

"I'm honored to be here," Barnett shared, highlighting the challenges Alabama doctors face. He promises the Medical Association will be a strong voice for doctors, fighting for better healthcare access for all Alabamians.

A Perfect Fit?

Dr. Nina Ford Johnson, a Mobile pediatrician and president of the organization, is thrilled. She believes Barnett's government background and leadership skills make him the perfect choice. She added that his leadership will strengthen their advocacy for doctors across the state.

About the Medical Association

The Medical Association of the State of Alabama represents physicians statewide, aiming to advance medicine, protect the doctor-patient relationship, and boost healthcare access and quality.

Mobile Golf Pro Swings for the Big Leagues!

Get ready to cheer on one of our own! Paul McClure, the head honcho of golf pros at RTJ Magnolia Grove right here in Mobile, is heading to the PGA Championship this week. He'll be battling it out at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia.

From Mobile to Major!

How'd he get there? McClure snagged a top-20 spot at the PGA Professional Championship in Bandon, Oregon last month. That's the qualifier for PGA of America club pros and instructors.

"A Little Odd, But Awesome!"

"Man, it sounds odd," McClure told WKRG. "I mean, I have no Korn Ferry starts, no PGA starts. But I'm gonna go play in a major! I’m just gonna go play my best." Can you blame him for being stoked?

Facing the Giants

McClure's getting a shot to test his skills against some of the best in the world—major champions, legends, the whole shebang!

Keeping It Cool

He's ready for the challenge, but mostly just wants to soak it all in. “Sounds crazy. I’m teeing up with those guys," McClure said. "Just going out there, just kind of not focus on them as much and trying to keep my head down and, you know, just play as best as I can and try not to be distracted by the crowds and the fame and the players and all that."

Tee Time!

McClure hits the links Thursday around 80 a.m. CST, paired with Mikael Lindberg and Angel Ayora from the European DP World Tour. Let's wish him the best!

Mobile's Own Golf Pro Heads to the PGA Championship!

Get ready to cheer on one of our own! Paul McClure, the head golf pro at RTJ Magnolia Grove right here in Mobile, is heading to the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia this week!

From Mobile to the Major League

McClure snagged his spot after an awesome performance at the PGA Professional Championship in Bandon, Oregon last month. He finished in the top 20, securing his place in the PGA Championship – a huge qualifier for golf club pros and teachers who are part of the PGA of America.

"Sounds Odd, But Awesome!"

"Man, it sounds odd," McClure told WKRG. "I mean, you have no Korn Ferry starts, no PGA starts. But I’m gonna go play in the major! Just gonna take it for what it is and go play my best." We're betting he'll bring that Mobile magic to the course!

Facing the Best

The PGA Championship gives McClure a chance to put his skills to the test against some of the biggest names in the game – major champions and legends alike! Talk about pressure!

Keeping it Cool Under Pressure

Ahead of the biggest challenge of his career, McClure's focusing on enjoying the ride. "Sounds crazy. I’m teeing up with those guys," he said. "Just going out there, trying to keep my head down and play as best as I can. Try not to be distracted by the crowds and the fame and the players."

Tee Time!

McClure tees off bright and early on Thursday, around 80 a.m. CST, with Mikael Lindberg and Angel Ayora from the European DP World Tour. Let's give a big ChumCity shout-out to Paul as he represents Mobile on the big stage!

Alabama Politics: A Whirlwind Week!

PAC Attack!

Othni Lathram at the Legislative Services Agency says a PAC ad targeting an Alabama lawmaker with claims of supporting free college for undocumented immigrants was a straight-up lie. The lawmaker fired back with a cease-and-desist, but even the cleanup showed where government money could end up. Yikes!

Gerrymandering Games

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) is calling out Democrats for, as he sees it, setting the gerrymandering rules for ages. Now, he argues, they're whining as Republican-led states redraw maps after the Supreme Court's Voting Rights Act decision. Turnabout, anyone?

District Dash!

Congressional candidate Rhett Marques is doing a district switcheroo! He's jumped from AL-02 to AL-01 just days before the primary, all thanks to that redistricting bombshell from the Supreme Court. Talk about a last-minute scramble!

Tuberville's Take on Redistricting

Governor-elect (and National Championship-winning Coach, and U.S. Senator!) Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is blasting Democrat "hypocrisy" on gerrymandering. He declared he's "not going to let this woke blue state crap go on in Alabama" as redistricting moves forward. Feisty!

Redistricting Roundup

Redistricting ripples are spreading! Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster are forging ahead, while Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves hit the brakes. Louisiana is aiming for a 5-1 map, potentially giving Republicans an extra seat.

Primary Puzzle

Confusion reigns supreme ahead of Alabama's primary. Candidates are campaigning, and election officials are saying "vote anyway!"—even though votes in four districts might not even count if redistricting goes through. What a mess!

China and Iran: A White House Update

The White House announced that China agrees: Iran shouldn't have nukes. This came after President Trump's summit with President Xi Jinping, where Iran, the economy, and Taiwan were top of the agenda.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Alabama's Political Rollercoaster: What's Happening Now?

The political landscape in Alabama is, shall we say, interesting right now. Here's a quick rundown of the major headlines:

PAC Attack Ad Debunked (Sort Of)

Legislative Services Agency Director Othni Lathram called out a PAC attack ad targeting an Alabama lawmaker, claiming it falsely stated the lawmaker supported free college for undocumented immigrants. The lawmaker fired back with a cease-and-desist letter. Still, the whole mess highlights how government dollars can end up benefiting non-citizens. Yikes!

Palmer's Take on Gerrymandering

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) is pointing fingers, saying Democrats basically invented gerrymandering and are now whining now that Republican-led states are redrawing maps after the Supreme Court's Voting Rights Act decision. Touché?

Candidate Shuffle!

Get this: Congressional candidate Rhett Marques jumped ship from AL-02 to AL-01 just days before the primary. Blame it on the Supreme Court's redistricting bombshell!

Tuberville's "Woke Blue State Crap"

Governor-elect (and National Championship-winning Coach and U.S. Senator) Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is railing against Democrat hypocrisy and vowing to keep "woke blue state crap" out of Alabama's redistricting process. Buckle up, folks!

Redistricting Ripple Effect

Speaking of redistricting, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster are moving forward, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves hit pause, and Louisiana might create a map that could lead to a Republican pickup. It's a domino effect!

Primary Confusion

Despite the redistricting chaos, Alabama's primary is still happening on Tuesday. Even if votes in four districts might not count, election officials are urging people to vote anyway. Talk about a confusing message!

China and Iran's Nukes

The White House is claiming China agrees Iran should never have nuclear weapons after President Trump's summit with President Xi Jinping. Iran, the economy, and Taiwan dominated the discussion. Let's hope they're all on the same page.

Hear More!

Want more hot takes and political analysis? Check out Dale Jackson, the Yellowhammer News thought leader, weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Givan Unleashes Fury on Justice Thomas

Alabama State Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham) didn't hold back, launching a scathing verbal attack against U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. The reason? His recent vote in a redistricting case.

The Case in Question

Thomas sided with the majority in Louisiana v. Callais, a case where the court ruled that creating a second majority-Black congressional district in Louisiana was unconstitutional racial gerrymandering. The court has also handed Alabama a win, vacating lower-court injunctions in related cases.

Givan's Explosive Reaction

Givan took to social media with a video, unleashing a torrent of criticism aimed at Thomas.

"This mf'er, this man, this Uncle Tom, this Uncle Tim…and I'm so pissed," Givan exclaimed. She questioned his identity, saying, "I don't know what kind of black he is... I don't know what damn plantation this man came from. I don't know what slave ship he was on."

More than Just One Outburst

This outburst comes on the heels of Givan accusing her State House colleagues of racism after a recent special session.

"I have never in my life met a black man who has never done any damn thing at all in the position that he has that would ever benefit black people," she continued, arguing Thomas "sided with the Republican Party."

Words of Fire

Givan didn't stop there, adding, "This mf'er must've been there, he must've been the one who sold us out in Africa."

"Today this man has forever turned the clock, he is the man who has turned us back into the hands of the master," Givan concluded, pleading for understanding of "this crazy ass Uncle Tom...this lynchman."