Alabama's Federal Funding Report Card: How Does It Stack Up?

Alright ChumCity citizens, let's talk money! A new national study just dropped, and it's got some interesting things to say about Alabama and Uncle Sam's wallet. According to WalletHub's "Most & Least Federally Dependent States (2026)" report, Alabama is pretty reliant on federal funds, clocking in at number 11 nationwide.

What's the Deal?

Basically, WalletHub looked at how much bang Alabama gets for its federal tax buck, along with how much of the state's income comes straight from D.C. They compared all 50 states using these factors, plus the number of federal jobs in each state.

The Good News (Maybe)?

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo says living in a federally dependent state can be a good thing. We're talking better infrastructure, schools, healthcare - all the good stuff that federal dollars can help make happen.

Alabama's Score

Alabama got a total "federal dependency score" of 55.18. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Resident Dependency: 12th
• State Government Dependency: 17th

So, we're getting a good return on our tax dollars, and the state's budget leans on federal aid quite a bit.

We're Not Alone!

Lots of Southern states are in the same boat. Here are the top 5 most federally dependent states:

• Alaska
• Kentucky
• West Virginia
• Mississippi
• Louisiana

High Dependency, Low Taxes

Alabama falls into a category WalletHub calls "high dependency and low taxes." We don't tax as much as some other states, but we still rake in a decent amount of federal cash. We're also considered "high dependency and low GDP per capita," meaning states with less economic output often see more federal support.

How'd They Figure This Out?

WalletHub looked at things like:

• Return on federal taxes paid
• Share of federal jobs
• Federal funding as a percentage of state revenue

They crunched numbers from the IRS, Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and USAspending.gov.

Senator Britt Sets the Record Straight on Voter ID Bill

Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is firing back after a recent report suggested she wasn't keen on using a talking filibuster to push the SAVE America Act through Congress.

What's the SAVE America Act?

For those not in the know, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act would mandate things like showing ID and proof of citizenship to register to vote. Seems pretty straightforward, right?

Fox News Gets it Wrong (Then Corrects It)

Apparently, Fox News Channel reported that Britt was among a group of senators who were "opposed or skeptical" about using the talking filibuster to get the voter ID legislation passed. Oops!

Britt Claps Back on X

Britt wasted no time correcting the record on X, stating plainly, "This is blatantly false." She added that she's been working with Senator Mike Lee to get the votes and a path forward for the SAVE America Act, including the talking filibuster.

Senator Lee Backs Britt Up

Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) jumped in to confirm that Britt is indeed on board with his plan. He called her one of the Senate's "strongest advocates" for the SAVE America Act and for using the talking filibuster to pass it.

Fox News Admits the Mistake

Fox News quickly issued a correction, with host Kayleigh McEnany saying they wanted to "make a quick correction." Looks like someone jumped the gun!

Alabama's "Power To The People Act" Aims to Shake Up Utility Control!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! Alabama's about to dive headfirst into a power struggle (pun intended!). State Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger just dropped HB360, aka the "Power To The People Act," and it's a game-changer.

What's the Deal?

This bill proposes a massive overhaul of the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). Instead of just three commissioners, we're talking SEVEN elected directly by YOU, the people! Plus, it puts a freeze on utility rate hikes until 2029!

How Would It Work?

State Sen. Clyde Chambliss is backing the bill, which would have each commissioner represent a congressional district, much like the State Board of Education elections. To kick things off, the Governor would appoint four commissioners in 2026 to get the ball rolling with staggered terms. Full elections for all seven seats start in November 2028.

Gudger's Take:

According to Gudger, this is all about giving Alabamians more say in how the PSC operates, making energy rates more affordable, and ensuring a conservative, pro-Trump, Republican majority on the Commission. Boom!

Freezing Rates and New Rules:

The bill slaps a freeze on utility rate increases until after voters have a chance to elect a majority of the board. But, get this, rate reductions are still on the table at any time! Plus, a new Secretary of Energy cabinet position would be created to oversee administrative functions, an idea once floated by Tommy Tuberville.

No More Utility Shenanigans?

The "Power To The People Act" also aims to stop regulated utilities from passing on lobbying costs, advertising expenses, or grant costs to us, the consumers. They're also barred from donating to PSC candidates. To top it off, commission members, their families, the Secretary of Energy, and commission employees can't provide paid services to public utilities. Talk about keeping things clean!

Fighting Back Against "Hostile Influences":

Gudger claims the bill addresses threats from outside groups without taking away the public's right to vote. Instead, it expands that right. It's all about giving Alabamians more power!

Senator Britt Sounds the Alarm on DHS Funding Standoff

Alabama's own Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is calling out her Democratic colleagues for what she describes as a refusal to negotiate funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

DHS Left Hanging

While Congress managed to fund most of the government for FY2026, DHS was left out in the cold. Britt, who chairs the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, joined other Senate Republican leaders to discuss the Democrat-led shutdown.

"Reckless and Disingenuous"

"It’s a disappointing day," Britt stated, emphasizing that Democrats haven't engaged in meaningful discussions despite prior agreements. She argued that this inaction is endangering national security. "This is reckless and it’s disingenuous.”

House Action Stalled

The House has already passed a bill to fund DHS, but it's stuck in the Senate. Dems are reportedly pushing for major ICE reforms as a condition for fully funding the department.

No Show at the Negotiation Table?

Britt claims Democrats haven't been willing to negotiate. "Despite countless offers to sit down and try to find a pathway forward, they will not even have a conversation with us," she said. "Folks, that means that this is all about politics. It was never about people.”

A Plea for National Security

The senator is urging Democrats to come to the table for the sake of national security. "We stand here ready to put the safety of Americans in front of that, and I would hope our Democratic colleagues would do the same." She added, Republicans are "ready to do what’s right for the American people.”

News Bites from the Deep South!

Saban Gets a Defender in DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is backing Alabama coaching legend Nick Saban! DeSantis says Saban's right – college athletics needs some serious federal reforms to clean up the current mess and bring back some fairness.

Murphy Shifts Gears in Alabama Race

Big news! Morgan Murphy, former Trump staffer and Tommy Tuberville aide, is dropping out of the Senate race in Alabama. He's now setting his sights on flipping a House seat from blue to red and says Trump should have the senator he wants.

Did Trump's Endorsement Seal the Deal in Georgia?

In Georgia's special election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene, everyone's asking: Did Trump's endorsement swing the election for Fuller Moore? Looks like it played a big part in rallying the GOP base.

Alabama's Education Success Story

Alabama State Rep. Terri Collins says the state's education comeback is all about meeting students where they are. It's the focused changes, personalized help, and real-world policies that are making a difference in classrooms statewide.

Alabama GOP's New Leader Sets the Stage

New Alabama Republican Party Chairman Scott Stadthagen has a plan! He wants to close primaries, grow the base through grassroots efforts, and unite the party for future elections.

AG Marshall Disagrees with Governor's Decision

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall isn't happy with Governor Kay Ivey's decision to commute the death sentence of a convicted murderer who's been on death row for 35 years. He acknowledges her authority but expresses his disappointment.

Operation Epic Fury Heats Up Tensions

Operation Epic Fury is causing major waves in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's threatening mines and more attacks, leading to calls for US Navy escorts, oil price chaos, and stock market jitters. Plus, Whoopi Goldberg on The View is suggesting Trump's actions are a distraction from the Savannah Guthrie missing mom story. Talk about a mess!

Sonny Burton Spared: Governor Ivey Commutes Death Sentence!

Hold the phone, ChumCity citizens! Governor Kay Ivey just made a HUGE decision, commuting the death sentence of Charles "Sonny" Burton to life in prison with no parole. Burton was slated to be executed this week for a 1991 murder he allegedly didn't commit, and wasn't even present for!

The Crime: Robbery Gone Wrong

Burton was convicted in '92 for felony capital murder in the death of Doug Battle during a robbery at an AutoZone. The kicker? Burton participated in the robbery, but had already bounced when Battle was tragically shot. Derrick DeBruce, the actual triggerman, also got the death penalty, but his sentence was later commuted.

Ivey's Reasoning: Fairness Above All

Governor Ivey, who's overseen 25 executions during her time, says this call came down to pure fairness. While she's a firm believer in the death penalty for the worst of the worst, she stated, "Charles Burton did not shoot the victim...I cannot proceed...under such disparate circumstances."

No Get-Out-Of-Jail-Free Card

Make no mistake, ChumCity peeps! Ivey made it crystal clear that Burton won't be seeing daylight anytime soon. "Mr. Burton will not be eligible for parole and will rightfully spend the remainder of his life behind bars for his role in the robbery."

A Word from the Wise

Alice Marie Johnson, a major player in prison reform, applauded Ivey's move, calling it "courageous and common sense leadership." She also stated that executing a man who didn't pull the trigger would only compound the tragedy and bring no closure for Doug Battle's family.

Sonny Burton Spared: Gov Ivey Commutes Death Sentence!

Hold the phone, ChumCity Citizens! Governor Kay Ivey just made a HUGE decision, commuting the death sentence of Charles "Sonny" Burton to life in prison without parole. This bombshell dropped just two days before Burton was scheduled to be executed for a 1991 murder.

What's the Story?

Burton was convicted back in '92 for felony capital murder in the death of Doug Battle during an AutoZone robbery in Talladega. Here's the kicker: Burton participated in the robbery, but wasn't the one who pulled the trigger AND had already left the building when the shooting went down! Derrick DeBruce actually did the deed, and while he was also sentenced to death, his sentence was later commuted to life without parole. DeBruce passed away in 2020 while incarcerated.

Ivey's Reasoning? Fairness!

Governor Ivey, who's overseen 25 executions during her time in office, stated this call came down to good ol' fairness. She emphasized that while she believes the death penalty is justified for the worst of the worst, it MUST be applied justly and proportionately. Her point? Burton didn't shoot Battle, didn't tell anyone to shoot Battle, and wasn't even there when it happened. Executing him while DeBruce got to live out his days just didn't sit right.

No Get-Out-of-Jail-Free Card

Ivey made it crystal clear - Burton isn't getting any additional breaks. He's spending the rest of his days behind bars for his involvement in that robbery, just like DeBruce did.

Family First

Before announcing the commutation, Ivey followed protocol and notified a representative of the Battle family and the attorney general. She also thanked the Attorney General’s Capital Litigation Division for their work defending Burton's conviction and sentence. Ivey acknowledged the profound loss felt by the Battle family, stating that the decision does not diminish it and offered prayers for peace and closure.

White House Weighs In

Alice Marie Johnson, the White House pardon guru, hopped online to praise Ivey's move, calling it "courageous and common sense leadership." She emphasized justice, not loopholes, should be the guiding principle in such serious cases.

New Leadership Alert: Stadthagen Takes the Helm of Alabama GOP!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! The Alabama Republican Party has a new captain at the helm! State Rep. Scott Stadthagen jumped right into action on day one, outlining a bold vision for the party's future.

Youth Outreach Initiative

One of Stadthagen's first moves? Launching "Project Future Generation," a statewide initiative to fire up teens and young adults about conservatism. This ain't your grandma's GOP! Leading the charge is Brilyn Hollyhand, the Alabama-based conservative podcast sensation, along with ALGOP Youth Outreach Coordinator Brady Johnson. Sounds like they're serious about investing in the future!

Legislative Priorities and Closed Primaries

Get this: Stadthagen is pushing hard for party registration legislation. Think closed primaries – only registered Republicans get to vote in Republican primaries. The State Executive Committee (SEC) backed this up with a resolution urging the Legislature to make it happen. Stadthagen believes Republicans deserve a system that safeguards their party's integrity.

County Party Power

Stadthagen also emphasized the importance of close collaboration with county Republican Party chairmen. He calls them "the backbone of the Alabama Republican Party." When the counties are strong, the whole party is strong – that's his motto!

Background on the Change

Stadthagen steps into the role after former ALGOP Chairman John Wahl resigned to chase the Lt. Governor dream in 2026. The party's State Executive Committee, a group of over 400 members, held a special election at the Winter Meeting in Hoover to fill the spot. It was a closely watched race, with Stadthagen, former Secretary of State John Merrill, and acting Chairman Joan Reynolds all vying for the position. Stadthagen emerged victorious after two rounds of voting.

A United Front

"Today we begin a new chapter for the Alabama Republican Party," Stadthagen declared. He emphasized unity and working together to build on Alabama's conservative success. Sounds like he's ready to rally the troops! Get ready for some action, Alabama!

Alabama's Education Evolution: Choice is Making a Difference!

We're seeing some serious wins in Alabama's education scene, and we think expanding parental choice is a HUGE part of it! The idea is simple: every kid learns differently, and every family's got unique needs. What works for one student might not click for another.

One Size Doesn't Fit All

Some students rock the traditional classroom, while others need a little more wiggle room to truly shine. Sometimes, it's about pacing things differently or offering extra support that unlocks a student's full potential. That's why online education is stepping up as a key option for parents across the country.

Alabama's Online Aces

Alabama's got some awesome choices, including K12-powered academies like Alabama Destinations Career Academy, Alabama Virtual Academy, and Legends Virtual Academy. These are public schools within public systems, offering a tailored approach. Let's be real, some students need more than the typical classroom can offer, and that's where these online schools make all the difference.

More Than Just Academics

Over 3 million students nationally have benefited from K12 online programs in the past 25 years. They're not just about academics; they offer college and career prep, flexible courses, and a chance to catch up, get ahead, or explore new passions. For families constantly on the move, facing health challenges, or dealing with safety concerns, online education brings stability. Think of military families or parents caring for children with serious illnesses. We need options for everyone!

Real Results, Real Impact

Alabama Virtual Academy, serving students for a decade, proves the power of tailored education. Despite challenges like unstable living situations for many students, they boast a ZERO percent chronic absenteeism rate. That's proof that when education works for students, they show up, learn, and thrive! Alabama Destinations Career Academy sees the same amazing results, also reporting ZERO percent chronic absenteeism despite serving a large population of socioeconomically disadvantaged students. These numbers blow the statewide average out of the water!

Enrollment is Soaring!

Even newer programs like Legends Virtual Academy are making waves, serving English learners, students with disabilities, and families seeking flexible, accountable alternatives. All three academies are seeing explosive enrollment growth. Since 2023, ALVA's enrollment has doubled, and Destinations Academy has seen similar growth. Together, these K12 academies are educating nearly 11,000 Alabama students!

Doing More with Less

Despite receiving roughly 30 percent less funding, these K12-powered academies are serving disadvantaged students in every corner of Alabama. It's a testament to how innovation and flexibility can drive real results.

Busting the Myths

Some folks worry that school choice hurts public schools or doesn't deliver on its promises. But time and again, that's just not the case. Destinations Academy's recent state report card shows continued progress, with strong graduation and College and Career Readiness (CCR) rates. Alabama Virtual Academy is projecting similar progress. It's all thanks to an innovative, responsive education model.

Parental Power

School choice can boost parental involvement, improve attendance, enhance learning, and even improve students' emotional well-being. When parents have a say in their child's education, they get involved! It's about empowering parents to find the best fit for their child, and in some cases, online programs are the perfect solution.

The Future is Bright

Alabama's education future depends on innovation and meeting students where they are. Our K12 academies are shining examples of that approach.

Fresh Start for Alabama GOP!

State Rep. Scott Stadthagen is wasting no time! On his first day as the new Alabama Republican Party chairman, he's already announced a youth outreach program, laid out his top legislative priority, and promised closer ties with county parties ahead of the big November elections. Talk about hitting the ground running!

A New Leader Emerges

Stadthagen steps into the role after the previous chairman, John Wahl, decided to make a run for Lt. Governor in 2026. This triggered a special leadership vote by the party's State Executive Committee. Unlike a regular statewide primary, the chairman's race was decided by this committee of over 400 members.

The race was a hot topic in state politics, with Stadthagen, former Secretary of State John Merrill, and acting Chairman Joan Reynolds all vying for the position. After two rounds of voting at the Winter Meeting in Hoover, Stadthagen emerged victorious, defeating Merrill in the runoff.

Stadthagen's Vision for the Party

"Today marks a new chapter for the Alabama Republican Party!" Stadthagen declared. He emphasized unity and collaboration, stating, "Our party is strongest when we are united… When our grassroots leaders, our county parties, and our elected officials are all working together as one team, there’s no question we will win in November.”

Engaging the Next Generation

Stadthagen is also launching "Project Future Generation," a statewide initiative designed to get teens and young adults involved in the conservative movement. Alabama-based conservative podcaster Brilyn Hollyhand, along with ALGOP Youth Outreach Coordinator Brady Johnson, will be leading the charge. Stadthagen stated, "If we want to build a strong party for the future, we have to invest in the next generation today.”

Top Legislative Priority

On the legislative front, Stadthagen has made party registration legislation his top priority. This would mean closing off party primaries to only registered members of the respective party. The SEC also passed a resolution urging the Legislature to adopt a closed primary system for Republican contests. "Republicans across Alabama deserve a system that protects the integrity of our party and ensures that our nominees represent Republican voters,” Stadthagen said.

Strengthening County Parties

Finally, Stadthagen pledged to prioritize direct coordination with county Republican Party chairmen across the state. "Our county parties are the backbone of the Alabama Republican Party," Stadthagen emphasized. "When our counties are strong, our entire party is strong.” It looks like Chairman Stadthagen is serious about building a stronger, more united Alabama Republican Party!