Marques Lands Major Endorsements in Alabama's CD1 Race

Alabama State Rep. Rhett Marques is making waves in the race for Alabama's 1st Congressional District, snagging endorsements from House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and a whopping 31 members of the House Republican Caucus! This comes hot on the heels of a day-one endorsement from U.S. Senator Katie Britt, signaling some serious in-state love for the Wiregrass lawmaker.

"Honored" to Have Support

Marques, representing Enterprise, expressed his gratitude, saying he's "honored" to have the backing of so many colleagues. He highlights his work in the Alabama legislature, including tax cuts on groceries and baby supplies, and a tax relief package for seniors.

Ledbetter's Praise

Speaker Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) didn't hold back, praising Marques as a "strong conservative" who always puts Alabama first. He touted Marques's role in delivering $1.5 billion in tax cuts and supporting workforce development and public safety. Ledbetter admitted he'd hate to lose Marques in the State Legislature, but declared him the "exact kind of leader" the 1st Congressional District needs in D.C.

Who's Backing Marques?

Here's the list of State Representatives throwing their support behind Marques:

Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, Russell Bedsole, Chris Blackshear, Bryan Brinyark, Mack Butler, Jim Carns, Steve Clouse, Danny Crawford, David Faulkner, Danny Garrett, Jim Hill, Leigh Hulsey, Reed Ingram, Jamie Kiel, Bill Lamb, Paul Lee, Craig Lipscomb, James Lomax, Ed Oliver, Marcus Paramore, Rick Rehm, Chad Robertson, Chris Sells, Ginny Shaver, Mike Shaw, Van Smith, Jeff Sorrells, David Standridge, Jerry Starnes, Bubba Underwood, Richie Whorton, Randy Wood.

The Field is Forming

Marques, a lifelong Republican from Baldwin County, currently represents District 91 and is aiming to build a broad "Wiregrass-to-coast" coalition. He's up against Jerry Carl, running for his old seat, and Joshua McKee, a former U.S. Special Forces operator. The seat opens in 2026 with Moore eyeing a Senate run instead. Mark your calendars: the Alabama Republican Party primary is set for May 19, 2026.