ProgressPAC Announces First Round of Endorsements for 2026!

The Business Council of Alabama's ProgressPAC is already gearing up for the 2026 elections, announcing its initial list of endorsed candidates. These lawmakers are being hailed as "pro-business champions" for their consistent support of Alabama's vibrant business community.

According to the BCA, these individuals have shown real dedication to boosting Alabama's economy. They’ve actively engaged with local businesses, championed their interests in legislative debates, pushed forward pro-business policies in committees, and worked hand-in-hand with the BCA on key initiatives. Sounds like a powerful group!

Who Made the Cut?

Here's a look at the initial list of endorsements:

Alabama Senate

• Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman)
• Matt Woods (R-Jasper)
• Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro)
• Wes Kitchens (R-Arab)
• Lance Bell (R-Pell City)
• Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills)
• Shay Shelnutt (R-Trussville)
• Rodger Smitherman (D-Birmingham)
• Greg Albritton (R-Atmore)
• Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro)
• Jay Hovey (R-Auburn)
• Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva)
• Josh Carnley (R-Enterprise)
• Chris Elliott (R-Josephine)

Alabama House

• Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville)
• Kerry “Bubba” Underwood (R-Tuscumbia)
• Danny Crawford (R-Athens)
• Andy Whitt (R-Harvest)
• Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle)
• Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena)
• Bryan Brinyark (R-Tuscaloosa)
• James Lomax (R-Huntsville)
• Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville)
• Mike Kirkland (R-Scottsboro)
• Jeana Ross (R-Guntersville)
• Ben Robbins (R-Sylacauga)
• Corley Ellis (R-Columbiana)
• Danny Garrett (R-Trussville)
• David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook)
• Mike Shaw (R-Hoover)
• Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville)
• Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn)
• Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City)
• Paul Lee (R-Dothan)
• Steve Clouse (R-Ozark)
• Frances Holk-Jones (R-Foley)
• Matt Simpson (R-Daphne)
• Chris Pringle (R-Mobile)

Standing With Business

"Alabama's economic future depends on bold, principled leaders," said BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan. ProgressPAC Chairman Gary Smith added that these legislators exemplify the leadership Alabama needs.

BCA says to stay tuned – more endorsements are on the horizon!