Old School Alabama Politics: A Changing Landscape

Back in the day, rookie politicians in Alabama learned the ropes from seasoned veterans. They passed down wisdom, rules, and truisms that every aspiring leader should know.

The "Local" Rule

One golden rule was, "all politics is local." Even if you were a state or national legislator, your priority was always your homefolks. You listened to their needs and concerns.

The Endorsement Taboo

Another key principle? Stay out of other people's races. No public endorsements, no open support. "Stick to your own knitting," they'd say. Why? Because endorsements were a minefield. You’d make one ungrateful friend and a thousand enemies. Plus, who were you to assume your popularity could transfer? Voters would bristle at the arrogance and do the opposite out of spite. George Wallace himself couldn't make endorsements stick – his record was 0-10!

Trump's Influence and National Politics

Today, things have changed. Donald Trump's endorsement is now a golden ticket in Alabama. Politics is less local, more national, driven by national partisan allegiance.

Do Endorsements Still Matter?

Do group or organizational endorsements still hold weight? The answer is complicated. They matter more in down-ballot races, especially legislative ones. Special interests focus on the legislature because that's where the big decisions affecting their agenda get made.

Key Conservative Groups

In a conservative state like Alabama, endorsements from pro-business groups are crucial. The Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) is the holy grail. Their endorsement is sought by every statewide candidate. It's a seal of conservative approval that reaches over 300,000 Alabamians. Other key groups include the Alabama Forestry Association, the Business Council of Alabama, and Manufacture Alabama.

Races to Watch

Several candidates, including Senator Tommy Tuberville and Young Boozer, have secured endorsements from all four groups. Caroleene Dobson and Derek Chen have also won all four in their races for Secretary of State and State Auditor respectively. The Lt. Governor's race, Agriculture Commissioner race, and Attorney General race will be significantly impacted by the ALFA endorsement. Wes Allen secured ALFA in his race for Lt. Governor, Corey Hill became a serious contender after securing ALFA in the Agriculture Commissioner race, and Katherine Robertson is now a viable candidate in the Attorney General race due to securing ALFA.

The Verdict?

Do endorsements count? We'll find out soon!

Until next time,

Steve Flowers