GULF SHORES — A new poll shows voters are still largely undecided in determining their candidate preferences for the Republican primary later this year.
According to a survey conducted by The Alabama Poll, run by Michael Lowry, former chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, Secretary of State Wes Allen and former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell lead in their respective contests. However, a large number of undecided voters remain in play in those races.
The poll, unveiled at the Alabama Forestry Association's public policy seminar on Tuesday at The Lodge in Gulf Shores, also found "affordability" to be a prominent concern among respondents.
According to a release from The Alabama Poll, the survey asked likely GOP primary voters what they considered the most important issue facing Alabama.
Responses "overwhelmingly pointed to cost pressures, with affordability-related concerns totaling 80% across inflation/cost of living, insurance costs, and the economy/jobs."
"When voters were asked to identify which costs cause them the most concern, groceries and food topped the list at 58%, followed by insurance costs (33%) and healthcare (30%)," the release said.
"The 2026 Republican primaries will be won on the issues, and if you're not talking about lowering costs for families, you're not winning," Lowry said. "This survey shows that affordability isn't a side issue – it's the main event, and it's likely to define how voters evaluate candidates up and down the ballot."
Key findings as follows:
Lieutenant Governor (GOP Primary): At the time of the survey, AJ McCarron led with 31%, followed by Wes Allen (18%), Rick Pate (8%), and Nicole Wadsworth (2%). 41% were undecided. (McCarron withdrew after the poll was conducted.)
U.S. Senate (GOP Primary): Steve Marshall continues to lead with 30%, followed by Barry Moore (12%), Jared Hudson (8%), Rodney Walker (3%), and Morgan Murphy (1%). 46% remain undecided, signaling substantial room for movement.
Attorney General: The contest remains wide open with 72% undecided. Jay Mitchell received 12%, followed by an improving Katherine Robertson (10%) and Pamela Casey (7%).
Secretary of State: While 64% remain undecided, at the time the survey was conducted Andrew Sorrell led Caroleene Dobson 21% to 14%. He has since stated his intention to run for reelection as State Auditor.
Commissioner of Agriculture: Nearly eight in 10 voters (79%) are undecided. Jack Williams leads at 10%, with Corey Hill (7%) and Christina Woerner McInnis (5%).
Public Service Commission, Place One: Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry (15.2%) leads incumbent Jeremy Oden (9%), with 75.8% undecided.
Poll results:
Jeff Poor is the editor-in-chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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