The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) recently announced the dates and procedures for qualifying for the upcoming special primary election, which was scheduled for this week following a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that allowed the state to use congressional maps previously enjoined in federal court.
The Republican primary election will still take place on Tuesday. However, an August 11 special election will determine the fates of Congressional Districts 1, 2, 6 and 7. Pursuant to legislation passed by the Alabama Legislature earlier this month, the special election will not result in a runoff. Meaning, the candidate who receives the majority of the vote will be the nominee, regardless of whether they secure 50% of the vote.
Candidate qualifying will officially open Wednesday, May 20, at 8:30 a.m. and close Friday, May 22, at 5:00 p.m.
In an interesting development, ALGOP stated that Republican candidates in the May 19 primary who win their primary or are in a runoff are not eligible to qualify for the special election unless they withdraw before qualifying.
“Alabama Republicans are ready to move forward and ensure voters in the affected districts have the opportunity to participate in a fair and orderly election process,” said ALGOP chairman Stadthagen. “We appreciate Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, and Secretary of State for their work to quickly provide clarity and certainty regarding these special elections.
No other election dates are affected by the legislature’s action. After the May 19 primary, the runoff election is slated for June 16, and the general election is scheduled for November 3.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning
