Dueling letters from top Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) leaders and staff present contradictory perspectives on the status and transparency of an ongoing audit of party finances.
The audit, authorized in March 2025 by the Steering Committee, is a comprehensive, in-depth four-year audit described by the party as “an undertaking that is necessarily detailed and time-intensive.” Too much time, according to some.
“This audit has been referred to as the 'Bigfoot' Audit. Much like Bigfoot, we hear about this audit but have never actually seen any proof that it exists,” Bill Harris, National Committeeman, and William Rayborn, District 2 chair, wrote in a letter to ALGOP chairwoman Joan Reynolds and Shannon Whitt, chief of staff, that was then forwarded to over 450 state executive committee (SEC) members.
Harris and Rayborn’s letter requests not only an update on the audit but also expenditure-related documents, a meeting with the auditing firm, and answers to a series of questions.
“Explanations provided to date have been inconsistent and largely centered on challenges faced by auditor Pearce Beavil. These challenges include difficulties accessing or interpreting our accounting systems or the need for an additional accounting firm to assist with the audit process. As a result, eleven months later, we still have no information, results or updates,” the letter continues.
In an open response to all SEC members, Whitt pushed back strongly against the claims. In a separate statement provided to 1819 News, Wahl also pushed back.
“I have to admit I am very confused by your letter, especially by the assertion that you repeatedly requested information and have been ignored. I reviewed my communications with both of you and also confirmed with Chairman Wahl and Chairman Reynolds. None of us have records of prior requests for this information before your recent letter,” Whitt wrote.
She then says that the agenda for the last Steering Committee meeting (4th Quarter of 2025) included an audit update. She said that during the meeting, audit-related invoices were made available, and Chairman Wahl provided a comprehensive briefing. Wahl confirmed these updates independently in a statement to 1819 News.
"I completely understand the frustration over the delay in finishing the ALGOP audit. I was the one who originally recommended that an audit be conducted, and I wanted to see it done by the end of last year," Wahl told 1819 News in a statement. "What I don’t understand is the hostility toward the State Party or the accusation that information is being withheld. There has been an audit update at every State Party Steering Committee meeting since the process began. Nothing about this has been hidden."
Whitt and Wahl emphasized that it was Wahl who recommended commissioning the audit, with Whitt explaining the request came, "following a change in treasurers," and saying that audits will now be standard practice following every election cycle.
"These requests are not implications in any wrong doings, but they are necessary to maintain accountability that are expected of the Steering Committee. As we are elected by the Committee members, we strongly feel it is our obligation and responsibility to have this information on their behalf," Harris and Rayborn said in the close of their letter.
Their full letter is available here, and the party's response is availablehere.
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 or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
