By Brandon Moseley

The Alabama Independent Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) announced on Tuesday that it endorsed Republican Keith Kelley for the open State Senate District 12 seat.

Incumbent State Sen. Del Marsh (R-Anniston) is not seeking re-election.

AIADA CEO Randy Jones said Kelley is a conservative outsider who has spent his career operating a small business in Anniston.

“AIADA is proud to offer our strong endorsement of Keith Kelley, a conservative small businessman who knows what it means to sign both sides of a paycheck,” said Jones. “Keith will be a commonsense, pro-jobs voice for hard-working Alabamians in Montgomery. We are excited to see him serve with honesty and integrity – the values at the heart of the Alabama Independent Automobile Dealers Association.”

Kelley has been the president of Harris-McKay Realty for more than 26 years. He started his first business at the age of 19. He has previously served as president of the Alabama Association of Realtors and on the National Association of Realtors board of directors, as well as in additional leadership roles in other civic and charitable organizations. Kelley was born and raised in Calhoun County.

“I am grateful to have the support of Alabama’s independent auto dealers,” stated Kelley. “Having spent my own career operating a small business, I know firsthand that the best thing government can often do is to get out of the way.  As a job creator and political outsider, I will provide the leadership that northeast Alabama needs to ensure that our communities grow and thrive. I look forward to fighting for our Christian conservative values and bettering the lives of hardworking families across our area in the Senate.”

The AIADA strives to encourage and promote goodwill, integrity and professional interaction among its members and the automobile dealerships within the State of Alabama, according to its website.

The Republican primary is May 24, 2022.