State Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery) filed on Monday to run for lieutenant governor in 2026.
While several Republicans are already campaigning for the office, Ensler is the first Democrat to file to run.
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth is term-limited from seeking re-election.
Ensler announced in July that he wasn’t seeking re-election to the Alabama House and planned to move back to New York.
"I remain committed to serving District 74 through the end of my term in 2026, and then I plan to return to my native New York City, where I will be closer to family," Ensler said in July. "Since moving to Montgomery in 2012, I have served the community in many ways: as a Teach for America educator at Lee High School, as a civil rights attorney, and as Senior Policy Advisor for the City of Montgomery. Throughout my time in these roles, I developed deep and lasting bonds across our community. These friendships continue to inspire me, and I look forward to sustaining these lifelong relationships. No matter where I live, I will always be committed to fighting for a more inclusive, safe, prosperous, and loving world for all."
Ensler said in a statement to 1819 News on Thursday morning, “My mind has not been at peace since I made the announcement that I would be moving back to NY.”
“My heart is here in Alabama and with the people who have become my extended family. I’ve been overwhelmed by how many people all over the state of varying political beliefs and backgrounds have strongly encouraged me to stay and continue to pursue public service — more details to come soon on my specific plans,” Ensler said.
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