After a long, fulfilling career as a teacher and principal, dedicating over 30 years to students and families across Alabama, I hoped retirement would bring a quieter chapter. But in 2018, I felt a strong duty to enter the race for Congressional District 7.
Initially, I resisted, choosing to pursue a different office in hopes of fulfilling my purpose another way. Yet, the call to run for Congress never left me. Now, burdened by the truth about Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham), I’m compelled to write what I had hoped would never be necessary.
Sewell hides behind a facade, neglecting her responsibility to serve our community, even returning my invitation to debate unopened this past July. I've entered this race as a Republican, but my loyalty is foremost to the people of Alabama's Congressional District 7, driven by a dedication to truth and a God-given conviction to address the urgent issues Sewell has ignored for too long.
I’ve always believed that Alabama deserves leaders who prioritize the well-being of their communities, yet we’ve all seen how fundamental rights, like access to healthcare, are vanishing at an alarming rate. Across the state, 28 hospitals are at risk of closing, with nearly 24 expected to shut down within the next two to three years. In District 7, under Sewell’s 14-year tenure, hospitals in Thomasville and Pickens County have closed permanently, and Grove Hill has lost critical inpatient and maternity services. Just recently, Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, also in Sewell's district, defaulted on $60 million in bonds.
Tragically, Alabama's only black-majority district has borne the brunt of these closures. Black infants, representing only 28% of births statewide, account for a staggering 51.4% of infant deaths, with their mortality rate nearly three times that of white infants. When healthcare facilities close, these communities lose the resources crucial for life and survival, especially in emergencies and childbirth.
Addressing this disparity requires a hard look at the politics of healthcare — and the motives of those who enable it. While Medicaid expansion will temporarily prevent hospital closures, the American Medical Association cites inadequate payments from private health insurers and Medicare Advantage as a primary driver of rural hospital closures, as these payments often fail to cover essential care costs. When we examine the financial incentives sustaining this system, it becomes clear why change has stalled. Sewell, crowned the "Medicare Advantage Champion" by those who profit most from this system, has received over $236,000 from the insurance sector in this cycle alone.
These financial ties stand in stark contrast to the everyday struggles of District 7’s residents. During my campaign, the poverty I’ve seen has been eye-opening. This district ranks 15th poorest out of 435 in the nation, with a median household income of just $46,429. Many residents still rely on straight-line piping, which empties waste directly into their backyards, where it stagnates and rots. Large parts of the district face unreliable access to running water, and when available, it often runs brown. I’ve personally witnessed areas where sewage bubbles into the streets and waterways. Meanwhile, Sewell has spent $45,355.35 of her campaign funds at five luxury hotels, including the Four Seasons Resort Vail, Hotel Bel-Air, and The Beverly Hilton. This contrast with her constituents’ reality is stark and all the more painful, knowing that much of this funding comes from private insurance and Medicare Advantage firms whose profits soar while Alabama’s healthcare crumbles.
Perhaps most troubling is Sewell’s apparent complacency regarding her brother’s actions – a profound betrayal of trust. Andrew Sewell, convicted of providing alcohol and engaging in sexual relations with his 17-year-old student while serving as principal, abused his position at Dothan High School in an appalling breach of authority. Today, he holds the title of Director of Health and Counseling at Miles College, a role specifically meant to support vulnerable young students, many close in age to his former victim. While Miles College was probably unaware of his past – tried as a juvenile at age 41, his conviction likely didn’t even appear on a background check – Terri Sewell has no such excuse. Her close involvement with the college only deepens the concern; just two weeks ago, she announced an $850,000 grant to the college for public safety. She knew.
This disregard for the safety of young people is alarming. Schools and teachers are not just educators but protectors entrusted with the safety and well-being of students. Those who violate that trust should never be allowed to work with students again. While I believe in second chances, placing someone who has so egregiously abused their authority in this role, especially within a school, is unthinkable and outrageous. Schools deserve the funding they need without strings attached, ensuring they have the resources to protect and support students without compromise.
District 7 is rich with potential, with resilient communities, hardworking families and a desire for real progress. Yet this potential has been repeatedly stifled by leadership more invested in personal gain than public service. Sewell’s disregard for her constituents’ needs has only deepened the struggles of a district facing severe healthcare cuts, entrenched poverty and broken infrastructure.
The people of District 7 deserve a leader who will tirelessly advocate for healthcare access, rebuild essential services, and prioritize the future of each community. I’m not writing this because I want your vote as Sewell’s antithesis — I’m writing because the people deserve to know the truth. If you choose to vote for me, it should be because I’ve earned your vote and trust, not simply as a reaction against my opponent.
District 7 deserves better leadership. This community has waited long enough for real, accountable representation; it’s time for a leader who truly puts them first.
Dr. Robin Litaker is a candidate for Alabama's Congressional District 7.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To comment, please send an email with your name and contact information to Commentary@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
