Fayette County resident Greg Fanin is the latest to throw his name into the ring for the upcoming special election to fill the now-vacant House seat in the state's 16th District.
Earlier this year, former State Rep. Kyle South (R-Fayette) announced his retirement from the Alabama House of Representatives to take a position as president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.
Earlier this month, Gov. Kay Ivey called a special election to fill South's seat and scheduled the primary for Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. The special primary runoff, if necessary, will be held Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023; and the special general election on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024.
The deadline for qualifying with major political parties will be 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
Thus far, Northport attorney Bryan Brinkyark and Fayette County Commissioner Brad Cox are the only other candidates to vie for the seat.
Fanin, a Samford University graduate, retired from the military after a 26-year career.
The son of a coal miner, Fanin was appointed as the state Commissioner of Coal Mines by Ivey.
"I fought for you as a soldier," Fanin said in a release. "Now let me fight for us in Alabama House 16! I will fight for lower taxes, better roads and more state money for our local schools,"
He continued, "I am asking for your vote and support. If you believe, as I do, that too often, our rural area of Alabama is overlooked by state government, please join me to make a change. I will only promise you that I will work for you, not the special interests in Montgomery who have way too much control and influence.
In addition to his current work in the state, Fanin served as a delegate for Former President Donald Trump in 2020.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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